Sherman's Travel

The Aspen-Snowmass ski area encompasses 5,300 acres over four mountains (Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass, and Buttermilk). In the middle of it all, the town of Aspen has loomed large for decades, with every new development setting off an avalanche of news in the ski world.  

The big news this season, however, is unfolding 9 miles west of Aspen at the base of Snowmass Mountain. There, the developer Related WestPac is unveiling an entirely new village on what was previously just gravel parking lots. Of the four peaks, Snowmass is known for its sheer size, with more skiable acreage than the other three mountains combined. Over the past two years some 90 ski-in, ski-out condos have opened in the new Snowmass Village along with a smattering of restaurants, a kids’ activity center, and a beginners’ ski school. Read more

Located at the foot of Aspen Mountain’s powder-packed slopes in Colorado’s picturesque high country, The Gant Resort provides an ideal base for an ultimate winter ski getaway. This posh mountain lodge boasts 140 upscale condominiums with luxurious amenities like wood-burning fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, and daily housekeeping. Rack rates in December start at around $195/night for a standard 1-bedroom suite, but you’ll save up to 30 percent with the early-bird special. The Summer Snow Saver promotion entitles guests to a 30 percent discount on stays of 4 nights or longer, or 15 percent off a single night’s stay, for travel between November 26 and April 11, 2010. Plus, ShermansTravel Readers enjoy perks like guaranteed late check-out and a complimentary bottle of wine upon check-in. Visit www.gantaspen.com and enter special promotional code SHERGT by November 15.

You know you’re in an upscale ski town when you see Chanel, Dior, Malo, and Fendi shops in a three-block walk. Being Aspen, most visitors are outfitted smartly, including the latest Prada ski jackets. Actually, fashion here blends tasteful western chic with a more jet set, designer look. Beyond fashion, though, one notes the large number of international skiers and staff. Mainly South Americans (to my surprise), Australians, and some Europeans make up the energetic, amiable staff working the slopes and in town, and the potpourri of languages spoken among the skiers affords a unique, and positive, addition to the whole trip.

The third noteworthy item is the superb quality of just about all that you need on a ski trip – well laid out ski lifts with plenty of chair lift padding, excellent food (in town and on the slopes), and a fun après-ski nightlife (for young and old).

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