Text by Ted Mahon
Image by Ann Driggers and Nico Enos
Go-to Aspen Snowmass ski area
Aspen Highlands is a locals’ favorite, with uncrowded slopes for every level of skier. It has the best mix of terrain, not to mention killer views of the Maroon Bells.
Best-loved breakfast
My first choice for breakfast is Element 47, which is beyond impressive and what I consider the best buffet in Aspen.
I also enjoy a leisurely sit-down experience at Spring Café for its healthy and delectable vegan and vegetarian dishes.
Midday meal
On the slopes, my favorite lunch spot would absolutely have to be Sam’s on Snowmass Mountain for its breathtaking views, homemade bread, thinly sliced prosciutto, bowls of pasta, and great Negroni cocktail. In town, I’d say Casa Tua—you can’t get any closer to Italy in Aspen.
Dinner destination
Just around the corner from The Nell is Betula, a cozy, warm, and inviting restaurant that serves classic cocktails and French Pan-American cuisine with a modern twist. There’s always an element of surprise for the palate.
My room at The Nell
The Benedict Suite, room 46, is my first-choice accommodation at The Nell. Located on the third floor with a mountain view, it’s airy, spacious, and named for the late, great Fritz Benedict, who studied architecture under Frank Lloyd Wright, served in the 10th Mountain Division of skiing soldiers who successfully defended the U.S. in World War II in Italy, and returned to Aspen afterward to establish its distinctive style of modern architecture. This 1,250-square-foot one-bedroom space is a nod to that aesthetic, featuring open space that embraces the environment outside and a highly personalized interior with custom artwork by Walter Niedermayr and John Riepenhoff, a Chamont Chandelier by Jonathan Browning, an Ajiro Diamond wall covering by Maya Romanoff, and Mark Albrecht counter stools. This is pure comfort by design.
How I unwind
With my family and a good ol’ whiskey.