Situated on 40 acres in a quiet corner of Aspen, Colorado and surrounded by snowcapped mountains, the Aspen Meadows Resort is one of the most unique hotels west of the Mississippi. Slightly removed from the flurry of town but within easy walking distance to Ajax Mountain and Aspen’s many restaurants and shops, it was originally the home of the Aspen Institute, a sanctuary for world leaders to discuss and reflect on ideas that defined a good society. When Walter Paepcke and Herbert Bayer originally conceived of this idea in 1945, they sought a forum “where the human spirit can flourish”. I can honestly state that my spirit was flourishing shortly after check in!
In line with its enlightened history, the staff refers to the grounds as a “campus”. We were lucky enough to arrive soon after the opening of the Herbert Bayer exhibit in the hotel’s own art gallery. Interestingly, the Aspen Institute’s architect was also a well known Bauhaus painter and sculptor. The Resnick Gallery on-site is currently featuring a broad spectrum of Bayer’s lifework in a variety of media. Furthermore, not only did Herbert Bayer contribute to the founding of the Aspen Institute but he was also greatly involved in the rejuvenation of the town of Aspen as well.
After getting the 411 on the resort’s heritage, we decided to enjoy s’mores by the fireplace in the lobby. Did I forget to mention this was a skiing outing? Floor to ceiling windows provided optimum views of the sun setting over the Rockies. The intimate space invites guests to relax and talk with one another over a drink and share stories of their adventures on the slopes. The understated Bauhaus style, emphasizing minimalism and practicality, is the opposite of what you can expect at other luxury hotels in this playground of the rich and famous.
Our suite, large enough to fit a family of four comfortably, included a separate living room with a large flat screen TV and sofa bed. Adhering to the Bauhaus design theory, accommodations are bright and airy with generously proportioned windows making sure guests fully appreciate being surrounded by some of the most gorgeous scenery in America.
The Aspen Meadows Resort offers three dining options on site. Opt for the buffet breakfast before your strenuous workout on the slopes and don’t miss the renowned Plato’s restaurant with classic, comfort cuisine sourced from local and regional farmers. The resort also has a heated outdoor saline lap pool and hot tub as well as a fully equipped 24 hour health club if you didn’t break enough of a sweat on the mountain. In addition, guests can rent snowshoes for exploring the numerous trails right outside the front door. In the warmer months you can improve your tennis game on one of the 6 tennis courts or take advantage of complimentary bike rentals.
Aspen Meadows Resort is great for couples and families as well as business travelers. You’ll leave inspired and refreshed just as Walter Paepcke envisioned.
Aspen Meadows Resort
845 Meadows Road
Aspen, CO 81611. USA
(800) 452-4240