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Weekend Getaways to Aspen

16:36 Mon 24th May 2010 |

Do you want to get away from the stress of day to day life? Then escape to a place good enough for the rich and famous, a place where you can ski down some of the most amazing mountain ranges and socialise in the fabulous array of restaurants and bars on offer.

Skiing in Aspen:

Aspen is one of the world's best known resorts, boasting four ski areas and three separate resort developments. The city began its life as a silver mining town and has now become one of the world’s most famous resorts with its lively feel and stunning views of Aspen Mountain. Aspen has attracted the rich, the famous and, of course, many ski enthusiasts to live and stay. It is not hard to see why; extensive skiing and boarding for all abilities, some of the best après-ski from budget to fine dining and superb accommodation in a town with a heart.

Aspen has long been a haven for the rich and famous who fly in to ski and socialize. The area is also popular for its year-round array of outdoor adventure activities. With runs for beginners, to experts looking for a challenge, this city caters for everyone with a passion for the slopes. All of the mountain ranges attract winter skiers from around the world. While in the summer you can embark on some scenic hiking and biking trails; whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll or a challenge you will find it here. For those indoor types, you can explore the fashionable boutiques or head to any of the town's fine museums. No matter what your interests, Aspen is sure to deliver a top-notch vacation.

The ski terrain is spread over four separate areas: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass; all linked by an efficient free shuttle service. Snowmass alone provides almost 60% of the total skiing available and is the third largest ski area in Colorado. Beginners will head for the gentle runs of Buttermilk and progress to Snowmass. Intermediates will warm up on Snowmass and then head for Aspen Mountain (where there is no beginner territory). Experts will tackle the steep runs on Aspen Mountain and then head over to Aspen Highlands, the locals’ favourite. Snowboarders will love the world’s largest terrain park in Buttermilk.

Why do people love Aspen?

Apart from the great skiing and snowboarding, the breathtaking scenery and hiking potential of Aspen is wonderful. But let’s not forget the amazing selection of restaurants this city has to offer. Renowned for its fantastic selection, Aspen offers as many world class eateries as you'll find in most major cities worldwide. Matsuhista is one of the many highly regarded establishments, with an initially Japanese theme influenced by many international cultures. At the still-great-but-affordable-for-the-light-of-wallet end of the scale, local favourites include fat burritos at Aspen Underground, low price bar food at French bistro Cache Cache, good vegetarian food at Explore Booksellers and Bistro, and bucket loads of pasta at Mangia Mangia in Snowmass.

Whether it’s chilling with a cold beer or clubbing till the early hours of the morning, no ski resort does it better than downtown Aspen. The skiing speaks for itself attracting many sporting visitors; but the nightlife attracts just as much, if not more attention. In this year-round town with a relaxed mood, Hollywood celebs rub elbows with visitors looking for the same entertainment; so get your camera at the ready and get snapping to make your friends back home green with envy.

When many people think of Aspen, Colorado, the first image they get is celebrities on ski holidays. While it’s true that Aspen gets its fair share of famous people, it’s a great place for anyone who wants to be outdoors in both summer and winter - so don’t let the rich and famous have all the fun!

- K.J.N -

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