Lined with flourishing aspen trees, the city of Aspen has eloquently transformed itself from a historical mining town into one of the premier vacation destinations in the world. Known as a jetsetter’s paradise, Aspen is filled with gourmet dining restaurants, cultural landmarks, upscale shopping, luxury ski resorts, glamorous events, and mountainous adventures all year long. So, naturally, as an outdoor enthusiast, I couldn’t help but take a trip to this picturesque place when the colors were changing.
Where to Stay
The Gant Aspen
The Gant is the only condominium hotel in Aspen to offer food and beverage on-property. Situated in an idyllic enclave at the base of Aspen Mountain, the property boasts 140 privately-owned, professionally designed luxury condominiums with separate entrances. Plus, with 5,500 square feet of indoor and outdoor venues, the property provides an inspirational environment for meetings, retreats, and festive celebrations.
Places to Eat
Pepperjack’s Cafe
Perfect for grabbing a quick bite before a big hike. Must-tries include the French Press Smoothie, or Ajax Toast, gluten-free artisan toast with fresh lime. If you’re on the premises for lunch and prefer to laze around the pool, the Café’s Silver Queen Chicken Sandwich will hit the spot. Kids menu also available.
French Alpine Bistro
For lunch and dinner, this popular bistro offers French cuisine in a chalet-inspired setting, The fondues and crepes are the main focus. Must-tries: The Nirvana, featuring Thai green curry crepe with chicken, red pepper, eggplant, squash, fresh basil and coconut milk, topped with toasted coconut flakes; The Steak Tartare with pommes frites; and for dessert, The Nutella, which comes with your choice of strawberries, bananas, extra Nutella, or dulce de leche.
Activities to Explore
If you’re looking for some fun in the fall while you’re in town, these high-end hookups cater to everyone from the adventure seeker to the laid-back yogi. Contact The Gant’s concierge to reserve any of the following activities at concierge@gantaspen.com or call 970.920.6080.
Backcountry ATV Adventure
Venture into the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains with an all-terrain vehicle. This adventure includes transportation to Electric Mountain Lodge, ATV rental, ATV guide, four hours of riding, helmet, goggles, and lunch. Guests may opt for roundtrip transportation of choice between a flightseeing helicopter ride or private Mercedes Sprinter van escort.
Aspen to Crested Butte Hiking Trek
This breathtaking, 10.2- mile hike climbs over 3,000 feet in elevation and ranges between six and nine hours in duration depending on skill level. Upon completion of the trek, guests may choose to return to Aspen courtesy of a private shuttle or stay overnight in the neighboring mountain town of Crested Butte prior to private shuttle service the following day.
Paonia Wine Tasting Experience
Explore Colorado wine country with a scenic 90-minute drive through the picturesque Roaring Fork and Crystal Valleys to Paonia. This full-day excursion guides guests through tastings and tours at Azura Cellars and Gallery, Black Bridge Winery, Endless Endeavor Winery, Stone Cottage Cellars, and others along with lunch at a local eatery.
River Rafting
Enjoy the allure of Colorado’s whitewater with experienced guides on one of three nearby rivers: The Roaring Fork River, located in the heart of Aspen, the Colorado River, which flows through spectacular Glenwood Canyon, or the Arkansas River, which offers a breathtaking drive over Independence Pass.
Private Backcountry Jeeping
Venture deep into the heart of the Elk Mountains backcountry through aromatic forests of aspen and pine while climbing to wildflower-carpeted alpine meadows with sweeping views. Beyond magnificent sights, learn about Aspen’s unique geology, flora, and fauna from experts in nature.
Time to Unwind
Embrace the beautiful change of season with these new resort services.
O2 Aspen Wellness Services
O2 Aspen offers guests luxurious wellness offerings ranging from exercise classes to high-end spa treatments for guests to enjoy in residence or at the studio. Guests will receive an exclusive 15% discount on services when they book through the hotel’s concierge.
Thug Yoga®️ at the Gant
Thug Yoga®️ is a locally owned studio brimming with personality and a favorite among locals. Make sure to check out Yoga Elements, which offers a basic class designed to educate students with the science of yoga as well as focus on alignment, breath, and mindful movement. Modifications and variations of poses make this class accessible to all.
