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Aspen: Hollywood on ice


ASPEN: A winter wonderland
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ASPEN: A winter wonderland
ASPEN: A winter wonderland
ARE you wanting to combine celebrity spotting with a spot of skiing? Then Aspen, North America’s most star-studded ski resort, is the place to head over the festive season.

Over Christmas, it feels like the whole of Tinseltown has decamped to this charming mountain resort.

No wonder it’s earned the nickname Hollywood On Ice!

Wander around the fairy lit streets complete with frosted gingerbread cabins and decorated Christmas trees and keep your eyes peeled for Aspen regulars Kate Hudson and Mariah Carey.

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Whether you’re a poseur or piste lover, Aspen is a wonderful destination.


WHERE SHOULD I STAY?
OK! really became quite attached to our gorgeous plush apartment at The Gant, an aparthotel with 140 one to four-bed apartments, set in five acres.

With a great location, just a few blocks away from the main streets, The Gant also has a free shuttle to take you to and from the slopes or to your dinner venue of choice.

After a hard day on the slopes, relax in one of the two outdoor heated pools or three hot tubs and soak up the wonderful forest scenery. It’s also a great way to meet people!

OK! loved the cosiness of The Gant – the real wood fireplace and the comfy caramel sofas. Our apartment came with a perfectly kitted-out kitchen, including a huge fridge, microwave, a washing machine and daily maid service.

And if you don’t wish to do the cooking yourself, you can just flick through your in-room magazine, which lists many of Aspen’s restaurants’ takeaway menus.

Then make your selection, and sit back to watch a movie on the sleek flat-screen TV before having  a relaxing bath with the Aveda potions provided.


WHEN SHOULD I GO?
There’s always something going on in Aspen. In just a few days, OK! caught the Wintersculpt snow sculpture competition, the Wintersköl fireworks and Gay Ski Week.

Catch the World Snow Polo Championship in December, or the extreme ski and snowboard Winter X Games at the end of January.

In summertime, Aspen turns into a cultural centre with lots of highbrow literary, musical and arts events as well as a food festival.

 

WHERE CAN I SKI?

Despite its reputation for glitz and glamour, this Colorado resort does also offer an extensive ski network.

The season runs from November to April, and the runs are spread over four mountains, with Ajax mountain, accessed from the town, ideal for more accomplished skiers, while Buttermilk, a quick free bus ride away, is perfect for beginners.

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The largest ski area is Snowmass, with slopes for all abilities as well as family-friendly facilities such as a ski school, an oversized treehouse and sing-alongs by the campfire.

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If you don’t wish to lug your skis around, then make sure, like OK!, you make use of Four Mountain Sports’ ski valet service.

 

WHICH STARS MIGHT I SEE?

Jack Nicholson, Kevin Costner, Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffith, and Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell all own homes in Aspen, while you’ll be likely to spot non-homeowners at top hotels the Little Nell or St Regis.

The exclusive members-only Caribou Club is great for celeb-spotting. Look out for Avatar actress Zoe Saldana, and Kate Hudson.

OK! loved the cosy lounge.

And Casa Tua, sister to Miami’s famous club, is a hot new ticket in town.

Mariah Carey is a regular at Matsuhisa (sister eatery to Nobu).


WHERE CAN I EAT?
Head to 39 Degrees at the SkyHotel for a great après-ski atmosphere.

OK! enjoyed the hot tub! Another hotspot is J-Bar at Hotel Jerome – their bar snacks are fab. Hang out with locals at the very laid-back Jimmy’s.

For clubbing, there are old-school favourites The Regal, Eric’s Bar, and the über-cool new Escobar.

 

WHERE CAN I SPA?

Staying at The Gant gives you access to the Aspen Club & Spa, where the highlight for OK! was a session with Patrick Sagal, a local legend with healing hands, who magics away any post-ski aches and pains.

For something a little more bling, try the new luxe spa at Viceroy Snowmass.

OK! loved chilling out in the relaxation room with its silver antler chandeliers and water features. Look out for Marcia Gay Harden or Ali Larter in the mosaic hot tub!

 

WHERE CAN I SHOP?

Aspen is a shopper’s dream with Chanel, Prada, Fendi and Ralph Lauren spread over just a few streets.

For the latest ski fashions, try Moncler, Helly Hansen or Jet Set – OK! was impressed by the crazy colours but not by the price tags! Courage B is a hot new boutique, while Mario Di Leone is the place for pricey designer wear.

For smaller budgets, try Valleygirl, with its cute cocktail dresses under £80 and Roots for sweatshirts, fleeces and Aspen T-shirts.

 

HOW DO I GET THERE?

Full Circle Travel (0800 048 8772; www.fullcircle travel.co.uk) is offering a seven-night package, including return flights with United Airlines from London Heathrow to Aspen via Chicago, private hotel transfer, staying at The Gant (www.gantaspen.com), from £1,197 per person based on four people sharing a two-bedroom apartment.

Price valid for travel in early February 2012.

   

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