What was once the summer hunting ground of the Ute Indians and later a Colorado Miners’ retreat is now, in its latest incarnation, The Little Nell, a five-star hotel in Aspen, AKA one of the best ski destinations in America. The doors opened in 1989, and the hotel underwent a recent renovation in 2017, bringing even more refined polish to this cozy enclave at the foot of Aspen Mountain. The Relais & Châteaux property is the only ski-in/ski-out hotel in downtown Aspen and is largely considered to be this sophisticated mountain town’s signature luxury hotel. With fewer than 100 rooms, the focus is on providing exceptional service in a sumptuous yet intimate setting.
Mountain views are everywhere, from the Continental Divide to the Red Mountain Range, and as their guest, you’ll be sung in the embrace of five-star digs surrounded by Aspen culture and nature’s finest. Here’s what we saw when we stayed.
The Look of The Little Nell
Rooms and suites are spacious and inviting with a minimalist feel; there are no fussy ornamental details here, just rich, plush textures complemented by warm natural tones of cream, brown, and blue. These are rooms you can completely relax in; there’s comfortable seating, wool carpets, gas log fireplaces, and goose-down pillows; most have private balconies, and all have heated bathroom floors. Guests can indulge in a massage or facial at the hotel’s health center or opt for a dip in the hot tub under the stars. The hotel’s art collection is noteworthy, featuring a global and local selection of abstract art from acclaimed painters, photographers, and sculptors.
The Vibe at The Little Nell
The Little Nell is sophisticated but in a very relaxed, smart way. You’ll be among sporty skiers with big bank accounts, a taste for adventure, and fine wine. Everyone is on vacation, from couples to families, so expect the mood to be convivial and celebratory. Service reflects their five-star status — helpful, aware, and anticipatory. Every need is met, from oxygen rental for altitude sickness to complimentary town shuttle service. Pets are welcome, and children are treated as special guests with everything on offer, from board games to babysitters.
Who Will Love The Little Nell
Outdoors enthusiasts both young and old (from skiers and stargazers to cyclists and hikers) who love to put in miles on the bike or runs on the mountain and retire at the day’s end to a fine glass of wine, tasteful dining, and plush accommodations.
Who Might Not Love The Little Nell
If you prefer a big, busy hotel with lots of coming and going and loads of drinking and dining options, the Little Nell might not be your first choice.
Best Amenity at The Little Nell
Most guests would argue the exclusive ski-in/ski-out mountainside access is the best, as is their dedicated Ski Concierge who’s on hand to store equipment, warm ski boots, issue lift tickets, schedule lessons, and fuel guests with coffee, tea, and pastries. Yet, the wine program here gets the year-round “best” nod as it’s exceptional in every way. It’s worth noting that ten of North America’s 172 Master Sommeliers trained while working at The Little Nell. In fact, they have 50 sommeliers on staff to manage their 20,000-plus bottle wine cellar…oh, and The Wine Spectator Grand Award (12 years running) is another star in their crown. Suffice it to say, your wine experiences here will be remarkable and memorable. Book a private cellar tasting or a private cellar dinner (hosted by one of the top-notch sommeliers) for your last night before heading home.
What’s Included at The Little Nell
Guests enjoy a fully stocked refreshment bar with complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. There's also free wifi, a Bose Bluetooth Speaker, and all-natural “First Tracks” June Jacobs spa amenities.
Fees and Extra Costs You Should Know About at The Little Nell
There is a resort fee of 6% of your room rate and includes wifi, morning coffee, fitness center access, all snacks and non-alcoholic beverages in the minibar (restocked daily), and a seasonal ski concierge (i.e., boot heating and equipment storage. Guests can also take advantage of transportation to and from the Aspen airport and downtown area, as well as Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Aspen Highlands. Valet parking is available for an additional $38 per night.
How to Get a Deal at The Little Nell
Visit the offers page for more information on deals, discounts, and promotions. Also, consider staying in shoulder season for more affordable rates.
In the Neighborhood of The Little Nell
The property is located in the heart of Aspen, with the chair lift at the back door and everything else within walking distance of the front door, including the Aspen Art Museum, The Aspen Institute, Wheeler Opera House, Aspen Music Festival, Theatre Aspen, and the Aspen Historical Society. It’s also within a short drive to the Maroon Bells, Aspen Golf Club, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, and Aspen Snowmass' other three ski areas: Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass Ski Area. The hotel offers complimentary transportation in and around Aspen.
Nearest Airport to The Little Nell
The Aspen/Pitkin County Airport is located just four miles from the hotel. Meanwhile, Denver International Airport is about a three-hour drive from the resort.
Nearest Public Transit to The Little Nell
The Roaring Fork Transit Authority (RFTA) has a bus station less than 1,000 feet from the hotel at the Rubey Park Transit Center.
For an intimately luxurious respite from a long day on the mountain, The Little Nell is your five-star hideaway.