Aspen or Vail: why not both? - Colorado - includes related articles

Sunset, Dec, 1993 by Lora J. Finnegan

GLENWOOD SPRINGS: THE POINT OF THE V

Visitors once flocked to Glenwood Springs for their health. It gained fame in the 1880s as a spa town, attracting everyone from a gunfighter (Doc Holliday) to a president (Theodore Roosevelt). Today, the two-block-long, 90 |degrees~ pool at Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge and Pool remains one of the world's largest outdoor natural spas.

But lately the town has been gaining new popularity among skiers attracted by inexpensive lodging, a friendly atmosphere, and proximity to both Vail and Aspen (either area is less than an hour away). Ski Sunlight, the local area, offers skiers a chance to get their snow legs before tackling the steeps at the bigger resorts.

Dining options are fewer than in the glamorous resorts but also less expensive and more family-oriented. Try the country-style breakfast at the Daily Bread Cafe Bakery (729 Grand Avenue), Southwestern dinners at The Loft (720 Grand), and Italian fare at Florindo's (721 Grand). And if you're ready for a real hot time, head for the vapor caves at the Yampah Spa (709 E. Sixth Street), a natural series of steam-filled caves; in the attached spa, you can also get a massage, facial, or herbal wrap. For events, shopping, and dining information, call the Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association, (800) 221-0098.

WHERE TO STAY: Picks and packages in three towns

Vail. Low-season packages including five nights' lodging in Vail or Beaver Creek and four days of lift tickets start at $445 (per person, double occupancy); call Central Reservations at (800) 525-2257. The Vail Village Inn (303/476-5622) offers moderate prices and close-to-the-lifts convenience. Relatively inexpensive lodging can also be found in nearby Avon and Minturn (about 15 or 20 minutes from the slopes). In Minturn, the Eagle River Inn (800/344-1750) is a handsome, Southwest-style B & B. In Avon, The Christie Lodge (800/551-4326) appeals to families, with kitchenettes available in the rooms.

Aspen. Early-season (pre-Christmas) packages including three nights' lodging and three days of lift tickets start at $167 per person. From January 2 through February 12, packages with five nights' lodging and four days of lift tickets start at $265; from February 13 through March 31, you'll find seven-night/six-day packages from $450. For details, call Aspen Central Reservations at (800) 262-7736. Rates at Crestahaus Lodge, a 31-room B & B at the edge of town, start at $75 a night; call (800) 344-3853. In Snowmass Village, condominiums are the way to go; call (800) 598-2005.

Glenwood Springs. The Hotel Colorado, a restored grande dame from the turn of the century, offers skiers packages and transport to the nearby Ski Sunlight area; call (800) 544-3998. The 1906 Hotel Denver has been restored with an art deco theme; call (800) 826-8820. Room rates at the modern Hot Springs Lodge include discounted admission at the hot pool across the street; call (800) 573-7946. Packages that include lodging, ski lift tickets (for Sunlight, Vail, or Aspen), and use of the hot springs start at $40 nightly; call Glenwood Springs Central Reservations, (800) 221-0098.