Where rugged American glamour meets French Alpine perfection. A curated itinerary for the discerning traveler, by Maison Alia.
At Maison Alia, we believe that true luxury extends beyond the impeccable thread count of your sheets or the curated textures of your living space; it is a lifestyle defined by seeking beauty, comfort, and exceptional experiences in every corner of the globe.
As winter tightens its grip, the world’s elite travelers turn their gaze toward the mountains. The perennial debate arises: the vibrant, cultural hub of Aspen, Colorado, or the polished, gastronomic pinnacle of Courchevel 1850 in the French Alps?
Both destinations offer world-class skiing, but their souls are distinctly different. One is American West ruggedness refined with cosmopolitan flair; the other is the epitome of European elegance and alpine chic.
Whether you are drawn to the Rockies or the Alps this season, we have curated the definitive top five experiences in each, ensuring your winter retreat is as exquisite as the sanctuary you create at home.
Aspen: The Intersection of Culture and Powder
Aspen is unique among ski towns. It didn't start as a resort; it was a silver mining town that reinvented itself into a cultural dynamo. It possesses a palpable energy, where Victorian architecture houses cutting-edge contemporary art, and cowboy hats are worn with couture. It is spirited, sophisticated, and undeniably glamorous.
1. The Art of the Après at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro
Perched high on Aspen Highlands, Cloud Nine is legendary. It is less a restaurant and more a cultural phenomenon. Inside this cozy former ski patrol cabin, the vibe shifts rapidly from a civilized raclette lunch to a high-energy party where spraying Veuve Clicquot is practically mandatory. It is hedonistic, incredibly fun, and the quintessential Aspen mountain experience.
The Design Note: The rustic timber frame interiors provide a grounding contrast to the effervescent atmosphere.
2. Architectural Marvels: The Aspen Art Museum
For the design aficionado, a visit to the Aspen Art Museum is non-negotiable. The building itself, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Shigeru Ban, is a masterpiece featuring a woven wooden screen facade that plays with light and shadow. The contemporary exhibits inside are world-class, offering a cerebral break from physical exertion on the slopes.
3. "Kemo Sabe" and Couture Shopping
Aspen’s retail scene rivals Madison Avenue, but with a distinct mountain twist. Alongside Dior, Gucci, and Prada, you must visit Kemo Sabe. This luxury western retailer is famous for its bespoke experience. Have a high-end beaver felt hat custom-shaped to your head, then branded with your initials or favorite symbols while enjoying a top-shelf tequila at their in-store bar.
4. Dining at the Peak: The Little Nell
For a dining experience that perfectly blends alpine coziness with five-star service, Element 47 at The Little Nell remains unrivaled. It is the only place in Aspen to hold both Five Stars from Forbes and Five Diamonds from AAA. The wine program is staggering, and the ambiance is defined by understated "Aspen modern" luxury.
5. The Sanctuary: Remède Spa at The St. Regis
After conquering the varied terrain of Ajax mountain, recovery is essential. The Remède Spa is the most opulent wellness destination in town. Indulge in their signature oxygen facial to combat the altitude, followed by time in the cascading hot tubs set against a stone waterfall—the ultimate textural indulgence.
Courchevel 1850: The Pinnacle of French Polish
If Aspen is a vibrant party, Courchevel 1850 is a structured, impossibly elegant ball. Sitting at the top of the vast Les Trois Vallées (the world’s largest interconnected ski area), 1850 is the highest and most exclusive of the Courchevel villages. It is characterized by palatial chalets, an unbelievable concentration of Michelin stars, and a fiercely chic clientele.
1. Ski-In/Ski-Out Haute Couture
Only in Courchevel can you ski directly to the door of Chanel. The "snow boutiques" here are unique, offering limited-edition alpine collections you won't find in Paris. Browsing Hermes, Louis Vuitton, and Fendi while wearing ski boots is the ultimate flex of alpine convenience and luxury.
2. Gastronomic Perfection: Le 1947 à Cheval Blanc
Courchevel holds the record for the most Michelin stars in a ski resort, but the crown jewel is Le 1947 at the Cheval Blanc hotel—the only three-Michelin-starred restaurant in the Alps. With only five tables, the experience is intensely private and bespoke. Chef Yannick Alléno’s cuisine is modern, technical, and emotionally resonant.
The Design Note: The interiors by Sybille de Margerie are a stunning study in textured whites, brushed brass, and contemporary warmth.
3. The Scenic Flight: Mont Blanc by Helicopter
While the skiing in the Three Valleys is endless, the most breathtaking view is from above. Charter a private helicopter from the Courchevel Altiport (famous for its short, steep runway) for a scenic flight around Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe. Seeing the sea of alpine giants from the air is a humbling and majestic experience.
4. Elegant Après-Ski: Le Chalet de Pierres
Courchevel’s après scene is less about table dancing and more about extended, glamorous lunches that bleed into the evening. Le Chalet de Pierres, located on the Verdons slope, is the classic choice. With an immense terrace perfect for people-watching and a stunning, antique-filled interior serving incredible seafood towers and roasted meats, it is French alpine sophistication personified.
5. The Ultimate Night Out: La Mangeoire
When darkness falls, the elite head to La Mangeoire. It begins as a high-end restaurant serving excellent French fare and transforms, as the night progresses, into a spirited piano bar and club. It is intimate, exclusive, and the place to see and be seen in 1850.
The Return Home
Whether you choose the spirited culture of Aspen or the polished glamour of Courchevel, the hallmark of a true luxury vacation is the feeling of returning to your own personal sanctuary.
Ensure your home is ready for your return. Wrap yourself in the comfort of Maison Alia’s exquisite linens, the perfect soft landing after high-altitude adventures.
Explore our current collection and elevate your everyday living.
