VICEROY SNOWMASS, COLORADO
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Anchoring a new base village, this 173-room, ski-in/ski-out stunner is like a vitamin B12 shot in the arm for Snowmass. Despite its wide-open bowls, powdery chutes, and sharp granite cliffs, Snowmass has long stayed in the shadow of neighboring Aspen due in part to its lack of luxury accommodations (that is, for those who don't own one of the multimillion-dollar pads sprinkled around the 25-square-mile town). Guests are coddled by the stellar service, kicking off their skis at the ski concierge area, ordering cocktails from the poolside hot tub, or finding handwritten notes from staff at turndown. Rooms are coolly modern: Gas fireplaces of black granite pop against textured walls, slate floors, and geometric wood detailing; huge beds are backed by woven-leather headboards; and built-in stainless steel lamps with steer horns wink at the valley's ranching history. Transparent glass walls enclose the immense bathrooms, which are a retreat unto themselves, with deep soaking tubs and attractive glass-tiled rain showers. Kitchenettes are stocked with premium appliances in case you want to stay in. But why would you? The Eight K Restaurant adds a throbbing pulse to the resort, with a bar pouring local brews and a decadent menu that has rocketed the spot to the top of the Snowmass dining scene.

Which room to book: Its mountain perch puts the lobby on the third floor; if you're not in the penthouse, book rooms on floors four or five.

Viceroy Snowmass
Tel: 866 270 8440

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See more hotels on Condé Nast Traveler's 2010 Hot List.

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