Telluride

From the editors of Condé Nast Traveler:

In a prime Mountain Village spot steps from the gondola into Telluride town, this 100-room stone-and-stucco resort feels pleasingly intimate despite its large scale. The polished staff—which includes a personal assistant stationed in the cozy Living Room (stocked around the clock with coffee and snacks)—are as courteous as they are good-looking, from waitstaff who remember special requests from the day before to ski valets who wipe down and warm up your gear. The guest rooms, coated in neutral tones that lend it a somewhat generic mountain lodge-style, are nonetheless bright and generously proportioned, with extra drawer space under an obscenely restful bed, a sofa and an armchair with a tufted leather ottomon, complimentary soft drinks, a soaking tub, and a powerful shower with a seating area. The Onyx restaurant, which overlooks the new ice rink, serves waist-widening breakfasts and a more formal meat-and-potatoes menu at night, while Suede Bar is a low-key après-ski choice. Flexible check-out times, a small but inviting indoor pool with bench seating (retractable glass doors open in good weather), and a spa with a relaxation lounge complete with a fireplace round out the amenities.—2009 Hot List

When to go: In addition to winter skiing, weekly summertime festivals are a big Telluride draw.

Which room to book: Deluxe rooms, although the same size as standard rooms, have better village and mountain views; Capella Rooms include a small balcony.

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