Aspen’s wellness landscape is about to get a major boost — just in time for ski season. Beloved hotel The Little Nell unveiled a brand new spa and fitness center on Dec. 11, making it the region’s only ski-in/ski-out luxury spa at the base of Aspen Mountain. The complete renovation encompasses three luxurious treatment suites; a special departure lounge; and a state-of-the-art gym.
Most Little Nell guests are in Aspen to ski or hike the surrounding mountains, and the new spa embraces an active and nature-filled itinerary. It functions as both a body-priming launch pad before hitting the slopes and as a recovery zone after returning from the mountainside. It’s also a sanctuary for weary travelers just looking to relax in the beautiful natural surroundings.
“The spa was greatly inspired by Walter Paepcke, who was the visionary behind the concept of the “Aspen Idea” — a holistic philosophy that celebrates the life-affirming pleasure found in active pursuits, the feel-good effects of Mother Nature, and the integration of mind, body, and spirit,” Henning Rahm, general manager of The Little Nell, told Travel + Leisure. “The Spa at The Little Nell is designed to offer holistic experiences that blend mind, body, and spirit together in harmony.”
To that end, the spa’s new treatment menu features an integration of state-of-the-art technology (like biohacking) with more traditional therapeutic methods. Treatments feature products by anti-inflammatory skin pioneer Dr. Barbara Sturm, organic skincare brand Isun formulated in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, and organic line Seed to Skin Tuscany. The latter, in particular, has previously not been available in a North American hotel. Now it’s at the Little Nell, both in the spa and as the hotel’s in-room bath products, including their shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, and bath salts.
Shawn O’Connor/Courtesy of The Little Nell
Interestingly, the spa treatment menu moves away from the traditional service categories, instead presenting an integrated approach that focuses on targeted solutions within the primary therapeutic pillars: Recover + Repair, Replenish + Restore, and Reset + Rebalance. Many treatments focus on the alpine altitude and active lifestyle most guests have during their mountain stay at the Little Nell, tailoring treatments to the environment.
The Mountain Metamorphosis ritual, for example, is under the Recover + Repair section and involves a salt-infused infrared sauna session to prime the body and boost the respiratory system. It is followed by a therapeutic, deep-tissue massage that’s amplified by percussion therapy to release deep-seated tension and LED red light for muscle recovery, along with energized oxygen to promote repair at the cellular level.
Meanwhile, under the Replenish + Restore section is the Altitude Adjustment, to help return hydration and nourishment to distressed skin with a full-body exfoliation and facial boost, followed by a contrast steam bath to revitalize and a hydrating body mask infused by infrared heat and negative ions. The treatment finishes with a restorative Swedish-style massage infused with a nourishing cocktail of ingredients along with energized oxygen.
Shawn O’Connor/Courtesy of The Little Nell
The Skin Glow, under Reset + Rebalance, boosts radiance and improves overall skin health and functionality by increasing blood flow and oxygen levels while toning and defining the facial muscles.
“The Dr. Sturm treatments that are offered were selected for The Spa at The Little Nell as top-of-the-line offerings from her treatment menu and each of them focuses on hydration, which is fitting for our environment,” explained Rahm. “Set nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, Aspen’s high altitude and dry climate can be tough on complexion, and these premier facials and body treatments are the perfect remedy to hydrate skin, delivering personalized results that are both immediate and long-term.”
Instead of a shared locker room, the three treatment suites are each equipped with a private changing room and sumptuous steam shower. Two of the suites boast a hybrid infrared/halotherapy sauna with a dedicated resting area and fireplace, and one is equipped with dual treatment tables.
Additionally, there is a separate departure lounge, featuring a restroom, vanity, and steam shower that’s available to all guests with early arrivals or late departures. It also serves as a recovery space for guests post activities.
Shawn O’Connor/Courtesy of The Little Nell
“Inspired by the lobby’s design ethos, our approach involves ordered, symmetrical spaces characterized by extensive millwork,” Julian Castillo of Luis Bustamante Interior Design, the firm behind the refresh, told T+L. “Natural elements like white oak, wool, and porcelain tiles emulate limestone, while vibrant colors — blue, purple, red, black, and white — add a striking touch.”
Situated next to the spa is the new fitness center, which features a variety of top-of-the-line cardio and strength equipment including Woodway treadmills, Peloton cycles, Technogym weight machines, a functional training station from TRX, and ample space for free movement. Trainers are available for private bookings upon request.
The new spa and gym will undoubtedly bring the renowned Little Nell, a Relais & Chateaux member, to the next level of bespoke luxury and wellness in Aspen. “The Spa’s bespoke approach honors guests’ individual needs and goals,” said Rahm. “There’s an element for everyone at any part of their wellness journey.”
To learn more, visit thelittlenell.com.