The Little Nell vs. Ritz-Carlton Club Aspen Highlands: Which Is Better for Families?
Aspen offers some of the most luxurious ski accommodations in Colorado, but choosing where to stay can significantly shape your vacation.
Two exceptional options are The Little Nell, located at the base of Aspen Mountain in downtown Aspen, and The Ritz-Carlton Club, Aspen Highlands, a luxury Residence Club offering spacious two- and three-bedroom accommodations at the base of Aspen Highlands.
Both offer ski-in/ski-out convenience, upscale amenities and exceptional service. However, their locations, accommodations and overall atmospheres create two distinctly different vacation experiences.
For families and groups traveling together, understanding these differences can help determine which property is the better fit.
The Little Nell vs. Ritz-Carlton Club Aspen Highlands at a Glance
Location: The Little Nell is in downtown Aspen, while the Ritz-Carlton Club is located at the base of Aspen Highlands.
Ski Access: The Little Nell provides access to Aspen Mountain, while the Ritz-Carlton Club offers ski-in/ski-out access to Aspen Highlands.
Accommodations: The Little Nell offers luxury hotel rooms, suites and nearby private residences. The Ritz-Carlton Club specializes in spacious two- and three-bedroom residences.
Kitchens: Full kitchens are available in select Little Nell residences and are included in Ritz-Carlton Club residences.
Atmosphere: The Little Nell offers a lively, central Aspen experience, while the Ritz-Carlton Club provides a quieter, residential mountain setting.
Dining: The Little Nell features acclaimed restaurants and bars, while Ritz-Carlton Club guests have access to on-site dining options and downtown Aspen.
Best For: The Little Nell is ideal for travelers prioritizing downtown access and nightlife. The Ritz-Carlton Club is particularly appealing to families and groups seeking space, privacy and a relaxed resort setting.
Location: Downtown Aspen or a Quieter Mountain Resort?
Perhaps the biggest difference between these two properties is their location.
The Little Nell: In the Heart of Aspen
The Little Nell occupies one of Aspen's most desirable addresses, directly beside the Silver Queen Gondola at the base of Aspen Mountain.
Guests can walk to downtown Aspen's restaurants, designer boutiques, nightlife and après-ski destinations without arranging transportation.
The hotel's restaurants and bars are also popular gathering places for visitors who aren't staying at the property.
For travelers who love Aspen's lively social atmosphere, this location is difficult to beat.
However, the energy of downtown Aspen may not be what every family wants throughout its vacation.
Ritz-Carlton Club Aspen Highlands: A More Relaxed Mountain Setting
The Ritz-Carlton Club, Aspen Highlands offers a different experience.
Situated at the base of Aspen Highlands, the property feels more like a secluded mountain resort than a downtown hotel.
Guests can enjoy the ski slopes, heated outdoor pools, hot tubs and spacious residences without being surrounded by Aspen's busiest shopping and nightlife districts.
Downtown Aspen is still accessible using the property's complimentary local transportation service.
For families who enjoy visiting downtown Aspen but prefer returning to a quieter setting at the end of the day, Aspen Highlands can be especially appealing.
Skiing: Aspen Mountain vs. Aspen Highlands
Both properties provide convenient ski access, but they serve different mountains.
The Little Nell offers immediate access to Aspen Mountain, also known as Ajax, via the Silver Queen Gondola.
Aspen Mountain is celebrated for its challenging terrain and proximity to downtown dining and après-ski.
The Ritz-Carlton Club provides ski-in/ski-out access at Aspen Highlands, known for its spectacular mountain scenery, varied terrain and legendary Highland Bowl.
Both properties offer ski-related services, including ski valet or concierge assistance.
Families should also consider where individual members of their group plan to ski. Aspen Snowmass encompasses four distinct ski areas, and some beginners or younger children may prefer terrain and lesson programs at Buttermilk or Snowmass.
The most convenient property will depend partly on which mountain your family expects to visit most often.
Accommodations: Hotel Luxury vs. Residential Space
For families traveling together, the accommodation layout can be just as important as the location.
Accommodations at The Little Nell
The Little Nell offers luxurious guest rooms, one- and two-bedroom suites and several larger specialty suites.
Its nearby Residences at The Little Nell also offer multi-bedroom accommodations with kitchens and living areas.
This means families who want residential-style accommodations can find options within The Little Nell's broader lodging collection.
However, guests comparing standard hotel rooms with multi-bedroom residences should consider how much shared space they need.
Accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton Club Aspen Highlands
The Ritz-Carlton Club specializes in two- and three-bedroom residences designed for families and groups.
These accommodations include:
Fully equipped gourmet kitchens
Separate living and dining areas
Comfortable bedrooms and luxurious bathrooms
Fireplaces
In-residence washers and dryers
Access to resort amenities and services
Instead of booking several separate hotel rooms, families can share a single residence while maintaining individual sleeping areas and privacy.
For multigenerational vacations, families traveling with children or couples vacationing together, this layout can be particularly convenient.
Which Property Has Better Amenities?
Both properties deliver luxury hospitality, although their amenities emphasize somewhat different experiences.
The Little Nell
The Little Nell is particularly well known for its dining, wine program and personalized hotel service.
Guests can enjoy acclaimed restaurants, sophisticated bars, a spa, heated outdoor pool, ski concierge and convenient access to downtown Aspen.
It's especially attractive for visitors who want dining, shopping and social activities to be a central part of their vacation.
Ritz-Carlton Club Aspen Highlands
The Ritz-Carlton Club offers a more residential resort experience, with amenities including:
Twice-daily housekeeping
Ski valet
Dedicated concierge services
Heated outdoor pools and hot tubs
Spa and fitness facilities
Complimentary local transportation
On-site dining options
For families, the combination of resort services and a private multi-bedroom residence can provide an appealing balance of comfort, convenience and personal space.
Is The Little Nell More Expensive Than Ritz-Carlton Club Aspen Highlands?
The Little Nell occupies the upper end of Aspen's luxury hotel market, but comparing rates between these properties requires considering the type of accommodation being booked.
A single hotel room at The Little Nell is not directly comparable to a two- or three-bedroom residence at the Ritz-Carlton Club.
For larger groups, the relevant comparison may be the total cost of multiple hotel rooms, a luxury suite or a multi-bedroom residence.
Rates also vary considerably based on travel dates, holiday periods and available inventory.
Families should compare the total cost for their entire group rather than relying exclusively on nightly rates.
Which Is Better for Families With Children?
Both properties offer family-friendly amenities, but they may appeal to different vacation styles.
The Little Nell can be ideal for families who want to walk to restaurants, shops and downtown activities throughout the day.
Its central location makes it particularly convenient for guests who enjoy exploring Aspen on foot.
The Ritz-Carlton Club Aspen Highlands may appeal more to families who want a comfortable home base with plenty of space.
A full kitchen makes preparing breakfast or children's meals easier, while separate bedrooms and living areas allow family members to follow different schedules.
After skiing, families can relax together in their residence rather than gathering in a hotel room or public lounge.
For extended family vacations, this additional space can make a meaningful difference.
The Verdict: Which Aspen Luxury Property Should You Choose?
Choose The Little Nell if:
You want to stay in the center of Aspen, enjoy an active social atmosphere, dine at celebrated restaurants and have immediate access to Aspen Mountain.
Choose The Ritz-Carlton Club Aspen Highlands if:
You prefer a quieter mountainside setting, spacious two- or three-bedroom accommodations, full kitchens and the convenience of luxury resort services.
Neither experience is universally better. The right choice depends on your family's size, preferred atmosphere and how you want to spend your time in Aspen.
Explore Ritz-Carlton Club Aspen Highlands Vacation Rentals
For families and groups looking for a spacious alternative to traditional Aspen hotel accommodations, The Ritz-Carlton Club, Aspen Highlands offers an exceptional combination of residential comfort and luxury resort services.
Travel En Vogue independently offers vacation rentals in privately owned two- and three-bedroom Residence Club inventory, subject to availability.
Explore Ritz-Carlton Club Aspen Highlands vacation rentals and inquire about available dates.
Travel En Vogue is an independent vacation-rental agency and is not affiliated with, endorsed by or operated by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Marriott International or The Little Nell.