Telluride, Colorado
Element 52
Auberge Resorts Collection
What it is
A ski-in, ski-out resort with 48 ultra luxe residences and a woodsy spa tucked into the San Juan Mountains.
What it isn't
Hungry. Michelin-starred Chef Mads Refslund—an original founder of Noma—helms the no-waste restaurant here. On the menu? Black caraway-crusted lamb rack.
What we think
Adventure is the number one amenity at Element 52. Everything on the retreat’s activities list could double as a bucket list highlight and/or a scene from a particularly cinematic car commercial. On guest itineraries here: cycling the wildflower-strewn former mining roads that crisscross the San Juan Mountains; rafting the Class IV-V Snaggletooth Rapid on the Dolores River; driving a Jeep 4x4 off-road to misty Bridal Veil Falls; and golfing at 9,417-feet elevation at the Telluride Golf Course, cradled by 14,000-foot peaks and purportedly among the highest courses on the planet. You’ll recharge in residences worthy of their locale, each one starting at 1,500-square-feet and stocked with cozy extras, like outdoor terraces, gas log fireplaces and kitchens Chef Refslund would love, thanks to Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances.
You're here because
You like the idea of Airbnb, but not the reality (i.e. dealing with individual homeowner’s bugaboos). These residences have the feel of luxury lofts with all the comforts of topnotch service from hotel staff.
The Moment
You didn’t feel the altitude until you were an hour into your hike, and then you started to quake like the aspen leaves dancing above you. Thankfully, Element 52’s masseuse knew the fix: plenty of water and a Muscle Melting Massage, with organic body butter rubbed into your weary self with warmed basalt stones. Suddenly, you’re not just back to normal; you’re better than ever.
Location
At the foot of the ski slopes in Telluride, just a three-block walk from Colorado Avenue, the town’s main drag. Be sure to hike Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail while you’re there for a three hour trek abundant with Instagrammable views.