Aspen Men’s World Cup March 1-3
The Aspen World Cup promises an exhilarating talent showcase and competition from March 1-3. Switzerland’s Marco Odermatt has extended his dominance, winning all six GS races this year and nine in a row, including last year’s wins. He is only the second man to win more than five World Cup Giant Slaloms in a row, behind Ingemar Stenmark’s run of 14.
Keep an eye on the US Ski Team’s River Radamus, who’s shown excellent results this winter with a 4th place finish in Adelboden and his first World Cup podium at Pallisades Tahoe on February 24. Other US Skiers to watch are Tommy Ford, Brian Mclaughlin, George Steffy, and Aspen’s own Bridger Gile.
For Sunday’s Slalom, American AJ Ginnis, representing Greece, is my favorite. Last year he was disqualified for straddling a gate after appearing to win his first World Cup at Palisades Tahoe. He will be looking for redemption in Aspen. I would also keep an eye on Jett Seymour and Luke Winters, who can hopefully make the flip and score much-needed World Cup points.
The challenging race at Aspen, boasting the highest GS start on the World Cup at 9,550 feet, promises thrilling moments. It’s not too late to secure lodging for this prestigious event, reach out directly to me if you want to explore options and get ready for an unforgettable event.
Market Update
The Aspen market continues to thrive with remarkable resilience. Over the last three years, we’ve witnessed an impressive average annual price appreciation of 16.3%, while Snowmass has shown an even more remarkable surge at 23.5%. These figures reflect the sustained demand and desirability of properties in our beautiful region.
Indicators across the board highlight a robust and active market. We’re observing strategic price adjustments, with properties selling at listed discounts approaching 10%. The market’s strength is underscored by an average price per square foot holding firm at approximately $3,100.
Notably, the percentage of properties under contract has seen a significant shift, currently resting at around 13%, in line with pre-pandemic levels, compared to a high of 33% in 2021. This implies a dynamic market where people are actively exploring options while properties are still going under contract.
Prices continue to rise, and rumor has it that a home on Willoughby Way is under contract with a premier Las Vegas hotelier for $120 million. This will be the first transaction over $100 million in the Aspen Area.
As we navigate this dynamic landscape, feel free to reach out for any specific insights or assistance you might need. Wishing you continued success in your real estate endeavors.
The Roaring Fork Valley’s Newest Fine Dining
In the early months of 2024, take stock of the most recent fine dining additions in our Roaring Fork Valley communities. From Aspen to Glenwood Springs, small business owners in each neighborhood are hard at work, bringing you the best this valley has to offer in the culinary space. These restaurants bring a fresh perspective to dining, whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual meal with friends.
Mollie (111 S. Garmisch Street, Aspen, CO, mollieaspen.com)
MOLLIE is a “boutique hotel inspired by the layered spirit of Aspen and the many individuals who shaped its vibrant history. A place that honors the outdoors and encourages adventure while providing a luxurious experience to its guests, the MOLLIE team believes in the beauty and freedom of simplicity and subtlety” (mollieaspen.com). Offering options as approachable as a beer and onion dip, and as adventurous as the Haiku Highball cocktail and crispy lion’s mane mushrooms, this versatile venue satisfies every palette.
The Boat Tow (315 E Hyman Ave., Aspen, CO, theboattowaspen.com)
One cog in the well-oiled machine of Aspen’s new hotel/restaurant combo dubbed Gravity Haus, The Boat Tow presents a fresh take on classic nightlife. The unique moniker arose from Aspen’s history, as some of the earliest skiers were carried on a boat towed up Ajax by a cable. The Boat Tow is a new culinary concept playing tribute to the history of Aspen ski culture. It’s a place where community comes together over a shared passion for the mountains, outdoor adventure, and new experiences. Stop by the location on Hyman Avenue for a single spritz or several, however your night’s itinerary indicates.
Jimoto Aspen (616 E. Hyman Avenue, Aspen, CO, jimotoaspen.com)
Ramen lovers, indulge! Aspen’s newest Japanese joint located just beyond Restaurant Row on Hyman Avenue offers an intentional, concisely curated menu of culinary favorites. Locally-beloved restauranteur Jimmy Yeager, of his renowned eponymous Jimmy’s restaurant, established this spot with hopes of fulfulling the unsaturated ramen market in Aspen. From tonkatsu to mountain miso to vegan vegetable, these broth-based bowls will leave you speechless and looking forward to your next visit.
BUCK (508 E. Cooper Avenue, Aspen, CO)
Located downstairs on East Cooper St., BUCK is anticipated to open in December 2023 as a local bar and eatery with affordably priced food and beers. With memorabilia from The Red Onion and former employees at the helm, BUCK seeks to continue the legacy of “The Onion” as the local’s après-ski spot of choice. (508 E. Cooper Ave.)
Tiny Pine Bistro (968 Main Street, Carbondale, CO, tinypinebistro.com)
An American bistro with a cozy neighborhood atmosphere recently moved into downtown Carbondale. Owned and operated by Leslie Lamont and her fiancé, Charles Ford, this small-scale restaurant (aptly named Tiny Pine) specializes in dine-in and to-go options, offering a robust menu, to-go burgers and fries, and a Tuesday night special of steak frites. Located in the heart of downtown Carbondale, this restaurant is hard to miss. Enjoy delicious Asian-fusion dishes like tempura shrimp and blistered shishito peppers, or opt for classic American options like the meatballs alla vodka and the fried chicken sandwich.
901 E Hyman Avenue 9
This Chateau Blanc two bedroom two bathroom was remodeled in 2019 with full air conditioning/mini splits added in 2024. Enjoy this quiet location just two blocks to the center of town and four blocks to the Silver Queen Gondola. Natural light adorns the bedrooms and living area and you can entertain four to six people in the large living room and open kitchen. That same area allows you to relax after a long day in the outdoors. A wood burning fireplace, east facing deck, stackable washer and dryer as well as off street parking round out the amenities this two bed two bath has to offer.
Recently remodeled, this contemporary Chateau Chaumont 2-bed/2-bath condo features an A+ location – just one block to the gondola and a stone’s throw to the restaurants, bars, and happenings of downtown Aspen. The wood-burning fireplace, modern mountain aesthetic, hardwood floors, open-concept design, and premium bedding combine to make this the perfect retreat for your next visit. Aspiring chefs will love the Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances and the recently renovated common courtyard hot tub is the place to après after a day of adventuring. Renters have access to common underground garage and additional spots in the alley of the W Hotel, which is right next door.
