The St. Regis Aspen Resort

The St. Regis is the more conventional five-star — bigger property, full butler service, the recognisable Marriott Luxury Collection program for clients who collect points and want the predictable language of the brand. The Remède Spa is the best in town for serious wellness — the thermal circuit alone is worth a half-day — and the pool deck with three hot tubs is the right place to be at five p.m. in February.

For clients who want a real spa as part of the week, the St. Regis is the better choice than The Little Nell. For pure ski-in/ski-out, the Nell wins. Book a Mountain Suite and ask for the upper floors; the bedroom views of Aspen Mountain are the reason to be here.

The conventional five-star, done properly.