Diamonds are a hotel’s best friend too and The Ritz-Carlton, Denver has a lot of friends – ten to be exact. Last week the luxe property celebrated its 2011 AAA Five-Diamond rating with a fancy schmancy reception for hospitality and tourism industry-types. It’s the second year in a row that the hotel has received such honors from the American Automobile Association.
Yes, “Triple A” is not just there to rescue you from a flat tire on the side of the road. The travel arm of the association sets lofty industry standards through its national AAA Diamond ratings. Dating back to 1939, only .3% of all rated hotels make the cut each year and are awarded with one to five Diamonds.
Five is the best of course, and The Ritz-Carlton, Denver is well deserving of each and every one. Since its opening in 2008, the 202-room property remains the first and only hotel in the city to receive the award and one of four throughout Colorado.
Held in the lounge of the hotel’s signature restaurant, ELWAY’s Downtown, guests sipped champagne and indulged in hors d’oeuvres from The Ritz-Carlton, Denver’s executive chef, Justin Fields. Pastry chef, Leslie Ann Viets created yet another best friend – a silver encrusted chocolate mousse cake in the shape of a diamond.
Andrew Rogers, general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Denver raised a glass recognizing his team of employees that makes the hotel shine.
“To maintain this coveted award is such an honor not only for The Ritz-Carlton but for the city of Denver and our ladies and gentleman; they should be extremely proud of their tireless service commitment to our guests,” he said.
Also toasting to the prestigious award winner were the restaurant’s namesake, John Elway and Tim Schmidt, co-owner and founder of ELWAY’s.
Beyond the hotel’s restaurant, The Ritz-Carlton, Denver touts the most spacious guestrooms in the city with stunning views and elegant décor. Perhaps the most sparkling area of the property is the Forbes Four-Star winning Ritz-Carlton Spa. And just in time to get you in a festive spirit comes their ‘Tis the Season Holiday treatment menu. Recharge yourself during party season or give the gift of relaxation with a spa gift card.
‘Tis the Season Holiday Spa Treatments (available now through January 31, 2012)
Sugar & Spice Scrub
This exfoliating treatment helps soften dry skin and fortify moisture levels leaving your skin glowing.
45 minutes, $115
Gingerbread Facial
Customized for your specific skin type, this high-performance facial features the highest quality seasonal ingredients to deep clean and purify the skin.
80 minutes, $200
Peppermint Patty Pedicure
Embracing notes of chocolate and peppermint this pedicure was created to truly celebrate the season.
75 minutes, $125
Pure Peppermint Pampering
Enhance any signature treatment with peppermint oil, an ideal scent for altitude adjustment, fatigue or jet lag.
$25
*Room rates available from $209
The Ritz-Carlton, Denver
1881 Curtis Street
Denver, CO 80202
303.312.3800
ritzcarlton.com/Denver