Where the Ultrawealthy Unwind: From Aspen’s Slopes to Psychedelic Retreats
The world’s ultrawealthy are flocking to exclusive holiday destinations this season. From private jets to superyachts, they head to luxury ski resorts and tropical retreats—often spending thousands per night on accommodation.
Some even combine their getaways with high-end spiritual retreats involving psychedelics, adding a unique twist to their festive plans.
Aspen remains a top choice, especially for skiing. The Colorado resort has the highest concentration of homeowners worth over $30 million in the U.S. Notable figures like hedge fund tycoon Ken Griffin, Walmart heir Rob Walton, and entrepreneur Charles Koch own properties there. Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez Bezos are also regular visitors.
Elsewhere, the Alps draw elite travellers to Gstaad, St. Moritz, Courchevel, and Val-d’Isère. Property prices in these areas keep climbing, with Gstaad homes reaching up to €47,300 per square metre. Luxury hotels charge over $7,000 for a basic room and well into five figures for suites.
Other hotspots include St. Barts, where billionaires like Roman Abramovich, Bernard Arnault, and members of the Rothschild family have been spotted. Saudi princes and Elon Musk have also joined the crowd in recent years, making these destinations even more exclusive.
The trend shows no signs of slowing, with demand pushing prices higher in these elite locations. Private travel and lavish stays remain standard for the ultrawealthy, ensuring their holidays stay far from ordinary. Many will continue blending luxury with unique experiences, from skiing to psychedelic retreats, in the coming years.
