Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced the launch of a multi-million dollar renovation to a premier Snowmass resort in preparation for its re-opening under the Westin flag in time for the 2012-2013 ski season. Formerly known as the Silvertree Hotel & Conference Center, the 254-room resort will fully renovate all guest rooms and public areas in order to implement the full suite of Westin signature amenities, designed to inspire wellbeing. Owned by a joint venture between Starwood Capital Group and Wasserman Real Estate, The Westin Snowmass Resort boasts an unbeatable location at the heart of Snowmass Village, adjacent to the ski slopes of Snowmass, one of Colorado’s most prestigious ski mountains.

The Westin Snowmass Resort will feature 254 rooms and expand its suite offerings to 20, all with spectacular slope-side views. The resort’s brand-new restaurant – The Snowmass Kitchen – will offer all-day dining with easy ski-in/ski-out access. The existing gym will be transformed into a first-class spa facility and a brand-new WestinWORKOUT® fitness center will overlook Snowmass Village. The resort’s upper pool will be redeveloped into a landscaped space ideally suited for outdoor events, and the lower pool will be rebuilt to include two spacious hot tubs. The 20,000 square-foot conference center will be fully renovated and is scheduled to re-open by June 1, 2012.

Located in the heart of Snowmass, The Westin Snowmass Resort is walking distance to the shops and restaurants of Snowmass Village. The resort overlooks the slopes of Snowmass and is also convenient to three other ski areas – Aspen, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. Aspen/Snowmass is not only one of the world’s most sought-after ski destinations, but it is also a leading destination for summer vacationers, complete with white-water rafting, championship golf courses, horseback riding, hot air balloon rides and hiking.

“The Westin Snowmass Resort is a highly anticipated addition to our growing resorts portfolio, offering an unparalleled location with year-round appeal,” said Brian Povinelli, Global Brand Leader for Westin Hotels & Resorts. “Here, guests will enjoy all of the Westin brand’s signature programs and amenities, designed to bring to life the brand’s emphasis on well-being and send guests home feeling better than when they arrived.”

The sensory-rich environment at Westin offers a respite from the rigors of travel and sets a welcoming tone. Upon entering the lobby, guests will begin to breathe more easily as they are greeted with soothing elements like relaxed lighting, natural botanicals and stimulating music. All guestrooms will feature the world-renowned Westin Heavenly® Bed with lush sheets, down cushioning and a patented pillow-top mattress, which cradles and contours to the body for complete comfort. Another industry first, the Heavenly® Bath creates an invigorating spa-like experience, enhanced with the brand’s Heavenly® Shower, Heavenly® Robe and exclusive White Tea Aloe bath amenities. In-room, high-speed Internet access and an ergonomic work space will offer travelers convenience and productivity in a tranquil setting.

“We look forward to fully renovating this spectacular resort in preparation for our re-opening as a Westin next winter,” said John Curnow, general manager of The Westin Snowmass Resort. “One of the area’s top wedding and meeting destinations, The Westin Snowmass Resort will appeal to skiers and summer vacationers who appreciate the brand’s emphasis on a renewing travel experience.”