Made for the Mountains
Vail marries culture, cuisine, and get-after-it terrain.
List the top international ski resorts, and Vail, Colorado, is most always a U.S. favorite. Known for expansive ski terrain, easy access from Denver and the Front Range, and iconic properties including the Arrabelle at Vail Square, Vail is a premier alpine getaway. Why? Room to roam, a unique mix of aspirational locals and curious visitors, and the healing power found in nature. Here’s where to go on you next mountain escape.
Ski & Ride
Vail is famous for its seven Back Bowls—Sun Down, Sun Up, Tea Cup, China, Siberia, Inner Mongolia, and Outer Mongolia—which attract celebrity ski locals like Chris Anthony and Brenda Buglione. Yet what makes this massive ski mountain most unique is its chameleon-esque nature; families flock here because Vail has playful terrain for all levels, all the time. And considering its ski school is one of the best in the business, book a lesson and let your skis or snowboard guide your daily on-mountain bliss.
Experience
If want to experience the backcountry, but the aforementioned Back Bowls aren’t quite your speed, book a dog-sledding adventure with Mountain Musher Dog Sleds. Kiddos will forever thank you, and takeaways include 360-degree views and photo-album family moments. Other family faves include ice skating in downtown Vail, s’mores at the Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, snowshoeing along pristine trails, and (for the more adventurous at heart), fat-tire biking.
New & Noteworthy
The Gravity Haus has become hit among the younger set. Considered an in-the-know headquarters (daily membership required) for remote workers, adventurers, entrepreneurs, and collaborators, it features a lauded spa and an “in-haus” Slope Room restaurant, serving thoughtfully sourced proteins, vegan and gluten-free offerings, and roasted coffee from zero-emissions Bellwether Roaster. If taking a day off the slopes, unplug and reset at the RockResorts Spa, where Members have insider access to locally inspired treatments.
Sip & Savor
Where to begin! Vail has cuisine for every type of foodie. Your cheat sheet includes Sweet Basilfor braised Colorado lamb, Mountain Standard for casual gastropub fare, Almresi Vail for authentic Austrian cuisine, Alpenrose for schnitzel ,and Root & Flower by star chef Kelly Liken. And though you’re in the mountains, don’t discount seafood—Matsuhisa Vail serves some of the finest in the country. Lastly, try Northside Coffee and Kitchen for pre-ski breakfast fuel.
Only at Vail
Another must is a night at Beano’s Cabin. Located in nearby Beaver Creek, the only way to access this remote sanctuary is via a 20-minute open-air sleigh ride up Beaver Creek Mountain. And the food? Some of the finest in Colorado, anchored in savory beef, game, and seasonal produce.
Stay
SKI-IN, SKI-OUT CLUB RESIDENCES AT THE ARRABELLE AT VAIL SQUARE
# of Residences: 9 | Bedrooms: 3 | Baths: 3-4
The Details: The Club's nine retreats at the Arrabelle at Vail Square capture the spirit of the west, yet all maintain a mountain contemporary vibe. Every residence features gourmet kitchens, spacious living rooms with fireplaces, large bedrooms, and are ski-in/ski-out with direct access to the Eagle Bahn gondola.