Mountain vistas, brisk mornings, and the stuff storybooks are made of.

WHERE TO STAY IN VAIL

Lionshead or Vail Village

Never been to Vail? Here's a quick primer on the two villages. Vail Village is more established, boasting the majority of dining and shopping options. Newcomer on the scene is Lionshead. If you prefer more intimate surroundings, you can’t go wrong with Lionshead architecture and ambience. There are a plethora of hotels and condos available for rent within either village. Wherever you decide to dwell, hop aboard one of the [free] trams and arrive at nearly any location within the two communities in under 20 mins.

WHere to eat

White Bison

Looking for hands-down one of the best burgers you’ll ever put in your mouth? Order the bison burger at white bison, you will not be disappointed. Fare is served alongside one of the most beautiful portions of Vail Village. Opt for dinner at White Bison if your schedule allows. Sunset along the river is not to be missed. Grab your favorite libation and head for the patio!

I recommend the bison burger, and a glass of champagne..

Sweet Basil

Holy basil! This sweet spot lives up to its incredible reputation as one of the finest culinary experiences available in Vail. We had the joy of sampling the fare during their 50th anniversary celebration. The saffron seafood linguine, if you ever see this dish item on the menu, do your mouth a favor and order immediately. It remains one of the top orders of all time.

I recommend: the charred octopus. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the oysters.

yeti’s grind

Caffeine cravings waking you up earlier than the morning sun streaming in through your window? head on down to yeti’s grind & start your day on the right foot. (No doubt your travel companions will thank you) Vibes like your favorite PNW coffee house, the menu is stocked with all the coffee classics and a few YG specialties. Caffeine not your go to go-go juice? You can always fuel up on the smoothies.

THE 10TH

The10th is mountain top fine dining, open seasonally. Unfortunately it was closed during our trip, it comes highly recommended so it bears sharing. If your travels take you to Vail while it’s open don’t miss the opportunity to dine in style at the summit.

WHat to do

RELAX, Repeat

Vail is first and foremost a place to relax and getaway! Take your time strolling through the village - peruse the village shops, partake in some retail therapy. Grab a coffee and catch the sunrise on your balcony. Soak in the natural beauty. Take an adventure day and canoe or tube the neighboring river. Ski the mountain. However you relax, make sure you take advantage of the beauty and slower rhythm of Vail.

STROLL THE ALPINE GARDEN

Lose yourself among the flora of the Betty Ford Alpine Garden. The garden is immaculately kept and the highest botanical garden in the U.S. it is the perfect space to slow down and enjoy the start (or close) of your day. Bring a book and find a bench along the pathway littered with vibrant blooms. The gift shop offers drinks and snacks if you forget to bring your own. The free tram runs to the base of the garden- you can catch the tram through the villages morning or night.

HEAD FOR THE HOT SPRINGS

If you are antsy to get out of of Vail, a quick afternoon trip to one of the neighboring hot springs is a great way to soak in the sunset, as well as the healing properties of the springs before heading back to your lodging for some serious shut eye!

mountain time

Take a ride on the Alpine Coaster for a unique mountaintop experience!

Not your thing? Summit the mountain by foot (if you are there during the summer like we were), or via a short gondola ride.

bliss out at the spa

A vacation for your senses, step into the spa at the Arrabelle and find sanctuary. The spa is beautiful, quiet, and has abundant thoughtful amenities. The spa and sauna adjacent to the waiting area are pristine, perfect prep to get you in the body space for your services. I had the aromatherapy massage and it was altogether lovely. This was the perfect finish to my first trip to Vail. Pro tip: plan to spend some extra time lounging and enjoying the spa’s ambience post service.

Thanks for coming by, if you are a Vail regular please share any favorites I may not have included in the comments!

Enjoy the adventure,

Angela xx

V is for Vail. 72 Hours Like No Place on Earth