Planning Your Vail Vacation
Nestled at the base of Vail Ski Mountain, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and surrounded by White River National Forest, Vail is a spectacular mountain town with bountiful recreational opportunities from skiing, snowboarding, ski biking, tubing, sledding, ice skating and much more. Here are some tips on how to choose where to stay and make the most of your Vail vacation.
Where in Vail should you stay?
Vail is comprised of two village base areas (Lionshead and Vail) less than a mile apart. A convenient free bus system, a beautiful bike path along the river, pedestrian-friendly heated streets, and four ski lifts connect the two villages. Regardless of which village you choose as your home base, you will have access to everything that a Vail vacation has to offer.
Guests are easily able to fully enjoy the resort without a car. If you are flying in you can take a shuttle from the airport or rent a car and park it at your hotel. Many of the Vail hotels provide free parking. The only thing you may need to access outside of the villages are the larger grocery stores. Some of the hotel properties, such as Antlers at Vail, will provide free grocery shuttles.
Both villages have the quaint feel of an Alpine village with cobblestone streets and architecture reminiscent of centuries-old Europe. Vail Village boasts a bit more nightlife and is the center for much of the music for which Vail is known. Lionshead Village is slightly quieter, with newer hotel properties, many of which are condominium hotels ideal for families and longer stays. Families, larger groups, and those coming for a longer visit may want to consider one of the condominium hotels for a family Vail vacation. These will have full kitchens for preparing meals and more space for spreading out. The Eagle Bahn Gondola also runs out of Lionshead Village up to the new Epic Discovery, a mountain playground.
Vail Vacation at the Antlers
Make sure to check out Antlers at Vail when planning your Vail vacation. This platinum-rated- property is located along Gore Creek, facing Vail Mountain, just 150 yards to the gondola. Ranging from studio suites to four-bedroom vacation homes, all spacious condo rentals include a full kitchen, private balcony, daily housekeeping, complimentary WiFi, and much more. Enjoy a crackling fire in your living room fireplace, admire the view from your private balcony or relax in the picturesque pool or hot tubs located on the banks of Gore Creek. On-site ski rentals and complimentary ski valet during the winter will top off your Vail ski vacation experience at this Vail hotel.
