Picture alpine majesty in the heart of Colorado Ski Country. Vail, Colorado, is what ski aficionados picture when they close their eyes and dream of paradise. Looming peaks, fresh powder, gushing rivers, endless bike trails — Vail is truly a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. There are 1,500 acres of downhill slopes on the north face, and 3,500 on the reverse. In addition to its outdoor utopia, Vail boasts outstanding food, exciting shopping, and gorgeous hotels that are known around the world.
But where to begin looking for lodging? When it comes to boutique hotels in Vail, there are so many to choose from. Fortunately for you, we’ve scoured the reviews and compiled a list of the 10 best boutique hotels in Vail. All these hotels have three things in common: excellent customer service, standout amenities, and great value. Any of them will help to make your Vail vacation one of the highlights of your year.
10. Vail’s Mountain Haus At The Covered Bridge
In the heart of Vail Village, along the banks of Gore Creek, is the boutique Vail’s Mountain Haus at the Covered Bridge. One of the biggest draws of these luxury condos and hotel accommodations is their location: They’re located just 330 feet from Gondola One. In summer and winter, Vail’s Mountain Haus is at the heart of the action, whether it involves skiing, hiking, or summer music festivals. Among the amenities that fans of Vail’s Mountain Haus love are the outdoor heated pool, hot tub, steam showers, and sauna. Another reason why this boutique hotel in Vail makes the cut is its staff. Past guests rave about the service, which they say is personalized, professional, and homey. The location and service are what keep visitors coming back to Vail’s Mountain Haus season after season.
9. Manor Vail Lodge
You can’t beat an address right at the base of Vail Mountain. So when it comes to premiere locations, Manor Vail Lodge takes the lead. This boutique resort in the heart of Vail is just across the street from the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater and the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, making it a perfect home base for summer and winter activities. Guests love the peace and quiet of the property, as well as the amenities like kitchens, comfortable living rooms, and Weber grills in the outdoor seating areas. The grounds also put it on the best-of list, with a pool, hot tubs, and Gore Creek in its backyard. The breakfast receives rave reviews as well — particularly the made-to-order omelets, the perfect way to fuel up before hitting the slopes or mountain-biking routes.
8. Hotel Gasthof Gramshammer
You can get a taste of the Alps in Vail by booking a stay at the charming Hotel Gasthof Gramshammer. At least, that’s what its fans can all agree on. Past guests have likened this boutique hotel in Vail to a slice of Tyrol or Bavaria. Everything from the exterior design and the staff uniforms to the complimentary European-style breakfasts and Austrian-style dinners sets this boutique hotel apart. The location is also top-notch, just steps from Gondola One and near some of Vail’s best restaurants and shopping destinations. The property is owned and operated by Pepi Gramshammer, an internationally known Austrian ski racer, and his wife, Sheika, so expect a homey atmosphere and excellent, welcoming service.
7. Sitzmark Lodge
A stay at the Sitzmark Lodge is like booking a stay with old friends. The personalized touches put this property on the list of best boutique hotels in Vail. Set in the middle of Vail Village, within walking distance of Gondola One, the family-owned hotel is a fan favorite for its location, service, and, above all else, its value. Guests rave about the complimentary après-ski soup and mulled wine, as well as the Monday-evening wine and cheese during ski season, shared with the owners in their penthouse apartment. Often described as Vail’s best-kept secret, the Sitzmark isn’t as glamorous as some of the others on our list; past guests have commented that the furnishings are a bit shabby. But if you’re after value, location, and personalized service, Sitzmark Lodge passes with flying colors.
6. Gravity Haus Vail
This iconic Vail boutique hotel (formerly Vail Mountain Lodge) is home to just 22 rooms, making it an intimate choice for a Vail vacation. One of the biggest draws of Gravity Haus Vail is its full lineup of fitness classes. There’s also the Dryland Spa and the “in-haus” restaurant, Slope Room, which boasts an array of offerings including vegan and gluten-free choices. Guests can also feel good about caffeinating with java from Gravity’s own Bellwether Roaster, a zero-emissions enterprise.
5. Christiania At Vail
A European-inspired lodge is one of the best examples of mountain comfort and charm. Christiania at Vail, a ski-in, ski-out property just steps from Gondola One, has 22 guest rooms and suites with Bavarian-inspired decor. Guests love the vibe and the apartment-style rooms, which give the hotel an edge over properties with typical hotel-style rooms. The location also contributes to its high ratings, since the hotel is within walking distance of the slopes and top restaurants and shopping destinations. Guests particularly love relaxing in the outdoor hot tub and drinking in the snow-capped mountain views.
4. The Sebastian
Vail’s newest boutique hotel is having no problem winning the hearts of longtime Vail visitors. Located in the heart of Vail Village, The Sebastian offers an eclectic vibe along with all of the five-star comforts that luxury travelers have come to expect from a Vail hotel. The ski-in, ski-out resort is nothing short of luxurious, with personal trainers and an on-site spa, highly attentive concierge service, and beautifully appointed rooms. Guests love the hotel restaurant, Leonora (try the carnitas Benedict, a fan favorite, or the hot chocolate après-ski). The resort also boasts four hot tubs, which guests love because it prevents any one from getting too crowded. Book a room at this hotel today if you’re looking for a hip, chic destination with spacious rooms, luxe amenities, and a prime location.
3. Austria Haus Hotel
Skiers will love the Austria Haus Hotel, with its mix of Western luxury and sophistication and the charm of a European ski chalet. The 25 rooms are appointed with creature comforts, while the resort itself has a hot tub on-site and is within walking distance of the ski lifts. Guests love the Alpine-inspired design of the hotel, complete with European breakfasts and Austrian decor. Each room has a modern bathroom with a heated marble floor, as well as air conditioning. Several rooms have gas fireplaces and French balconies, which tend to be the fan favorites. The vibe is classic, especially considering that Austria Haus Hotel has been open since the mid-1960s. Guests report that this resort in the heart of Vail Village is decidedly quieter than its newer, shinier neighbors. The consistency, service, cozy touches, and years of experience are what keep visitors returning.
2. Tivoli Lodge
The Tivoli Lodge is a family-owned 66-room boutique hotel, considered to be one of the grande dames of the ski mecca. The owners have been in Vail since the first ski season, and thus have seen the destination develop into the international sensation that it is today. A renovation in 2006 upped the standards and furnishings, putting the hotel on nearly everyone’s short list of places to stay in Vail. Guests are enamored with the personalized service and the location, which is within walking distance of everything, yet far enough away to be private and quiet in the evenings. The rooms are larger than average as well. Top amenities include a newly remodeled hot tub and fire pit as well as an on-site fitness center. Complimentary freshly baked cookies, hot chocolate, hot cider, and tea are served in the lobby each afternoon during ski season. Most rooms have fireplaces as well, a welcome touch after a long day on the slopes.
1. Sonnenalp Hotel
Staying true to the theme of Vail Village, the family-run Sonnenalp Hotel is Bavarian-inspired through and through. The unique hotel suites include custom-made Bavarian furniture and gas-log fireplaces. There are also multiple dining options, a full-service spa, and so much more. Live entertainment lights up the King’s Club bar in the evenings. During the summer, Sonnenalp offers golf at a private 18-hole course. Yoga and Pilates are offered on-site as well. During the winter, a ski concierge team is on hand to make all ski arrangements and help personalize your ski trip. Other amenities include a spa, creekside pool, and even an area for children. Across the board, guests praise Sonnenalp as being a cut above the rest. From the rooms, each of which has a heated bathroom floor, to the food, to the staff, Sonnenalp is one of the best places to vacation in all of Vail.