A Vail Vacation

Vail is 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 summer and winter recreational opportunities. Here are some tips on choosing where to stay and making the most of your Vail vacation.

Where to Stay, Vail or Lionshead

Vail comprises 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 can access everything a Vail vacation can offer.

Vail Vacation and Transportation

Guests can enjoy the resort without a car. If you are flying in, you can take a shuttle from the airport or rent a car if you really need one. 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 hotel properties will provide free grocery shuttles or even stock the fridge.

Vail versus Lionshead Village Stay

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 of the music scene 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.

Getting Around at Vail and Lionshead

Vacationing at either Vail or Lionshead means surrounding yourself with the finest experiences available in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. With convenient free transportation and pedestrian-friendly paths, getting around the Villages is easy and inviting. The area’s layout and connectivity make exploring the shops and restaurants, accessing the resort, and attending various ongoing events an enjoyable aspect of your stay.

Find What You Need Vail Vacation

There is no shortage of luxurious services wherever you choose to vacation. Vail has a larger selection of luxury hotels, but many think Lionshead is quieter and more tranquil. In either case, access to shops, dining, exhilarating mountain sports, and spa services will always be around the corner.