The Arrabelle dubbed the “Holy Vail of Luxury Ski Resorts”
If skiing in the Alps has always been on the top of your to-do list, but the inflated Euro, increased travel warnings in Europe and those long flights to Austria have made travel there less than appealing; simply pack your suitcases and head to Vail. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Vail, Colorado, is home to the 2nd largest single ski mountain in North America and a winter wonderland of lavish chalets and world class resorts.
Vail is easily accessed by Eagle airport and the 30-minute shuttle takes you directly into Vail city center. Like a postcard from Switzerland, Vail is reminiscent of a small European ski village. Resorts line the narrow streets that blend with the design and feel of Vail’s original Alpine developers and every 15 minutes free buses loop the town dropping off skiers, shoppers, or diners throughout the quaint village. I was amazed at the mounds of 10 feet of snow found at the ends of the streets, but not a single speck of snow or ice could be found on the sidewalk. I soon learned that the sidewalks are heated, and protected speakers that project sounds of trendy music are discreetly tucked in among the scenery. This is the great OZ of upscale ski towns and home to a new resort that puts skiers “wants” first.
In the heart of Vail Square, at the base of the Eagle Bahn Gondola, is the less than 2-year-old Arrabelle Resort. Vail square’s prime location that contains upscale boutiques, an ice rink, and fire pit makes the Arrabelle the crowning attraction. This seven-story boutique hotel is the crème de la crème of a ski in/ski out lodges. The Arrabelle’s team of designers extensively traveled to the heart of Europe’s famous alpine locations in order to recreate the feel of an authentic and iconic Alpine resort.
Throughout the resort, fireplaces crackle and windows are perfectly positioned so that when you sit fireside, the views of the slopes are spectacular. This lavish resort features 62 elegant rooms/suites that average 550 square feet. Every room contains a classic canopy bed with rich red hues and a fireplace. High-end flat screen TV‘s, DVD players, BoseTM MP3/CD alarm clock radios, complimentary high-speed wireless Internet access, in-room safe and humidifier are standard in every room.
The large stylish marble bathrooms include a shower and separate tub, double sinks, another TV, plush bathrobes and over the top heated floors.
Every guest is served by a butler and customer service standards here rise to incredible levels. Slope side ski and boot valets epitomize the 5-star experience created to exceed the standard “ski” resort inclusions.
Endless amenities for Arrabelle’s guests include access to their stunning heated rooftop pool and hot tubs which not only provide exclusive privacy but also offer sweeping views of the mountains. The Arrabelle’s Spa and fitness center is an astounding 9,000 square foot facility that features six massage rooms, two facial rooms, a Vichy Shower/Swiss Shower room and a couple’s therapy room. At the end of a long ski day, the spa offers treatments that focus on feet, ankles and sore leg muscles. It’s no wonder that the Arrabelle’s story like picture perfect location and luxurious amenities have an Olympic downhill gold medalist, Lindsey Vonn, calling it her home.
However, if by chance you are not staying at the Arrabelle while you are in Vail, you can still get a sampling of the vintage yet totally chic vibe at one of their two highly rated restaurants. Centre V and Tavern on the Square beckons visitors of Vail Square with its inviting atmosphere and upscale ambiance. The European influenced Centre V is a romantic spot with candlelit tables and French cuisine. Tavern on the Square is a pub where guests can cozy up and enjoy après-ski.
The Arrabelle’s European flair and prime location combined with over the top amenities only add more glamour to the Austrian-like village that has brought ski lovers, celeb’s and families to Vail for years.