Four Seasons Resort Vail
"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe?The Four Seasons Resort Vail was built to impress, a towering structure of peaked roofs, floor-to-ceiling windows, and balconies that face the snowy slopes of Vail mountain. Check in at the elegant wood-paneled lobby, then head to the adjacent Remedy Bar for a cocktail in front of a massive modern fireplace. What's the backstory?The Vail Valley knows luxury, but the Four Seasons stands out thanks to its reputation for service and over-the-top amenities. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?One of the best parts of the Four Seasons's 121 rooms and 24 suites is the size—the smallest rooms are just under 600 square feet. This gives you plenty of space to spread out (ski jackets included!), and the standard mountain view rooms come decked out in a neutral alpine color palette with down duvets, gas fireplaces, leather headboards, and hickory trim. Most open up to a smallish balcony, just big enough for a book and coffee. For a splurge, upgrade to the more recently renovated deluxe mountain-view one-bedroom suites. These units offer over 1,000 square feet, a limestone bathroom and touches like a Nespresso machine, Bose Bluetooth speakers, and L'Occitane Amande bath products. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?Standard Wi-Fi is complimentary and fast. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?Located just off of the lobby, the Remedy Bar is a go-to spot for cocktails or to watch a game on the 165-inch TV. The grab-and-go Bean & Gone offers palpable baked goods and coffee in the morning, but the hotel's best restaurant is Flame, a modern mountain steakhouse. It might cost a small fortune, but the well-to-do love favorites made table side, like the caesar salad for two and the black truffle cacio y pepe pasta. Still, it's the steak that takes center stage, with melt-in-your mouth meats carefully paired with comfort food sides. Just come after payday; a 33-ounce dry aged Piedmontese T-bone or Bison Tomahawk can run into the hundreds of dollars. And the service?Like all of the brand's outposts, the Four Seasons Vail prides itself on attentive, over-the-top service. This can range from helpful (extra towels arrive in a snap) to overbearing (no, I don't need help putting on my ski boots). Be sure to chat with the hotel concierge—they can provide hiking trail recommendations, arrange special transportation needs, and score hard-to-get dinner reservations. What type of travelers will you find here?Well-groomed, well-traveled American couples and families mixed with international jet setters. What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene?Despite its top-notch mountain views, the hotel isn't located steps from the ski lift. Instead, guests use a slope-side ski center where you can leave your gear and indulge in hot chocolate, water, and sunscreen (trust us, use the sunscreen!). Is there anything you'd change?A bit closer to the slopes would be nice, but it's a central location for restaurants. Any other hotel features worth noting?A spacious spa is an extra treat, with hydrating services geared towards helping guests combat the effects of the high altitude (dry skin, for one). The giant lap pool is not to be missed: tucked into a sunken stone courtyard, there are also hot tubs, plenty of lounge chairs, and gorgeous views. Bottom line: Worth it? Why?A luxurious getaway with the service to match, located just steps from Vail's best restaurants and shops." - Megan Barber
