Years ago I read a story in a skiing magazine about one writer who had all of Vail resort to himself. Every 5,289 skiable acres. I instantly hated that smug scribe for his unbelievable luck. After all, that kind of access usually is out of reach for anyone but Saudi princes or writers with big name magazines backing them.
First Tracks -- the day after ChristmasBut this winter, I -- and you -- could actually enjoy that elite exclusivity of having Vail all alone (OK, maybe not entirely just to me, but to a select few) on one day only: December 26, 2011.
That's the day Vail's Holiday First Tracks will whisk guests at select lodging properties to the mountain's summit an hour before opening to the general public. Starting at the Vista Bahn Chair Lift in Vail Village, skiers and riders can storm the mountain with only a handful of others. Then you (and I) can join the crew for a feast of a breakfast on-mountain at Two Elk Lodge.
Participating LodgingTo partake, you need to book five or more nights (and arrive by December 25) at one of the following properties (Check out ski vacation reservations options here): The Arrabelle at Vail Square; The Lodge at Vail; or Legendary Lodging at the Ritz-Carlton Residences
Here's a breakdown of the properties:
The Arrabelle at Vail SquareA luxury property that anchors Vail's revitalized Lionshead, The Arrabelle is reminiscent of the grand European alpine hotels. The attention to detail is everywhere-from the magnificent lobby to the luxurious guest rooms. The décor has an elegant and modern feel that is at once classic and welcoming. Most rooms have a balcony, all have fireplaces and lavish baths. Adjacent to the lobby is the Tavern, which is undergoing a major renovation and promises to be an après hot spot this season.
The Lodge at VailOne of the original hotels to open at Vail's inception, this iconic landmark is anything but staid. With this season's addition of Elway's Restaurant, with a classic surf and turf menu infused with contemporary dishes, the Lodge at Vail plans to become ground zero in the village. You won't want to miss the brand new outdoor fireplace or the restaurant's heated outdoor seating. And as long as you're staying at the Lodge (or even if you're not), you'd be remiss not to indulge in a spa treatment at the newish (opened 2008) spa. If you're into couples treatments, you'll love the elegant treatment room and the stand-alone radiant heated tub (be sure to ask for the champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries).
Legendary Lodging at the Ritz-Carlton ResidencesThere is nothing like the Ritz-Carlton Residences at Vail. Built exclusively for owners (or their short-term renters, which dramatically increases the reach of this property), this elegant and rich property opened last year. Despite the poor economy, nearly half of the full-ownership residences have sold as have the majority of the fractional ownership units. These are more like luxury apartments than anything else (save for the five-bedroom penthouse "units," which are among the most luxurious mountain living options I've seen. All units feature full kitchens with stainless steel Bosch appliances, granite countertops, and wine refrigerators. The master bedrooms all have steam showers. With wood floors, tall windows, and plenty of natural light, these places may feel more like home than home. Plus you get the elegance and service associated with the Ritz-Carlton brand, including personal concierge service, an amazing on-site gym that comes with a personal trainer and nutritionist, and a beautiful outdoor pool with two hot tubs.
Book NowConvinced yet? You should be.
And you don't have time to lose. With Christmas just around the corner, the time to book is now. After all, is there any better way to spend the Yuletide season other than with your family, in a gorgeous setting, at a gorgeous hotel, with exclusive access to Vail? I didn't think so.
-- Rachel Walker