Vail - Introduction
Boasting the largest ski mountain in North America, the legendary Back Bowls and an extensive choice of lodging close to the slopes, Vail is undoubtedly one of the world’s leading ski destinations. Vail village is a pedestrian’s resort offering over 200 shops, bars and restaurants to satisfy every appetite from sushi to gourmet dining. It is designed in a Tyrolean style, however the local accents will leave you in no doubt that you are in one of the USA’s favourite winter playgrounds. Bridge Street is the main hub of activity where day or night, there is always something happening. The 645 acres of natural, gladed terrain is nestled more than two miles into the wilderness, but with all the modern amenities. Four high-speed lifts provide access to this unique terrain that’s virtually untouched, except for some grooming among the trees.
Skiing
Vail is one of the few American resorts that compares with European mega-resorts on ski area size. The mountain is large with skiing over three peaks – Two Elk Lodge, Summit and Wildwood. The slopes down to the village are neat, tree-lined and prone to moguls. They are accessed via three lifts from Vail’s 3 areas – Lion’s Head, Golden Peak and Vail Village. Off the back of the mountain lies the famous Back Bowls, and beyond that, the powder bowl of Blue Sky Basin. Snow reliability is very good, with most slopes north facing. On powder mornings the town is wired with anticipation.
Snowboarding
The Blue Sky Basin ethos is perfect for boarders. By leaving the terrain as nature found it, snowboarders can rip up endless glades and bowls to their heart’s content. The Back Bowls provide equally challenging carving and with an excellent lift system, there’s not too much pushing. Facilities include a super-pipe and terrain park at the Golden Peak base with kickers, jibs and table-tops open to freestylers and boarders, plus a progression area with smaller jumps and rails. Most boarders hang out at the 8150 club.
Ski Schools
Previous SkiExtra travellers have given good reports about the Vail ski school’s friendly and professional tuition. They offer telemarking, bumps and powder lessons at Blue Sky Basin as well as private tuition. For kids there’s all-day tuition and two learning areas at Lionshead and Golden Peak. Smallworld takes kids up to six years. Adventure Ridge has tubing and snowmobiling for ages 6-14yrs.
Eating Out
There are a wide variety of places to eat in Vail for you to choose from ranging from Pizza, Italian, Chinese and fish dishes at the Sapphire Restaurant and Oyster Bar. Wildflower caters for those looking for a contemporary American menu.
Bars and clubs
The choice of bars and restaurants in Vail Village and Lionshead is excellent. We can personally recommend Garfunkels in Lionshead village... word of warning however...watch out for the ''spin the wheel'' of shots! Mickey's Bar has live piano music for those of a more relaxed nature. For the movers and grooves there is the Sanctuary on Bridge Street which is more suitable for the more mature crowd, whilst The Bridge situated a little further down entertains the younger crowd with the loud sounds of rock 'n' roll. After a day on Vail mountain why not stop off for an apres drink at the Red Lion in Vail Village where you can experience live music until late! For a more sophisticated evening why not try out the Tap Room with the 'Vail in crowd' for company!
Off the slopes
There is an Adventure Centre at Eagles Ridge which is ideal for both adults and children with an Ice skating rink, snowshoeing, snowmobile track and much more. Vail has a number of Athletic clubs and Spas, including fitness suites, swimming pools, massage, treatment rooms and beauty salons for those of a more relaxed nature.