GRAND HYATT VAIL: AN EXQUISITE ALPINE RETREAT
The Grand Hyatt in West Vail, Colorado, is located along Gore Creek at the foot of Vail Mountain and offers a picturesque setting with convenient access to local attractions. Skiers and snowboarders may easily access the slopes from the hotel thanks to the proximity of chairlift No. 20. When the snow melts, the Gore Valley Trail becomes a pleasant stroll by a brook that eventually goes to Vail Village and beyond afield.
GRAND HYATT IN VAIL, COLORADO
After a multi-million dollar renovation, the Grand Hyatt (previously Hotel Talisa) reopened in August of 2019. With its floor-to-ceiling windows and local artwork honoring the Southern Ute Native American tribe, this home is a seamless fusion of mountain flair and modern design.
The resort is large, with 285 rooms and suites spread across many buildings, but the lobby and lounge spaces maintain a cozy, intimate vibe more typical of a boutique inn.
The Grand Hyatt even allows well-behaved pets, so the lobby is always full of happy families with canine companions. The patio is where summertime “yappy hour” gatherings take place.
AMENITIES AT GRAND HYATT VAIL
Ski valet and rental service, a world-class spa and fitness center, creek-side hot tubs, and an infinity pool are just a few of the many activities and amenities available to guests of the Grand Hyatt.
Special events, such mixology classes, are held in a yurt on Grand Hyatt Plaza. The plaza also features seasonal ice skating, a fire pit for toasting s’mores, and a beer garden where you may sample the wares of local breweries.
Gessner’s Restaurant, recognized for its locally sourced cuisine and award-winning wines, the hotel’s Fireside Lounge and Bar, and a gourmet market for on-the-go meals are the hotel’s three dining options. Guests can take use of the hotel’s free, round-the-clock shuttle service to nearby restaurants in Lion’s Head and Vail Village.
There is a lively “après” hour in the lounge areas, complete with live music, hot chocolate, and cookies. And every day, you may enjoy complimentary Möet & Chandon champagne tastings and sabering demonstrations in the bar. There is also a vending machine in the lobby stocked with miniature bottles of the “bubbly,” which is a pleasant touch.
SPA AND WELLNESS AT GRAND HYATT
Spa services at the Grand Hyatt include their distinctive massage, facial, nail care, and body renewal treatments, with add-ons like aromatherapy, CBD oil, Himalayan salt, hot stones, and oxygen boost available upon request.
Guests can use the fitness facility whenever they choose, and the on-site Aria Club provides personal training, group sessions, and a saline pool in the great outdoors.
Before and after your spa treatments, you can unwind in the pool area, outdoor lounge, sauna, and aromatherapy steam room. Wintertime swimming in the hot tub or heated infinity pool, with snowflakes falling and warm mist rising against a backdrop of snow-covered evergreen forest, is the pinnacle of relaxation.
THINGS TO DO IN VAIL, COLORADO
The Vail Valley is a recreational paradise, with snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, creekside strolls, and Vail Village activities all within easy reach. Those who don’t want to ski but still want to experience Vail Mountain can take the gondola up to Mid-Vail or Eagle’s Nest.
Located on a golf course, the Vail Nordic Center is a popular spot for snowshoeing and Nordic skiing in the valley because of its flat terrain and minimal hills. When snow falls, the fairways are transformed into groomed paths that people of all skill levels can enjoy.
Are you unfamiliar with Nordic? At the facility, you may rent snowshoes or ski gear and get a one-hour tutorial before venturing out on your own to hone your skills. Evening snowshoe treks with naturalist-led tours are available on Vail Pass and Vail Mountain, two popular destinations for snowshoeing and Nordic skiing.
VAIL VILLAGE HISTORY, SHOPPING, DINING
Visitors to Vail’s charming pedestrian village, which takes its architectural cues from European alpine styles, are greeted by the resort’s famous clock tower. You can’t miss the 13-foot statue of a 10th Mountain Division soldier among the trees as you approach the village’s iconic wooden covered bridge.
The soldiers of World War II who trained at adjacent Camp Hale are remembered for their impact on the American ski industry and the birth of Vail Resort. The statue is now both a treasured landmark and a popular photo op in the town.
Vail was originally established as a ski resort in the 1960s, but it has since developed into a thriving community with world-class restaurants, shops, and cultural landmarks like the Betty Ford Alpine Garden and Colorado Snowsports Museum.
The modest museum features a variety of antiques, early ski and snowboard gear, and a ski industry hall of fame, all of which provide insight into the history of skiing and snowboarding in Colorado.
Vail’s restaurants range from upscale to casual, with options like the Bavarian-themed Alpenrose and the brand-spanking-new CinéBistro serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and movies.
European, contemporary American, Mexican, Nepalese, Indian, and Japanese fare are just some of the options in the village’s many restaurants. And if you want to try some of Vail’s finest dishes, beverages, and more, you should attend the annual Taste of Vail festival. (April 1-4, 2020).
What about going shopping? Vail Village is well-known for its array of high-end shops selling anything from fashionable cowboy boots and sportswear to fine art, jewelry, and home furnishings.
Visit Due Luca Bruno and the ever-popular The Golden Bear to purchase locally made, one-of-a-kind jewelry and Vail’s mascot, the Golden Bear.
