While most of the country hunkers down when the snow falls, Vail comes alive. This charming European-inspired ski town is the ideal spot for a winter vacation. But how do you plan a luxury ski vacation in Vail? Before searching for a luxury rental in Vail, Colorado, you need to know the best areas to stay.

Numerous neighborhoods in Vail offer easy access to skiing and amenities. Let’s break down the benefits of each one:

Where to Stay in Vail for Skiing and Shopping

With restaurants and shopping spread out throughout Vail (plus a free bus that connects them), there are plenty of options for luxury lodging.

There are two main base areas with ample lodging in Vail: Lionshead Village and Vail Village. Outside of the Village core, the Sandstone neighborhood is the closest residential neighborhood, located just across the highway from the ski resort. Best of all, Vail’s free in-town bus system connects everything, so you can hop on and off with zero hassle.

So, where should you stay in Vail for skiing and shopping? Here’s what makes each area shine:

Lionshead: Cozy, Convenient, and Family-Friendly

Smaller, quieter, and totally charming. Lionshead is a Bavarian-inspired village centered around an ice skating rink strewn with bistro lights. Shops line the streets, and there are several slope-side restaurants, like Vail Chophouse and Garfinkels. Lionshead offers the same alpine charm as Vail Village, just in a smaller package with fewer people. Start your day with breakfast at The Little Diner, a legendary breakfast spot locals love, or grab a quick coffee, pastry, or breakfast burrito at The Bell. Once you finish your day, Lionshead offers several spots right on the slopes to grab après. And, it’s just a short walk or bus ride from Vail Village.

If you have beginner skiers in your group, Lionshead is the ideal home base. The Eagle Bahn Gondola takes you directly to Adventure Ridge, home of Vail’s learn-to-ski area and family areas. If you have little ones (or grown ones) strapping into skis for the first time, Lionshead is your golden ticket to easy access to beginner terrain. Alternatively, intermediate and advanced skiers can access the entire mountain via Lionshead Village. Hint: If the Eagle Bahn Gondola line is long, the Born Free Express Lift (Chair 8), also at the base of Lionshead, is a quick option to whisk you up.

Luxury home rentals in Lionshead offer space and breathing room from the bustle of the village. The Vail’s View House, a 4-bedroom home managed by Alpine Co Hosts, sleeps 10, and is an ideal family-friendly luxury rental in Vail because of it’s location and amenities. With an open floor plan and a kitchen equipped with modern appliances and utensils, this rental offers a comfortable and luxurious experience with views of Vail Mountain.

If you want a peaceful luxury home with direct access to Vail, Lionshead should top your list.

Vail Village: The Heart of it All

If you want to be in the center of the action, Vail Village is where it’s at. This is the iconic core of the resort, complete with European Alps-inspired architecture, boutique shopping, art galleries, and a variety of restaurants. Its quaint cobblestone streets encourage visitors to wander through and linger for dinner or a drink.

The Covered Bridge marks the gateway into the village. Cross over Gore Creek, stroll along Bridge Street, and you’ll find yourself at Gonodola One. This modern gondola with heated seats for 10 will whisk you to Mid-Vail. For apres ski and a vibrant nightlife, Vail Village is the place to be. Take a walk through town and you’ll hear live music wafting out of the windows and people spilling out onto tables on the sidewalk.

The only downside? Vail has ample hotel rooms and condos, but it doesn’t offer single-family luxury homes. For that, you’ll have to venture just outside the village core to get the space to accommodate a large group or family.

Sandstone: Spacious and Scenic

Looking for a quieter, more residential and local vibe without sacrificing convenience? Sandstone is your spot. Just across the highway from Lionshead Village, Sandstone is more of a local neighborhood than a tourist hub — but it’s still on the free bus line and just a quick stroll over the pedestrian bridge to the lifts.

Here, you’ll find larger homes with more space to spread out, plus with unbeatable mountain views. Plus, if you’re looking for a quiet snowy stroll, the North Trail is close by. The singletrack trail, which is often packed down in the winter, winds up the hillside through aspen groves, offering great views of Vail Mountain and sweeping vistas of the valley. While there aren’t any restaurants or shops in Sandstone, other than Local Joe’s Pizza, there is close and easy access to both base villages.

The Wapo Chalet, hosted by Alpine Co Hosts, is a 4-bedroom rental that sleeps 11 and is stocked with everything you need for a luxury rental in Vail, Colorado. Think private patios, an outdoor firepit, modern amenities, and a fully stocked kitchen. Plus, it’s steps from the bus steps, so getting to the slopes is effortless.

What Sets a Luxury Condo Apart?

The best luxury rentals in Vail are stocked with elevated amenities that make your vacation memorable. Think cozy winter evenings gathered around the fireplace, a post-ski soak in the hot tub, a well-stocked kitchen for home-cooked meals, board games to bond with friends and family, and easy access to what you came for: skiing.

If you’re looking for who to book with, Alpine Co Hosts is a boutique vacation rental management company. With premier locations and luxury homes run by locals, Alpine Co Hosts delivers personalized service for an exceptional experience.

Finding Your Perfect Vail Stay

So, where will you stay? Contact Alpine Co Hosts for questions about our rentals and finding the perfect luxury ski rental for your family this winter.