A Welcome Surprise at the Foot of my Bed…The Four Seasons Resort, Vail, Colorado

As if the wood burning, in-room fireplace wasn’t enough, I was thrilled to discover a warm, heated water bottle in a fuzzy, soft cover tucked under the sheets at the foot of my bed. That was the beginning of a sleep of sweet dreams. For this resort, the pristine interiors, state-of-the-art, in-room technology and attentive concierge and housekeeping services are just the icing on the cake. There’s so much more…

Spanking new and it shows:

Many first-time guests to the new Four Seasons Resort in Vail, Colorado were asked why they haven’t visited Vail in the past. The answer was simple – because there wasn’t a Four Seasons Hotel.  As one of the newer hotel resorts in Vail, this property was opened in December 2010 as a complex with 121 guest rooms and 19 vacation club condominiums. The surroundings are still spanking new and it’s a treat to feel like one of its first guests.

Design:

The contemporary alpine lodge has traditional peaked roofs and wooden beams. The interior is constructed with natural hickory wood and limestone. The large windows, balconies, terraces and year-round outdoor pool ensure that guests fully appreciate the beauty and nature of the outdoors.

Service:

When it comes to hospitality, the Four Seasons is in a luxury class all of its own. Staff will make a point to get to know your name. If you forget a toothbrush, housekeeping will bring you a complete toiletry kit, including nail scissors, toe clippers and a loofa scrub. Housekeeping will visit your room twice each day and anticipate your needs. “Service” should be the middle name of this hotel.

Rooms:

With a standard room at five hundred and seventy-five square feet, guest rooms are amongst the largest in the Vail Valley. Each room offers an en-suite fireplace, a large plasma television, a DVD player, a Nespresso cappuccino maker, a separate glassed in shower and large soaking tub, double sinks, and L’Occitane toiletteries

For younger guests:

‘Kids For All Seasons’ is a supervised program and dedicated facility for younger children. The ‘Young Adult Club’ features a games room, television lounge, cyber café and refreshment station.

Ski concierge & spa:

Spa credits to Don Riddle

The ski concierge, just steps from the ski lifts provides use of private lockers and refreshments, including a signature hot chocolate, fresh fruit, hearty muffins and jumbo sized chocolate chip cookies. For an after ski activity be sure to visit the 14,000 square foot spa. It’s available for all guests, even without a spa treatment. Enjoy the amazing hot tub, steam room sauna and private showers.

Insider Tips:

- Prior to your arrival, pre-book a shuttle service from the airport directly with the hotel.

- Requests can be made for hypoallergenic bedding and orthopedic pillows.

- Ensure that your room’s mini bar is tailored to your drinking tastes by making a request in advance of your visit.

- Request a room on a higher floor with a mountain view.\

• A free shuttle service is offered from the hotel that will drop you off or pick you up if you need a ride anywhere in Vail Village.

- There is free parking in the village garage (about a 5 minute walk to the hotel).

Donna Salle is a freelance travel writer and can be reached at TravelsWithHeart@gmail.com or follow her on twitter @TravelsWithHeart.