Vail is an extraordinary vacation destination. Best known as one of the world’s best ski resort towns, it also boasts world class warmer weather outdoor experiences, including hiking, biking, golf, fishing, dining, concerts and festivals.
And after a day of experiencing what Vali has to offer, a visitor will want to retire to a relaxing destination for a respite, some rejuvenation, and some pampering. Situated at the base of Vail Mountain, nestled in the heart of Lionshead Village, The Hythe (https://www.thehythevail.com/) is an ideal place for this.
The Hythe, which means “haven” in Olde English, is part of the Marriott Luxury Collection (https://the-luxury-collection.marriott.com/), which boast around 100 distinctive properties all over the world. Each is unique and independent, tailored to the environment, history and culture of its setting. In this case, The Hythe reflects the history and passions of Vail’s founders and creates opportunities for guests to share in those passions.
Those founders – both avid skiers – actually met in Aspen after having both served in WWII. In their honor, The Hythe cultivates a variety of mountain experiences that reflect the camaraderie of Vail’s founders and the European ski culture they loved. You can experience the revelry, camaraderie and hospitality associated with the Swiss après (after activities) culture.
The property underwent a $40 million renovation completed in 2021. It has the capacity to host many meetings, conferences and events. And the resort can assist guests with accessing all Vail has to offer, including, depending on the season, private snowmobile rides and foraging forays on the mountain. At the resort itself, the remodel also intentionally created multiple communal spaces, where guests can gather to enjoy a meal, a drink or a snack.
Speaking of food and drink, you can start your day or pick up some provisions for your alpine adventures with a selection of freshly made grab-and-go items from Mountain Ration Grab & Go.
Dine-in options during our stay included breakfast selections from Margie’s Haas restaurant, a tribute to the World War II local home cook, Margie Haas, who welcomed soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division into her home. I enjoyed the Huevos Rancheros and my wife said the French toast (not too sweet) was excellent – and she is a French Toast afficionado.
And in the spirit of revelry cultivated by Vail’s founders, the Revel Lounge welcomes guests to where the après begins. Capturing that revelry and passion for the mountains, Revel is an inviting space to gather for restoration from the day’s adventures with hand-crafted cocktails and Colorado-inspired cuisine.
Revel offers fine dinner options under the guidance of Chef de Cuisine, Lucas Ardemagri. Our dinner began with an abundant charcuterie tray, which included locally source foods like B Squared honeycomb, from Berthoud, CO). The next night, grilled artichokes were expertly prepared and a fine first course. Our entrées – Cast Iron-Seared Organic Half Chicken, Colorado Mountain Trout, and Power Bowl – also impressed. I found the Power Bowl particularly welcome as someone who often prefers a vegetarian option. It’s mix of wild rice, roasted summer squash, farro, quinoa, Brussel sprouts, and spinach was well seasoned and tasty (and a protein can be added, if you prefer). Desserts included ripe, juicy berries and cream and an intense, yet balanced flourless chocolate cake.
And the wine list was equally notable. A before dinner “cocktail” of Andeluna 1300 Chardonnay (from Argentina) was outstanding. My chicken entrée was nicely accented with the bright red fruit and lush texture of a fine Easton Zinfandel (from Amador County, California) at our first dinner and the second night, an Alois Lageder Pinot Grigio “Terra Alpina” (from Italy’s northern Dolomite region) offered just the right amount of crisp, refreshing citrus and melon notes to accompany my Power Bowl. And I welcomed each being nicely served in fine Riedel stemware.
My only disappointment of the visit was that 10th Mountain (the lobby bar), a partnership with local distillery 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company, was closed. I missed the chance to savor Colorado-crafted whiskey, appetizers, and a full bar.
And I missed a chance to have $1 from a 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirits cocktail is donated to the Vail Veterans Program. The Hythe also commendably sponsors Supporting Our Veterans (www.vailveteransprogram.org).
Finally, to cap off a busy, likely physically challenging day, the perfect prescription is a visit to Alpine-inspired nourishing treatments at The Hythe’s Well & Being Spa (https://www.thehythevail.com/wellness/spa/). I enjoyed a professional massage – there are half a dozen choices, including CBD Recovery, Himalayan Salt Stone, and Japanese-style Grounding. There are also multiple body treatments, facials, pedicures, and hair services. And be sure to experience the Himalayan Salt Therapy Lounge.
I close with a special commendation for the friendly, responsive service. My wife had specific needs for an accessible room and other accommodations and the staff was very helpful and understanding in working to get us the room and arranging a special sleep set up. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I was offered the opportunity to stay at the resort, but the professionalism of all the staff, the willingness to go the extra mile to accommodate our needs, and the high quality of all the food and services give me no hesitation in wholeheartedly recommending The Hythe for your next visit to Vail.