Vail is one of those awesome resorts that make skiing as a family easy- well as easy as it is going to get for a skiier, a boarder, a ski mad 5 year old and a busy,busy 2 year old. Here are some things we loved and some tips for those considering a ski vacation there. First thing is to decide where you are going to stay, as you will need to consider how you get around the village with children. Vail is very compact and there is a fantastic free shuttle that runs constantly around the village, however just bear in mind that the main children’s ski school and nursery is in Golden Peak so if you have small children who you plan to have spend time in the nursery/childcare, this is where you will be headed each day. There is another children’s ski school based at Lionshead so this is another option for children who will just be taking ski/boarding lessons. Both have EXCELLENT teaching staff.
Each morning, one of the Vail mascots, Riperoo, was outside ski school to greet children arriving. Getting a cuddle from Riperoo was a highlight for our children each day. There is a Ski Concierge to take the children’s skis located at the front door, which is a great feature. We booked our ski school tickets and lessons online before we arrived- this made checking in each day a breeze.
On our last visit, we stayed in Lionshead which is super convenient to virtually everything in Vail- we took a shuttle to drop the children off on days when they were in ski school, and we were able to walk to the Eagle Bahn gondala and restaurants, cafes, bars and shopping in Lionshead Square.
One of our favorite things to do on holiday is eat out as a family- everyone is more relaxed and even the Ski Bunny (2) seems to be on best behaviour.
A few favorite family friendly spots to eat in Vail
Blue Moose: yummy apres ski pizza- super quick service, paper on the tables & crayons to keep the kids busy (there is one in Beaver Creek too) The Vonnderful Pizza was created by Lindsay Vonn herself! Some local boutique Colorado beers kept The Boarder happy along with our favourite pizza- The Cowboy.
Tavern on the Square: Fantastic brunch daily and a fun early apres spot for families- it is the best spot to sit and watch those taking in the last runs of the day and catch the last rays of sun.
The 10th: This is a beautiful spot mid mountain for a more sophisticated lunch with the family (French Fries with Truffle salt… yes please!!). They do a fantastic children’s menu and in the mornings, it is a beautiful spot for hot chocolates and pastries.
Make sure you sign up for Vail Resorts fantastic loyalty programme- Peak Points- where you can earn points for accommodation, lift tickets, lessons and more. You can also charge on mountain purchases direct to your card Your family points are accrued together and you can redeem them for lift, lessons and more on your next visit. You can earn points at all Vail Resort mountains.
I will be doing a more detailed post on the Vail Ski School experience soon so keep an eye out for that it you are wondering what to expect on your first visit.
I hope you find some ideas to get your started thinking about your next Vail holiday. Vail season passes are on sale now for 2012-2013…. GREAT excuse to book your trip NOW!!
