Insider, local knowledge is key if you’re looking to tick off all the must-do activities, see all the highlights and have an authentic experience on your next ski trip. Locals are chock full of ideas and inspiration to make your ski trip unforgettable, so who better to tap for insider guidance, than the local lodging concierges or staff? That’s why we’ve created a new Ski.com Blog series: Concierge Conversations, where you can glean great destination-based tips and recommendations and learn a bit more about some of the area’s top lodging options.
We tapped Concierge Kate Allen, who’s been at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail for three years (and living in Vail for 10), to answer a couple questions about her favorite aspects of her homebase and place of work.
Some of Kate’s favorite things
Ski.com: What drew you to Vail originally and what has kept you there?
KA: I came to work and ski one winter at one of the best ski destinations in the world, and the incredible variety of year-round outdoor activities has kept me here.
Ski.com: What are your three favorite things to do at Vail in the winter?
KA: Ski fresh tracks on a powder day, backcountry touring and overnight hut trips
Ski.com: In your opinion, what are some secrets or lesser known facts/attributes about the Vail that visitors should know?
KA: We have great Nordic centers where you can learn to cross country, skate ski and ride fat bikes (mountain bikes for the snow). Vail ‘s culinary scene is a foodies dream with a variety of restaurants and on-mountain dining experiences. Check out the performing arts and cultural events Vail offers year-round such as the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Museum, Vilar Performing Arts Center and Bravo! Vail.
Ski.com: What are some secrets or lesser known facts/attributes about Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail?
KA: All guests have access to our five-star spa facilities—even if they have not scheduled treatments. Our rooms are the most spacious in the Vail Valley. The Remedy Bar boasts the largest TV in the Vail Valley (ideal for watching sports). Our Ski Concierge, located in the heart of Vail Village, will make your skiing experience smooth and seamless with our friendly team, warm pastries, hot chocolate and state-of-the-art lockers to store all your snow gear.
Ski.com: If you could only ski or ride one run at Vail for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
KA: Riva Ridge–the longest run on Vail Mountain with a little bit of everything.
Ski.com: When guests ask you for the local’s scoop on après-ski/dining/nightlife what do you recommend and why?
KA: Pepi’s for après. It’s a great place to people watch and take-in live music. The Remedy [at Four Seasons Resort] also has a lively après-ski scene with Happy Hour daily from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and live music on select evenings. Also, The Kings Club [at the Sonnenalp] is also a great spot to catch live music, Wednesday to Saturdays.
Ski.com: When guests ask you for recommendations for family experiences what’s your go-to itinerary and don’t-miss spots/restaurants and why?
KA: Sleigh-ride dinners in the area are really special for families or romantic evenings, and there’s a couple options in the Vail Valley. 4 Eagle Ranch has a fun sleigh ride dinner experience, and Bearcat Stables has a fantastic three-course meal in their rustic cabin. Snowmobiling is another great family activity for a day off from skiing—its a magnificent way to explore the Colorado backcountry.
Ski.com: When guests ask you for recommendations for upscale experiences what’s your go-to itinerary and don’t-miss spots/restaurants and why?
KA: For incredible food in a European-style Chalet, head to Game Creek Restaurant, accessible by the Lionshead gondola and then a short snowcat ride over. Terra Bistro is another great option in Vail Village, and for those wanting to experience dinner outside of Vail, the Grouse Mountain Grill in Beaver Creek has some of the best food in the area. Flame is Four Seasons Resort Vail’s modern-mountain steakhouse. It’s “Fun Dining” at its finest!
Ski.com: What winter event or time of ski season do you look forward to most and why?
KA: January is my favorite time of the year: the slopes are a little quieter and we have consistently great snow.
Ski.com: What do you think makes Four Seasons Resort and Residence Vail popular?
KA: Our spacious property, our convenient Vail Village location, beautiful, designer residences, excellent service, passionate employees and Ski Concierge service.
Ski.com: What are the skiing arrangements for your guests?
KA: We have a Ski Concierge near the base of Gondola One where guests can store their skis and equipment in their own lockers with boot dryers. It’s a short walk through town on a heated pathway, or guests can hop on our complimentary ski shuttle.
Ready to book your stay at the Four Seasons Resort and Residence Vail? Our 70+ Mountain Travel Experts are standing by for your call at 800-610-8911.
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