By GR on March 3
After a very difficult start to the year I was looking forward to meeting my NYC and Denver friends on our annual ski trip. This year we chose Vail, Colorado; where we all met about five years ago. As the last Winter storm dropped almost three feet of snow in the past week, the conditions were set for an unprecedented experience. Under the expansive blue skies and amidst the towering, snow-clad peaks of Vail, I found not just solace but a renewed sense of vivacity.
This trip was more than a mere getaway; it was a rite of passage, a healing journey from the throes of a recent heart break. Surrounded by old friends and the pristine beauty of Vail, I rediscovered joy, laughter, nature, and the untapped reservoirs of my resilience.
Planning and Getting There
I highly recommend flying into Eagle airport, which is a short 40 min drive to Vail Village. Denver airport has more options, but it’s at least a two hour drive assuming little traffic and pristine weather conditions. If you’re planning to ski in Vail next year I suggest getting an Epic pass, which will save you nearly 50% off lift tickets and 10% to 20% on many services including ski rentals, transportation shuttle to and from the airport, food, and more.
Lodging: Luxury and Pampering Hotels
Our adventure commenced with our arrival at The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort, a jewel nestled in the picturesque landscape of Vail, Colorado. This iconic retreat, recently reimagined, melds the essence of Vail’s rich heritage with the sophistication and comforts of modern luxury living.
Nestled in the heart of Lionshead Village, The Hythe offers immediate access to a vibrant world of boutique shopping, exquisite dining, and the serene beauty of the Vail Valley. Plus, it’s only a few steps away from the Eagle Bahn Gondola that takes you to the top of the mountain in minutes. The walkways are heated within the property so you don’t have to drudge through the snow. However, that’s not always the case as you walk by the creek.
Lodging: Comfortable Living in a Condo
A great alternative to the Hythe, particularly if you have a large crew like we did, is one of the many condo’s available for rent. Across the street we found a nice, 3 bedroom condo to accommodate our Denver friends. Vail offers a great selection of condos, cabins and hotels for rent. Highly recommend booking early to save on costs as the mountain is very popular with Latin and South Americans on their Summer break, and other international tourists.
Skiing and Reconnecting
Vail Mountain, with its vast terrain and breathtaking vistas, was our playground. Slipping into my skis, I felt a rush of adrenaline and freedom. Each turn and jump was a step further away from heartache, a leap closer to reclaiming my spirit. Skiing alongside my friends, who have been the bedrock of my support system, I was reminded of life’s transient nature and the beauty that awaits after the storm. The sense of community, the shared moments of exhilaration on the slopes, and the collective triumphs over challenging runs, reinforced the healing power of friendship and the outdoors.
As we concluded our final run of the trip, a welcoming group of retrievers greeted us, their warm, loving presence as if whispering to our healing hearts, ‘You’re going to be fine and we’re here for you.’
Culinary Delights
Vail is not just a skier’s paradise but a gastronomic treasure trove. Our first culinary expedition was to Matsuhisa, nestled at the base of Vail Mountain. Under the guidance of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, we embarked on a culinary journey that melded traditional Japanese techniques with Peruvian flavors. The omakase menu, a symphony of flavors, was a fitting start to our escapade, each dish more exquisite than the last, mirroring the serenity and beauty of our snow-covered surroundings.
Among our culinary adventures, La Nonna emerged as a standout, a beacon of Italian gourmet hidden behind another restaurant and near the Gambit bar; all nestled by the Sebastian Hotel in the heart of Vail. This elegant dining spot, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and an impressive selection of wines, offered us a taste of Italy amidst the snow-clad mountains of Colorado.
New Hot Spot: Chasing Rabbit
While we enjoyed cooking and staying in one or two nights, my last night in Vail required a proper send off. And Chasing Rabbit delivered. This eclectic spot, which opened at the end of 2023, with its whimsical décor and innovative approach to cocktails and cuisine, offered an unforgettable experience that was as much about the atmosphere as it was about the food and drinks. Rabbit Hole caters to the fun loving, inner child screaming to get out and have fun, not worrying about heartaches, work problems, or other responsibilities. With the old school arcade games, the ginormous television screens showing college hoops and eclectic bar, I soon forgot all my problems.
A Journey of Rediscovery
As our trip came to a close, I realized that Vail had offered me much more than a mere escape; it had provided a path to healing and self-discovery. The majestic landscapes, the adrenaline of skiing with friends, the culinary explorations, and the moments of quiet reflection had all woven together into a tapestry of experiences that reminded me of life’s infinite possibilities.
In the end, Vail was not just a destination but a journey—a journey that taught me to embrace the pain of the past, to find joy in the present, and to look forward to the future with hope and open arms.
