IN A NUTSHELL

Self-styled America's top resort, Vail ski resort basically has it all.
Seven Back Bowls offering amazing off piste conditions as well as over 5,000 acres of Colorado's finest powder is an irresistible ski cocktail. Of the slopes the elegant town of Vail features a host of diverse culinary choices and some lively watering holes and retail experiences.

Vail SKI RESORT

Situated at the base of the mountain - the town of Vail is a charming alpine village designed especially for skiers, featuring pedestrian-friendly streets with upscale shops, art galleries, and a great variety of dining options. The village ambiance blends rustic mountain charm with modern luxury, making it inviting for visitors.

When it comes to dining, Vail offers an impressive culinary scene with eateries ranging from casual mountain lodges to gourmet restaurants. Popular spots include classic après-ski venues, fine dining like Matsuhisa for Japanese cuisine, and local favourites serving Colorado-inspired dishes. Vail's vibrant food culture ensures memorable meals after a day on the slopes, with many restaurants offering kid-friendly menus and cozy atmospheres suitable for families and groups.

How to Get to Vail from the UK

Fly direct from London to Denver International Airport (approximately 9.5 hours). From Denver, Vail is reached by shuttle bus or private transfer in around 2.5 hours via Interstate 70 through the Eisenhower Tunnel. Alternatively, the Eagle County Regional Airport (90 minutes from Vail) receives seasonal direct flights. Holiday World arranges all flights and transfers as part of your ATOL-protected package.

Why book Vail with Holiday World?

With over 30 years of North America ski expertise and 12 Vail properties to choose from, Holiday World Ski Classics offers among the widest accommodation selection of any UK operator. We provide exclusive international lift ticket pricing for Vail and Beaver Creek, multi-pass advisory on Epic Pass options, and early booking hotel discounts of up to 30%.

THE SKIING IN Vail SKI RESORT

Vail’s vast 5,317 acres of skiable terrain across nearly 200 trails and 31 lifts provide opportunities for all levels, but it is particularly renowned for its extensive advanced and expert terrain. Grooming efforts also ensure some of the Back Bowls are more accessible for intermediate skiers. Beginners and intermediates can enjoy plenty of terrain concentrated near the base areas while advanced skiers can explore the mountain’s legendary bowls and expert routes.

Is Vail good for Beginners?

About 18% of the terrain is designated as beginner-friendly, featuring gentle slopes and dedicated learning areas like Gopher Hill at Golden Peak and the Eagle’s Nest learning zone. These areas provide safe, accessible terrain for novices.

Is Vail good for Intermediates?

Around 29% of the mountain is intermediate terrain. This includes wide groomed runs, tree-lined cruisers, and varied bowls such as Game Creek Bowl, offering skiers a broad range of moderately challenging options to develop their skills.

Is Vail good for Advanced skiers?

The largest portion, approximately 53%, is advanced or expert terrain. This includes steep chutes, moguls, glades, and the famous Seven Back Bowls like Sun Up, Sun Down, Siberia, and Mongolia Bowls, which offer some of the most challenging and varied terrain in North America.

is Vail good for families?

Vail is highly suitable for families, offering extensive family-friendly amenities and activities that cater to all ages. The resort provides excellent ski and snowboard lessons through its Ski & Snowboard School, including dedicated programs for children with instructors trained to work with young learners. For non-skiing fun, Adventure Ridge at the top of Eagle Bahn Gondola features activities like tubing, ski biking, children’s snowmobiles, and a new alpine coaster, ensuring kids stay entertained off the slopes.

Families benefit from services such as the Small World Nursery for safe childcare, multilingual concierge assistance, and accommodations with kid-friendly amenities including high chairs, playpens, bathrobes, and toys in rooms. Dining options welcome children with kid-friendly menus and complimentary meals for kids under five at selected restaurants.

Vail Village and Lionshead offer convenient ski-in/ski-out lodging options, pools, hot tubs, and game rooms suited to families. The resort also organizes seasonal events and après-ski family activities like storytime and creative arts programs for kids.

Vail is an Epic Pass resort.

Vail Property Map