Just exactly how does a world-renowned ski resort come into existence? If you’ve ever visited the Colorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame located in Vail, you’re likely well-versed on the founding of Vail Ski Resort some 60 years ago. You can also brush up on your local history, however, by booking a stay at The Hythe Vail. This modern mountain estate, part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection (the only alpine property in The Luxury Collection in North America), offers convenient access to all the splendors of Vail Mountain while glowing in Vail history.
The Hythe is Old English for “The Haven,” and following an elaborate $40 million renovation, it is exactly that—a respite for guests to enjoy an elevated mountain experience right in the heart of Lionshead Village. A contemporary, chic two-story lobby welcomes guests while cozy seating vignettes featuring sleek 1960s-style furnishings provide gathering spaces throughout. There are 344 elegantly appointed rooms (including 22 spacious suites and 16 residences) designed with a thoughtful combination of wood, stone, and copper accents. Most rooms boast a cozy fireplace and some include a balcony with views of the mountain. The entire interior of the resort is deeply rooted in Vail’s history with special focus on the collective passions of Vail’s founders—Earl Eaton and Pete Seibert. Eaton served in the U.S. Army during World War II, and Seibert was a member of the 10th Mountain Division— an elite group of soldiers who trained in the mountains of Colorado and fought the Germans in the Alps during the war. With a mutual love of skiing, the mountains, and après culture, Eaton and Seibert are examples of the American dream, and special homage is paid to their pioneering spirit and camaraderie throughout the entire resort. Historic ski references and design details incorporating Douglas fir wood panels evoke the atmosphere of an alpine chalet. Meanwhile, a collection of historic photographs documenting the operations of the 10th Mountain Division are displayed near the lobby.
Just a stone’s throw from the Eagle Bahn Gondola, the hotel provides easy access to the mountain for skiing and riding during the winter season. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the resort’s Adventure Locker, where you can rent snowshoes, fat tire bikes, mountain bikes, and other equipment. Throughout the year, guests can stroll out the door and through the cobblestone streets of Vail Village to discover an abundance of charming boutiques, sophisticated art galleries, and delightful restaurants. If you plan to take advantage of the spectacular hiking offered among a plethora of trails throughout the Vail Valley (and we highly recommend that you do!), The Hythe’s Mountain Ration Grab & Go market has you covered. It offers ready-to-go items such as breakfast burritos, hot sandwiches, pastries, and fresh coffee to fuel your outdoor adventures for the day. Pro tip: Call ahead the night before by 8 p.m. and pre-order a Pika Pack—a portable provisions bag of freshly made goodies, snacks, and lunch items—to be delivered to your room so you can get on the mountain faster in the morning.
If after a day on the slopes or hiking the mountainous terrain have left you feeling a bit depleted, The Hythe’s Well & Being Spa will help you replenish and invigorate. In addition to offering relaxing massages, oxygenating facials, and detoxifying exfoliation treatments, the spa features a Recovery Lounge where guests can soothe overworked muscles using jade stone heating mats, compression boots, and massage guns. Be sure to also unwind in the Himalayan Salt Therapy Lounge where the air is infused with beneficial salt. During my recent visit, I could have easily spent more than an hour meditating in this calming, amber-hued space, knowing that with each deep breath taken, my airways were being filled with healing microscopic salt particles to help restore healthy respiratory function.
Whether you plan your visit during Vail’s enchanting winter ski season or prefer to experience the high-altitude beauty of summer, The Hythe will surely become your haven.
Alpine Flavors
The Hythe offers savory mountain-inspired cuisine with locally sourced ingredients at each of its culinary concepts. While you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the property, it’s not surprising that après is the celebrated theme throughout the resort. Grab a hand-crafted cocktail and alpine-inspired fare at Revel, located right upstairs from the main lobby. Savory après bites—including Scandinavian smoked salmon, bison sausage skillet and Revel’s signature raclette epicurean experience—are some excellent options. For dinner, the menu is arranged by Gore Creek Garden featuring soups and salads; Ten Mile Range offering hearty steaks and filets; and Wild Places & Rivers including signature dishes such as Colorado mountain-glaze trout and Western Slope rack of lamb. The outdoor Après Deck is also a fantastic option to share the day’s stories with friends and family around the firepit. Complimentary s’mores and hot cocoa are offered nightly (5–7 p.m.), and there’s live music during the summer months. The lobby lounge also offers après appetizers and a full bar specializing in a Colorado-crafted whiskey experience through a special partnership with the local 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company distillery.
Fuel up for your day with a hearty breakfast at the popular Margie’s Haas. The farm-totable concept pays homage to a local resident from the WWII era, Margie Haas, who welcomed troops from the 10th Mountain Division into her home for a fresh meal as they made their way from their training base near Leadville to Denver. With its long farmhouse tables, this cozy restaurant captures Margie’s welcoming hospitality, putting a fresh spin on classic dishes like the buttermilk biscuit and chicken sandwich with house-made sausage gravy or a Colorado Miner’s Omelet featuring smoked brisket, hatch chili, chorizo, cheddar, and pepper jack cheese.
