The Galatyn Lodge

This intimate, boutique lodge offers warm, comfortable rooms with good options for large groups. It is popular with families and couples on a ski vacation for the quiet and cozy atmosphere, plus the ample amenities in upgraded rooms. The building exterior has a charming, rustic feel with a brick-paved driveway, multi-colored stone facade, and lots of trees all around the property. Interiors are inviting with neutral tones and warm lighting, including chandeliers and lanterns decorated with antlers, and colorful paintings of Native Americans. The lobby includes a sitting area with cushy sofas and leather chairs, plus free coffee for guests. There's little on-site, but the sophisticated feel and central location still make it an excellent pick. 

Galatyn Lodge is on the eastern side of the long, narrow town of Vail, close to ski lifts and the main village. It’s a three-minute walk to the Vista Bahn Ski Lift, and there are others within a five-minute walk. It is a four-minute walk to quaint Vail Village, with several boutique shops and eateries to explore. A 10-minute walk brings guests to the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Museum, for those interested in the history of local winter sports. The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens are a nice spot to enjoy nature, and there's a fun playground for kids -- all a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Next to the Gardens is the Gerald R Ford Amphitheater with outdoor seating for concerts. The Eagle County Regional Airport is a 40-minute drive from the hotel, and Denver International Airport is just over a two-hour drive away. 

Standard hotel rooms are comfortable and appealing with a warm, elegant design in neutral colors and a few muted accents. Plush beds with down comforters, comfy chairs, and quality furnishings are found in all. A few dark pieces stand out boldly, like a wood wardrobe or mirror frame on the wall. Nature paintings add color and are a nod to the Rocky Mountains location. Each room has a flat-screen TV, but there’s no mini-fridge, balcony, or coffeemaker in the room (some are available on request). Their large bathroom is sleek with a marble countertop, double sinks, and shower/tub combo enclosed with sliding glass doors. A hairdryer and bathrobes are provided, and free toiletries include soap, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. Upgraded rooms are beautiful apartments with multiple bedrooms (up to four), plus a full kitchen, large living room, washer/dryer, gas fireplace, and furnished balcony or patio.

This pet-friendly hotel is light on features, though there is a heated outdoor pool set in a lovely brick-paved patio surrounded by evergreens. There are no spa or fitness center on-site, but guests have free access to both at a separate facility a four-minute walk away. In-room massages are also available. No meals are offered here, but many dining options are within easy walking distance. A garage under the building offers free parking, and there’s a public lot across the street. Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel for free.