Old-World Charm at The Arrabelle at Vail Square

A weekend at The Arrabelle at Vail Square, a RockResort, will completely transport you from everyday life. It’s a hotel that combines the elegance and old-world village charm of Europe’s grand resorts and Vail’s alpine heritage. Offering spacious rooms and luxurious condos, families have multiple accommodation categories from which to choose.

The Arrabelle at Vail Square Hotel Review for Families

On our trip there last summer, from the minute I walked into the lobby, I knew I was in for a treat. Although the hotel is a well-known winter oasis for skiers, I really didn’t understand how nice it — or Vail — would be in the summertime.

Between the service, decor and proximity to central Vail, The Arrabelle is wonderful for families. The property is steps from the Eagle Bahn gondola and Born Free Express lift; Vail Village is a short shuttle ride away (which happen to be free all day, all night) and there are plenty of great restaurants, bars and shops close by.

Immediately upon arrival, we were struck by the hotel’s look and charm. The lobby is a combination of mahogany and antiques and offers an element of comfort and style. The staff is service-oriented and friendly.

Guest Rooms

Rooms are exceptionally cozy. Decked out in lush antique furniture that is reminiscent of another time and place, the hotel offers unusual touches like pumice stones in the shower, fresh,  and plush towels (not just 2 or 3 like other hotels, more like 4 or 5, so that you never have to ask for more).

There’s also a Keurig coffee maker, free filtered water, a shower with two valves so two people can shower at the same time (very romantic), plush robes and slippers, fully thick curtains that shield the light from the room, a dramatic balcony with a view of Vail, a flat-screen TV, free WIFI and — my favorite — an electric fireplace built into the wall with an armchair that is easily pulled up in front for rest and relaxation. I have to say, at the end of a busy day, coming back to the room for a break before dinner to a lit fire (set by the room attendant when turning down the bed) is wonderful for everyone. The hotel has a wide variety of guest rooms for families, including chalets and luxury condos with complete kitchens.

Spa

Guests of the hotel get free access to its relaxation room, whirl pool, sauna, steam room and Swiss showers. I took advantage of these facilities each day at the RockResorts Spa and also indulged in a aromatherapy massage which was heavenly! Children are not allowed but if you can slip away, it is a real treat.

The 10,000-square-foot spa complex also includes a full-service nail salon and a retail shop with professional skin care lines, lotions, soaps, oils, meditation books, cards and other spa products. The RockResorts Spa uses only the most advanced botanical technologies in its treatments. Treatments feature organic ingredients, indigenous massages and wraps, rejuvenating facials, and other special amenities. This spa is definitely one of the nicest hotel spas I’ve ever been to, and I highly recommend a visit.

Location

There is plenty to do all within walking distance to the hotel and beyond if you want to venture further.  Vail has extensive skiing and a terrific ski school right in the Village outside the hotel.

The Colorado Snow & Ski Museum at the upper level of the Vail Village parking structure has interactive exhibits where kids can learn about the history of Vail, skiing, and the 10th Mountain Division. There is a Children’s Museum in Beaver Creek and the National Mining Hall of Fame & Museum in Leadville. There is also a bowling alley in town called Bol, where you and the kids can whittle away the hours.

Getting around Vail is really easy. Parking and shuttle transportation is free, as is parking in Vail Village and Lionshead. Strollers are easily transportable on the shuttles, and there are frequent stops all over the village.

Dining

There are family-friendly restaurants all over Vail, including the relaxed Tavern on the Square at The Arrabelle at Vail Square. The Tavern is a mountain American grill inspired by farm-to-table ingredients and lots of affordable options for everyone in the family.

La Tour is a restaurant located in the heart of the Vail Farmer’s Market and offers organic, natural and sustainable products. They offer lovely French toast, eggs benedict, mussels and other delicacies.

Terra Bistro is another of Vail’s favorites, offering free-range meat, poultry and vegetable dishes from local markets. Kids can munch on their edamame, butternut squash ravioli or a meat dish while you explore your own palette.

If you’re in the mood for something really special and exotic, and your kids can keep up with your palette try Matsuhisa, Japanese and Peruvian fusion cuisine from Chef Nobu Matsuhisa.

Want Help Booking A Family Vacation at The Arabelle at Vail Square?

Check availability at The Arrabelle at Vail Square and one of our Family Vacation Consultants will reach out to you to any any questions. Or, request assistance on our Connect with a Travel Advisor page.

Colorado with kids