Why the Hythe Is My New Favorite Vail Retreat

Tucked into the scenic landscape of Lionshead Village, The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort, is a thoughtfully renovated alpine escape that brings the best of Vail to life. We visited in the summer, which was absolutely stunning—think wildflowers, peaceful riverside walks, and crisp mountain air—but this property is just as magical in winter, with its proximity to world-class skiing, cozy fireplaces, and a buzzing après-ski scene.

The Hythe seamlessly blends contemporary mountain luxury with warmth and character. We stayed in a larger studio with a king bed, sofa bed, and fireplace, which was the perfect home base: spacious, well-appointed, and complete with mountain-chic design. Rooms with balconies or mountain views are especially worth the upgrade, giving you a front-row seat to Vail’s natural beauty.

View from our balcony

The resort’s Well & Being Spa was a highlight of our stay—a serene sanctuary featuring outdoor hot tubs with mountain views, a Himalayan salt room, and a dedicated recovery zone. Whether you’re winding down from the slopes or recharging after a summer hike, the spa is an ideal retreat for couples or solo travelers. There’s even a wellness lounge that’s great for relaxing before or after your treatment.

Himalayan Salt Room in the Well & Being Spa

Dining at The Hythe reflects its Colorado roots. Margie’s Haas offers a warm, communal breakfast experience with locally inspired fare—the fresh-squeezed orange juice machine is a fun (and delicious) touch. At night, the mood shifts to Revel Lounge, perfect for après-ski or a late summer cocktail, complete with daily whiskey tastings featuring local distilleries. A hidden gem is 10th Mountain, a bar tucked off the lobby that offers a cozy, heritage-filled nod to the legendary WWII ski troops that trained in the Vail Valley.

10th Mountain cocktail bar

During our summer stay, we started each day with a Riva Ridge latte from the Mountain Ration Grab & Go, then enjoyed peaceful walks along Gore Creek, just outside the hotel. For lunch, we loved Garfinkel’s for hearty, elevated bar food with a gondola view (open June–April). Afternoons were spent poolside under the mountain sun—just don’t forget sunscreen, as Vail sits at 8,000 feet above sea level!

Gore Creek Trail

Mountain Ration Grab & Go

Poolside patio

A few standout features for guests:

• The hotel is pet-friendly, and our dog was welcomed with open arms (and treats!) by the front desk.

Vail is incredibly pet-friendly!

• Complimentary valet and shuttle service make exploring Vail Village and Lionshead seamless.

• The property is part of the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, making it a great option for loyalty travelers.

The Hythe shines for a wide range of guests—it’s perfect for romantic getaways, family trips that prioritize comfort and convenience, or wellness retreats with a luxurious edge. Local art throughout the hotel adds a distinct sense of place, while thoughtful extras like pop-up raclette tastings and s’mores on the patio elevate the experience even further. Whether you’re carving powder in winter or hiking wildflower-lined trails in summer, The Hythe captures the essence of Vail: rugged beauty, warm hospitality, and elevated design all in one unforgettable stay.

Vail Village

• Complimentary shuttle and ski valet: The Hythe offers a complimentary shuttle that runs throughout Vail, including stops at the Eagle Bahn Gondola in Lionshead and Vail Village, making it easy to explore without a car. In the winter, take advantage of the ski valet service, which is especially helpful during peak season for a seamless experience from slopes to suite.

• Spa and wellness bookings: The Well & Being Spa is in high demand—especially on weekends and holidays—so be sure to book appointments in advance to secure your preferred time slot.

• Pet-friendly perks: Traveling with a dog? The Hythe is pet-friendly and welcomes pups with treats at check-in. Just be sure to call ahead to confirm current policies, pet fees, and weight limits.

• Location vibes: Lionshead Village offers a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere compared to the busier Vail Village. It’s easily walkable and well-connected by free shuttles, offering the best of both worlds for guests seeking calm surroundings without sacrificing access to shops, dining, and ski lifts.

• Room requests and views: For an elevated stay (literally), request a mountain-facing room on a higher floor. These rooms offer the best views of the surrounding peaks and a more serene experience.

• Parking considerations: Valet-only parking is available, but it comes at a premium—as is typical of Vail resorts. Factor this into your travel budget, especially for longer stays or holiday weekends.

• Sunset cocktails: Don’t miss cocktail hour at Revel Lounge. The vibe is upscale yet relaxed, and the mountain views at sunset are picture-perfect—an ideal way to unwind after a day of outdoor adventure.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Vail page.