Disclosure: My visit was sponsored by Vail Summer but all opinions are my own.

During a recent stay at Arabelle at Vail Square during a weekend getaway, I was completely transported from every day life. From the minute I walked into the lobby, just me and my bags (no kids in tow), I knew I was in for a treat. Clearly I knew that in the winter, the hotel is a winter oasis for skiers, but I really didn’t understand how nice it (or Vail) would be in the summertime. Between the service, decor and proximity to central Vail, I was set. The property is steps from the Eagle Bahn gondola and Born Free Express lift; Vail Village is a short (5-10 minutes) in town, a 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, I was 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. Service was immediately responsive upon check-in and I instantly felt the vacation vibe settling in.

My room was also exceptionally cozy.  Despite my busy agenda, I milked very moment I had at the Arabelle.  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, plush towels (not just 2 or 3 like other hotels, more like 4 or 5 so you never have to ask for more), a Keurig coffee maker, free fresh 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 new of Vail, a flat-screen TV, free Wifi and…ready for this? 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 pretty wonderful.

Breakfast on the balcony, reading the NYT, wasn’t bad either. Looking out at the lovely view of Vail was one heck of a way to start my day.

My zen state that resulted from my stay at the Arabelle really culminated with a visit to their spa. Voted #19 out of the top 270 spas in the world in the 2012 Conde Nast Reader’s Poll, it was easy to see why.  Guests of the hotel get free access to its relaxation room, whirl pool, sauna, steam room and Swiss showers.  So I took advantage of these facilities each day and also indulged in a aromatherapy massage which was HEAVENLY.  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 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.  The Arabelle Spa is definitely one of the nicest hotel spas I’ve ever been to and I highly recommend a visit.

If you’re thinking of going to Vail this summer (what’s left of it), the Arabelle is offering a weekday summer saving where you can save up to 33% off when you stay between Sunday and Thursday. In addition, if you spend 3 nights there this summer, you can get a 4th night free.  

If you are organized and want to book early for the winter, book by July 31st and save up to 40% off. Stay 10 or more nights this winter and save up to 40% off. You can also book next year’s winter vacation by September 15th and save up to 33% off.

There are really a lot of reasons to go to Vail, both with and without the kids – I’ll be writing more about them in the upcoming days.  Stay tuned.