Bavarian alpine heirloom
Bavarian lodge customs shape every stay, from staff in dirndls to fireside drinks along Gore Creek.
“From the custom-made blonde wood furniture to the throw pillows with silhouettes of leaping stags, the Sonnenalp feels effortlessly and authentically Bavarian.”
What it’s good at
Notable
Bavarian chalet interiors feature custom Bavarian woodwork and exposed timber ceiling beams.
Notable
Five generations of Faessler family stewardship have anchored this village outpost since 1979.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and AFAR.
It’s the sort of personality that no contemporary designer could possibly fake: almost more European than its counterparts in the Alps, it’s the perfect antidote...
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Cobblestone paths wind through pedestrian Vail Village, and the mountain ski lifts are a four-minute walk away.
The rooms
Gas fireplaces warm timber-beamed bedrooms, and marble bathrooms have heated floors and deep soaking tubs.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
A heated pool connects the glass atrium indoors to the stone sun deck and whirlpools outside along Gore Creek.
The spa and gym
Spa rooms overlook snowy pines, and the wellness floor includes a gym, a Turkish steam room, and an oxygen lounge.
Bar
King's Club
Live acoustic music plays nightly beside the grand piano and fireplace, with German beers and craft cocktails.
In the U.S., Vail’s Sonnenalp Hotel is run by the fifth-generation Faessler family, who continue to deliver a blend of Bavarian warmth and Rocky Mountain charm.
At the table
Swiss Chalet serves traditional fondue and raclette, and Ludwig's hosts European breakfast buffets in the light-filled glass conservatory.
How it began
The Faesslers opened their first lodge in Bavaria in 1919 before bringing their alpine traditions to Vail in 1979.
Good to know
Stay here
Sonnenalp Vail
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Vail
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.