Sonnenalp Hotel

The pairing of personalized service and beautiful surroundings has been the hallmark of the Faessler family for four generations. Nearly a century ago, the Faesslers established their first hotel in Bavaria and called it the Sonnenalp, meaning “sun on the mountains.” The name transferred perfectly to another venture some sixty years later, when the family brought their European style of hospitality to beautiful Vail, Colorado.

Groups having the good fortune to convene at the resort—a member of The Leading Small Hotels of the World—enjoy 6,500 square feet of meeting space that includes a grand ballroom able to accommodate a banquet for 290 guests. An outdoor event lawn beside Gore Creek adds a picturesque option in summer. Behind the scenes, a dedicated staff demonstrates total commitment to guests' satisfaction.

Between sessions, participants hit the ski slopes in winter and the golf course in summer. Or, they visit the resort's own spa, fitness center, or indoor-outdoor swimming pool. The resort's location at the heart of Vail Village affords easy access to renowned shops and restaurants, but with four dining venues of its own, many guests are happy to remain on-site.

The resort places special emphasis on the comfort of guest accommodations. All but a dozen of the 127 lodgings are suites with fireplaces and generous floor plans. Standard amenities include custom Bavarian furniture, walk-in closets, fluffy pillows and comforters, robes and slippers, high-speed wireless Internet access, and luxurious bathrooms with heated marble floors. Also standard: nightly turndown with freshly baked cookies.