Say Hello to The Hythe
Vail’s newest luxe hotel highlights contemporary chic with a nod to the mod
The Hythe lobby in Vail features a mix of contemporary Rocky Mountain design mingled with 1960s mod glam and historic ski references. | Photo courtesy The Hythe, A Luxury Collection Resort, Vail
Upon arrival at the newly renovated Hythe hotel, I stepped into the sleek lobby and immediately felt my cool factor inch up a notch or two. The space is modern and clean, but somehow still harkens to the Vail of long ago and a nostalgic vibe of a charming alpine chalet. The inviting contemporary decor calls out both the past and present with its wood-paneled walls, warm leather, sumptuous textiles and earthy undertones. Millennials in beanies and fashion-forward international visitors milled around the lobby après-ski, sipping warming concoctions from the adjacent whiskey bar. I just wanted to sink into the shearling rocking chair and enjoy the crackling fireplace.
The Well & Being Spa is recovery-focused, specializing in wellness offerings to recuperate guests after a long day of mountain adventure. The Himalayan Salt Therapy Lounge (pictured), the only one in the Vail Valley, is said to allow guests to breathe more deeply and restore healthy respiratory function. | Photo courtesy The Hythe, A Luxury Collection Resort, Vail
But my massage was calling, so while my husband and son took our dog Rosie for a walk, I headed down the wide staircase to the Well & Being Spa for a truly sublime experience. My massage therapist, Connie, expertly kneaded my muscles using a custom blended oil infused with arnica and CBD for recovery. After the service, I headed into the Himalayan Salt Therapy Lounge, where I inhaled salt-infused air for healthy respiratory function; the cool, dry, high-salt environment is said to improve sleep. I don’t know whether it was the Salt Lounge or the chilled glass of prosecco I enjoyed while hanging out in the relaxation lounge, but something definitely worked.
Ideally situated in Lionshead Village, the Hythe (formerly the Vail Marriott Mountain Resort) recently underwent a $40 million makeover and rebranding, elevating the hotel to the luxury category. But what makes this hotel different from its counterparts is its refreshingly innovative decor and mod ‘60s feel. By placing curvy and sculptural decor and Austrian-alpine influences in almost every nook, the California- based interior design team effectively created multiple spaces where groups can gather in the spirit of a cozy European ski chalet.
Hythe guests are invited to sit by the fire in a comfy shearling rocker while enjoying the mod design that includes alpine chalet-like wood panels and Colorado Calacatta marble flooring. | Photo courtesy The Hythe, A Luxury Collection Resort, Vail
“The Hythe is different from other hotels because we are telling the story of Vail and aligning with our location,” says general manager Kristen Pryor. “By weaving the history of Vail Ski Resort and its founders, Pete Seibert and Earl Eaton, into the décor, The Hythe teaches visitors about the 10th Mountain Division training camp during World War II. Memorabilia from the 1960s, when Vail was incorporated as a town and ski resort, allows guests to … experience our location and feel a part of it,” says Pryor. “There are so many nods to that time period with glamorous touches and ski references that bring the spirit of pioneering and revelry to our spaces.”
After my rejuvenating massage and deep sleep, I awoke the next morning primed for a brisk snowshoe up Meadow Mountain in nearby Minturn, followed by some turns on the hill. That evening, I met up with my family at Margie’s Haas, an inviting restaurant on the upper floor that offers contemporary alpine- American cuisine. Our server, Claudia, was low-key and professional, gently offering her suggestions as we swooned over the raclette, wedge gem lettuce, crispy chicken torchon, grilled New York steak, and hot-smoked king salmon.
Rebecca Gart with her husband and son enjoy dinner at Margie’s Haas. The restaurant was named in honor of World War II-era local chef, Margie Haas, who was beloved for feeding troopers from the 10th Mountain Division in her Vail Valley home. | Photo courtesy Rebecca Gart
For those who don’t know, Pryor adds, “Hythe” is an Old English word that translates to “haven” or “landing place.” That’s exactly what this new gem in the Vail Valley provides—a comfortable place to land for relaxation and recovery after a long day on the mountain. Well done, Hythe.
Photo courtesy Rebecca Gart
THE DETAILS
The Hythe
715 West Lionshead Circle
Vail, CO
970-476-4444
GETTING THERE
The drive is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes from Denver; a bit over 2 hours from Boulder and DIA; and 1 hour and 40 minutes from Eagle County Regional Airport.
Photo courtesy The Hythe, A Luxury Collection Resort, Vail
LOCATION
In the heart of Lionshead Village, with easy access to Vail’s Eagle Bahn Gondola and Betty Ford Alpine Garden.
LODGING
Pet friendly, with 344 rooms, 22 suites, 16 residences. Luxe suites feature fireplaces, whirlpool jet bathtubs and two balconies showcasing the spectacular Rocky Mountains.
ACTIVITIES
The Hythe has on-site adventure stewards to help guests book custom adventures such as snowshoe hikes, dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice-skating, sleigh rides and on-site wellness classes. During summer, guests can book rock climbing, culinary tours, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, hiking, fly-fishing and mountain biking. A year-round outdoor pool, hot tub and multiple fire pits provide places for families to gather and play.
Photo courtesy The Hythe, A Luxury Collection Resort, Vail
DINING
The Hythe is home to four food and beverage concepts, including Margie’s Haas, Revel Lounge, Mountain Ration Grab & Go and 10th Mountain at the Hythe.
MARCH/APRIL RATES
Rooms start at $699 per night.
