After a fun night in Denver, we made a beautiful scenic drive to Vail. I had never visited the area, but have several clients that are skiers and thought it would be good to take a look at some of the top ski resorts. I wanted to do some site inspections to be able to book clients there feeling sure they will be accommodated appropriately. We were fortunate enough to be able to get a room at Hotel Talisa for an evening. It is a beautiful 4-star property that offers an array of unique and wonderful experiences and opportunities.
The Hotel Talisa is snuggled in a natural setting just outside of Lionshead Village and beautifully situated on Gore Creek. They closed for a full 18-months and underwent an extensive renovation to the entire main facility, creating comfortable and serene public spaces that complement the secluded mountain views and natural beauty. Hotel Talisa became a member of The Luxury Resort Collection after they reopened and it is evident in all the finishes in the rooms and public areas, as well as the level of service. You are warmly welcomed by every member of the staff from the moment you alight from the car to when you depart with plans to return again as soon as possible. We were fortunate to get an extensive tour of the entire property and it is evident that they have taken every detail into consideration.
The lobby area is spacious with comfortable seating and live music. There is flavored water available to sip on as you pass through and a large fireplace to gather around as you look out of the expansive windows overlooking the gorgeous mountains, Gore Creek, the heated infinity pool and hot tub, and the two outdoor firepits with Adirondack chairs surrounding them.
The Spa is a Zen space with a multitude of services available, separate facilities for men and women, saunas, Swiss cold showers, and a quiet lounge area as well as tranquil outdoor area to relax in while waiting for a service. The fitness center is state of the art and has plenty of equipment, most facing the spectacular view as well. There is a lively bar right off the lobby, with friendly bartenders (ask Jordan to make you a delicious Sazerac) and Gessner restaurant offering gourmet dining as well as more casual fare such as pizza and sandwiches.
Our Deluxe Mountainview room, beautifully appointed in soft greys and crisp white, was very spacious with a comfortable king size bed and soft linens and plush down comforter.
There was a small sectional with a table perfect for dining from the room service menu. The balcony was small, but had room for two Adirondack chairs and a small table. It was a little tight getting into one of the chairs as the door opened outward onto the balcony, but nothing we couldn’t manage. The bathroom was very elegant with a double vanity, water closet, and an enormous shower that also contained a giant soaker tub. It seemed a bit odd at first, but I quickly realized how practical it was to simply be able to step out of my bubble bath, rinse off, then wrap up in one of the fluffy bathrobes provided.
There was a closet area for our hanging clothing and contemporary, mirrored dresser as well, so there is ample room for anyone staying for an extended time. A coffee machine sat on one end of a long work station that also had a flat screen TV mounted above (not that we bothered turning it on since it would have just been a distraction from the gorgeous view.) We were also able to view one of the one-bedroom suites that had a beautiful and spacious living room, large bedroom with gorgeous views and phenomenal bathroom. They also have two- and three- bedroom suites available with 2 ½ to 3 bathrooms, but they were in the older part of the resort that will be renovated in the near future. There are condos available for large families as well. There is also an additional fitness and recreation area that has another pool, basketball courts, yoga studios, childcare facilities (available while using the recreation center,) and another large weight room with an indoor track.
A unique offering at the hotel is the Après Everyday social hour. It begins at 4pm daily with delicious gourmet macaroons and champagne offered in the lobby as well as a specialty lemonade station. At 4:30pm there is a daily Champagne sabering ceremony and toast to kick off the evening activities. Throughout each season the hotel offers special programs such as Morning Yoga by the Gore Creek; Coffee & Casting on the Gore, where you can get a morning casting demonstration and information on the valley’s fly-fishing offerings by local guides who are available to book excursions; and S’mores parties by the outdoor firepits. There are kids’ programs that make this a great resort for a family get-away as well. The offerings change with each season, but there is always something fun to make your day special.
The ski-in/ski-out location is one of the greatest advantages of Hotel Talisa. The Ski Valet and Concierge is the mecca, with ski and boot storage, ski rentals, a cozy après ski lounge area with a huge fireplace to relax around, and tasty hot chocolate and treats to enjoy. There is a ticket office on-site and best of all, you simply step out the door and a chairlift will whisk you up the mountain where you have a multitude of slopes to choose from. You can literally be on the slopes in 5 minutes. But Hotel Talisa also has wonderful options in the spring, summer, and fall as well. The ski shop transforms into a bike shop with plenty of mountain bikes to rent and tons of trails to ride. There is a very well-maintained trail running right behind the resort that leads to fun shopping, restaurants and bars in nearby villages as well. Other activities include hiking, ziplining, golfing, canoeing, etc. There is trout fishing year-round in the Gore Creek and we spotted plenty of large trout Charles was dying to have a go at.
Wonderful Lionshead and Vail Villages are a short ride away on the resorts free shuttle, or you can simply take the walking trail and be in Lionshead in about 10-15 minutes, or Vail Village in 20-30 minutes. It’s a beautiful walk meandering among the trees beside Gore Creek and you will often see trout fisherman, runners, hikers, and people just out for a relaxing stroll. And dogs! So many adorable dogs!
As we departed Hotel Talisa, I found myself not only feeling confident that any client I send to this elegant property would be well taken care of and find it a wonderful respite no matter what season they choose to go…but also checking my calendar to see when I would be able to return as well!
Please navigate to the photo gallery to view more pictures of Hotel Talisa and the surrounding area.
Disclaimer: I received a discounted travel industry rate for one night, however I did not receive any monetary compensation. My opinions and recommendations are based upon my personal preferences.