The Ritz-Carlton Club, Vail

Just got back from the Ritz Carlton Vail after five blissful nights, and let me tell you—they haven’t skipped a single beat in the last seven years. In fact, they might have turned the dial up. The service? Top tier. And if you’ve read my other reviews, you know I don’t throw compliments around lightly. This place is so flawless, I don’t even have a single witty complaint to offer. Not one. We rented directly from Berkshire Hathaway, which included daily maid service that kept the room spotless. And by spotless, I mean I started questioning if the maids were ninjas. The kitchen? Equipped with everything short of Gordon Ramsay himself to make a gourmet meal—but let’s be real, I wasn’t cooking. Thankfully, some of Vail’s best dining is just a short shuttle ride away. The bar staff? Beth and Kat deserve gold medals for their friendly service and killer cocktails. And the nightly live music? Absolutely terrific. Oh, and the cookies at 4 PM for the kids are apparently a local event because I’ve never seen children line up with that level of dedication. (Adults, don’t worry—we get 5 PM whiskey shots. It’s a perfectly balanced ecosystem.) The heated pool and whirlpool? Heaven after a day of skiing. And the fact that this place is somehow better than it was seven years ago? Unheard of. So much so, I’m now seriously considering buying a property here—and not just because I’m still riding the high of daily maid service and whiskey shots. Kudos, Ritz. You’ve outdone yourselves. Again.

Expected more from a Ritz for service. Front desk is not knowledgeable. Bar is rarely attended to. I never witnessed the 5 o’clock toast and the 4 o’clock cookies were not available past 4:10. Not sure why there isn’t more provided based on occupancy. Pool is not serviced. Worst part is the screaming children. Signage says no yelling and no one maintains this or adheres. Disappointing.

This is an awesome property. Beautiful, wonderful staff, helpful front desk, and the rooms/condos/suites are perfectly appointed. We have such fun here as it's a brief walk to Lionshead where there are many shops, restaurants, etc. Drawback is there is no restaurant on sight as the bar serves drinks, but is usually closed for snack foods. They have a free whiskey tasting each night by the fire pit and often soft guitar musician on the patio until sundown.