Lionshead

 

Located just west of Vail Village, Lionshead is a pedestrian-only, European-inspired ski village featuring luxury hotels, world-class dining, and seamless access to Vail Mountain via the Eagle Bahn Gondola. With its cobblestone streets, charming alpine architecture, and vibrant après-ski scene, Lionshead is one of the most desirable areas to live and stay in Vail.

This neighborhood offers a slightly quieter atmosphere than Vail Village while still providing high-end shopping, fine dining, and direct access to some of the best skiing in the country. Whether you're hitting the slopes, exploring boutique shops, or enjoying gourmet dining with mountain views, Lionshead provides a seamless blend of luxury and convenience.

• Ski-in/ski-out access via the Eagle Bahn Gondola
• Pedestrian-only village with European-style architecture
• Fine dining, high-end shopping, and a vibrant après-ski scene
• A more relaxed and intimate atmosphere compared to Vail Village
• World-class resorts, including The Arrabelle and The Ritz-Carlton Residences
• Convenient access to Adventure Ridge, an all-season outdoor activity center
  
  

Lionshead is designed for skiers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a mix of adventure and luxury. With immediate access to Vail Mountain, residents can hit the slopes within minutes and then unwind at one of the many après-ski spots with a drink in hand. The village’s pedestrian-friendly layout makes it easy to walk from the gondola to a collection of restaurants, bars, and boutique shops.

In the summer, Lionshead transforms into a haven for hikers and bikers, with the Berry Picker Trail offering stunning panoramic views of the Gore Range. The Gore Valley Trail is also easily accessible, providing a scenic route for walking and biking along Gore Creek. Families and thrill-seekers enjoy Adventure Ridge, a mountaintop activity center that features ziplining, tubing, a mountain coaster, and guided nature hikes.

With its convenient location, high-end accommodations, and lively après-ski scene, Lionshead attracts both seasonal visitors and full-time residents who want the best of mountain living with a touch of exclusivity.

Lionshead is home to some of Vail’s best après-ski and fine dining experiences, as well as a curated selection of boutique retailers. A must-visit is Tavern on the Square, located at The Arrabelle, known for its elevated mountain cuisine, outdoor fire pits, and prime location at the base of the gondola. It’s a go-to spot for après-ski drinks, hearty lunches, or refined dinners with mountain views. Montauk Seafood Grill, a local institution, specializes in fresh, sustainably sourced seafood, expertly crafted dishes, and an inviting ambiance. For a more casual yet iconic dining experience, Blue Moose Pizza serves up classic New York-style pizza, making it a favorite for families and groups looking for a relaxed meal after a day on the slopes.

Après-ski wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Bart & Yeti’s, a classic Vail Valley pub with a ski-town vibe, great burgers, and a selection of Colorado craft beers. Another great option is Revel Lounge, which offers a more intimate, upscale après experience with craft cocktails and small plates. El Sabor, known for its Mexican cuisine, is another lively après-ski hotspot with stunning slope-side views.

Luxury shopping is also a highlight in Lionshead. Lionshead Jewelers offers high-end, handcrafted jewelry, while Vail Sports carries premier ski and outdoor gear for every season. Avalon Clothing is a favorite for stylish, mountain-chic apparel, and for those looking for high-end ski wear, Helly Hansen and Patagonia offer a selection of technical gear and winter fashion essentials.

Lionshead is a year-round hub for outdoor adventure and entertainment. During the winter months, the Eagle Bahn Gondola provides direct ski access to Vail Mountain, leading to world-class terrain, including groomers, tree runs, and expert-level Back Bowls. Après-ski is a way of life here, with lively bars and cozy patios offering the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes. The area also offers a variety of winter activities beyond skiing, including ice skating at Arrabelle Rink and Nordic skiing options at the Vail Nordic Center.

For those looking for an alternative to downhill skiing, Adventure Ridge, located at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola, offers tubing, ski biking, snowshoeing, and the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, providing family-friendly winter fun.

When the snow melts, the village transforms into a summer paradise, with hiking and biking trails leading directly from Lionshead up the mountain. The Berry Picker Trail is a local favorite, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Gore Range and Vail Valley. The Gore Valley Trail also runs through Lionshead, connecting cyclists and joggers to miles of scenic pathways along Gore Creek.

Lionshead also plays host to seasonal events, including live music, farmers’ markets, and outdoor film screenings, making it a vibrant, social hub even in the warmer months. The Vail Jazz Festival and Bravo! Vail Music Festival bring world-class performances to the area, while the Oktoberfest celebrations transform the village into a lively Bavarian-style festival, complete with traditional music, beer gardens, and authentic German cuisine.

The area is also home to important community amenities, including Dobson Ice Arena, which offers year-round skating and hockey, and the Vail Public Library, a resource for both residents and visitors. Additionally, Vail’s new billion-dollar hospital, which serves both locals and visitors, provides world-class medical care just minutes from Lionshead.

With its unmatched ski-in/ski-out access, high-end amenities, and charming alpine atmosphere, Lionshead is one of the most desirable places to live or vacation in Vail. Whether you’re carving down the slopes, relaxing on a sunlit patio, or exploring boutique shops, this mountain village delivers the perfect blend of adventure and luxury.