Tucked inside Lionshead Village, Montaneros is a charming mountain lodge with ultra-convenient access to downtown shops, restaurants and nightlife (assuming you can stay awake for it). You’re steps from the newly renovated Vail Square and the base, an easy stroll to Eagle Bahn Gondola and the speedy Born Free Express Chair. Charter Sports makes the equipment rental scenario simple, offering ski/snowboard storage and overnight boot dryers. And when you’re too tired to tackle another run, complimentary après ski popcorn and hot cocoa await your triumphant return to the lobby. If the slopes and trails weren’t enough of a workout for you, you have free access to a sizable neighborhood fitness center, complete with top-of-the-line equipment and personalized training consultations. Meanwhile, on the opposite end of the exhausting-to-relaxing continuum, the award-winning Arrabelle Spa is next door. There’s also a sauna, outdoor heated pool and hot tub right onsite.

Winter guests receive a complimentary bottle of wine upon checking into your one-bedroom condominium. If you were savvy enough to plan for grocery delivery, pull out the cheese and crackers for an impromptu après ski (sans the ski part since you just arrived). Snow report watchers will be up extra early if it’s a powder day, so be sure you have plenty of hearty options for breakfast. The full kitchen is equipped with everything you need for flipping omelets, pancakes or french toast. When your crew returns, rosy-cheeked and ravenous, pull out your snack stash while rustling up dinner. Once you’ve inspected the cleanup crew’s work in the kitchen, gather back around the dining table for a few rounds of Hearts, Spoons or Crazy Eights. Or crash on the sofa or floor, fireplace aglow, for a Harry Potter double-feature.

If you’re an active crew, by the end of your stay, you’ll be on first-name (possibly even high-five or secret handshake) basis with the concierge. Get the inside scoop on everything summer, from whitewater rafting and kayaking, to horseback riding and the best local golf courses. Winter seems easy enough, with the slopes right outside – but there’s so much more to explore. Ask about Adventure Ridge for kids’ snow sports, plus options for snowmobile tours, dog sledding, and sleigh ride dinners at Four Eagle Ranch.