Want easy access to the slopes at Vail without the ski-in/ski-out price tag? Enter Sun Vail – a hidden gem of a lodge located just a short stroll from the lifts (even with little ones in tow). Returning customers flock to this gold-rated property each season for its awesome value – every condo suite is spacious and well appointed, and only a five minute walk to the Lionshead base area. Begin the day with a hearty home-cooked breakfast thanks to the in-suite kitchen. Once the whole crew is well-fed and warmly-dressed, hit the slopes! Stroll across the road on the covered footbridge and come out in the heart of Lionshead Village. Vail Ski Tech offers rental deals and complimentary storage for Sun Vail guests in private lockers. Get everyone equipped for the powder day ahead and then it’s a quick shuffle to the Born Free Express Lift or the Eagle Bahn Gondola. Meander back down to Lionshead, or go check out Vail’s various other runs. Got a newb in your crew? The Ski School has lessons for all ages and levels and world-class coaches. They even hold lessons timed especially for moms dropping kiddos at Ski School. Plus there’s the pro-led “Girlz on Edge” women-only clinics taught by SKI Magazine vets and former Olympic athletes (sign up to see who!). Meet up with your crew at the top of the Eagle Bahn for lunch at Bistro Fourteen, which has gorgeous views and a solid kids’ menu. As the sun begins to set on the Rockies check out the ski-in après scene in Lionshead or its sister base Vail Village, which is just a short shuttle ride away. Just make sure to hydrate – the elevation is no joke! Once you’re all snowed out, your crew can drop your gear at Vail Ski Tech and take a leisurely, unencumbered walk back across the footbridge in street shoes. At the condo, have your crew’s self-proclaimed grill master get the complimentary barbecue going on the patio while you whip up some sides (and stay warm) in the kitchen.

Every condo rental at Sun Vail has amazing views of Vail Mountain and a patio, perfect for scoping out the powder before skiing (and snapping pics for Instagram). One- to three-bedroom units are bright and clean, individually-decorated with a mountain lodge vibe and a dash of Colorado kitsch. A fully equipped kitchen (and a Safeway just down the road) make home-cooking a breeze for when you’re not feeling the après eateries in the Village. In unit washer/dryer makes sure your crew always has fresh long johns to ride in and lets you pack light.

The beauty of a ski village like Vail is how close you are to an endless variety of bars and restaurants, shops and activities. Non-riders in your crew can spend the day tubing, snowmobiling, or snowshoeing (the Nature Discovery Center has guided tours). Enjoy the jovial après atmosphere at Garfinkel’s, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike with a family-friendly vibe, great outdoor seating and every classic pub dish you could crave.