A stunner of a lodge tucked between Beaver Creek Mountain and Beaver Creek Golf Course, The Borders gives you blissfully effortless ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes. You’re steps from Elkhorn Lift and an easy stroll to Beaver Creek Village, depending on how many inches of snow magically fell from the sky the previous night. The lodge is actually a combination of two buildings, Upper Borders and Lower Borders, each with its own fitness center and hot tub, plus complimentary coffee bars in both lobbies. (Wouldn’t want you to have to walk too far for that.) There’s a shared heated outdoor pool, plus private ski lockers and convenient underground parking. A recent big-bucks renovation upped the sophistication factor in the common areas, with new red birch woodwork, custom granite, wool carpeting and slate tiles. More refined than rugged, it’s a definitively elegant take on mountain style. (Word to the shopper: its classy neutral palette may just inspire a new ski outfit.)

Choose from studios and one- to three-bedroom vacation residences – there’s even a three-bedroom with a loft if you need the extra living space. Each condominium is individually owned and uniquely furnished, and all have plush bathrobes and Aveda bath amenities. The in-unit washer/dryer means you can pack a little lighter, with the dryer coming in extra handy for snowy gloves, socks and gaiters. Well appointed kitchens await your morning pancake flip-a-thon. And coordinating grocery delivery with your arrival makes you look like the genius vacation planner you are. (It’s about time they all noticed.) Cozy fireplaces and DVD players are a plus. And each residence has a patio or balcony, with mountain, valley or local views, depending on which way your windows face.

Complimentary on-demand shuttle service is available, but the Beaver Creek Village shops and restaurants are walkable too. Get your bearings with a free two-hour Mountain Welcome Tour, and plan a special night out with one of Allie’s Cabin Wine Dinners. If you’re skiing and snowboarding, head back down the mountain in time for the daily warm chocolate chip cookies at the base (just look for the chefs holding trays). And don’t miss Helmut Fricker – he’s the guy in lederhosen blowing the alpenhorn or playing the accordion in the Village Plaza (just like he has been since 1980!). Oktoberfest is a fall highlight, and summer is full of festivals and events like the Farmers’ Market and Art Show, Bravo! Vail Music Festival and Vail International Dance Festival. You’re right on the bike path, so grab a rental, pack some fruit and sandwiches and go see what's out there.