This Charming Western Town Is Right Out of a Storybook-With European-inspired Architecture and Incredible Mountain Views

"When it comes to mountain towns out West, I'm picky. I value both authenticity and luxury-which means you'll frequently find me in Jackson Hole, Wyoming-and I prefer spending time in places that are relatively easy to explore on foot. I also give points to destinations with independent coffee shops, charming boutiques, and a decent airport. Vail, Colorado, a Bavarian-inspired town known for its large ski resort, nails each category."

"While some travelers may initially question its genuineness-it is a planned resort town, after all-there are a few aspects of life in this pocket of Colorado, located 100 miles west of Denver, that feel inherent to its DNA. A shared desire to spend every day outside, whether it's on skis, on horseback, or on your own two feet exploring the car-free streets of Vail Village, is probably at the top of that list."

Vail, Colorado is a Bavarian-inspired mountain town known for a large ski resort and a walkable, car-free village core. The town blends authenticity and luxury, appealing to visitors who value independent coffee shops, charming boutiques, and convenient airport access. Vail Village was planned to mimic European ski villages, shaped by founders and 10th Mountain soldiers, and features chalet-style buildings with wood carvings and flower-filled window boxes. Growth in the 1960s and 1970s added lifts, lodging, and Lionshead Village. Vail functions as a year-round destination with winter and summer activities and luxury hotels like the Four Seasons serving high-end travelers.

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