If you've skied in Europe, the first thought you'll have when you see Vail is that it reminds you of a ski village in the Alps.

For those who haven't been abroad, Vail will give you a picture of what it's like to ski in parts of Europe. The plus is that even though Vail looks like a quaint old village - it's not. It's full of ski shops, the high-end fashion stores you'd expect, along with casual and fine-dining restaurants to grab a quick bite to eat, hot chocolate, or an apres-ski drink or two, and dinner.


Ski-In/Ski-Out

Like the European resorts, Vail covers a wide expanse - 7 miles wide - with three different areas of the mountain, three terrain parks, seven bowls, and 5,289 acres of freeride terrain.

Even though there's so much mountain, it's easily accessible. The lifts run directly into town - both in Vail and in Lionshead, and also in Cascade Village. There's a shuttle that runs from village to village, so, like in Europe, you can ski back and forth or hop on a bus to navigate around town.

Vail Cascade Resort and Spa

Vail is perfect for a ski vacation, with plenty of activities for all ages, both on and off the slopes. I stayed at the Vail Cascade Resort and literally walked out the door to the Chair 20 Lift. You can't get much better ski-in/ski-out access than that.

There's a ski valet on the premises at the Cascade, along with Charter Sports which offers ski and snowboard rental packages, along with cross country ski and snowshoe packages. Reserve equipment in advance and as well as it being ready when you arrive, you'll save 25%.

Fine Dining Mountain Style

One of the best things about visiting a ski resort, other than the skiing, of course, is when the resort makes a point of noting dress is mountain casual - even in the Atwater on Gore Creek.

The restaurant's unique twist on a combination of two different dining experiences, the tavern and fine dining area, provides choices in both atmosphere and menu. Even better, diners can select from the tavern or the fine dining menu regardless of the venue they choose.

Breakfast is buffet-style and guests can opt for a cold or hot buffet, including a made-to-order omelet. Or, for a quick breakfast or lunch, there's a convenience store right in the hotel. This is one of the few resorts that really does have everything a visitor might need - without ever having to leave.

Family Activities

There are plenty of off-slope activities available at the Cascade, including heated outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, racquetball and squash courts, indoor volleyball and basketball courts, Vail's largest fitness facility including an indoor running track, and the Aria Spa, which offers luxury day spa services.

Camp Cascades includes a variety of activities for kids including basketball, ping pong, tennis (on a regulation-size tennis court), swimming, sledding, snow play, nature walks, games, crafts and more.

For the little ones, there's a Nursery Service so you have an adult-only dinner, if you'd like. It's certainly not necessary though. Children are welcome everywhere in the resort - including the restaurants.

Getting Around Town

When you are ready to go out and about, there's a shuttle that runs every 15 or 20 minutes, making the loop from the Cascade to Lionshead, Vail Village, and back.

Getting Here

I flew into Eagle Country Regional Airport, which is about a 25 minute drive from Vail. Another option is to fly into Denver and drive to Vail. It's about a two hour drive in good weather. Shuttles to Vail are available from both airports and are a good option, because you really don't need a car while you're there.

As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with complimentary amenities and lift tickets for the purpose of reviewing those services. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our ethics policy.