Returning to Where It All Began: Years Later at the Sonnenalp in Vail, Colorado
By: Kym Whitney
Vail has always been a special place to me. I spent summers here as a child and eventually moved during high school to train year-round for figure skating. With so many formative memories tied to the mountains and the village, it was always clear that when the time came, Vail would be where I would marry. And so, 30 years ago, we stood at the Sonnenalp Resort in the heart of Vail Village and said “I do.”
This September, we returned to celebrate our anniversary in the very same place where our journey together began. What struck us most is how timeless the Sonnenalp remains—just as magical today as it was three decades ago.
From the moment we arrived, we were enveloped in the warmth and charm that has been the hallmark of the Sonnenalp tradition in hospitality for nearly a century. What began as a small Bavarian farmhouse inn has grown into a Colorado landmark, now carried on by four generations who continue to welcome guests with genuine care in a setting of true alpine luxury.
The resort’s Bavarian-inspired design feels both cozy and elegant, with 127 rooms featuring fireplaces, balconies, and mountain views. Its prime location in Vail Village places you just steps away from world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter, as well as hiking, biking, and gondola rides in the summer. There’s even a Sonnenalp-owned golf course just 13 miles away, open from early spring through October.
This trip reminded us why we’ve always cherished the Sonnenalp. We lingered by the creekside, where the gentle sound of water and the shade of Aspen trees created the perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon by the pool. For a deeper sense of renewal, the Sonnenalp Spa offered steam rooms, saunas and an indoor/outdoor tranquility pool that encouraged us to slow down and savor the moment.
Dining was just as memorable. Ludwig’s provided a refined menu in a glass-enclosed setting—perfect for an anniversary dinner—while Bully Ranch served up hearty comfort food in a lively Western atmosphere. Beyond the hotel, Vail’s charm is endless: from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to horse-drawn carriage rides, hiking, and long poolside afternoons in the summer, each season has its own magic. Yet the constant is always the Sonnenalp: a place that feels like coming home.
Publisher’s Tip: While exploring Vail Village, don’t miss the iconic Golden Bear jewelry store, the chic mountain fashions at Gorsuch, and the Western-inspired finds at Kemo Sabe.
Before heading back to California, we extended our trip with a stay in Denver’s coveted Cherry Creek North district at the Clayton Hotel & Members Club. This sophisticated, boutique property perfectly complemented our mountain retreat.
Clayton isn’t just a hotel; it’s Denver’s only members' club, giving guests the chance to stay like a member with access to exclusive spaces, cultural events, and private dining. We enjoyed time in the chic Parlour Bar, relaxed by the rooftop pool and restaurant, and explored the co-working lounge, gym and steam room. With 63 thoughtfully designed guest rooms, Clayton strikes a balance between boutique luxury and warm service. Its location in the heart of Cherry Creek North placed us steps away from art galleries, cafés, and fine dining, while the Cherry Creek Shopping Center offered upscale retail just around the corner.
Dining at Clayton was another highlight, from the Members Restaurant’s Denver classics to Bar Amorina’s Italian-inspired cocktails. The rooftop restaurant provided us with fresh air and Mediterranean flavors, while exciting new additions, such as Alteño from the Michelin-awarded Alma Fonda Fina team, promise to make Clayton a destination for food lovers.
Returning after decades, we realized that while so much has changed in life, the Sonnenalp has stayed steadfast—timeless, welcoming and as special as ever. Adding a few days in Denver’s most vibrant neighborhood gave us the perfect blend of alpine adventure and urban sophistication. It was not only a celebration of the past, but also a reminder to create new memories in places that inspire joy.
Sonnenalp Resort, Vail, Colorado
www.sonnenalp.com | IG @sonnenalpvail
Clayton Hotel & Members Club, Cherry Creek North, Denver
www.claytondenver.com | IG @claytondenver
