Travel + Leisure Magazine just named the Sonnenalp Hotel the Best Resort in Colorado; a recognition that places this Vail Village iconic property as one of the most distinguished in luxury hospitality, amenities and accommodations. This could not have been accomplished without the tireless work of the Fessler family that came to Vail, Colorado in 1979 and mastered the art of luxury, elegance, comfort and refinement.

A World-Class Stay in the Heart of Vail Village

This alpine elegance was transplanted to the heart of Vail Village. The hotel’s ski-in/ski-out access is paired with an authentic Old World sensibility that you simply cannot re-manufacture. Beyond the slopes, guests enjoy a full European spa, heated outdoor pools, and an award-winning restaurant that respects the traditions of Alpine Bavarian cuisine. Every detail reflects a commitment to timeless hospitality. For more on this extraordinary property, see the full story about the best resort in Colorado, The Sonnenalp Hotel, as honored by Travel + Leisure magazine.

The “Vail” Sonnenalp Hotel is distinctly European and born out of the original Sonnenalp Germany resort deep in Bavaria; family owned since 1919 and set in the rolling landscape of the Allgau Alps.

The Fessler Family: A Legacy of Alpine Hospitality

Vail Sonnenalp’s soul comes from its family roots. Johannes and Rosemarie Fessler originally operated the Hotel Sonnenalp in Ofterschwang, Bavaria, and brought their vision to Vail in 1979. What makes this different from corporate hotel chains is that it remains multigenerational, family-owned, and family-operated. The Fesslers created and transplanted a philosophy. The Bavarian commitment to the heritage of genuinely caring for guests, understanding their preferences, valuing long-term relationships over transactions. The Sonnenalp Hotel helped mature the Vail Village into a World Class destination by it expansion, innovation and first of class amenities while keeping the authentic European charm in place. Congratulations and Thank you to the Fessler Family for making The Sonnenalp Hotel the Best Resort in Colorado and most probably The World!

I can talk from the heart on this one. In 1991, The Sonnenalp in Germany which was run by Michael Fessler, welcomed Pepi’s Soccer Club from Vail. They gave the entire team and management accommodation for several days, fed and entertained us. (although I think at the disco, the off work employees were under strict orders not to go home with an American. LOL). That being said, for one of the best resorts in Bavaria to welcome Americans in 1991 to stay in the Black Forest on an International exchange says it all about the Fessler Legacy.

We had football matches with the Sonnenalp Club Team including Michael Fessler himself. I remember being on the field drifting away to the rolling hills with Bell Cows dinging (DDingDDingDding) as we played the match…what an incredible experience. It was like the movie….no kidding. The hills were alive.

But seriously, let us shout out the real heroes of the hills here; what an incredible legacy; The Fessler Family from the roots of humble Inn Keepers became the Keepers of some of the most prestiges resorts in the World; perhaps Legacy Resort Keepers should be the new title. I think Johannes and Michael would agree they were well led and understand the legacy that they now manage. Great Job Boys!

The Sonnenalp affiliated Prima Residences; Newest Townhome Development in Vail Village Coming Soon

Prima Residences, a fourplex townhome development announced last year will occupy the old First Bank Building; now partially owned by PNC. Prima Residences will have use of all the Sonnenalp World Class amenities after completion. There will be more key announcements coming soon.