The slopes aren’t open for another few weeks, but now may be one of the best times for a weekend escape to Vail, Colorado. The summer season has come to a close, and along with it, throngs of adventure travelers have returned home to await the prime ski conditions of winter that are just around the corner. But there’s a secret sweet spot each shoulder season — particularly in late October and early November — when you can cash in on huge savings around posh Vail Village, all while enjoying the many of the spoils of this favorite Rocky Mountain destination.

Case in point: The AAA Four Diamond-rated Sebastian Vail resort, the town’s newest ultra-luxe boutique property, boasts spacious and chic guest rooms with elegant furnishings and fine appointments; a heated pool and intimate library; a fantastic full-service spa; and two acclaimed restaurants on-site, including the top-rated, farm-to-table favorite, Block 16. Nestled right in the heart of Vail Village, this stunner attracts a steady crowd of jetsetters and generally falls on the higher end of lodging rates in the area — but during shoulder season, rates at the property start as low as $140 per night double occupancy. There are even spa and dining packages available throughout October and early November for just a few dollars more. Sound pretty good?  The weekend is just days away, so get those bags packed and hit I-70 early!

thesebastianvail.com; 970-477-8000