Red Sky Golf Club - Fazio Course

Unfortunately I think Red Sky Fazio (didn't play Norman) is a victim of too much hype. That isn't to say it's not nice because it is. The course is probably in much better shape than most mountain courses at this time of year are...But I was expecting so much more given the price and having to stay in Vail to get on. I can play other private courses on the front range (Perry Park) or play a public course in the mountains (Eagle Vail) and have twice the fun for a fraction of the cost. 3 stars is the ceiling here.

You're allowed to disagree with me on this one. I like the Fazio course at Red Sky better, but I would have no quibble if you leaned toward the Norman more. After playing the Norman last summer, I returned this year to test drive the Fazio. Both share the same stunning views high above the Vail Valley.
What I love about the Fazio is how deftly his holes climb the terrain without the golfer realize it's happening. All the uphill holes are shorter, so they don't feel overly penal. And none of these holes feature awkward fairway slants and bad lies that so many other mountain courses offer. The reward for this journey in the high elevations is the final three holes that crash back to earth. The scenery and fun of the closing stretch that plays so dramatically downhill sets the Fazio apart from the Norman.
The private club vibe of the whole facility - you must stay at a Vail Resort to gain access to play the courses and dine in the Guest clubhouse - makes Red Sky the "place to play" in Colorado ski country.