November & Early December

What to do – It’s one of those in-between months, no longer fall and not quite winter but just the right time for a quick romantic getaway to Vermont before the Holiday chaos takes over.  Snuggle by the fire, drink hot chocolate, read a book, relax and just enjoy being together… well that’s the theory and the first hour or two taken care of at least!

November (or stick season as it is known locally)  is one of those months where the weather can do just about anything, sometimes sunny, sometimes cloudy, occasionally snowy but generally temperatures are in the 40’s during the day so great for hiking, casual shopping and general exploration.  If the weather is co-operating, hike the section of the Long Trail to Burnt Rock… the views will amaze you even in early winter and the crunch of leaves under foot plus the sense of achievement will give you plenty of reasons to indulge in a wonderful dinner that night.  Restaurants are traditionally quiet at this time of year so local favorites will welcome you with open arms at a moment’s notice.  Our favorites include American Flatbread, Common Man, 275 Main Street and Hen of the Wood.  See our Dining Guide for details.

Guests this time of year typically enjoy some stress free retail therapy in our amazing uncrowded artisan stores where items are so unique and different that it hardly seems like shopping as you browse around these wonderful shops.  Again we have our favorites –  Not Just Blackboards, The Artisan Gallery, The Store and The Collection are just 5 minutes’ from the Inn and the renowned Warren Store just a mile or two further.  Local potters and glassmakers are also great sources of inspiration for those hard to find gifts – visit Mad River Glass, Waitsfield Pottery, Robert Compton Pottery, Michael Egans Glass Blowing or the Granville Bowl Mill for some one of a kind items.

For more relaxation, schedule an in-room massage at the Inn – Trish at Mad River Massage will visit and ensure you leave the Inn 100% revitalized after your getaway.

The days when ice cream consumption was restricted to the summer months only have long since disappeared and Ben & Jerry’s Factory remains a top Vermont tourist attraction, year round, about 20 minutes from the Inn.  After all there’s always room for ice cream, right?!  Friend them on Facebook and get a free factory tour too.  Another lesser known favorite for chocolate and ice cream aficionados is Lake Champlain Chocolates, just up the road from Ben & Jerry’s.  They too make delicious ice cream and some amazing Belgian style chocolate.  And while you’re up in this area of Route 100, check out Cider Hollow and their amazing donuts!

Still looking for inspiration, take a winery tour or visit a brewery!  Magic Hat in Burlington is always a favorite and a lesser known local winery, Fresh Tracks Farm, is starting to become a talking point among vintners.  Take a tour with them and come away with two lovely wine goblets as well as some great ideas for your Holiday dinner wine list.

So what are you waiting for?  There’s lots to do and we have a room waiting for you!  Book Now