Southern Vermont

Starting in the southwestern part of the state, consider the South Shire Inn if you are staying in Bennington. William Bull designed this striking Victorian in 1880. The home, now a bed-and-breakfast, boasts ten-foot ceilings, and a mahogany paneled library with an ornately carved fireplace. It is located just a block away from the center of town.

 

Up the road a bit in Manchester are two of Vermont’s best choices: the 1811 House and The Equinox. The 1811 House began hosting guests in, you guessed it, 1811. The rooms are named after colorful figures in Manchester’s history. The 1811 House Pub, an English-style eatery, is located just off the entry. The Equinox is a modern-day resort with old-world charm. They have a full-service spa on-sight, as well as large sports facilities. The prices are steep, but worth the splurge to live like the bluebloods did, if only for a night or two. A more reasonable option in Manchester is the Barnstead Inn, where the rooms are located in a 1830s hay barn. It offers a fun, and affordable inn experience.

 

If camping is your thing, there are lots of options in the Green Mountains. From basic, open-sided shelters on the Appalachian Trail, to campgrounds in the numerous and wonderful state parks, rustic travelers should have no problem finding a place to lay their heads.

 

The southeast side of the state is anchored by Brattleboro, where you can find several chain motels off Route 5. If cost is your greatest concern, or you are simply uncomfortable with the sometimes-communal experience of a bed-and-breakfast, you will find just what you are looking for here.

 

The Chesterfield Inn is a ten-minute drive east of Brattleboro, actually located in New Hampshire. There are 15 rooms, nine in the main inn and six in the nearby cottages. Eight of them have wood-burning fireplaces and all are spacious and comfortable. A few miles north of Brattleboro in the lovely village of Newfane is the Four Columns Inn. Sitting just off the town green, it is nestled at the foot of a 150-acre private mountain. Rates include a hearty breakfast and afternoon tea.

 

Nearby Townshend has terrific options for both luxury and budget travelers. The Windham Hill Inn is elegantly appointed, with modern conveniences. If you are looking for a sumptuous travel experience, this is the perfect stop. The more affordable Boardman House offers seven rooms in an 1840 farmhouse.