Vermont Resorts, Hotels & Inns

Vermont Resort
Courtesy of vermontalm - Fotolia.com

When we lived in NYC, one of the best ways to recharge was escaping to Vermont, where charming resorts, welcoming inns, and world-class hotels create the perfect weekend retreat.

Whether it’s an anniversary, a birthday, or simply a well-earned getaway, Vermont sets the stage for truly special moments. Here, you’ll discover the ideal mix of rustic charm, modern elegance, and unforgettable experiences. From cozy mountain lodges to luxurious lakeside resorts, every stay feels like an invitation to relax, reconnect, and savor something extraordinary. I think you’ll find Vermont just as inspiring as I do.

Enjoying the view of Church Street, Burlington, Vermont
Fall foliage in Montpelier, town skyline
Relax at the spa and enjoy mountain views on an exciting weekend trip.
Topnotch Resort

1. Alpine Ease at Topnotch Resort

When I first arrived at Topnotch Resort in Stowe, Vermont, I immediately felt the magic of being tucked away in the Green Mountains—it’s such an underrated gem that quickly became one of my favorite spots for a weekend getaway. The combination of rustic charm and upscale luxury struck me as both unique and exciting.

My room was spacious, modern, and cozy at the same time, with warm wood accents, premium linens, and a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains. I loved waking up to that scene—it felt like stepping into a postcard every single morning.

One of the coolest parts of staying here was the incredible spa, which is often ranked among the best in New England. I spent hours unwinding with their steam rooms, saunas, and hot tubs, and it felt like the perfect balance of wellness and indulgence. It’s honestly one of the most joyful spa experiences I’ve ever had.

Food was another highlight. Flannel, their on-site restaurant, served up some of the most delicious, farm-to-table meals I’ve tasted in Vermont. Every dish felt fresh and vibrant, and I especially enjoyed the craft cocktails—it made dinner feel like a celebration.

What I loved most was how versatile the resort felt. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, an adventurous ski trip, or even a family vacation, Topnotch has everything you need. From tennis courts to outdoor pools with mountain views, it’s the absolute best mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a brilliant idea for any kind of traveler.

To book, check availability or prices for Topnotch Resort .

What I loved best:

My guest room was a true highlight. It was spacious, airy, and tastefully decorated in earthy tones with plush bedding, a flat-screen TV, a Keurig coffee maker, curated local art, and a marble-clad bathroom complete with spa-style amenities.

The large window opened up to sweeping views of Mount Mansfield, which became my favorite feature of the stay.

Stroll charming village streets and unwind in elegant comfort on a retirement escape.
Woodstock Inn & Resort

2. Timeless Warmth at Woodstock Inn & Resort

I thought Woodstock Inn & Resort in Vermont was one of the best and most underrated luxury escapes I’ve experienced. It completely won me over with its timeless New England charm and elevated comforts.

Nestled right in the heart of Woodstock, this historic inn felt both grand and welcoming, with its white-clapboard façade, cozy fireplaces, and beautifully landscaped grounds that looked like a postcard come to life.

The design struck me as a perfect blend of classic elegance and modern refinement. I loved the rich woodwork, antique details, and curated artwork that paid tribute to Vermont’s heritage, while the updated furnishings and thoughtful touches gave it a fresh, stylish vibe.

It felt warm and authentic without ever being stuffy. My room was spacious, with a plush king bed, soft linens, cozy sitting area, and a marble bathroom stocked with luxurious amenities.

I spent one afternoon at the inn’s award-winning spa, where I indulged in a Vermont maple sugar scrub before unwinding in the relaxation lounge. Later, I enjoyed the heated outdoor pool and hot tub, framed by mountain views, which made the whole experience even more serene.

Dining was another high point. I had an incredible farm-to-table dinner at The Red Rooster, and I loved the craft cocktails at Richardson’s Tavern. Between the golf course, fitness center, gardens, and nearby trails, I felt like everything I needed for an amazing getaway was right at my fingertips.

To book, check availability or prices for Woodstock Inn & Resort.

What I loved best:

The highlight for me was the view: I could gaze out at the charming village green, which made mornings with coffee feel extra special.

Enjoy cozy rooms and savor fine dining on an intimate romantic trip.
Rabbit Hill Inn

3. Peace and Presence at Rabbit Hill Inn

Tucked away in the quiet village of Lower Waterford, this adults-only inn felt intimate and charming, yet had all the comforts of a high-end boutique resort.

I think Rabbit Hill Inn is truly one of Vermont’s best-kept secrets. It's an amazing romantic getaway that completely exceeded my expectations. From the moment I stepped inside, I loved the warm, inviting atmosphere, with its crackling fireplaces, soft lighting, and beautifully curated décor that mixed classic New England style with cozy, modern touches.

My room was absolutely amazing. It was spacious yet intimate, with a plush four-poster bed dressed in premium linens, a sitting area perfect for reading, and a bathroom that felt spa-like, complete with a whirlpool tub and luxury bath products.

The thoughtful details like fresh flowers, local chocolates, and hand-picked artwork made it feel incredibly personal, as if every corner was designed just for me.

What I loved most, though, was the sense of peace. Surrounded by the White Mountains and serene gardens, it felt like a world away from everyday life. Whether I was relaxing on the porch, stargazing at night, or exploring nearby trails and villages, Rabbit Hill Inn offered an amazing balance of romance, relaxation, and understated luxury.

To book, check availability or prices for Rabbit Hill Inn.

What I loved best:

Breakfast was a highlight: each morning I was treated to a gourmet, three-course meal made with local ingredients (the homemade pastries were divine!). In the evenings, I enjoyed lingering over cocktails at the cozy Snooty Fox Pub before savoring a multi-course dinner that rivaled fine-dining in any city.

Savor gourmet meals and relax in luxury on a romantic couples retreat.
Twin Farms

4. Private Paradise at Twin Farms

Twin Farms was like entering another world, one where every detail was considered and nothing was rushed.

Set on 300 acres of meadows and forest, it offered a deeply personal kind of luxury. No crowds, no schedules, just space to breathe, roam, and reconnect.

I loved the design aesthetic here. It was elegant yet eclectic, with each of the unique cottages and suites featuring its own personality.

My cottage felt like a dream: a massive stone fireplace, a king-sized bed dressed in the softest linens, a deep soaking tub, and walls filled with curated art and handcrafted furniture.

The floor-to-ceiling windows opened up to sweeping meadows and forest views, which made every morning feel magical.

What I loved best:

One of the things that amazed me the most was the dining. Everything was farm-to-table, seasonal, and completely customized to my preferences. I had dishes I’ll never forget, like fresh Vermont cheeses paired with local wines, perfectly prepared game, and decadent desserts, all enjoyed in intimate, candlelit settings.

Explore lush grounds and indulge in spa treatments on a couples weekend retreat.
Castle Hill Resort and Spa

5. Quiet Elegance at Castle Hill Resort and Spa

Staying at Castle Hill Resort and Spa felt like stepping back into the Gilded Age, but with all the comforts of a modern resort. I loved the blend of old-world elegance and modern indulgence.

Nestled in the charming town of Cavendish, this historic mansion, built in the early 1900s, immediately impressed me with its grand stone façade, sweeping staircases, and intricate woodwork.

I loved my guest room, which carried so much character. I admired its antique furnishings, dark mahogany details, and a four-poster bed draped in plush linens that made me feel like royalty.

The marble bathroom, complete with a soaking tub and luxury bath products, was the perfect mix of heritage charm and spa-like relaxation.

It felt both historic and cozy in the best way possible.

After a long day exploring nearby Okemo Mountain, sinking into that hot tub surrounded by fresh mountain air was absolute bliss.

Dining at the Castle was another highlight. I enjoyed an incredible multi-course dinner by candlelight in the mansion’s elegant dining room, where the menu featured local Vermont ingredients crafted into gourmet dishes. It felt intimate, romantic, and very special.

Between the charm of the historic mansion, the full-service spa, fine dining, and proximity to skiing, hiking, and quintessential Vermont villages, Castle Hill Resort and Spa struck me as a rare gem. It was luxurious, peaceful, and utterly unforgettable.

To book, check availability or prices for Castle Hill Resort and Spa.

What I loved best:

The spa experience was amazing! Located in a carriage house on the property, it offered everything from massages to facials, along with a heated outdoor pool and hot tub.

Explore historic grounds and admire lake views on a peaceful fall getaway.
The Inn at Shelburne Farms

6. Lakeside Grace at The Inn at Shelburne Farms

Perched above Lake Champlain on a working farm and historic estate, The Inn at Shelburne Farms offered more than a place to stay, it offered a way to feel. The air smelled of lilacs and hay. Mornings began with lake views and ended with candlelit dinners beside grand fireplaces.

Set on a sprawling 1,400-acre working farm along the shores of Lake Champlain, this historic inn felt like stepping into another world, where history, sustainability, and natural beauty all came together in the most magical way.

The inn itself, a grand 19th-century mansion built for the Vanderbilt-Webb family, exudes old-world charm with its elegant wood-paneled walls, antique furnishings, and sweeping verandas.

I loved waking up in my spacious room with a plush bed, tall windows, and stunning views of either the gardens, rolling meadows, or the sparkling lake.

What amazed me most was the farm-to-table philosophy that guided everything here. Breakfast featured eggs, cheeses, and produce sourced directly from the property, and the on-site restaurant crafted seasonal dishes that celebrated Vermont’s bounty in the most flavorful way. Every meal felt thoughtful, fresh, and connected to the land.

What I loved best:

The Inn at Shelburne Farms felt like staying in a living piece of history while still being surrounded by comfort.

Ride horses through rolling hills and enjoy lake views on an affordable summer trip.
Mountain Top Inn & Resort

7. Mountain Top Inn & Resort: Skyline Mornings & Green Mountain Quiet

We drove from Burlington for a little over an hour. By the time we reached Chittenden, the air had cooled, the forest grew thicker, and pulling up to the Mountain Top Inn & Resort felt like finding a retreat perched above the world.

From the moment I arrived, I loved the setting, the panoramic mountain views were breathtaking, and the main lodge, with its timber beams, stone fireplaces, and cozy-yet-modern decor, created such a warm and inviting atmosphere. It immediately struck me as both relaxing and sophisticated, the perfect blend of Vermont’s rugged beauty and boutique comfort.

My room was wonderful: a spacious suite with a king-sized bed, soft linens, a sitting area with a fireplace, and a spa-style bathroom complete with a soaking tub. The balcony overlooking the reservoir was my favorite feature. I could sit there for hours just taking in the views.

The amenities really amazed me. I went horseback riding on scenic trails, kayaked on the reservoir, and later treated myself to a massage at the full-service spa. In winter, the private cross-country ski and snowshoe trails were magical. I also loved lounging by the outdoor pool and hot tub, perfectly placed to soak up mountain sunsets.

To book, check availability or prices for Mountain Top Inn & Resort.

What I loved best:

Dining at the resort’s restaurant was a highlight, with farm-to-table dishes and Vermont craft cocktails served in a cozy, upscale setting. For me, Mountain Top Inn & Resort was an amazing mix of adventure, relaxation, and understated luxury, all in one unforgettable mountain retreat.

Fall Foliage Road To Lake Willoughby, Vermont With Beautiful Colors and Mountains
I took this photo of Vermont fall foliage on a lake
I took this photo of Vermont fall foliage on a lake

8. Closing Thoughts

What I found in Vermont wasn’t just comfort, it was character. Each inn, each resort whispered something different: rest, romance, reflection.

There’s a gentleness to this state, and these properties let you live in it fully in the best way.

If you’re looking to step away from the noise and into a slower, softer rhythm, Vermont will always be waiting, with a porch light on and fresh bread in the oven.

Booking Checklist

1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.

2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.

3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.

4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.

Ema Bio
Hi, I'm Ema. Ready to plan your next weekend getaway? Let me help. I have 30 years of experience, over 400,000 social media followers, and my work as a travel expert has been mentioned on abc6 Morning Show, Best of the Web, USAToday, and many other outlets. When I'm not traveling around the USA, I live in Austin, TX with my husband and son. Click for more.
 

Leave a Comment