My Top 4 Vermont Ski Lodges & Hotels for the Winter Season

Skiing in Vermont is special for several reasons, most of which cater toward the creation of a unique and memorable experience for skiers and snowboarders of all levels:

Diverse Terrain:

Vermont offers a wide range of skiing terrains, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging trails for advanced skiers. This diversity makes it an ideal destination for families and groups with varied skill levels, ensuring everyone has a great time on the slopes.

Historic Ski Culture:

Vermont has a rich skiing heritage and is home to some of the oldest ski resorts in the United States. This history contributes to a deep-rooted ski culture that is evident in the local communities, ski schools and lodges, adding a unique charm to the skiing experience.

Natural Beauty:

The state's picturesque landscapes, characterized by rolling hills, dense forests and scenic mountain ranges, provide a breathtaking backdrop for skiing. Vermont's natural beauty enhances the skiing experience, making each run memorable not just for the sport but also for the views.

Quality Snow:

Often referred to as "The East's Powder Paradise," Vermont benefits from regular snowfall, providing skiers with fresh powder days throughout the season. The state's ski resorts are also known for their efficient snowmaking and grooming capabilities, ensuring optimal skiing conditions even when Mother Nature doesn't cooperate.

Après-Ski and Culinary Delights:

Beyond the slopes, Vermont's ski resorts offer vibrant après-ski scenes with cozy lodges, craft breweries and farm-to-table dining experiences. The state's emphasis on local produce and specialties adds a gastronomic dimension to the ski vacation, allowing visitors to indulge in Vermont's culinary delights.

Accessibility and Proximity:

Located in the Northeast, Vermont is easily accessible from major cities like Boston and New York, making it a convenient skiing destination for weekend getaways or longer vacations. Its proximity allows for more time on the slopes and less time traveling.

Nestled within the verdant landscapes of Vermont, a state renowned for its picturesque beauty and pristine skiing conditions, lies a collection of hotels that promise a winter experience like no other.

My personal top four properties stand out as jewels in Vermont's winter crown, each offering a unique blend of luxury, adventure and personalization that transforms a simple ski trip into a bespoke retreat from the everyday.

At the heart of this experience is a commitment to excellence, from the cozy, well-appointed accommodations to the meticulously groomed ski slopes, to ensure guests' desires are not just met but exceeded. These four resorts serve as gateways to Vermont's snowy paradise, many offering direct access to thrilling ski adventures by day and unparalleled comfort by night.

Whether it's the allure of hitting the slopes at Killington, with its vast terrain and vibrant après-ski scene, or the exclusive, serene escapade offered by Twin Farms, where luxury and privacy intertwine against a backdrop of snowy peaks, these destinations cater to every whim. This introduction invites you on a journey through Vermont's premier ski resorts:

1. The Lodge at Spruce Peak, Stowe

• Overview: The Lodge at Spruce Peak stands as a beacon of luxury in Stowe, Vermont, offering guests a seamless blend of rustic charm and sophisticated comfort. Nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, this ski-in/ski-out resort is the epitome of mountain luxury, providing unparalleled access to some of the finest skiing in the East.

• Accommodations: Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations, including spacious rooms, suites and residential units, all designed with natural materials and elegant furnishings that reflect the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Many accommodations offer stunning mountain views, fireplaces and balconies to enhance the cozy, alpine experience.

• Amenities and Dining: The Lodge at Spruce Peak is renowned for its world-class amenities, including a full-service spa, heated outdoor pool and fitness center. The dining options are diverse, ranging from fine dining at the on-site restaurant to casual fare at the café and bar. The resort also offers a range of activities year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to golfing and hiking in the summer.

• Ski Experience: With its prime location at the base of Stowe Mountain Resort, guests have direct access to over 116 trails and a variety of terrain to suit all skill levels. The resort's state-of-the-art lift system ensures easy access to the slopes, making it a perfect destination for ski enthusiasts.

• Why Choose The Lodge at Spruce Peak: For those seeking a luxury ski vacation in Vermont, The Lodge at Spruce Peak offers an unmatched blend of comfort, convenience and adventure. Whether you're hitting the slopes, indulging in a spa treatment or simply relaxing by the fire, this resort promises an unforgettable mountain getaway.

2. Twin Farms

• Overview: Set on over 300 acres of serene landscape, Twin Farms is Vermont's only Forbes five-star, all-inclusive luxury resort. It's a place where world-class dining, wine selections and outdoor activities blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the Vermont landscape. The resort's exclusivity is underscored by its limited number of guest accommodations, ensuring a highly personalized and intimate experience for each visitor.

• Accommodations: Twin Farms features a collection of cottages, each with its unique design and theme, offering guests a one-of-a-kind stay. These accommodations range from quaint, one-bedroom suites to spacious, multi-bedroom cottages, all beautifully appointed with artwork, antiques and cozy fireplaces. The privacy and uniqueness of each cottage contribute to the feeling of exclusivity and luxury.

• Amenities and Dining: As an all-inclusive resort, Twin Farms offers gourmet dining experiences that feature farm-to-table cuisine, prepared with the freshest local ingredients and tailored to individual dietary preferences. The resort also boasts an impressive wine cellar, spa services, and a range of activities, including skiing, hiking and fishing, depending on the season.

• Exclusivity: Twin Farms' exclusivity is not just in its accommodations and amenities but also in the bespoke experiences it offers. From curated art tours within the property to customized outdoor adventures, every aspect of a stay at Twin Farms is designed to cater to the individual preferences of its guests. This exclusivity extends to events and celebrations, with the resort offering personalized services to make each occasion uniquely memorable

• Winter Activities: Beyond skiing, Twin Farms offers a range of other winter activities to complement the skiing experience. Guests can explore the snowy landscape through guided snowshoe hikes, cross-country skiing on private trails, or enjoy a leisurely sled ride. Each activity is designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty of Vermont's winter, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

• Ski at Twin Farms: The resort's private ski hill and range of winter activities make Twin Farms an ideal destination for those seeking an exclusive and luxurious ski vacation. The attention to detail, from personalized ski instruction to the quality of the equipment provided, ensures a premium experience on the slopes. Combined with the resort's luxurious accommodations and gourmet dining, a ski trip to Twin Farms is a unique blend of adventure, relaxation and indulgence.

• Choosing Twin Farms means access to exclusive skiing opportunities and the chance to enjoy the winter season in a setting that epitomizes luxury and privacy. Whether gliding down the private slopes or enjoying the serene beauty of the Vermont countryside, guests at Twin Farms can expect a ski vacation that is as unforgettable as it is exclusive.

3. The Woodstock Inn & Resort, Woodstock

• Overview: The Woodstock Inn & Resort offers timeless elegance and warmth in the picturesque town of Woodstock. This luxurious inn provides an intimate ski experience at the Suicide Six Ski Area, which is closely affiliated with the inn.

• Accommodations: The inn's rooms and suites feature handcrafted furnishings, plush bedding, and modern amenities, creating a cozy yet refined atmosphere. Many rooms offer views of the charming village or the inn's beautifully landscaped grounds.

• Amenities and Dining: The resort boasts a spa, fitness center and an indoor pool. Dining options range from farm-to-table cuisine at the Red Rooster to casual fare at Richardson’s Tavern. Guests also have access to the Suicide Six Ski Area, offering skiing for all levels.

• Ski Experience: Suicide Six, one of the oldest ski areas in the country, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and well-groomed trails. The Woodstock Inn & Resort offers ski packages and a shuttle service to the slopes, making it easy for guests to enjoy a day of skiing.

• Why Choose The Woodstock Inn & Resort: With its elegant accommodations, excellent amenities and access to Suicide Six, The Woodstock Inn & Resort is perfect for travelers seeking a ski vacation that combines luxury with a rich sense of place and history.

4. The Equinox Resort, Manchester

• Overview: Nestled amid the scenic Green Mountains, The Equinox Resort in Manchester offers a luxurious retreat with rich historical roots. While not directly on the slopes, its proximity to various ski areas makes it a perfect base for winter sports enthusiasts.

• Accommodations: This landmark hotel boasts elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each blending historic charm with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy chic, plush bedding, spa-like bathrooms and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

• Amenities and Dining: The Equinox Resort features a spa, indoor pool and fitness center. Dining options range from casual to fine dining, with several restaurants and bars on-site offering a variety of culinary experiences. The resort also provides easy access to skiing in nearby mountains, with concierge services to help arrange transportation and tickets.

• Ski Experience: While the Equinox doesn't offer ski-in/ski-out access, it is conveniently located near Bromley and Stratton ski resorts, offering guests a variety of skiing and snowboarding options. The resort itself is a haven for relaxation after a day on the slopes.

• Why Choose The Equinox Resort: For travelers seeking a luxurious stay with rich history and easy access to Vermont's ski areas, The Equinox Resort is an excellent choice. Its blend of elegance, amenities and location make it a distinguished option for a winter getaway.

The Lodge at Spruce Peak, Stowe

• Tipsy Trout: Known for its upscale and creative dining experience, Tipsy Trout offers innovative Vermont cuisine in a sophisticated setting. Expect dishes that are creatively prepared with local, seasonal ingredients, reflecting Vermont's culinary traditions with a modern twist, including the best raw bar in the state.

• The WhistlePig Pavilion: This more casual dining option provides a relaxed atmosphere perfect for après-ski. The menu features fire-baked raclette cheese and inspired WhistlePig Rye Whiskey cocktails.

Twin Farms

• The Main Dining Room: At Twin Farms, the dining experience is as exclusive as the stay, with menus crafted daily by the chef to reflect guests' preferences and the best of what's seasonal and available locally. The cuisine is a blend of international flavors with a nod to Vermont's culinary heritage, served in an intimate and elegant setting.

• Private Dining: Guests might also enjoy private dining experiences in unique locations around the property, such as a private wine cellar dinner, offering a curated menu paired with exceptional wines.

The Woodstock Inn & Resort, Woodstock

• The Red Rooster: The flagship restaurant of The Woodstock Inn & Resort, The Red Rooster focuses on farm-to-table cuisine, highlighting the best of Vermont's seasonal produce. The ambiance is refined yet welcoming, with a menu that might include everything from local cheeses and charcuterie to sophisticated main courses.

• Richardson's Tavern: Offering a cozier, more casual dining experience, Richardson's Tavern serves traditional pub fare with a local twist. It's the perfect spot for a relaxed meal or a drink by the fire.

The Equinox Resort, Manchester

• The Marsh Tavern: One of the oldest parts of The Equinox Resort, The Marsh Tavern offers a historic setting for dining on classic New England fare. The menu features local specialties and hearty dishes perfect for refueling after a day outdoors.

• Chop House: This steakhouse at The Equinox Resort is known for its high-quality meats and elegant dining experience. Guests can expect expertly prepared steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list in a sophisticated atmosphere.