With the experts at the Farmer’s Almanac predicting a Vermont winter that will require lots of shoveling, we are turning our thoughts to the slopes of Stowe. We rounded up where to stay, eat, shop and most importantly where to après ski. I mean, let’s face it, one can argue that where we après is just as essential to a ski vacation as snow itself. The details below —
Photo courtesy of Stowe Mountain
STAY
THE LODGE AT SPRUCE PEAK: Centered at the base of Mount Mansfield, The Lodge at Spruce Peak is a premier destination in its’ own right. This luxury alpine style resort provides unparalleled hospitality and is the only ski-in, ski-out lodging in New England. Serving as a playground for the discerning traveler, the lodge offers guests the option of over 350 guest rooms and suites, private and club 2-5 bedroom residences and mountain cabins. On property there are 4 dining options, a kids club, ice skating rink, adventure center, outdoor heated pool, spa, game room and nightly s'mores by the bonfire. Winter wonder off the 116 trails includes snowmobiling, dog sledding, horseback riding, ice climbing and snowshoeing.
MAPPS X THE LODGE AT SPRUCE PEAK: Special nightly rates, complimentary room upgrade, subject to availability, complimentary daily breakfast for 2 people per bedroom and a $100 food and beverage credit.
GETTING HERE: 6 hours from New York City by car, 3 hours from Boston by car or 25 minutes from Morrisville-Stowe State Airport by car.
EAT
Harrison’s: Cozy tavern with a heated patio serving homestyle American grub with creative local twists.
Hen of the Wood: Chef Eric Warnstedt is the genius behind Vermont’s award-winning culinary masterpiece. Seven James Beard nominations, beautiful farm fresh fare, legendary wines and seamless service.
Prohibition Pig: Bacon and hooch are on the menu at this hip, casual-style eatery serving up stellar Southern small plates and BBQ dishes.
Salute: Cozy spot serving delicious Italian fare and wood fired pizzas.
The Bench: Food aficionados will enjoy the Kale Caesar Salad and Moss Glen Pizza that come out of the open kitchen, while those in search of the perfect cocktail should opt for the Perry Merrill named after my favorite trail.
The Plate: Chic dinner spot owned and operated by an Angeleno who now resides in Vermont. The Plate’s menu is a marriage between the flair and fire of Vermont flavor with the clean eating principles of California.
The Skinny Pancake: Bottomless cups of coffee, authentic crepes and abundant salads are sourced from more than 40 vibrant Vermont farms. But even better than the food is the fact that one percent of proceeds go towards not-for profit organizations dedicated to greening our planet.
APRES-SKI
Doc Ponds : Top spot for foodies and beer nerds, serving up farm-to-table comfort food, rotating craft brews and live music on Sunday evenings. The Bayley blue balls appetizer and smoked half-chicken with adobo rub are crowd faves.
Idletyme Brewing Company: A family friendly pub with a simple and seasonal menu geared for locals and tourists seeking a chill vibe and solid meal. The Idle gravy fries and homemade pretzel nuggets are legendary.
SHOP
Laughing Moon Chocolates: Offering a variety of hand-dipped chocolates and specialty confections prepared in small batches using fresh, local ingredients.
Stowe Mercantile: Housewares, specialty treats, Stowe souvenirs and more all under one roof.
Stowe Public House & Bottle Shop: For clients staying in private or club residences, we recommend stocking the fridge here as they offer a selection of over 700 different beers that hail from Vermont and around the world as well as a fantastic selection of Vermont hard cider and wine.
