On the Road to Stowe
Having widely explored the Windsor County region of Vermont, we were ready to head north for my first-ever visit to Stowe. Stowe is known for incredible skiing at Smugglersâ Notch, but itâs a great destination for any season since the town is loaded with good food and drink, punctuated by day-long hiking and swimming adventures. Itâs a two-hour drive from Weston with no stops, but it was worth taking our time for a detour at a few waterfalls and swimming holes along the way up the winding Route 100 that follows the Mad River. Just look for signs on the road for landmarks and parks where you can stop for sightseeing or a swim, including the Moss Glen Falls in Granville.
Once we arrived in Stowe that afternoon, we checked into Edson Hill Inn, a beautifully restored farm property with a rustic red-roofed barn, farmhouse-style guest houses and luxury suites set back in the quiet woods (check out mid-week stays for more diverse room options and availability). A deer strolled past as we drove into the sprawling landscape complete with its own pond and pool, both suitable for swimming. The boutique innâs cozy rooms are each decorated in different mountain themes â some have deep tubs, reading nooks or fireplaces â but there are also more upscale suites inside the inn.
Dinner on the patio provided one of the most stunning Vermont landscapes Iâve ever seen, overlooking the pond and elaborate gardens while the sun set. The fine dining restaurant sources from its own gardens, and summer menu items include an apple and asparagus galette, watermelon gazpacho, citrus-spiced seared tuna and pistachio pesto shrimp.
The kids sipped Shirley Temples with housemade grenadine and cherries, and happily split the steak frites. For dessert, it was white chocolate torte with a dark chocolate glaze, toasted pistachio and berries, maple vanilla ice cream and strawberry genoise (basically a fancy strawberry shortcake). It was an incredible final dinner for our family getaway.