Fun Travels Across the United States
VERMONT
Michaels on the Hill -- New Happensings (Check below under Waterbury)
Check out all the fun events at The Hermitage Inn (below under West Dover)
Smugglers' Notch Resort offers vacation pricing rollback while extending package inclusions (For details, scroll down to Stowe and go to Smugglers' Notch Resort
Free "Vermont Winter Guide" and "Ski Vermont Map"
No matter which season you choose to vacation in Vermont, it's the right one! Winter is especially exciting - since it brings delicious comforts and exhilarating pleasures. Celebrate this time of year with a well-planned visit to the Green Mountain State, using the Vermont Chamber 2010 Vermont Winter Guide and the Ski Vermont Map. Combined, these two publications will point the way to Vermont’s hot spots, on and off the slopes. Learn where to feel the freedom of Vermont’s most thrilling trails, the best places to shop for everything from treats to antiques, and to locate the spas services winter bodies crave. The Guide will help you know what to expect from the lodging you choose - perhaps slip into an outdoor hot tub while relaxing at a Vermont country inn, or find a resort or hotel. The Map will bring you there safely. Whether you like Alpine and Nordic ski opportunities, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dog sledding, ice fishing, maple sugar houses, museums, or galleries, this is the place to be.
Available free of charge, the Guide and Map can be obtained by calling 1-800-VERMONT or order online from www.vtchamber.com.
-LATEST HERMITAGE INN EVENTS (Scroll down to West Dover)
STOWE/SMUGGLERS' NOTCH REGION
SMUGGLERS' NOTCH RESORT ------- RANKS #1
About Smugglers’ Notch Resort, Vermont
Smugglers’ is widely renowned for its quality family programming and beautiful setting in Vermont’s northern Green Mountains. The Resort celebrated its 50th anniversary during the 2006-2007 ski season. The popular Club Smugglers’ Advantage Package offers great value and includes mountainside lodging, daily alpine lift tickets, cross-country and snowshoe trail passes, all-day ski camp for ages 3-5, all-day snowboard camp for ages 4-5, free daily beginner lessons for adults, and numerous activities and entertainment for families and adults.
For more information on Smugglers’ vacations please call 1-800-451-8752 and visit Smugglers’ website at www.smuggs.com
New day trip adventures thrill vacationing kids at Smugglers' Notch Resort
For kids seeking fun and adventure on their Summer vacation, Smugglers’ Notch Resort in Vermont has expanded its programming to include new day trips for ages 9-15. These day trips will offer kids the camaraderie of a group experience, while showcasing what Vermont is famous for: outdoor adventure, pristine fresh lake and river waters, and nature discovery. Families visiting the Resort on the popular FamilyFest package will receive a 25 percent discount on the outings.
The new day trip adventures include:
High Adventure Experience: A 3-day program of exploration with visits to Smugglers' own Notchville Park, with Giant Swing, climbing wall, swimming and watersliding on The Twister. A second day will be spent exploring the caves in Smugglers’ Notch Pass. On the third day the group enjoys a thrilling Via Ferrata experience including zipline, waterfall climb, Burma Bridge gorge crossing, and rock climbing. A portion of the day will also be devoted to GeoCaching. The cost for this outing is $200, which includes guides, lunch and transportation.
Canoe & Kayak River Day Trip: Counselors provide canoeing and kayaking instruction and lead day trips down the Lamoille River with a stop for a swim along the way. Participants will enjoy lunch with an ice cream treat at the end of the trip. The cost for this day trip is $75 per person, which includes guides, transportation, boat rental and lunch.
Echo Center Day Trip: A visit to the ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center in nearby Burlington. Kids will discover 70 live species and over 100 interactive experiences with seasonally changing exhibits and events exploring the Ecology, Culture, and History of Lake Champlain. The cost for this day trip is $50 per person, which includes guides, aquarium entrance fee, transportation and lunch.
Saturday Swim and Sand Spectacular Tour: A guided daylong tour to some of the local Vermont swimming holes, with a picnic lunch, and a visit to the beach for a swim in Lake Champlain at Sand Bar State Park. The cost for the Sand Spectacular Tour is $50 per person, which includes accompanying guides, park entrance fee, transportation and lunch.
In addition to the 25 percent discount on these day trips, the Resort’s popular FamilyFest Summer vacation package offers a tremendous value for the entire family: vacation rates have been rolled back five years while inclusions for the package have grown. The cost of a vacation for a family of four at the Resort could be as low as $628 for three days and three nights in a one bedroom mountainside condominium, as compared to $1065 at Summer 2008 rates.
FamilyFest package inclusions feature
mountainside Resort lodging,
daily award-winning all day children’s programs,
unlimited use of eight heated pools and four waterslides,
daily guided walks and hikes,
two teen centers,
disc golf and mini golf,
and use of the skate park, in addition to unlimited use of the indoor FunZone Family Entertainment Center.
Family programs and entertainment also included in the package are bingo, dance parties, a family magic show, karaoke, and family movie nights. Adults will enjoy nightly entertainment as part of the package.
Package and programming information is available by visiting www.smuggs.com or by calling the Resort’s reservationists at 1-800-451-8752.
For a family thrill, Smugglers’ New Giant Swing beats the best whoop de do in a car by a mile – but only for those age 8 and older
The Giant Swing was added to Smugglers’ repertoire of resort fun - along with pools, waterslides, skateboard park, disc golf, kayak fleet, Segway & extreme Segrides, Via Ferrata adventures, llama treks, Bike Boards and Digglers (and many more toys) – to add a zip of mid-season flurry for visiting family adventurers.
In words, here’s how it works: You stand at the very top elevation of Notchville Park preparing for your first ride on the Giant Swing. Your own stature is dwarfed by two beefy posts towering above you; your butt is immobilized by straps around your waist, back and legs; your mouth feels cottony and your breathing is shallow. The attendant fed you instructions and you digested them. Now your pals are towing you backwards with a haul rope to a point where you signal ‘far enough.’ More than 15 feet below you is Mother Earth. You hold your breath and hit the release.
“Whooooooosh!” The ground meets you and falls away again. You are arcing far over Notchville Park’s upper pool. Your stomach presses into your ribs, then back against your spine. You catch your breath. The giant within you reasserts himself and you grin and enjoy the ride, feeling in charge again. You swoop back and forth until you come to a stop naturally.
Welcome to the Giant Swing!
The arc of the Giant Swing is 100 feet and the cables (no bungee cords) are triangulated so you stay on course. Tickets are $7.00 per person per ride; $12 per person for two rides, for those eight years old and older.
For more information call 1-800-451-8752 or 1-802-644-1156. Summer vacation packages with heaps of inclusions priced with cost-saving discounts available at www.smuggs.com
There’s no gas bogeyman under your condo bed at Smugglers’ Notch Resort, VT
Guests can shift their cars into parking gear and save gas for the duration of their stay
Traveling to a vacation destination by car, plane or train does require fuel energy. Smugglers’, by virtue of its layout as a self-contained Resort and through its own efforts, offers energy conscious consumers at this northern Vermont location an opportunity to contain their carbon footprint once they have arrived.
Cars are not needed for participation in 99 percent of the tons of activities at the resort because Smugglers’ is a purpose built community where the activities and facilities are centrally located. A stroll or short ride on the complimentary shuttle connects everyone to everything.
“We started the shuttle service ten years ago because guests were using their cars to get everywhere - to our pools, restaurants, day care center, children’s camp meeting places and evening activities,” explains Paul Luneau, transportation manager. “We were concerned with the dueling concept of kids and cars, both running.” Today the service has developed into a fuel economy advantage for guests as well. The shuttle runs 8:00 am to midnight and has greatly reduced personal car traffic in the resort A dedicated in-house phone extension connects a guest with a dispatcher who confirms the pickup time, usually within minutes.
In addition to leaving their cars parked for the duration of their stay, guests are invited to keep their energy conscious mindset on vacation by using the recycling bins provided in their accommodations. They may also choose to participate in a number of activities with an environmental theme. One such guided walk called Where Does the Water Go? explains the story of rain water runoff and how it is contained at the resort and how guests might build rain gardens at home. Another option is trying out the Segway personal transporter in a SegRide Tour, contributing to the Trash or No Trash on-going sculpture on the Village Green or visiting the Living Machine, a greenhouse waste water treatment system.
The set-up of the Resort with its efficient shuttle, web of walking trails, and emphasis on active outdoor activities for all ages promotes a healthy lifestyle and eliminates the need for families to drive off site to seek entertainment.
For additional information on earth-friendly activities for families at Smugglers’ Notch Resort, the Resort’s environmental efforts, or to book a vacation online, stop by www.smuggs.com
Smugglers' Notch Resort's Holiday Fun
1. What would tempt a usually tradition-minded stay-at-home family to enjoy a resort visit for the holidays?
At Smugglers’ Notch Resort, a spacious mountainside condominium with the latest amenities can truly be a home away from home. With skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing, and a variety of other activities for families, spacious lodging and extensive activities to accommodate extended families, the Smugglers’ Group Vacations staff is also expert at handling family reunions.
2. Can non-skiers enjoy a vacation at a ski resort? Are resorts actively wooing non-skiers?
Smugglers’ prides itself on the vast array of activities that it offers for all ages. The Winter Walking program provides an active social opportunity as trekkers explore the Resort’s surroundings, including the dramatic and beautiful Notch. Other outdoors activities including tubing and ice skating. Indoors, there are exercise classes, wellness and relaxation programs, family and adult entertainment, and the newest offering, a chocolate tasting with Vermont’s gourmet chocolatier Lake Champlain Chocolates.
3. Tips for settling a youngster into Resort child care. Even though a young child might be in a day care situation at home, going into Resort-based day care is still filled with new experiences and faces.
The director of Smugglers’ child care facility, TREASURES, has many suggestions for parents on how to ease the settling in process.
4. How to survive ski school check-in.
A family ski vacation usually involves getting the kids settled before the parents can head out on the mountain. Supervisors at Smugglers’ Snow Sport University have seen many little skiers and snowboarders check in for their first day of camp, and they’re happy to share their expertise on how to make it easy and tear-proof.
5. Finding “me time” on a family vacation. Taking a winter ski trip technically means that Mom, Dad and the kids are on a family vacation, but each most likely still wants a little special “me time.”
Smugglers’ offers “me time” for all ages. Those who want to improve their skiing skills might be interested in a private lesson with Snow Sport University director Peter Ingvoldstad, or a tour of Smugglers’ three mountains with a friendly and knowledgeable guide. Off-hill fitness is another option, such as Winter Walking or a Snowshoe Fitness session with Nordic director Zeke Zucker. Relaxation? The Mountain Massage Center offers massage, yoga, reflexology, Pilates and more. There are two teen centers with activities for teens ages 13-18, and Kids’ Night Out for younger children.
6. If skiing or snowboarding aren’t enough for cold weather enthusiasts, what are some other winter adventures?
Smugglers’ exciting offerings include sledding on an inflated Airboard, snowmobiling, a back country snowshoe tour, and dogsledding.
7. Keeping up with the schoolwork during a winter vacation. Wintertime has a few more commitments than summer and it can be difficult to break away.
Parents can look for lodging that makes it easy for kids to keep up with schoolwork commitments. Smugglers’ spacious condominiums have wireless Internet connections, so kids can fit their school work and research into their vacation. (Ditto for adults and their work.) Study Hall Smuggs-style offers a two-hour supervised group study hall to encourage on-vacation learning. Nature programs on snowshoes and a visit to Mother Nature in her tipi on Morse Mountain could provide the foundation for special projects. And older kids and their parents can use Smuggs as a home base to explore local colleges.
8. With climate changes issues in the news, what are ski resorts doing to protect the environment?
Since being named an Environmental Leader in Vermont in 2006, Smugglers’ has continued to pursue new environmental initiatives. This season, the Resort purchased offsets for each pass and badge holder to cover the energy costs of ski operations for the season. In addition, solar panels were installed on a new condominium building to reduce propane consumption. The landscaping crew completely eradicated invasive plants from Resort landscaping to encourage growth of native species. Smugglers’ also continues to use biodiesel fuel in offroad construction equipment and the tractor that pulls the ski school wagon, and to include “green” in new programs, such as Ecotrivia around the Bonfire, debuting this Winter.
9. What are the trends with instruction? How young can kids start learning to ski or snowboard? Is the traditional group lesson still the most popular choice?
At Smugglers’, the latest innovation for youngsters includes teaching two and a half year olds to ski in a program run by the Resort’s child care facility in tandem with the ski school. A new learning session for this season, MAX5, reduces the group size to five in a 2.5-hour session for more personal attention and more time on the slopes. Check in with Smugglers’ Snow Sport University director Peter Ingvoldstad, a longtime veteran of the ski business, for his insights into the latest techniques as well as historical perspective.
10. Ask us a question. Anything. For instance, what’s it like to own a ski resort? To groom mountain ski trails? To construct a terrain park? To be up all night running snowmaking? To teach four year olds to snowboard?
We can get you the answers.
Smugglers' Notch Resort's Special Treats
Two new bird gardens with seating for humans will lure Smugglers’ guests to quiet observation of the winged creatures who visit the feeders, baths, and houses in these habitats. Binoculars on loan from the Clubhouse enhance focus and identification.
A special Birds for Kids pack that includes a Stokes Beginner Guide to Birds – Eastern Region and kid-sized binoculars are also available to borrow. Guests inclined to self-study may learn to identify bird songs from a comfy chaise longue on their condo deck, memorizing the vocalizations – both songs and calls - from the Bird Songs book by Beletsky, a notable bird biologist. The book has more than 250 recordings of common birds accompanied by illustrations and easy-to-understand text about each bird’s range, ecology and behavior. This bird-watcher’s aid with the digital audio technology may be borrowed from the Clubhouse at Smugglers’ Notch Resort pre or post other birding activities or nap.
The Living Machine Tour showcases a unique wastewater treatment solution. Plants, flowers and even a few critters make their homes in a specially built green house where they purify effluent through their growth and consumption of grey water. Guests are guided through the Living Machine, a bright and odorless glass structure, by the Living Machine’s knowledgeable operator who explains the process. The Living Machine Tour is part of the Smuggs Village Intro Wike which explores The Village and surrounding area. (A wike is more strenuous than a walk, but less demanding than a hike.)
Environmental topics are discussed by guides in many of Smugglers’ daily hikes. For example, the story of Smugglers’ efforts to protect bear habitat becomes part of the Bears & Berries Wike for families. During the River Walk guides discuss stream bank restoration and erosion controls that preserve water quality.
In the Rum Runner’s Wike and Bootleggers’ Basin Wike environmental controls instituted to monitor snowmaking water usage and stream flow retention become part of the topical delivery.
The Bargain Bin & Rental Shop is a new shop in Smugglers’ Resort Village that is taking on a green color wash. Equipment that allows guests to play and get around without using carbon fuels is top of the list of rental items: skateboards with helmets and wrist guards, baby backpacks, mountain bikes of all sizes, the new all-terrain Mountain Buggy strollers and Segway personal transporters. The Bargain Bin part of the shop will offer quality name brand new clothing at clearance prices for winter outer wear for youth and adults, skis, snowboards and boots as well as souvenirs, gifts and toys.
The Sterling Historical Wike joins Smugglers’ long list of popular walks, wikes and hikes. On this new outing, guests will learn the fascinating history behind the early settlement of Sterling, originally located on the rugged mountain slope above the Resort. (For the uninitiated, a wike provides a moderate to demanding level of exercise in an outing of up to 3 hours duration.)
Via Ferrata, an adventurous outing introduced at Smugglers’ last summer, will add an additional time slot for families due to demand. This guided program combines hiking, rock climbing and high ropes adventure in the rocky terrain along the Brewster River.
With the new Family Adventure Planner, families will find it much easier to plan their stay at Smugglers’ and try as many activities as they want. The Planner identifies programs by age-appropriateness, making it easy to select things to try. The free Planners will be available at the Funmeister’s Clubhouse and the auxiliary desk across from 3 Mountain Outfitters.
Segway Ride Is A MUST
This new, unique ride is very, very exciting and great for young and old. You'll learn all about it right on the spot and then will be able to take off on an individual Segway for a thrill of a lifetime.
Hours and Prices:
Segway Tours with a guide:
Monday through Saturday at these times: 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm
One hour long
$55 per person for 12 and older
Extreme Segway Tours
Monday through Saturday at these times: 10 am, 1 pm, 4 pm
“Extreme” simply refers to the type of segway. The Extreme Segway has larger, nubby tires and may be taken on trails in the woods
1.5 hours long
$85 per person for 12 and older
Segway Rentals:
$65 for 2 hours. Must be a licensed driver 18 and older.
Beat the High Gas Prices
No one can deny that the price of gas is astronomical as many families crunch the numbers, trying to determine if they can take a summer vacation. But doing the driving-versus-flying math reveals that if traveling from Boston, the incremental cost of driving to Stowe, Vermont this year versus last year is about the same amount a family would spend at the movies. For example, driving from Boston is going to cost you roughly $25 more this year than last; from New York it’s about $40, from Washington, DC $67, and from Montreal $18.
This summer Stowe is well-positioned as an accessible and affordable destination for the vast number of Northeast travelers who populate the corridor between Washington, D.C. and Montreal. Vacationers are looking for affordable hotels, restaurants and activities, recognizing the need to get away, to explore, and to bond with loved ones. The desire to save money, but still take a quality vacation is a prime concern for families.
Stowe is an ideal alternative to city life. Summers are hot. Stowe is, by and large, not, thanks to our Green Mountains and northern Vermont location. Cities are frenetic. The tempo of Stowe is tranquil, and the landscape is one of Vermont’s most bucolic and serene. There are enough festivals, musical and theatrical performances and outdoor activities to satisfy everyone. And travelers can find Stowe inns, resorts and bed & breakfasts with daily room rates both for budget and opulent luxury accommodations.
To learn more about Stowe’s lodging, dining, shopping and activities call Central Reservations at 1-800 467-8692 or go online to www.gostowe.com and discover the affordable travel options.
Located at the foot of Mt Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, the idyllic village of Stowe, Vermont has been hosting travelers for over 200 years. A true four-season destination of international renown, Stowe offers endless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Stowe offers nearly 70 unique shops, 40 restaurants, and almost 50 different lodging establishments ranging from full service resort spas to quaint bed and breakfasts, all locally owned
Stowe is the only Vermont location spotlighted in the recently-released 100 Places to See in Your Lifetime: America the Beautiful from the Editors of LIFE Magazine. Editor Robert Sullivan states, “It's pulled off the amazing trick of becoming famous and a destination, yet remained true to its essence: It is what it is, a New England village of great charm and a day-to-day that features village rhythms”.
Stowe's Lodging Special Offers
LODGING SPECIALS:
Trapp Family Lodge
Trapp Family Lodge has just been accepted as a member of Small LuxuryHotels of the World -- an unsurpassed collection of over 440 independently owned luxury hotels spanning more than 70 countries. Every hotel within the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection is dedicated to delivering a single standard of excellence. Member hotels must commit to rigorous standards of quality and are regularlyvisited by independent, mystery inspectors to ensure these standards are maintained. Through its 'Caring Luxury' initiative, Small Luxury Hotels of the World encourages its hotels to adopt responsible environmental, economic and social practices, while at the same time providing enriching and rewarding experiences for hotel guests.
GREEN MOUNTAIN INN It doesn't have to be Valentine's day to show your loved one how much you appreciate them! Enjoy a romantic weekend getaway for two at the Green Mountain Inn, located in the heart of Stowe. Our Heart of Stowe Romance package includes 2 nights lodging, a bottle of bubbly, a box of hand-made truffles and a delicious continental breakfast starting at only $100 per person, per night, including tax and service. And may we suggest adding on a dozen roses or a rejuvenating massage treatment at the Inn. Check web site www.greenmountaininn.com for details.
JANE AUSTEN WEEKENDS AT THE GOVERNOR'S HOUSE IN HYDE PARK Leisurely weekends of literary-inspired diversions have something for every Jane Austen devotee: informative talk, afternoon tea, a discussion of Persuasion and how the movie stands up to the book, endless movies, a quiz with prizes, and lots of good conversation just for starters. Weekend rates start at $295 for singles and $260 per person double, including meals. It's not Bath, but it is Hyde Park and you'll love Vermont circa 1800. The Governor's House in Hyde Park, 100 Main Street, Hyde Park 05655. 866-800-6888. www.onehundredmain.com
All Seasons Rentals
A picture book village, dominated by majestic mountains, Stowe is truly country elegance at its best, for All Seasons. Gracious accommodations, memorable dining, grand sleigh rides or symphony concerts in the meadows, birch-lined snow shoe or hiking trails, and fabulous mountain skiing or cool mountain pools for swimming are just a part of Stowe, Winter and Summer. We are "All Seasons Rentals", a local property rental and management company. We offer an array of accommodations; from slope side townhouses, village chalets and tranquil private homes with capacities for twenty+. Imagine the views from a new contemporary on 90 acres; picture yourself by the fire in a rustic chalet, nestled in the woods, or watch the sun slip behind the mountain tops from your house overlooking the golf course. Contact All Seasons Rentals by phone at 1-802-253-7353 or FAX at 1-802- 904-1090 or e-mail at Info@StoweRentals.com
RESTAURANTS (In the Stowe Area)
Michael's On The Hill
Michael's On The Hill is located within a circa 1820 farmhouse, picturesquely set on a hill, with breathtaking views of the Green Mountains. The restaurant can comfortably seat 82 guests, and has a full bar with a piano lounge and outside porch available for dining. It is decorated in subtle earth tones focusing on understated shades of green and red. The large enclosed wrap around porch dining room with a view from each table is lovely, as is the beautifully renovated barn room where guests may dine in luxury. The restaurant emits a sophisticated charm without the pretentious attitude so commonplace in a restaurant that serves fine food. The cuisine is European, innovative, flavorfull and fresh, focusing on local ingredients. Evenings here are romantic, warm and festive. All dinners, created by Chef/Owner Michael Kloeti, start with a warm, linen-wrapped sourdough baguette, sweet butter, and a bowl of marinated olives. Whether you sit by the fire, or on the grapevine surrounded porch, you'll be comfortable while ejoying the piano music.
Michael, the native of a small Swiss village is always around to give personal attention to the diners.
Open for dinner; rated expensive.
For more information go to web site www.michaelsonthehill.com. The restaurant is located at 4182 Stowe Waterbury Road, Route 100, Waterbury Center, VT.
Michael's on the Hill Announces 2nd Vermont Green Restaurant of the Vermont Business Environmental Partnership
Michael's on the Hill was designated the 2nd Vermont Green Restaurant by Vermont Business Environmental Partnership (VBEP) . The Partnership, a joint effort between the ANR's Department of Environmental Conservation and the Vermont Small Business Development Center, is a free program geared towards promoting environmental and economic performance and recognizes businesses that take extra steps in being environmental stewards.
Michael's on the Hill is committed to protecting the environment and is always striving to make improvements to lessen their impact. Others are encouraged to join them in conserving our natural resources, reducing waste generation and use of toxic materials, recycling, purchasing recycled products and pollution prevention.
Through a variety of venues, owners Michael and Laura Kloeti educate the public on the importance of eating locally produced products and treating the environment with care, and are particularly interested in teaching children and their parents of the personal and global benefits. Their goal is to connect people more to the environment and to the community of dedicated people who nurture and produce our food products, and to introduce others to the concept of eating local, clean and responsibly.
To become a partner, a business must meet all eight standards listed on the partnership's Web site, and to achieve the upper level Green Restaurants must develop and submit an Environmental Management Plan based on ISO-14001 EMS, that captures plans for future environmental impact reduction. Vermont businesses joining the Partnership go beyond compliance with existing environmental regulations using pollution prevention strategies and implementation of the best management practices. Participating businesses are able to identify themselves as green businesses in all their marketing and literature, are listed on the VBEP website and benefit from the operational advice and knowledge of visiting VBEP representatives.
For more information, please contact Owners, Laura or Michael Kloeti
Phone: (802)244-7476 or E-mail mail@michaelsonthehill.com
Michael's on the Hill Restaurant
Dinner from 5:30 p.m.-9:00pm - Closed Tuesday
4182 Waterbury-Stowe Road; Route 100 North
Waterbury Center, Vermont 05677
Reservations & Information:(802)244-7476
Website:www.michaelsonthehill.com
Email: mail@michaelsonthehill.com
Culinary Dinner Theatre
Cooking Demonstration/Dinner Series
GIFT CERTIFICATES Available in Any Denomination
Michael's on the Hill Announces Cafe Selections Now Available at Green Mountain Coffee Visitor's Center and Café
Award-Winning Vermont chef, Michael Kloeti, chef owner of Michael's on the Hill in Waterbury Center, is pleased to announce that a new product line, "Café Selections from Chef Michael" is now available for purchase at the Green Mountain Coffee Visitor Center & Café located in Waterbury's historic train station.
The menu consists of a variety of locally driven homemade baked goods, salads, and sandwiches, such as Cabot Butter Stuffed Croissants, Highland Cattle Meatloaf Turnovers with Caramelized Onions and Tomato Chutney, Misty Knoll Turkey Salad and Red Hen Bread Pudding with Green Mountain Coffee Organic Espresso Blend Infused VT Maple Syrup.
Daily specials reflect the best of the season, such as Strawberry Rhubarb Scones, Potato Ramp Soup and Pulled Winding Brook Farm Lamb Salad with Spicy Tunisian Dressing.
Kloeti feels that this partnership really makes sense because he has always wanted to bring high quality, affordable and exceptional everyday fare to a larger group of people, and is proud to be able to use about 25 different local suppliers in this food line.
"Chef Michael's similar business philosophies and commitment to high quality food, sustainability, supporting local farms, and offering organic products whenever possible makes this an exciting new partnership." -Missy Gorham, Green Mountain Coffee Café Team Leader
Breakfast and lunch catering services are also offered.
For more information, check website www.michaelsonthehill.com
Norma's Restaurant
Slip into Chef Brian Tomlinson’s creative take on locally grown, organic provisions at Norma’s, where the action in the open kitchen is as captivating as views of nearby Mount Mansfield and glistening pools from the terrace. With each meal poised as “an experience,” appetizers run from Roulade of Prosciutto, Chèvre and Fig to Ahi Niçoise Carpaccio and salads from Bibb Lettuce and Frisée to Whole Leaf Caesar. A selection of “lighter dining,” such as Norma’s Burger with Northeast Family Farms all natural beef and Misty Knoll Organic Turkey Panini are as tantalizing at mid-day repast as for dinner.
Full-fledged entrées like Pan Roasted Halibut over saffron couscous-quinoa salad, watercress,radish, lemon-pepper crème fraîche and chamomile beurre blanc, and Grilled Lamb Chops with gingered sweet potato purée, Asian pear slaw and pomegranate-Szechuan peppercorn sauce, assure culinary experiences to recollect. And don’t forget to ask about dessert – a.k.a., “Something Sweet” – with new summer selections such as Lemon Lovers Dessert or Chocolate Raspberry Tarte. Don’t forget, you can make also make your dining reservations online; go to www.topnotchresort.com, and click on Dine with Us, then Norma’s restaurant. Updated specials are available on our feature spot in the 7Nights web site www.7nvt.com . You could even win dinner for two!
The Pitcher Inn
Mediterranean on Main is the new culinary motif of The Pitcher Inn, Vermont's only Relais & Ch‚teaux-designated establishment. Owner Maggie Smith worked with Chef Sue Schickler to reposition the restaurant of this iconic hostelry. In so doing the name was changed to 275 Main at The Pitcher Inn. The menu has assumed a distinctly Mediterranean flair with attention paid to Vermont-farm-originated organic produce and grass-fed beef so readily available in the Green Mountains.
Ari Sadri, general manager and sommelier, has created an extensive wine cellar and assists with perfect pairings at every meal, drawing from an exemplary Wine Spectator award-winning wine list. The menu includes cuisine prepared in an authentic manner with local, regional or global ingredients meticulously sourced and selected for freshness and variety. Schickler changes the menu daily, allowing her to showcase and celebrate local and seasonal fare. Starters might be a mortadella or choice Italian salamis. Chef Schicklerís pastas intoxicate the palate: think ìPappardelle with Braised Rabbit, Olives, Pancetta and Tomatoî or ìLinguine Fine with Bacon, Chiles, Basil and Mascarpone.î
Still hungry? There's a Northeast Family Farms New York Strip Steak with Black Pepper and Gorgonzola Butter or ìGrilled Lamb Porterhouse Chop with Roasted Peppers, Feta and Black Olive Butter. Jim Gioia, pastry and dessert chef, offers, among others, ìChocolate Hazelnut Torta with Espresso Zabaglione and Frangelico Creamî and ìOlive Oil Cake with Blueberries and Limoncello Gelato.î
Guests at 275 Main enjoy a tavern ambiance on a river setting. Two fireplaces, brick and stone walls, hardwood floors, warm colors and soft lighting mingle with the Innís signature collection of local art, antiques and collectibles.The Pitcher Inn is recognized internationally for its sophisticated services combined with a dash of whimsy in 11 deluxe rooms and suites themed to Vermont attractions, such as trout, mountain and schoolhouse.
The Pitcher Inn on the scenic and legendary Rt. 100 is just 45 minutes from the Burlington Airport and can also be accessed from Vermontís I-89. Nearby activities include fly-fishing, downhill and cross country skiing, golf, gliding and hiking, among others. The Pitcher Inn has also been named a Fodorís Choice 2009 establishment.
275 Main is open from Wednesday to Monday nightly. Reservations are suggested. For information please visit www.pitcherinn.com or call 802-496-6350. The Pitcher Inn is the sister property of the highly acclaimed Winvian, the private resort in Connecticut's Litchfield Hills. Visit www.winvian.com for additional information.
Area Attractions & Activities
Spa at Stoweflake - Stay With Your Fitness Routine
Fitness enthusiasts are welcome to utilize our state-of-the-art Sports & Wellness Center including Cybex weight and cardio room, a dedicated Spinning studio, fitness / yoga studio, racquetball / squash court, private women's workout center, indoor and outdoor heated pools. Some rental and class fees apply. Visit www.spaatstoweflake.com for a schedule of fitness classes, fitness training and consultations. For more information, call 802.760.1123.
The Blazer Transportation Group...
---- for all your transportation needs! 24 hours a day. 802-253-0013. Now offering a "STOWE/BURLINGTON AIRPORT SHUTTLE", running every hour on the hour, or at any specific time requested. $20.00 per person based upon 4 person occupancy. 24 hours a day. Our friendly courteous drivers will wait at the gate for you to arrive, and drive you to Stowe!
Apple Tree Discovery -
Have your child transported to a world where inspiring local experts unveil the hidden treasures of Stowe, Vermont.
Whether your family is visiting Stowe for a few days, weeks, or months, your children are invited at Apple Tree Discovery. In every season, Apple Tree Discovery can provide your family with the adventure that works for you. In Winter white, the veil of snow reveals the picture postcard heart and soul of Stowe. Families should venture beyond the downhill rush to taste the scenic winter adventures off the beaten path. Our teachers include professionals in Early Childhood Education and certified Outdoor Educators. Apple Tree Discovery Vacation Adventures can be planned for any vacation including most school vacations and other holidays. Children are transported in our Apple Tree Vans and guided to the special places in and around Stowe to learn ice skating, snow shoeing, dog sledding, horseback riding, cross country skiing, mountain biking, rock climbing, shelter building, and much more. For more information, call Apple Tree Learning Centers at 802-253-4321 or 802-345-5728 or email bill@appletreelc.com.
Bert's Boats
Bert's Boats is the area's oldest Canoe and Kayak Tour business. While waiting for the warm months of summer, now is a prime time to plan your special Family outings. Bert's Boats is "Fun and Adventure for Family and Friends'. Winter is also a great time to get your favorite boat or paddles professionally repaired. "Let the Adventure Begin." Check the web at www.bertsboats.com or call any day for information at 802-644-8189.
WEST DOVER
The Hermitage Inn's Special Events
Midweek Summer Dinner Deals
"Dinner at Dusk" every Monday through Thursday this summer! Savor the new Chef's three-course tasting menu from 5:30pm until 7:30pm for $36.00 per person.
"Tuesday Tastings at The Inn" will feature wines selected by our Sommelier to accompany your dinner. For more information please call or stop by The Hermitage Inn.
Notes from the Innkeeper
I am very pleased to welcome our new chef, Paul Eschbach. Paul comes to us with a wealth of culinary experience and expertise, having worked previously at the acclaimed New York City restaurant Jean Georges. His innovative cuisine incorporates the freshest ingredients, celebrating each ingredient's intrinsic properites. His original seasonal menus are sure to delight your palette.
With Summer comes one of our busiest times of the year, as the wedding season comes into full bloom. The Hermitage Inn will host eight weddings over the course of the summer. A reminder to all guests who join us for dinner, please make dinner reservations ahead of time in order to ensure the date is available. Also, keep in mind if you or any of your family or friends have recently gotten engaged, The Hermitage Inn is a beautiful place to have your wedding. Our goal is to exceed your expectations on your wedding day at The Hermitage Inn. Contact us to check available dates.
This summer our gardens have been replanted and expanded to include a new sundial-shaped garden. We have planted everything from sweet corn, climbing beans, various types of squash and heirloom tomatoes, to pumpkins for this fall. I look forward to Chef Paul incorporating these vegetables into his menu.
For all golfers, July is the month to stay at The Hermitage Inn and play. We are offering a special promotion: Stay two nights and receive a complementary round of golf at one of two premier golf clubs, Mount Snow or Haystack.
I look forward to seeing you this summer at the inn!
Steven O'Hern, Innkeeper
Golf Package
The spectacular views, the challenging greens, the sound of your club hitting the ball! With Haystack Golf Club as your gallery, play their breathtaking greens and experience an unforgettable vacation enjoying the game you love while staying at this luxurious country inn. Haystack is one of only three New England Golf Guide's four-star rated courses in the state of Vermont.
The Hermitage Inn is committed to providing you with the ultimate golf getaway. Begin each day with a hearty Vermont breakfast and then head out for 18 holes. After 18 holes, unwind with a refreshing cocktail on the beautiful patio, a relaxing massage in the spa, or a calming soak in a hot tub, before capping off your day with innovative cuisine offered in thedining room or pub.
Rates range from $309 to $488 per night and package includes: 2 night stay at The Hermitage Inn, 18 holes per person per day with cart, his and her golf shirts in your room upon arrival, and Haystack bag tags. Also included in your package is shuttle service to and from Haystack Golf Club.
The Hermitage Inn | 25 Handle Road | 802.464.3511 | www.hermitageinn.com | West Dover | VT | 05356
The Hermitage Road Covered Bridge
Have you noticed the new covered bridge at the entrance of The Hermitage?
The Hermitage Inn is located at 25 Handle Road | West Dover | VT | 05356