Travel Guide: Manchester, Vermont
Length of Stay: 2 Nights
Just last week Marissa and I headed up north to enjoy the fall foliage and enjoy a relaxing few days in Vermont. Coming from the city it was such a treat to be surrounded by the most gorgeous colors of trees on our drive up. Typically you have to head to Central Park to get the real fall feel in the city. Both Marissa and I were looking forward to the cooler temps, hanging by the fireplace and shooting some fall looks.
WHERE WE STAYED:
Nestled right in New England and offering over 200 years of history, we had the chance to stay at The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa right in Manchester, Vermont. It was absolutely gorgeous and picturesque from the moment you pulled into the drive and throughout the entire property. When we arrived we were greeted by the warmth of a cozy fire place going right in the lobby and I knew this would be the perfect place to relax and unwind over the next few days as well as explore the town.
The resort offers two places to stay, the Main Hotel (which is where we stayed) and the Charles Orvis Inn right next door on the same property which offers more of an apartment feel with a living space and kitchen.
Also, the Equinox Resort is pleased to offer 15% off their Best Available Rate for stays now – December 31, 2017 on reservations booked before 12/31/16, based upon availability. The discount is only available by calling the hotel at 877-854-7625 (discount not available online). Although the discount can be used on stays through 2017, the reservations will have to be made by 12/31/16 for the discount to apply. Make sure to use “KENDALL” for the discount over the phone!
WHAT TO DO:
Depending on the time of year you visit, this part f Vermont offers a variety of seasonal activities for you to take advantage of. During the fall I would recommend the following.
The Spa – A new favorite tradition when traveling is to book a spa appointment for the day of arrival. Typically I have spent a good portion of the day traveling and look forward to unwinding and relaxing the first night. Booking a spa appointment and taking advantage of the other facility offerings (in this case the indoor heated pool and outdoor hot tub) then ordering room service is a first night well spent.
Horseback Riding – Chipman Stables is located about 30 minutes from the hotel and offers such a neat experience getting to ride their horse throughout a trail and for this time of the year we had the chance to take in the beautiful surrounding fall foliage. While I have to admit, I have always been a bit afraid or riding horses (and really only have once or twice when younger) the staff put me right at ease and the entire time throughout the ride. The scenery was gorgeous and such a neat experience. The weather though was freezing the day we went so we did cut the ride a little bit short, but totally worth it!
Falconry School – I am regretting a bit the fact that we ended up canceling this, but it was right after horseback riding (which the temperatures were 32 degrees and windy) and we couldn’t imagine being outdoors any longer (total baby here). The Falconry School is something that the resort is known for and offers different types of classes depending on what you are looking for…I think learning how to handle and fly a hawk would be pretty awesome!
Relax by the fire – This sounds so cliche, but is exactly what I think of when taking a cozy trip to Vermont during the cooler months. The resort has countless fireplaces and even a large fire pit outside, Marissa and I took advantage of bringing our computers downstairs to sit by the fire, have a glass of wine and get some work done before dinner.
Check out the town + outlets – While on the smaller scale, the town is just a few minutes from the resort (walkable) and has a variety of outlet shops, small boutiques and restaurants you can easily pop in and out of. Such a great place to pick up some Vermont goodies (hello maple syrup) and keepsakes.
WHERE TO EAT:
Ye Olde Tavern – The cutest colonial culinary experience just a few minutes from the hotel. Featuring innovation New England and Traditional fare, the cranberry fritters and stuffed mushrooms were out of the world!
The Colonnade – Located in the hotel, I loved the bright welcoming feel of this spot for breakfast. Our table was right next to a large window overlooking the beautiful landscape. Don’t forget to try their fresh apple cider and donuts!
Marsh Tavern – Nestles right in the hotel as well, the Marsh Tavern is open for lunch and dinner. We enjoyed dinner our last night in here and sat right next to the fire. It was the perfect ending to our stay…cozy, inviting and delicious wine.
Falcon Bar – Come here after dinner for a nightcap and save some room for their cheese and chocolate spread. Marissa and I did a selection of both and enjoyed the rest of our wine from dinner.
WHAT I WORE:
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Outfit Four: