When you think of Stowe, Vermont, images of snow-capped mountains, s’mores by a roaring fire, farm-to-table dinners, and horse-drawn carriages quickly come to mind.
While many people travel to the northern part of the Green Mountain State for the plethora of winter activities readily available, those in the know prefer to visit the four-season destination when the crowds are fewer.
Whether you opt for a colorful fall weekend getaway or are planning a weeklong stay this winter, Vermont has so much to offer visitors all year round.
One of the best places where you can do everything or simply focus on enjoying a relaxing stay is at The Lodge at Spruce Peak.
The luxurious slopeside hotel located at the base of Mount Mansfield is not only ideal for skiers looking to shred the winter slopes but other adventure seekers wanting to play a round of golf in the warmer months on the Bob Cupp-designed mountain course or take a dip in the outdoor pool.
During the colder months, visitors can enjoy some skate time on the outdoor ice rink or try their luck snowboarding down from Mount Mansfield’s summit, Vermont’s highest peak.
When it comes to staying at the ski-in/ski-out resort, there are a variety of luxurious accommodations to choose from that range from classic guest rooms and studios to more spacious suites and penthouses designed for larger parties.
For an unforgettable stay, the Treehouse located adjacent to the Lodge’s South Wing offers two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences in an all-electric building – the first of its kind for Stowe.
The fully equipped units have high-end kitchens, furnished balconies, and spacious entrances.
When traveling with the entire family (four-legged friends in tow), we recommend a stay in one of their spacious pet friendly Ridgeline Studios.
The 515-square-foot units with a balcony feature a king bedroom, spacious living area, kitchenette with cooktop, and gas fireplace to cozy up by after soaking in the sweeping views of either Spruce Peak or Mount Mansfield from the private outdoor terrace.
Upon checking in at the alpine lodge, guests are given a schedule of daily events that they can sign up for that include hikes, yoga classes, croquet on the green, meditation, trivia, jewelry making, and campfire time.
When it comes to dining, there are so many options available here that range from casual to elevated.
For a quick bite in the morning, head over to The Pantry and Beanery for a fresh pastry, breakfast sandwich, and freshly prepared cup of coffee.
In the warmer months, Aqua Pool Bar offers poolside casual fare and craft cocktails, or you can grab a soft-serve ice cream at the seasonal Zamboni’s Creemees & S’mores.
During the chillier months, you’ll want to belly up to the bar at Whistlepig Pavilion for a quick warmup with some smoky barbecue like a pulled chicken sandwich and side of baked beans. Pair it up with a whiskey flight best enjoyed by the floor-to-ceiling, wood-burning, stone fireplace.
If you are looking for a quick bite, Pico Taco features Mexican-inspired fare with hand-pressed corn tortillas, bowls, tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. The restaurant is the newest addition to Spruce Peak’s dining collection, having opened here just last year.
Seafood lovers won’t want to miss a visit to Tipsy Trout for raw bar samplings, including local oysters on the half shell, and coastal-inspired dishes. We recommend starting off with a sampling of baked stuffed shrimp dumplings in beurre blanc, a spicy tuna hand roll with tempura crisps, and a decadent lobster hand roll with lemon aioli.
For main events, tasty swordfish skewers are served over grilled asparagus, and a well marbled Prime New York strip topped with chimichurri is accompanied by confit potato.
The Lodge’s signature restaurant, Alpine Hall, should not be missed. Whether you come here to enjoy a buffet breakfast or hearty dinner (think steak frites, Hudson Valley duck breast, and Atlantic cod), the elevated menu boasts a farm-to-table experience that can be enjoyed in the beautiful dining room or outdoor terrace.
Highlights include juicy Alpine wings, crispy Brussels sprouts, chicken Fricassee, trout Almandine, and a towering multi-layer chocolate cake.
After dinner, head over to Spruce Peak Toy & Candy Company for some gourmet candy or a toy for the kids to enjoy back in the room.
You can work off all those extra calories trying your luck with a climbing challenge at the Adventure Center or take a stroll along The Village Green and enjoy some live music or lawn games (keep an eye out for their seasonal culinary events, concerts, and outdoor movies).
There is also a Spa on-site for some après-adventure pampering and a Performing Arts Center where guests can enjoy live music, dance performances, comedy shows, exclusive movie premieres, and art shows.
The Lodge at Spruce Peak is located at 7412 Mountain Road in Stowe, Vermont.
Next summer, Stowe Country Club, an 18-hole course in the heart of Stowe Village, will unveil its multi-year renovation. The front nine-hole course has already been completed and the full reopening is slated for July 1, 2026.
