Magical Stowe

Vermont is open for business! It  felt like a bit of a secret this past weekend in Stowe, as every restaurant had openings, we found parking no problem, and shops were pretty empty. Not that I am complaining that we had the place to ourselves, but after talking to many business owners, we learned that many people are staying away because of tropical storm Irene’s after effects.

And while Irene’s ugly wrath is still evident near Killington and the like, the large majority of businesses survived and are opened. And they want people to visit!

The whole thing frustrated me a little. The damage we saw was serious, and yet on a national level we seemed to hear nothing about it. The people of Vermont were incredibly resourceful in helping themselves and each other after the storm. Listening to my aunt tell stories about people jumping up and volunteering to build makeshift bridges, help feed and house neighbors, well, it’s a story worth hearing.

And Stowe around Christmas is definitely a place worth visiting. We are hoping to make this visit an annual tradition.

We were led to Stowe by an Eversave deal for Stowe Meadows. Neither of us had ever been, so we jumped at the chance.

What an amazing place to stay! Stowe Meadows, a giant, well-appointed and luxurious lodge-style home, was comfortable, relaxing, and romantic. We were the only guests and received an upgrade to a larger room than I had booked months ago. The sprawling house offered a couple of common areas for relaxing, in addition to the large guest rooms.

After a night in a big comfy bed, we woke up to this outside our window.

And after a beautiful, gourmet breakfast (which sadly I didn’t photograph!), we took Stowe Meadows’ owners’ advice and headed to Moss Glen Falls for a little hike to get the blood flowing. A short and chilly jaunt through some woods and up a hill, and we were rewarded with this view. Being surrounded by the smell of pine, cold air, and the sound of rushing waterfalls? Magical.

After our little hike, we wandered the festive downtown Stowe, looking at all of the decorations and really getting in the Christmas spirit.

And before our incredible dinner at Michael’s on the Hill, we took a long walk on the 5.5 mile recreational trail that starts in the town of Stowe, right behind the church. If you visit Stowe, the trail is perfect for biking, walking, or jogging. There were lots of dogs, which always makes me happy!

A day in Stowe, followed by a great meal, made for two very tired people. Luckily we had Stowe Meadows as our home base! I can not wait to go back. I may have even promised my husband I would try to learn to ski. Gulp!

Are you a skier? When it comes to travel, do you go toward the snow or away from it?