The Notch in Vermont

Two bedrooms, two bath, full kitchen, wood-burning fireplace (which we used), and fully equipped. Note: Bring a hairdryer. Every thing else is supplied, including the beauty, at no extra cost!

It was more than the senses could take. We took Rte. 108 through Stowe, VT, through Smuggler's Notch State Park. On the way, we saw much wildlife including a female moose munching away in the lowland. The drive through the Notch was beyond words. We stopped often and took pictures. Later in the week, we came back to investigate the trails. This was truly a family retreat. We arrived at Smuggler's Notch late in the evening and were greeted with a warm Vermont reception at the front desk. Because we were a family of five with a small two-year-old (who was tired after 12 hours on the road) they moved us along pretty fast. The layout of the resort is huge but the directions to our villa were easy and exact.

The next morning my grandson, my son-in-law, and I set out to explore. It was just beautiful. The mountains, the coolness, the sunrise: just perfect.

The two-bedroom villa we stayed in was called "The Pines". It housed four villas and was perfect. Our daughter, husband, and grandson stayed directly above us. Sharing suppers, games, was a memory never to be forgotten.

Towards the end of the week, my grandson and I went on a trail hike while our daughter and son-in-law had a day to themselves. What a special time. This resort, while not completely open for the summer, was one of the most relaxing resorts we've ever stayed out. You have to make reservations for a great time. It is truly a family resort.

Quick Tips:

Take Route 108 if possible.
Eat lunches out, suppers in. Lunches around VT are to be experienced by everyone.
If you want a good day of golf, go to the Stowe Country Club. Call ahead for specials.
Ben and Jerry's is not the best of visits. We were really disappointed in the tour.
Got kids? Hiking is wonderful in and around the resort.
Stowe has great places to eat.
Bring your reading materials. VT closes down at 6pm on any given night between seasons. (Still the best time to go as far as we're concerned)

Best Way To Get Around:

Must have a car to get from point A to point B unless you hike. There are boundless trails and streams.

This is family dining at its best. There is only one thing to say about Gracie's and "it's gone to the dogs". Dog-gone-it, they are everywhere, on the table clothes, on the beer mugs (gotta buy one for your collection), on the windows, sitting around the floor, pictures of dogs, pups, you name it. Our two-year-old loved it. Oh, about the food. One word describes it: excellent (even the hot dog our grandson had). The service was beyond our expectation, we didn't feel rushed and you could tell everyone was having a great time. If ever we are in Stowe, VT again, this is one place we will visit again.

Can't beat the view, the driving range, the greens. The course is very professionally laid out. Recommend you go to their web site for all the "par" information.

Call ahead for special rates and events.

If you hike this area, be careful that you follow ALL INSTRUCTIONS. Hiking levels are from the inexperienced to advanced with climbing. Maps and charts are available at the park and Smugglers Notch Resort. If you decided to go for the advance hike, for safety's sake, make sure others know your route.

For the inexperienced hiker, it will still take some effort at the higher levels. You should be in shape and allow some time to explore. Have a great time, take your camera and lots of water. As always, be prepared in case the weather changes.