As soon as we pulled into the gravel driveway, we knew the charming little Austrian lodge named the Innsbruck Inn was exactly what we’d been looking for.
Located at the foot of Mt. Mansfield on the outskirts of historic Stowe Village, the Innsbruck Inn bowled us over with its quaint Old World charm, a host of spot-on guest amenities, and the fact that since our visit was during the off season, we practically had the whole place to ourselves. That meant no battles for the Ping-Pong table, the ‘80s-style arcade games, the sauna, and best of all… we were the only ones using the outdoor whirlpool during the evening. Um, yeah—we didn’t want to leave the next morning.
The resort has a very ‘70s feel to it—again, exactly what we were hoping for—and it’s clear that the family-owned and operated resort is lovingly cared for by its friendly staff. Our room was absolutely brilliant: CD player alarm clock, mini-fridge, stately furniture and Victorian décor, a little changing nook, clean bathrooms, and complimentary Innsbruck Inn robes for use during your stay. I’ll just admit it: I’m normally not a robe-kinda-guy—wearing one makes me feel like Tom Selleck at a sexy singles party—but these particular robes were just *hot*, and dried us off better than most towels.
Each room has access to the outside grounds via a back door, which opens up into your own little patio with a small table and chairs. Note that if you’re a smoker, do it out here, as the resort is entirely nonsmoking, and you’ll be charged $150 if you do it indoors. Quit anyway! The grounds are just gorgeous, and include a large heated pool, full-size basketball court, kid’s playground, multiple hammocks, and of course the heavenly whirlpool.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Inn’s proximity to just about everything the area has to offer. Directly behind the resort you’ll find the start of a recreation path that winds its way into the heart of Stowe (bike rentals are available at the Inn), as well as one of the last covered bridges in the area. Indoor tennis courts and horseback-riding stables are just down the street, cross-country skiers can slosh their way to the major trail heads, and fishermen won’t have to go far to find a secluded stream.
We could have stayed here for a week, easily. The cute Skimeister Café in the basement is about as picturesque as you can imagine, with a little bar, Internet access, ski lodge décor, and fabulous snacks and beverages. Breakfast is included with the room—I devoured some perfect French toast. And during the off season, how much does all this extravagance cost? $79 a night! Oh, Innsbruck Inn, how I love thee.
From journal Vermont Road Trip! From Burlington to Bennington