Culture Trip’s Guide to Vermont

This affordable hotel provides a cozy yet modern base camp from which to go out and explore the stunning Stowe, or the nearby Mount Mansfield. Mountain biking and hiking trails can be easily accessed from the hotel, and the Stowe Vermont ski slopes are only a 15-minute drive away. There’s even a free shuttle ride on offer to take you and your equipment to the slopes. After a day of adventure, unwind in the on-site heated pool or hot tub, or meet fellow travellers in the large communal lounge.

This unique boutique hotel is surrounded by mountains in the picturesque village of Manchester. The Kimpton Taconic is ideally located to walk or cycle to all the nearby attractions such as Hildene, Bromley Mountain, Lye Brook Falls and Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests. Although you will want to be out exploring as much as you can, you’ll enjoy kicking back in the hotel with luxury services such as an on-site fitness center, luxurious in-room spa, complimentary coffee and tea and, in some rooms, a fireplace – along with overnight laundry, dry cleaning and shoeshine services.

Treat yourself to a stay in this luxury country resort and spa set against the breathtaking backdrop of New England’s Green Mountains, hidden within the 120-acre forested foothills of Mount Mansfield. The adventure begins when you arrive, with skiing at the Stowe Mountain Resort, volleyball in the world-class Topnotch Tennis Academy, fishing in the Lamoille River or perhaps a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the beautiful Vermont countryside. Perhaps you’d rather relax with a shiatsu massage in the spa, or sip a glass of wine by the fire. Whatever your preference, you’ll find it all at Topnotch Resort.

On this Burlington brew tour, one on the most popular tours in Vermont, you’ll taste your way through the state’s world-class beers and enjoy a beer-focused meal at a local restaurant. The tour also provides the chance to learn about the thriving craft beer scene and meet the owners and brewers behind Burlington’s most iconic tipples. It’s a perfect activity to enjoy with a group of friends. Bottoms up!

Use your smartphone on this two-hour scavenger hunt around all the best landmarks and hidden gems in Montpelier, Vermont. You will have to answer trivia questions and solve challenges, either working with your teammates or competing against them, while learning new facts and creating memorable experiences. It’s ideal for bachelorette parties, birthday parties and corporate team-building events.

Lie back and enjoy the ocean views from a 36ft yacht. Captain Mike’s Sailing offers sailing trips on Lake Champlain, Charlotte, Vermont. All sailing trips are private, so pick your party and enjoy the open seas with your nearest and dearest. Captain Mike will even let you take a turn at the helm yourself. The hundreds of bays and coves to discover make this cruise a real treat, whilst the captain shares his wealth of information about the geography and history of Lake Champlain and the surrounding area of Vermont.

For the freshest seasonal cuisine head to The Downtown Grocery in Ludlow, where the menu changes daily depending on the organic produce in the kitchen. The specialty drinks accompany the meals perfectly, and the staff are super-helpful and friendly.

This is a unique dining experience during which you can watch artisans blow and create glass objects, while also taking in the beauty of the charming New England setting. The Mill is next to a stunning waterfall, which provides the perfect backdrop to your wining and dining. The cocktails are just as impressive, with the caper berry martini one of the most popular.

The Farmhouse Tap and Grill is a farm-to-table gastropub in Burlington serving local burgers, charcuterie, cheeses and innovative specials. The gastropub offers award-winning local beers and the full menu offers vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available to enjoy in the bar and outdoor beer garden. It also hosts events such as its own version of Oktoberfest for the community to come together and celebrate.