This article first appeared in our September/October 2016 issue.
By Laurie Kahle
Head even farther north to the Green Mountain state of Vermont, where nearly 80 percent of the state is covered by forest and foliage is the star of the show every fall. Woodstock is a picture-postcard New England town, often referred to as the “prettiest small town in America,” complete with a covered bridge spanning the Ottauquechee River.
Not far away in Barnard, Twin Farms is an extraordinary property with 20 unique, five-star accommodations ranging from suites in the farmhouse – which dates back to 1795 – to whimsical, themed cottages to private residences showcasing contemporary art.
Executive chef Nathan Rich taps local farms for the freshest seasonal ingredients in addition to growing his own on the 300 acres around the property. Twin Farms hosts special epicurean events throughout the year and guests can dine in the kitchen to experience what goes on behind the scenes at this leading culinary destination.
For those looking to book an entire estate property for themselves, Eastaway is a new luxurious retreat comprised of a main home and guest house on 128 acres in the heart of the Green Mountains near Woodstock. The 5,685 sq ft main house maximizes the panoramic mountain views with floor-to-ceiling windows. The stately four-bedroom home has soaring mahogany wood ceilings, six fireplaces and a wine cellar with tasting room. The guest house has three bedrooms and bathrooms, but the same airy ceilings, as well as a movie and game room on the lower level.
Hike the property’s winding network of trails – there’s a hilltop gazebo from where you can look out across the glorious foliage display – or explore the region’s craft brewers and distilleries for a memorable tasting tour. If you have even more time to explore, you can press on to New Hampshire, Maine, or even make an off-season jaunt to Cape Cod and the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, for an extended, ultimate New England road trip.