Think of Vermont and its colors likely come to mind: the jades and emeralds of the (aptly named) Green Mountains in the summer, leading to the bright ambers that make the state so famous in the autumn. Sat bejeweled in the heart of New England, The Weston emerges as the warm and luxurious retreat after a day exploring these natural delights.
Originally built in 1789, the boutique hotel reopened towards the end of 2023. Yet despite its recent renovation, The Weston’s long history remains its charm, reflected within each of its nine rooms: think four poster bed frames, Caribbean and Eastern fabrics and 18th-century antiques.
Its most premium room offering, Suite Eight, may already be regarded as one of Vermont’s most luxurious, and it is named among our database of Top Suites.
To celebrate its inclusion, we spoke to general manager, Malin Reina, on how The Weston has captured the history and spirit of Vermont within this gem of a boutique hotel.
What attracted you to the GM position at the hotel?
Prior to being introduced to The Weston, I had visited the area a couple of times for skiing and weekend getaways from New York City, and I already had a fondness for the beautiful landscape and people. Additionally, working for an owner with such a rich hotel history and legacy family who has created iconic properties such as Gramercy Park Hotel, The Carlyle and the Beverly Hills Wilshire, was very exciting to me.
[See also: The Best Luxury Hotels in Rhode Island]
Now that you are open, what are your objectives for the first 100 days in operation?
After assembling what I consider to be an outstanding team here at The Weston, our current objective is to craft personalized and exceptional experiences for each and every guest. There’s nothing I find more fulfilling than contributing to the creation of unforgettable moments, not just special occasions and celebrations but making an unforgettable guest experience for every stay.
In addition to refining the experience and offerings within the hotel, we’re actively enhancing our selection of Vermont’s local experiences, ensuring an array of exciting things to do in Vermont.
And in the longer term, where do you see The Weston in five years?
Continuing to offer impeccable, personalized service – in addition to The Weston being the number one small hotel in the US.
What separates The Weston from anything else currently on offer in Vermont?
The Weston is truly a first-of-its-kind in Vermont. The country home-inspired boutique hotel features nine carefully designed, unique rooms and suites, with each space embodying a world of refined charm. Every element has been thoughtfully curated to harmonize seamlessly within the space, showcasing the dedication to synergy in design.
Beyond the enchanting interiors, the property’s grounds also offer a wide range of amenities like its state-of-the-art spa center, Le Spa; indoor yoga studio; fitness center; bocce ball courts; and outdoor gathering areas.
As well as its signature restaurant, The Left Bank, which showcases a menu of timeless French dishes made from superior ingredients. The Weston is a place where tradition meets exceptional service with every element and space offered.
What can guests expect from a typical experience at the hotel?
Guests of The Weston can expect to indulge in exquisite dining, experience unmatched hospitality and feel rejuvenated at the property’s site amenities.
Tell us a bit about the food offering at The Weston. What makes it special?
The Weston’s on-property restaurant, the Left Bank, boasts a menu of French country-inspired cuisine delicacies influenced by the world’s best bistros.
The versatile menu at The Left Bank consists of sublime flavors, where familiar dishes are transformed into innovative creations such as red wine braised beef cheeks, confit de canard, steak tartare for the table and an offering of seasonal specials.
Guests get treated to an extraordinary culinary odyssey of traditional dishes, expertly crafted with the freshest ingredients and nonpareil service at an approachable price.
Complementing the culinary offerings is an adventurous wine list and an au courant cocktail bar, all of which contribute to the allure of the unique dining experience at The Weston.
Suite Eight features in Elite Traveler’s Top Suites. What makes it the standout accommodation at the hotel?
Suite Eight seamlessly blends innovation with classicists, painting its own story through distinctive design elements making for an experience that transcends the ordinary. The thoughtfully designed bedroom with ample space and privacy, a quaint living room along with a wet bar area are perfect for socializing and lounging.
The two-room sanctuary bath, adorned with marble vanities, a double rainfall shower and soaking tub embodies the team’s dedication to crafting spaces that engage in a dialogue with their surroundings. The spacious Suite Eight offers the ultimate respite, perfect for utter relaxation and privacy.
Is there a particular part of the hotel that you think makes The Weston stand out?
A state-of-the-art jewel-box spa. Our on-site facility offers essentially curated treatments designed to foster a profound state of holistic well-being, rejuvenation and inner healing. Facials, massages and add-on treatments are tailored to each spa guest, creating a personally bespoke journey that encapsulates the tranquil ease of Vermont’s Green Mountains, providing each guest exactly what they seek.
What is there to do in the local area for those interested in visiting?
With Vermont’s greenery mountains as The Weston’s backdrop, guests are welcome to hike breathtaking trails, enjoy a scenic picnic in nature’s landscape or visit the local farms. During the colder months, Vermont becomes the ultimate winter wonderland, perfect for skiing.
For those seeking a taste of local culture, guests can venture just down the street and enjoy an evening of entertainment, courtesy of the Weston Theatre Company. Some of my personal favorite attractions include The Vermont Country Store and Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home.
