As the hub of picturesque mad River Valley in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, Waitsfield delivers charm, luxury, and relaxation all in one.
Written by Jillian Ducharme
Photograph by Dennis Curran
With nearby neighbors Sugarbush Resort and Mad River Glen ski area, there’s plenty of skiing and snowboarding, as well as classic Vermont dining (featuring local flavors) along with art galleries and antique shops for serious browsers.
Eat
Take in the historic sight of one of Vermont’s famous covered bridges at The Green Cup Cafe and enjoy an array of baked goods and pastries. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are made from local and organic ingredients. 40 Bridge St., 802-496-4963, greencupvermont.com. Enjoy a sunset over the mountains while feasting on fine European cuisine in a historic farmhouse at Michael’s on the Hill. 4182 Waterbury-Stowe Rd., 802-244-7476, michaelsonthehill.com. After an eventful day on the slopes, unwind at Purple Moon Pub with live music and a pint or two of local ale. Homemade food is served late into the night, with a raw bar option on Thursdays. 6163 Main St., 802-496-3422, purplemoonpub.com.
See
Rocketing down a mountain on a pair of skis or a snowboard is a way of life up here. Check out the newly added 75 acres of gladed terrain at Sugarbush, as well as guided adventure tours and lessons by extreme skier John Egan. Don’t miss out on the Cabin Cat Adventure, a 12-passenger luxury snowcat with a flat-screen TV and cushy seats to transport you to a private dinner or to own the mountain early in the morning before the lifts start up. 1840 Sugarbush Access Rd., 800-537-8427, sugarbush.com. Ride the single chairlift at Mad River Glen ski area to 45 marked trails and limitless off-trail options (snowboarding not allowed). 62 Mad River Resort Rd., 802-496-3551, madriverglen.com. Glide into Vermont’s picturesque landscape on an Icelandic Horse. 3061 North Fayston Rd., 802-496-7141, icelandichorses.com.
Stay
Relax in style in one of the 11 Vermont-themed rooms and suites at the Pitcher Inn, adorned in original art and unique decor. 275 Main St., 802-496-6350, pitcherinn.com. Luxury and convenience go hand in hand at Clay Brook at Sugarbush, offering premier ski-in/ski-out residences, a private lounge, boot warming, and much more. 1840 Sugarbush Access Rd., 800-806-1070, sugarbush.com. Create a romantic, cozy getaway at The Round Barn Inn, which serves up breakfast in the Sunny Room, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and a gorgeous barn available to guests for special occasions. 1661 Warren Rd., 802-496-2276, theroundbarn.com.Â