Hotel Spotlight

Have a Field Day in Stowe, Vermont

by California Chaney
Lounge Field Guide Lodge's lobby lounge. All photos courtesy of Field Guide Lodge.

Field Guide Lodge
Stowe, Vermont
Mountain chic, $ 

There's a common rule of thumb in a ski town: "Come for the winter, stay for the summer." When the snow melts, the mountains reveal fields of wildflowers, hidden waterfalls, swimming holes, and off-the-beat trails with vast views of pine tree valleys. While most nature lovers flock to Stowe for its snow-covered slopes, true explorers know its all about the summer and fall months where the lush woodlands offer year-round respite for city dwellers, and the long days seems to cruise along the flowing rivers and lingering alpenglow. And once the air turns crisp, the maple-tree valleys explode in dizzying colors. At the center of it all, Field Guide Lodge is a rustic-chic chalet in the heart of the mountain town with modern, cozy accommodations that offer an elevated alpine escape befitting all seasons. Rooms and private cottages are adorned with punchy colors, cheeky nods to hunting culture (like paper taxidermy), and welcoming furnishings and fireplaces. The '60s-inspired guest lodge with shaggy carpets and reclaimed wood is the ideal meeting spot for large groups or family before the day's outings, while the heated pool and hot tub are a respite for après leaf-peeping, skiing, hiking, or exploring Stowe's downtown art scene.

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Click here for reservations. Or contact the Fathom Concierge and we can book your trip for you.


At a Glance

The Vibe: Modern ski chalet.

Standout Detail: Vast mountain views that play peekaboo from every angle.

This Place Is Perfect For: Nature-loving travelers who want to escape to the mountains for the trails, slopes, or abundant fresh Vermont air — ahhh.

Rooms: There are 17 rooms, 10 luxury suites, and three cottages with private entry on the property. All suites can accommodate up to four people, with the exception of the Trail Suite, which has room for eight. The color scheme throughout is "sunset in the mountains" with bright greens, golds, purples, and bright pops of orange to punch up the warm, cozy spaces that embrace the hygge vibe that Stowe is known for. Reclaimed wood makes an appearance throughout with live-edge maple slabs for headboards and funky side tables that add a modern vibe against wallpaper featuring a bird's eye view of skiers. For an extra dose of cozy, request a room with a gas fireplace and large marble soaking tub. Or if you're a foliage enthusiast, opt for a suite with an outdoor patio. Waffle kimono robes keep you comfy and Bluetooth Tivoli radios keep you groovy.

On Site: The outdoor heated pool is seasonal (from summer to fall) while the hot tub in a covered gazebo stays bubbling year-round. Colorful lounge chairs dot the front lawn and conversational fire pit. The main level guest lounge, adorned with reclaimed birch walls, sheepskin rugs, and cardboard animal busts encourages uncorking and unwinding. There's also a nice selection of board games and vintage field guides to peruse while warming up by the fireplace.

Food + Drink: There's no on-site restaurant, however the front desk serves hot coffee and complimentary grab-and-go breakfast each morning. It's an eight-minute walk from town's center, or take the Stowe Mountain shuttle (which stops at the hotel), which can drop you off for post-hike refuels or upscale field-to-fork date nights.

What to Do Nearby

The hotel offers an A-Z guide to Stowe, including the obvious Vermont alphabet of beer, maple syrup, and skiing. But exploring Vermont in the warm months offers much more. Within a short drive are several lakes and rivers, including Lake Elmore, Green River Reservoir, and Lamoille and Winooski to kayak and paddleboard along with rentals and guided tours from outfitters like Pinnacle Ski & Sports and Umiak Outdoor Outfitters. Stowe is also known as the mountain biking mecca of the East, with a large network of trails accessible within the hotel's backyard. In the wintertime, those trails converge with the near 3,000 acres of conserved land for Nordic skiing. Stowe's gondola operates year-round, connecting the ski resort's two peaks — Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak — with vast views and fresh mountain air even if you don't swoosh down the slopes. For those who like their recreation at lower elevation, cruise the Stowe Recreation Path on two wheels, rollerblades, or by foot. The path leads to the resorts' off-piste restaurants and shops on Mountain Road include the hotel's favorite eateries Doc Ponds, Piecasso, and Prohibition Pig.

When Winter Rounds the Corner

Ursa Major's Guide to Wintering in Stowe
Your Mom Will Love Driving Around Woodstock, Vermont, and So Will You
Warm from the Inside Out at Burlington's Coziest Restaurants

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