Stowe Mountain Resort: First-Rate, All Seasons Holiday

After a warm breakfast, I walked through the hotel admiring the gorgeous furniture and design. I decided to treat myself to a facial at the spa, which was as lovely as I had anticipated it would be. After just a short while sipping fruit-infused water, my aesthetician took me into the treatment room. The next hour was pure bliss as I was pampered with an exotic smelling mask and a face massage. I left feeling completely rejuvenated with glowing skin and a tube of the delicious smelling lotion to take home.

After the lovely facial, I stopped for some herbal tea at the Beanery, just one of the many places to eat on the property, and took a stroll around the shops. After drooling over the wonderful selection of outerwear, I walked to one of the two 18-hole golf courses. I’m not a golfer, but I do recognize a pristine, world-class golf course when I see one. The Stowe Mountain Club, which is part of the Audubon International Signature Sanctuary Program, is certainly up to par. After a short time admiring the beautifully preserved natural surroundings, I wandered back to the hotel, where I indulged in a delicious burger and fries at the Solstice restaurant.

Feeling very satisfied after my lunch, it was time for an action-packed afternoon, and that meant going to ArborTrek Adventures for the Zip Line Canopy Tour. After a short safety orientation, I set off up the mountain to take on the eight zip lines that make up the tour. At the top of each, I took a few minutes to appreciate the mind-blowing view of the Green Mountains before approaching the zip line. I must admit that I felt somewhat nervous, even though I have been on close to a dozen zip lines. But, I took a deep breath and off I went. To say that the ride was exhilarating is an understatement; it was absolutely incredible and like nothing else I have ever done.

Once on the ground, it was onto something that was a first for me: challenging myself to complete the TreeTop Obstacle Course, tree-to-tree courses consisting of more than 80 challenges. You’re attached to a safety cable in the serene forest canopy and get to work your way around the course on suspension bridges, swinging logs, rope ladders, nets and more. Not only was it a good workout, it was also great fun; I highly recommend it!

After my afternoon of relaxation and adventure, a tasty dinner and wine awaited me in another of the world-class dining rooms. It was amazing to think how I had just barely touched on the summer activities that you can enjoy at Stowe. I couldn’t wait to return in the colder months when this beautiful green mountain becomes a winter wonderland for skiing, snowboarding and so much more.