Exploring Stowe, Vermont

Two Christmases ago our four children and two son-in-laws got together and gave us a very generous gift certificate to Topnotch Resort located in Stowe, Vermont. At the time we had Riley, our daughter’s Boston terrier and although Topnotch allows dogs it would have been an extra expense so we kept putting off making the reservations! As you may know, Riley is now back with her family and we are dog-less. It was finally time to make a reservation and use the gift certificate. Being thrifty minded we made the reservation during the week to get the most value.

What a wonderful time we had. We drove up last Monday and it took us less than two hours to get there. It’s so nice to be able to go away and have a change of scenery and drive less than two hours! The resort was absolutely beautiful and being mid-week it was not crowded at all. In fact there would only be a few other couples in the dining room whether we were there for lunch or dinner.

Our room was spacious and looked right over at Stowe Mountain Resort and Mt. Mansfield. When we arrived it was raining and the next morning everything was covered with a dusting of snow. It melted quickly and we had a beautiful day to explore the area.

If you are familiar with the beer scene in Vermont this area around Stowe is famous for the various breweries. People line up when there is a delivery of Heady Topper, and you are usually limited on how many 4 packs you can purchase at a time. Because we were in town during a delivery day there were already people lining up! Just crazy. We did enjoy a delicious lunch at the Prohibition Pig, which not only offered delicious beer, but the food was excellent.

We made full use of the facilities at the resort; they had a wonderful gym and both an indoor and a heated outdoor pool! We did not try the outdoor pool although we did see folks outside in their bathing suits!

All too soon it was time to enjoy our last breakfast and drive back home.

On the drive home we drove down VT Route 100 and stopped at The Mad Taco for lunch. You could easily drive by this small nondescript restaurant, but if you enjoy Mexican food this is probably the best there is in the state. A simple menu, lots of hot sauces to choose from and quick service. In no time at all we were enjoying our tasty tacos!

It was a beautiful drive home and a wonderful time away. Topnotch Resort is definitely a place we will plan to visit again!