The Inn at Sawmill Farm
Crosstown Road, West Dover, Vt.
802-464-8131
theinnatsawmillfarm.com
What we liked most: Interesting assortment of current magazines in our room.
What we liked least: Having to leave mental bread crumbs to retrace our steps through the labyrinth of halls and stairs.
What surprised us: Great wine list that ranges from trophy grand cru Bordeaux to food-friendly Sardinian vermentino.
You know you're at The Inn at Sawmill Farm when . . . the grandfather clock chimes ( accurately) in the cathedral-ceiling lounge.
Rates: The property includes 10 rooms in the main inn and 10 rooms, suites, and cottages with fireplaces in other buildings. Midweek rates range $300-$725, weekend rates $375-$850. The room we booked, No. 9, was $300 at midweek; rate for Room No. 12 would have been $360. Rate includes breakfast, afternoon tea in fall and winter, and five-course dinner for two. Dining room open nightly for dinner; entrees $30-$48.
Directions: West Dover is 136 miles or almost three hours from Boston. Take Route 2 west to Interstate 91 north to exit 2 in Brattleboro, Vt. Take Route 9 west about 20 miles to Wilmington, turning onto Route 100 north at traffic light. Continue north about 6 miles to village of West Dover. Crosstown Road is the first left after the village church. Sawmill Farm is on the left after crossing the bridge.