Green Mountain idyll

Play great courses, enjoy savory ones, shop, or hit the spa amid fall splendor

September 21, 2008|Stephen Jermanok, Globe Correspondent

MANCHESTER - Autumn in New England is a time to savor the countryside's reds, yellows, oranges, and purples before the chill of winter strips the trees bare.

This three-day itinerary takes golfers to three of the best courses in Vermont so they can play amid the colorful canvas.

Day 1, Manchester

When Louise Orvis and the other women of southern Vermont were denied membership to neighboring Ekwanok Country Club in 1927, she hired Walter J. Travis to carve a course out of the valley at the base of Mount Equinox. Now known as the Golf Club at the Equinox Resort, the design was updated by Rees Jones in 1992, and what a beauty it is. Climbing through the pine, birch, and maples, you're surrounded by mountains. And Orvis would be happy to know that Joan McDonald, head golf professional, carries on the strong female tradition at the club. A former LPGA golfer who qualified for three US Opens, McDonald is the only woman pro in Vermont.

The course, managed by Troon Golf, reads short but plays long, opening with a nice downhill par-4 to get golfers warmed up. Soon you're attempting the memorable "road hole," No. 7, a long par-five that plays over a public road. Stop for lunch at the Dormy Grill, overlooking the ninth green and order the signature lobster roll.

The Equinox just spent some $20 million to give the historic resort, opened in 1769, a much needed facelift. Hopefully, you've planned your trip to Manchester so you can enjoy a morning round and then spend the afternoon savoring a white clay mask and other treatments at the spa, going for a one-of-a kind "hawk walk" with birds of prey from the hotel's falconry, or shopping. The hotel is just minutes from the boutique shops and factory outlets in town.

Start next door at Susan Sargent, known for her vibrantly colored rugs, sofas, pillows, tablecloths, and other home furnishings. Just down the hill are the strapless evening dresses designed by Betsey Johnson, often half the price of the same garb seen on Paris Hilton. Downstairs is the stylish casual wear of Michael Kors, from blouses to jeans to leather handbags.

Antique hounds will want to head to Depot 62 to check out the large selection of tables, lamps, rugs, and sofas. The cafe here is popular with locals for wild mushroom pizzas and fresh salads. A more upscale dining option is the Reluctant Panther, located in an inn a short walk from the Equinox.

Day 2, Manchester to Warren

Wake up early to do laps in the Equinox's Olympic-sized pool or take one of the Pilates classes. Then head to Up for Breakfast for homemade granola or blueberry pancakes doused in Vermont maple syrup.