Chill on a dog sled, warm up with a cider

February 17, 2010|Jenn Abelson, Globe Staff

With several world-class ski resorts just a half-hour away, Waterbury is often viewed as a home base rather than its own destination. But this village in central Vermont offers adventure, culinary treats, and culture in abundance, making it well worth its own weekend getaway. Visitors can enjoy the outdoors with the usual skiing or snowshoeing or get an adrenaline rush on a dog sledding tour of Little River State Park. The restaurants all put a premium on local ingredients, and serve up craft brews, cider, artisanal cheeses, and great coffee. At night, Waterbury is no New Orleans, but there are plenty of options for relaxation and fun - and besides who needs more beads?

Stay

The mix of lodgings is sure to meet the needs of even the pickiest travelers. Those with a fondness for historical charm will appreciate the Old Stagecoach Inn (18 North Main St., www.oldstagecoach.com, 802-244-5056, doubles $75-$130, rooms with private baths being more expensive), built in 1826 in the center of town and listed in the National Register of Historic Places. You can relax in front of a fire in the parlor, where the inn mascot, an African grey parrot, resides. Guests can enjoy cocktails or a glass of wine in the inn’s library bar. If you prefer hotels and don’t mind driving to most destinations, the Best Western (45 Blush Hill Road, www.bestwesternvermont.com/hotels/best-western-waterbury-stowe, 802-244-7822) offers a mix of basic rooms starting at around $129 and more expensive suites that feature whirlpool baths and fireplaces.

Dine

Travelers looking to seriously indulge should head to Hen of the Wood, which serves fine local cuisine and an extensive wine list in a converted mill (92 Stowe St., www.henofthewood.com, 802-244-7300). The menu is always changing but don’t skip the cheese plate or any dish featuring mushrooms. Seriously. For a more laid-back experience, visit theAlchemist Pub and Brewery (23 South Main St., www.alchemistbeer.com, 802-244-4120). This cozy pub shows a rotating display of eclectic local artwork and serves grilled panini, flatbread pizzas, and other flavorful fare at affordable prices. Be sure to try the tasty homemade ales, including a Holy Cow IPA and a cask conditioned ale that is naturally carbonated and hand-pulled from the basement brewery. The selection changes with the seasons, and the cask ale is tapped every Friday at opening.

During the day

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