Having lived in New England for most of my life, I’m no stranger to the charm and beauty that encompasses the area. History and tradition run deep, and stories and memories are passed from generation to generation – many of which hail from one of the many quaint inns and B&B’s that can be found across the region. For travelers who are new to the area it’s easy to fall into the lure yet one should be careful when weighing through all of the options. We don’t want you to end up on the steps of Bates Motel, of course! To help, we’ve rounded up just a few of our fantastic New England partners –those high-end inns and coastal resorts located from Vermont to Maine.
Stonehedge Inn & Spa –Tyngsboro, MA
The Stonehedge Inn & Spa, located just a short drive north of Boston, is best-known for its outstanding restaurant, Left Bank, where guests delight in seasonal (and local) New England-inspired menu choices and a Wine Spectator Award-Winning wine cellar. Stonehedge features 30 luxurious guest rooms designed to reflect the style and charm of a European country house, all with unique and indulgent touches – private balconies, spa-inspired bathrooms, and warm and inviting fireplaces to cozy next to on a cold New England winter night.
The Daniel – Brunswick, ME
Along the Androscoggin River, The Daniel blends modern luxury with historic details. The inn’s baker makes fresh pastries every morning for the complimentary breakfast. Yum! The grub doesn’t stop there: Coast Bar + Bistro’s dining room centers around a wood fire in a brick hearth, with Maine seafood and ales well represented, and house-made desserts. All that decadence might tempt you to strike a balance: grab your walking shoes and check out downtown Brunswick and nearby Bowdoin College, or hit the in-hotel fitness room. Either way, reserve a private sauna before settling in to your lux room for the night.
Rockport Inn & Suites – Rockport, MA
35 miles north of Boston but worlds away from hustle of city life, Rockport Inn & Suites is a true hideaway. The fireplace living room and spacious suites provide a warm home base for exploring the picturesque town and waterfront—both within walking distance. Bring your sweetheart, or your four-legged friend. The Inn has five buildings five acres, so you’ll have plenty of peace and quiet.
The Lord Jeffery Inn – Amherst, MA
Nothing quite sets the backdrop for a true New England experience than a small, collegiate town with historic buildings lining the streets – the setting of our next hotel, The Lord Jeffrey Inn in Amherst, MA. This historic inn, built in 1926, sits on Amherst Common and is walking distance to shops, restaurants and the many cultural offerings found in the “Five College” area. The Lord Jeffery Inn is deeply dedicated to the environment and its future, a commitment that was solidified during recent renovations when initiatives were put in place to contribute toward the long-term environmental sustainability of the property.
Mill Street Inn – Newport, RI
While travelers typically flock in droves to experience the Gilded-Age opulence found at one of Newport’s extravagant mansions, we’re more inclined to find that one hotel that captures the true magnificence of this historic seaside town. Mill Street Inn, located just one block from Thames Street and the Waterfront, in the Historic Hill section of town, is our ideal stop during a visit to Newport. Built in a renovated 1890’s mill, (that once belonged to renowned builder J.D. Johnson – a man with a significant role in the building of the famed Newport mansions), Mill Street Inn has since been restored and transformed into a 23-room luxury hotel with old-world charm and new world amenities.
Kedron Valley Inn – Woodstock, VT
Located on 11 acres in South Woodstock, a historic village in the heart of Central Vermont, sits the Kedron Valley Inn. The Inn, which has been welcoming visitors in one form or another for more than 185 years (it’s rumored to have been a stop on the Underground Railroad), features 25 guest rooms, fine-dining, and picturesque venue space, all with a casual, and rustic Vermont ambiance. Off site, guests can enjoy all of the area’s attractions including world-class golf courses, historic homestead tours, museums, brewery tours and so much more.
Newagen Seaside Inn – Boothbay Harbor, ME
Lobster bakes? Check! Glowing lighthouses? Check! Salty breeze? Check! Picturesque cabins? Check! Newagen Seaside Inn delivers a true coastal retreat. Unplug your way – either sit on the dock of the bay, or trounce through the nearby trails. After a full day, guests can bed down in their choice of accommodations, from B&B style guest rooms in the white clapboard inn to family-friendly or romance-infused seaside cottages.
The Norwich Inn – Norwich, VT
Just a short drive from Kedron Valley Inn sits The Norwich Inn, a historic 38-room hotel in Norwich, VT. Built in 1890, this Victorian landmark has been lovingly restored to its earlier magnificence as a landmark gathering spot in this small Vermont village. The 38-room inn also features pub-style and fine-dining options at Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse and a microbrewery featuring hand-crafted ales, only to be found on-site. The Inn has a storied history as a waterhole for locals. It’s said that Mary “Ma” Walker, a former innkeeper, sold bootleg alcohol to guests – including “Dr.” Theodore Seuss Geisel – during the prohibition.
Dunes on the Waterfront – Ogunquit, ME
The Dunes on the Waterfront has been welcoming families to its collection of Maine cottages since 1936. This third-generation family-owned and operated resort is the perfect choice for a New England coastal retreat. The 12-acres of riverfront property provides guests with breathtaking views of the ocean, direct access to Ogunquit Beach and is walking distance to the village. The one-and two-bedroom cottages and cottage suites feature hardwood floors, wood-burning fireplaces, screened porches and classic New England decor. Guests have access to on-site shuffleboard, lawn games, fishing and kayaking, or can venture out to town to experience all that Ogunquit has to offer.
Cape Arundel Inn and Resort – Kennebunkport, ME
Situated in a quiet neighborhood of grand and stately summer mansions sits Cape Arundel Inn and Resort, an oceanfront hotel located just five minutes from the center of Kennebunkport’s Dock Square. Guests can choose from two distinctive locales to suit their New England getaway. At Cape Arundel Inn, guests will enjoy breathtaking ocean views, an onsite restaurant, and a spacious lawn area – complete with Adirondack chairs in which to sit and soak in the fresh sea air. Just a short drive away, sits Old Fort Estate where guests can enjoy all of the leisurely amenities of the Club House including a vintage pool table, full bar, library, and a spacious patio surrounding the heated lap pool