Bland lodges and fusty B&Bs are a dime a dozen in New England, making life a little challenging for those who like some style with their mountain outings or ski vacations. Now, there’s another option.
Field Guide Lodge has put a lot of panache into its design. Big, black-and-white blowups of snow-covered trees greet you in the lobby, along with lines of birch trunks. Sleek furniture in gray and orange is accented with poufs and sheepskins by the fireplace. Antlers and deer heads hang on the walls, but they’re plastic, paper, or ceramic, giving a nod to tradition.
The look continues into the guestrooms and suites, where predominant tones are deep charcoal and bright orange. Wallpapers are dappled with bold bird patterns and tiny silhouetted skiers. Big, comfy beds have reading lights and lovely blankets. Baths combine the modern with the rustic: raw-wood walls, round mirrors, and fresh, white towels. Suites have gas fireplaces and large, freestanding tubs with artful tub-side tables made out of tree stumps.
A stay here also puts you in a great location for downtown shopping and dining (Plate was a favorite restaurant), renting a bike at AJ’s across the street, and, when the weather turns cold, skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort, just seven miles away.
Breakfast is included, and an array of pastries, eggs, cheeses, meats, and more prep you for a day outdoors — or for just hanging around your super-cool room.
Weekends from $229/night; www.fieldguidestowe.com
