Love and Tranquility: 12 Romantic Getaways in Vermont

Nestled in the heart of New England, Vermont beckons with its enchanting landscapes, cozy inns, and a serene ambiance that makes it an ideal destination for romantic getaways. In this travel blog post, we invite you to explore the timeless charm of Vermont as we unveil a collection of romantic retreats that are perfect for couples seeking to rekindle their love or celebrate a special occasion.

From picturesque villages adorned with historic architecture to the tranquility of the Green Mountains and the allure of its scenic lakes, Vermont offers an array of opportunities to create cherished moments with your beloved. Join us as we embark on a journey through some of the most romantic hideaways and experiences that Vermont has to offer, promising an unforgettable escape for couples in search of romance.

What’s so romantic about Vermont? It’s got Robert Frost and Teddy Bears, LOVE sculptures and Morgan Horses, cozy ski lodges, and charming inns. All the elements of a Romantic Vermont getaway.

Extend your vacation with more New England getaway ideas and do check out our mammoth list of romantic getaways in the Northeast.

Bennington Battle Monument

Best Romantic Getaways In Vermont

BENNINGTON VT

This was Robert Frost’s “Road Less Traveled” and in fact, America’s famed rural poet is buried in this Southern Vermont burg just over the Massachusetts border. The lush Green Mountains are the defining aspect of this region – inspiration for poets and artists like Frost, Grandma Moses, and Norman Rockwell.

And for poetry-spouting twosomes as well. Stay in finery in a grand Federalist inn, The Four Chimneys Inn. The bed and breakfast is perfect for the couple seeking a Victorian-age “summer in the mountains” experience.

Burlington VT on the water

BURLINGTON VT

He loves Teddy Bears. She loves beer. And you both love sunsets over a placid mountain lake. Presenting – Burlington is known as home to the University of Vermont and a growing number of microbreweries. Not to mention Vermont Teddy Bear Co.

Choose between two very different accommodations: the fun, quirky 4-room Mid-Century Modern decorated Victorian B&B, Made Inn Vermont, or the larger stunning contemporary boutique hotel, Hotel Vermont. Both stress the craft beer experience. Made Inn Vermont treats each guest to a can of Heady Topper and Focal Banger. Hotel Vermont keeps a “Beer Concierge” on staff to direct guests to the best breweries in the area (and even offers a full-day, two-night Brewery Tour package every other week).

RUTLAND VT

Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Green Mountains, Rutland offers the perfect backdrop for romantic strolls and outdoor adventures. Enjoy leisurely walks through the town’s vibrant downtown, where you can explore unique boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes offering delightful farm-to-table cuisine.

For those seeking a touch of history, Rutland’s rich heritage is on display through its museums and historic sites. Whether you’re savoring locally sourced dishes at a romantic restaurant or unwinding at a local vineyard, Rutland provides an intimate setting for couples to create lasting memories in the heart of Vermont.

Stay at the Mountain Top Resort in nearby Chittenden, Vermont. This idyllic retreat offers guests a blend of serene natural beauty, upscale accommodations, and a range of outdoor activities, including easy access to skiing, along with a fitness center for those seeking wellness and adventure in the heart of Vermont.

And only 15 minutes from Killington Ski Resort, Red Clover Inn – quiet, lovely, and oozing romantic appeal – is a secluded hideaway for skiers who want a break from the crazy crowds on the hill.

GRAFTON VT

The charming village of Grafton beckons couples in search of a romantic weekend getaway. Known for its postcard-perfect scenery, historic architecture, and a sense of timeless tranquility, Grafton exudes an inviting ambiance that captivates visitors. Stroll hand in hand along cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops and artisan boutiques, where you can find unique gifts and local crafts.

Stay at the Grafton Inn for the quintessential romantic retreat. This historic inn exudes warmth and charm with its wood-burning fireplace and cozy accommodations. Guests can savor farm-to-table delights in the inn’s inviting dining room, indulging in gourmet cuisine while enjoying the ambiance of flickering fires and timeless elegance.

FOUR COLUMNS INN NEWFANE VT

Renovated in 2014, and reopened in 2015, the Four Columns Inn drew the likes of Mick Jagger (he and Jerry Hall stayed here for his b’day) and other Boldfaced Names to Brattleboro VT back in the 80’s and 90’s.

Not resting on its laurels, the inn has all the elements necessary for a romantic getaway: fantastic food in an on-site Artisan Restaurant, a funky pub, and eclectically charming and luxurious rooms. You’ll never have to leave the stunning property if you don’t want to.

Okemo Mountain - Ludlow VT - Okemo Valley Getaway

OKEMO VALLEY

The bulk of visitors come to Okemo Valley to ski – Okemo is, after all, one of the top ski resorts in the Northeast. But like all other Getaway Maven escapes, this one does not focus on the “One Obvious Thing.” The Okemo Valley Region is comprised of 14 little villages (Ludlow being the largest, followed by Weston and Chester).

There is just one traffic light – in Ludlow – and no box stores. You can sign up for a 2-day crash craft course, wander the halls of one of the first co-ed Academies in the country (now a great museum), shop like a fiend, eat like a foodie, and stay glamorous in a “castle” built by a Vermont Governor – the very baronial and stunning Castle Hill Resort and Spa, on the National Register of Historic Places.

Elizabeth Wilson Museum of Art Manchester VT

MANCHESTER VT

This escape is tailor-made for the outdoorsy, adventurous couple. Once known for its Outlet Stores and golf at the age-old Equinox Resort, Manchester VT is transitioning into a four-season soft adventure, “Sporting Weekend” hotspot with opportunities to learn extreme off-road driving (Land Rover Driving School), and fly fish on some of the country’s best trout rivers (Orvis).

There are plenty of places to stay, but all Kimpton fans will be happy to learn that The Taconic, Kimpton’s first property outside of a city, is located in Manchester. Alternatively, consider the colorful boutique hotel, the Reluctant Panther Inn and Restaurant.

So, bring your dog and your sense of adventure. Both with be glad you did.

Robert Indiana LOVE sculpture Middlebury College VT

MIDDLEBURY VT

Horse-lovers, beer and wine lovers, or just lovers in general will love Middlebury. The College campus even has its LOVE Sculpture. Explore the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside with options for horseback riding on picturesque trails.

Stay in town at the historic Middlebury Inn where, for a wedding party, you can rent the entire 9-room Porter Mansion.

NORTHEAST KINGDOM VERMONT

Of course, you can sequester yourselves in a charming room at the uber-romantic Rabbit Hill Inn in Lower Waterford and never emerge. But Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom just ekes natural beauty – all the better for lovers to enjoy.

Essex Resort Pool Essex VT

THE ESSEX, VERMONT’S CULINARY INN AND SPA

Ideal for the foodie couple who yearns to learn to cook together in a professional kitchen with professional chefs, dine on terrific, innovative cuisine, and stay overnight in comfy quarters. This property was once a satellite campus of the prestigious New England Culinary Institute until 2009 (when the Institute was consolidated in Montpelier VT), with the teaching ethos, training kitchens, and equipment intact.

Since then, the resort has built a world-class spa, kitchen gardens, and a beautifully landscaped pool, and is in the process of upscaling guestrooms. With two great restaurants on site – not to mention private kitchens for that “special” event (proposals, anniversaries, etc.) – The Essex is a unique resort and the most Romantic Vermont destination for foodies.

Norton House A Quilters Paradise Wilmington VT

WILMINGTON VT 

Lovers of a certain age will remember spending weekends at Mount Snow (or Haystack) back when Poncho’s Wreck in Wilmington was the place to go after a day on the hill. Years ago, Hurricane Irene wiped out most of the town, including Poncho’s.

Though that restaurant is no more, plenty of other new highly regarded locally sourced restaurants are. If your days of attacking the mountain are behind you – and you’d like a few runs in the morning followed by puttering around town and eating well, stay at the Wilmington Inn and Tavern, and see how Wilmington is back!

Woodstock Town Crier VT

WOODSTOCK VT

Once a release valve for the Victorian wealthy who’d take the train from NYC or Boston to White River Junction, and then the 14-mile spur into the mountains, Woodstock feels romantically lost in time. This is the region where the National Park Service chose to impart the history of land conservation in the US.

Add to that great hand-crafted cheese, famous artisans, and a historic luxury inn, and you’re golden for a wonderful cozy weekend. Plan to stay or at least book spa treatments at the uber-friendly updated Woodstock Inn and Spa – the town’s centerpiece lodging.

Vermont Ski Getaways

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Author

  • Malerie Yolen-Cohen

    Malerie Yolen-Cohen is the Author of the cross-country travel guide, Stay On Route 6; Your Guide to All 3562 Miles of Transcontinental Route 6. She contributes frequently to Newsday, with credits in National Geographic Traveler, Ladies Home Journal, Yankee Magazine, Shape.com, Sierra Magazine, Porthole, Paddler, New England Boating, Huffington Post, and dozens of other publications. Malerie’s focus and specialty is Northeastern US, and she is constantly amazed by the caliber of restaurants and lodging in the unlikeliest places.

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