OVERVIEW of Lodge at Spruce Peak
The dramatic Spruce Peak opened in September 2008 and is destined to take its place beside the great resorts out West in the best ski areas.The $400 million project includes 300 luxury guestrooms and private mountain cabins, a new base lodge, upscale retail shops (think Ralph Lauren), a marvelous 21,000 sq. ft spa and wellness center and a fantastic Bob Cupp designed golf course. It is the only ski-in, ski-out resort in New England
The buildings, grounds and golf course were all designed to maximize energy conservation and to produce some of its own like the snowmaking and irrigation that will come from the man made lake. Most of the décor was designed and custom produced by Vermont artisans.
The lobby is a breathtaking introduction to the Lodge with soaring ceilings, woven timber, stone walls, stone and wood columns with decorative dogwood tree trunks and branches, floor to ceiling windows and wonderful Vermont artwork. Decorated with leather couches layered with colorful pillows, iron chandeliers with shaded lights and bright area rugs over multi-colored marble floors, the look is rustic chic. Fabrics are a cheerful palette of yellows, oranges and light blues. Rocking chairs and bowls of fresh apples create a homey feel to the large room.
THE ROOMS at Lodge at Spruce Peak
As happens with many resorts these days, rooms are sold to the public as private residences and then leased back to the hotel for renting. The advantage for the traveler is larger than normal rooms with lots of extra amenities. My room, with a balcony and views of the mountains and outdoor pool area, had a sitting area with couch, leather chair, reading lamp and fireplace. Decorated in rich shades of gold, hunter green and burgundy with Vermont themed watercolors and photography, it had a Queen feather bed, luxury bamboo linens and down duvet, a large flat screen TV and custom made lamps by Simon Pearce. There is a small kitchenette with burners, microwave, refrigerator and service for two with Simon Pearce tableware. The large marble bath had a soaking tub and separate glass shower with Anichini towels from Vermont and Mario Russo bath products.
DINING at Lodge at Spruce Peak
The Hourglass Bar serves good house drinks and offers a casual menu. Good wine by the glass selection. Cozy room with couches and chairs around a fireplace. The Pantry offers a variety of artisan foods, local products and ingredients, and a selection of wine and beer. The Beanery has coffees, teas, juices, smoothies, baked goods and sandwiches.
Solstice the 110 seat signature restaurant, has soaring ceilings, stone walls, fireplaces, custom made wood tables and an open kitchen design. Views of the mountain are wonderful and there is an outdoor stone patio. During my visit, I had an exceptional lunch of chopped BBQ short rib on a homemade bun with a delicious tangy apple cole slaw and crispy onion fritters. Not the usual fare. Room service is available 24 hours.
THE SERVICE at Lodge at Spruce Peak
The service here was quite remarkable. Cars are met swiftly upon arrival, check-in quick and efficient. I was escorted to my room and all the amenities explained. Staff members called me by name during my 2 day visit. My car had been parked outside and when it began to snow was moved to cover. One night when it was snowing quite hard, I was driven and then picked up from my restaurant. At turn down, there were wonderful muffins with icing on top and two glasses of cold milk set in ice. When housekeeping came in the morning they asked for a time when it would be convenient to return.
THE RATES at Lodge at Spruce Peak
From $342 Peak Season weekend.
WHAT OTHERS SAY About Lodge at Spruce Peak
AAA Four Diamond Award
Forbes Four Star Award
*Best Spas in the World” Condé Nast Traveler
*Best Hotels in the U.S.” US News & World Report
*#3 Family Hotel in the United States” Travel + Leisure
*Top 50 Golf Courses for Women” Golf Digest
PROMOTIONS at Lodge at Spruce Peak
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