West Townshend, Vermont and its sister city of Townshend are active hubs for vacationers looking to take advantage of the laid-back lifestyle and natural beauty that the area has to offer. The few hotels are far from the big-box variety; instead they're all unique and rooted in the area's long history.
The Windham Hill Inn offers guests the feel of staying in a Vermont country home, with all the luxury of its big-city cousins. The hotel, one of the only places to stay in West Townshend, is a boutique hotel delight, with quaint, New England-style decor, cozy traditional rooms and suites, and a host of extras. The hotel's fine dining restaurant is known as one of the best in Vermont, with traditional steaks and salads. The hotel also offers gourmet breakfast, nightly wine and cheese tasting, and a picnic lunch if you want it. Each room is individually designed, with fireplaces, four-poster beds and private balconies. The hotel also has a spa on-site, as well as tennis courts and a heated outdoor swimming pool. The hotel has been deemed one of the best hotels and restaurants in the world by Relais & Chateaux.
Located on the village common in Townshend, The Old Brick Tavern is a bed and breakfast with two elegant guest rooms. The brick building, built in 1792, is furnished in historical style, with accommodations for two people in each guest room, and private baths in each. Each room comes equipped with luxury bathrobes and slippers and luxury toiletries. A TV room with a big-screen television, and an antique-filled library offer extra space for guests to spend time. For breakfast, expect what the owners call an "epicurean" meal featuring traditional American breakfast items like eggs Benedict, corned beef hash and omelettes.
Located about 15 miles from West Townshend is the unique boutique hotel complex called The Old Tavern. A big benefit to staying at The Old Tavern is the use of the 2,000-acre Grafton Ponds Outdoor Center, featuring winter snowshoeing and tubing, and summer swimming, hiking and fishing. Guests can choose from a number of unique hotel rooms and accommodations, including traditional hotel rooms in The Old Tavern itself, or the number of suites and cottages in the area around the hotel. The main building features 11 rooms and suites, a library and the tavern dining room. Behind the main building is the "barn," that features a tavern and game room. Across the street are a number of cottages that welcome younger guests, and allow families a little more room to spread out.
