EDSON HILL
12 BEST NORDIC SKI GREAT ESCAPES 2022/2023
The 38-acre, year-round, picturesque resort has existed in various incarnations since 1940. Along the steep and winding road up to the inn, you’ll pass stables on the right where you may see horses being pastured along the way. Winter recreation has been offered since the 1950s with 9km of groomed two-way trails for cross-country skiers and fatbikers, along with another 5km dedicated to snowshoeing. Edson Hill’s Nordic Center is the base for daily classic and skate lessons as well as equipment rental. This fabulous winter playground is at overnight guests’ fingertips, while a fee applies to day guests. The on-site trails diverge from the Nordic Center, with ski-in ski-out access from the Manor House and guest houses. Trails tend toward narrow and intimate rather than wide-groomed boulevards. The easier routes are near the Nordic Center, climbing north toward the Manor House and beyond. Most of the wooded trails are hilly, passing through mixed forests of maple, birch, hemlock and more. You’ll get a kick out of the trail names, which are often connected to Edson Hill’s history. Receiving up to 200” of snow, the skiing starts before Christmas and runs through April. Dog sledding, ice fishing, sleigh rides and snowmobiling are also available locally. The resort has recently been restored and renovated using French-Canadian rural architecture as inspiration. The hilltop Manor House offers seven guest bedrooms, each with its own décor. There are 15 additional guest houses with whimsical names such as “Carpe Diem” and “Today is the Day”. They feature elegant comfort and modern conveniences along with private entrances. The cuisine at Edson Hill is often reviewed as the finest culinary experience in the Stowe area. The dining room is open Tuesday–Saturday for dinner, with a seasonally changing menu, while the Tavern Bar has a similar schedule. You can count on both elegant presentation and delicious food under the direction of Executive Chef and CIA Graduate Jerome Picca. Chef Picca is committed to sourcing and serving locally grown ingredients from Vermont farm partners. Daily à la carte country breakfasts are complimentary for overnight guests.
PHOTOS: EDSON HILL
Best known for its eclectic mix of cross-country and downhill skiing, New England’s Stowe, Vermont is renowned for its charm. Edson Hill, conveniently located just minutes from the centre of town, offers exquisite, romantic accommodations, dining and luxurious amenities, along with full-service cross-country skiing.
Guests are also invited to end the day with libations at the fire pit while enjoying the sunset over the Green Mountains’ rounded peaks and the Worcester Range. Arguably the most delightful part of a visit to Edson Hill is its hospitality. The warm and welcoming staff include managers Jesse and Erik Stacy. Erik also oversees the Nordic operations — whether you are cross-country and back-country skiing or snowshoeing, he always ensures a first-class experience. Called charming, romantic and exquisite, Edson Hill will be a welcome addition to your bucket list. -JW
