A Romantic Luxury Inn for Couples in Stowe Vermont

Archive for the ‘Summer Activities’ Category

Stowe’s 4th of July Celebration

4th of July Getaway in Stowe VermontWe invite you to spend this Independence Day at Stowe’s annual day-long celebration featuring parades, food, music, entertainers, fireworks, and more! The day starts with the Moscow parade and ends with Stowe’s annual fireworks display. According to Stowe Parks and Recreation, the Stowe 4th of July celebration boasts, “one of the largest and best fireworks display in Vermont!”

Shop Local: Stowe’s annual Seven Miles of Sales is held from July 4 -7, 2019. This four-day event features sales by locally-owned markets, boutiques, galleries, sporting goods shops and more on the Mountain Road and in the Village.

 

Stowe 4th of July Celebration - Vermont

Click to read Schedule of Events PDF

 


 

The Old Fashioned 4th of July events include:

  1. The Moscow Parade (10 a.m.)
    The Moscow parade (known for its casual and small town charm) features floats put together the morning of the parade with a $10 max spend on the decoration. This “very local” event is known as the “Worlds Shortest Parade”.
  2. Old-Fashioned Village Festival (11 a.m. – 3 p.m.) and 1 pm Parade
    This Art on Park festival includes street performers, musicians, face painting, caricature artists, local artisans, and more. Featuring music from The Groovy Trio and Frank Springer Band. At 1 p.m., the traditional Independence Day parade begins at the Village. This parade has floats, animals, clowns, kids and music. Get here early!  Visit stowevibrancy.com for more information
  3. The Stowe “World’s Shortest Marathon” (12 p.m.)
    Join the 1.7 mile Fun Run. Starting at the intersection of Routes 100 & 108. Open to all participants.
  4. Pie Eating Contest (11 a.m. – 2 p.m.) 
    Show off your pie eating skills and get a commemorative t-shirt for competing! There will be multiple rounds and two age categories.  Winners will compete in the final round at 2:30 p.m. Bring your family and friends — or challenge them — to this fun event!
  5. Food, Fun, Friends & Fireworks at The Stowe Events Field (6 p.m. ’til Dark)
    Starting at 6 p.m., games and food for everyone. Admission and most activities are free. Bring your blanket and lawn chair for the best view in town for the fireworks display. For details, please visit stowevibrancy.com
  6. Seven Miles of Sales (July 4 – 7)
    This is Vermont’s LARGEST townwide retail sale. Centered around the 4th of July, this sale celebrates Vermont’s independently owned retailers both on and off the seven mile-long Mountain Road, and will include sidewalk, tent, in-store and online sales. Dozens of locally-owned retail shops will offer a variety of quality products at every price point and style, from clothing and jewelry to artwork and sports gear. For more information, visit gostowe.com/seven-miles

Stone Hill Inn - Entrance Sign

Where to stay this 4th of July in Stowe, Vermont

4th of July in StoweOf course, your 4th of July weekend getaway isn’t complete without the perfect lodging selection. Stay at the Stone Hill Inn for a romantic, couples-only experience that will exceed your expectations. We’ve recently been named “Most romantic getaway in New England” by Yankee Magazine and named to TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame.

Come slip away to our luxurious retreat this 4th of July.  Our Stowe, VT bed and breakfast is a quiet, nine acre refuge for couples surrounded by the Vermont woods, but its also only 5 minutes away from in-town restaurants and Stowe’s 4th of July celebration.

Happy 4th of July from Stone Hill Inn


We’re a welcoming place to catch your breath; this 4th of July weekend visit Stowe and the Stone Hill Inn and take some time to celebrate life…together.


Make Reservation


 

Todd and Kristie, innkeepers at the Stone Hill Inn

Small Town Charm – You don’t want to miss!

Call us to book your Stowe Staycation today (802) 253-6282 or book online. Romance is always in season!

Hiking Stowe: Five immersions into the quiet beauty

Five Hiking Trails perfect for Stowe, Vermont Fall Foliage Rated the best in the U.S. by Trip Advisor

Leisurely walks in the neighborhoods of Boston, Long Island, Newark or Washington D.C., often provide an abundance of man-made beauty seasoned with splashes of nature.

In Vermont with its 300,000 acres of state-owned forests, 53,000 of which are in Stowe, a casual walk is completely different. Outdoor strolls in Stowe are a gumbo of wild blackberries, clear spring water, plunge pools at the base of falls, fresh aromas from fir and cedar, calming vistas of tree covered mountains, sunlight stepping stones along wooded paths and relaxing breezes nestling among overhead branches, needles and leaves. You are alone yet surrounded, relaxed yet invigorated. You are in the unspoiled forests of Stowe.

Interested?

Fall adventures in Stowe Vermont - romanceSoon it will be leaf season and Vermont has been declared the Number One destination for fall foliage in the U.S. (Trip Advisor).  Here are five journeys that are good for the soul no matter what the weather, but during this season these become emotionally serving; witness to unexpected celebrations of life.  Enjoy as the Lord in paints each leaf while we sleep at night.  Bring your camera.

As you take to the roads and paths, keep these thoughts in mind from the Get To Know Stowe book:

  1. Stowe is home to two mountain ranges; Worcester range to the east, and the green Mountains run to the north and are part of the Mt. Mansfield State Forest.
  2. Generally allow 30 minutes for each mile plus an additional 30 minutes for every 1,000 feet gained in elevation.
  3. Bring plenty of water; avoid drinking backcountry water.
  4. High-energy snacks are a good idea (granola bars, trail mix, chocolate)
  5. Pack a map, compass, first-aid kit, flashlight and pocket-knife. Whistles can be helpful. Take a shell, hat, & gloves no matter what the season.
  6. Sign-in/Sign-out at any trail-head registers; stay on marked trails.
  7. Don’t travel alone, especially on more difficult journeys.

Hiking the Ranch Brook & Burt Trail

Just past the right-hand entrance to the North Brook road along Rt. 108, before you cross a small bridge, you’ll see a quick left turn onto an unpaved road — the Ranch Brook road. Park if there’s space and immediately start your walk down the right hand fork which is a slightly rutted road. Soon it flattens out becoming an old timber-hauling road, and further down it offers another place to park your car. You are now in the Ranch Valley and its extensive system of well-marked trails with the beautiful Ranch brook running parallel on your left. In the winter Nordic skiers or snowshoers may require a pass on many of these trails from the Stowe mountain resort’s Cross Country Ski Center. In the summer no charges are necessary.

You’re on the Burt Trail – which for the moment is a class-4 road ––a gravel surface — until it reaches the junction of Ranch Camp, Bruce Trail, and the Bear Run. Horses and bikes will need to turn around since the remaining trails are no longer graveled.

Ranch Brook and Burt Trail Hike

Ranch Brook and Burt Trail Hike

This historic area gave birth to skiing in Stowe and is part of the Mansfield state Forest. Travel for another mile past the Adams Camp and later find the remains of the first lumber camp used when creating the first of the stowe ski runs back in 1933 by the CCC which stood from 1932 to 1950. Craig Burt offered his lumber camp to Stowe’s first overnight ski guests. Another short distance and you have reached the junction that offers three choices for the next phase of your journey:

  • Left is the Ranch Camp Trail which heads towards the Trapp Family Lodge trail system.
  • The Burt trail in the center continues and is the least hilly.
  • However, the right hand Bruce trail ascends steeply up the Ranch Valley and its degree of difficulty becomes much higher.  Eventually Bruce takes you to the original ski trail that was cut by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933, part of FDR’s New Deal program – the first ski trail in Stowe. From here you backtrack to Timber Lane that heads towards the Mt. Mansfield Ski Touring area. Take one of the Cross cut trails south from Timber Lane back to the Ranch Brook road to return to the beginning of your journey. These are trails that reveal history and beauty. Total distance will be about six miles.

Hiking Sterling Pond

While you are casually driving through Smuggler’s Notch on your way over the mountain from Stowe, look for a parking lot on the left hand side of the road near the top of the road. Park. Across the street find a trial heading up that begins a bit rocky and steep. While you are panting a bit, enjoy the smell of fresh pine and evergreens.

After about a mile the Sterling Pond Trail is joined by the Long Trail. Turn left and head down to the pond. Catch your breath, sit on a rock and enjoy the view of Vermont’s highest elevation trout pond.   Catch some fish, relax, and enjoy the quiet. There is a shelter near the lake if needed. Ready to move on? Stay on the Long Trail going north for about .3 miles and look for a short spur trail to the top of Smuggler’s Notch Ski Resort and enjoy the views across to Mt. Mansfield – you’re now at 3,000 feet. Backtrack along the spur to the Long Trail north to the shelter near the chairlift where you will take a right onto Elephant’s Head Trail that continues around the pond. When you’ve gone about ¾ of a mile look for another intersection with the Long Trail and head downhill (turn right). This takes you to the Sterling Pond Trail – where you will turn left back to the parking area.

Total pond circumference is about 1.4 miles clockwise around the pond.

Total distance is 2.8 miles plus an additional easy 1.4 mile loop around the pond.

Elevation gain is 1,000 feet.

Time is 2.5 hours.

Difficulty is rated Moderate by the Green Mountain Club.


Hiking at Lake Mansfield Trout Club

Lake Mansfield Trail Hiking

This hiking trail is entirely navigable

There are many signs that say don’t enter this private refuge and enormously beautiful spot, however, continue on your journey. The Trout Club is intensely private, however, management’s respect for the beauty of Vermont and their location on Lake Mansfield permits outsiders like you and I to hike in the woods that surrounds the lake.  Mansfield Lake is 39 acres surrounded by hills – a stunning setting. The lake, of course, is annually stocked with Trout. The Lodge was originally built in 1899 and the Trout Club seems to have its own unique culture.

From Waterbury heading north towards Stowe, take Rt. 100 and turn left on Moscow Road. Continue on Moscow past the Barrows Road cutoff until you find Nebraska Valley Road on the right (just past the intersection with the Trapp Hill road on the right.) It’s going to be about four miles until you reach the Lake Mansfield Trout Club.

Lake Mansfield Trout Club Parking

Lake Mansfield Trout Club Parking

There is a clearly designated area to park close enough to the Lodge to capture the picture on the left. There is also a clearly marked entrance to the one hiking trail. The first half mile runs parallel to Lake Mansfield and occasionally opens onto the lake. Once you have passed the lake you continue on the Lake Mansfield Trail heading north-north-west for more than a mile to reach Taylor Lodge. Just before you reach the lodge you will find a small, lovely waterfall.

The trail is relatively narrow but despite tree roots and the usual array of sleeping rocks it is entirely navigable. The surroundings are classic, unspoiled Vermont.

 

Hike in Stowe Vermont - Lake Mansfield

Classic, unspoiled Vermont

The lodge in is at the intersection of the Lake Mansfield Trail, the Long Trail, and the Clara Bow Trail. Total elevation gain is about 500 – 600 feet; manageable since it has over a mile to work with. Taylor Lodge is in the midst of the Mount Mansfield State forest, and the only way home is to backtrack the way you came.


Hiking at Little River State Park

Hiking in Stowe Vermont - Waterbuy Reservoir and Dam

Waterbury Reservoir and Dam

In the early 1800s, pioneers cleared fields, rocks, and stumps in the Ricker Basin and Cotton Brook. A settlement of 50 or so families once lived in this area. For about 130 years this was a thriving community of farms, sawmills, churches, schools, creameries and taverns. Gradually, the demands of the land and weather forced younger generations to abandon the farms. On November 3-4, 1927, torrential rains caused massive flooding, property destruction and loss of life throughout Vermont. A second flood in 1934 inundated Waterbury; this spurred the construction of Waterbury Dam. Between 1935 and 1938 the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), in cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, constructed the 180 acre Waterbury Reservoir (pictured below) which runs adjacent to the Little River State Park. The CCC camp here was a fully operating, thriving community with more than 80 buildings, and housing 2,000 men at its peak.

Today, cemeteries, sawmill remains, old town roads, bridges and many cellar holes can still be seen as evidence of past communities. Hiking trails abound and each finds another piece of the history – both a trip through the beauty of Vermont and its history. There are a total of 26 miles of different trails within the Little River State Park.

Stevenson Brook Trail - Hike Stowe Vermont

Stevenson Brook Trail

These shots were taken along the Stevenson Brook Trail which runs for about 2.5 miles. The Stevenson Brook runs down the eastern slope of Ricker Mountain and takes thousands of gallons of snowmelt in Spring resulting in currents strong enough to move all but the largest boulders.


Hiking the Hell Brook Trail

The Hell Brook trail (also called the Mansfield Trail) is a fun and challenging route to ‘The Chin’ of Mount Mansfield (The Summit). This is the shortest and steepest but also most technically difficult route to the summit. It is generally considered one of the most challenging hikes in the state. The trail is mostly large rocks and is usually wet. This route is considerably less busy than the popular Long Trail, which also makes it nice.

From Stowe village take Rt 108 north 8.4 miles. On the left side of the road look for the brown “Long Trail” signs and the 2″X6″ blue blazes marking the Hel Brook trail. Park in the Big Spring parking area.

Right from the start you experience a daunting grade that will keep you breathing a bit faster as you begin to climb. It is not unusual to find wet conditions – mud and running water – so waterproof footware is essential. Moisture makes climbing more difficult, since Hell Brook is known for challenging rock climbs that require using all parts of your body. Expect to show some badges of courage (scratches, gashes, etc.) from this climb. The pace of difficulty is unrelenting with hand-over-foot scrambles, and especially when you encounter alpine streams raining down on you. The last climb to the chin is difficult and technical. Lots of rocks and many opportunities such that you are near exhaustion – and as a result — heightened danger. It’s not called “Hell Brook” for nothing! Views are impressive from the top, but wind and lower temps (10 to 15 degrees) are another danger. Bring an extra cover to ward off hypothermia.

The Green Mountain Club does NOT recommend descending back the way you came. Too wet and too dangerous. Hell Brook ends at the intersection with the Long Trail and that is the way down. When you reach Rt 108, head north until you reach the Big Spring parking area (this will be the easiest portion of your hike).

Total distance = 3.6 miles

Time for the climb = 4 hours

Climb = 2590 feet – the steepest vertical climb on the Long Trail.

Difficulty = Very hard. Do not undertake this climb alone.


Looking for other adventures in Stowe Vermont?

Come…experience unexpected celebrations of life together. See more…


 

what-couples-are-saying

“Make sure to drive through Smugglers Notch State Park!”

Todd and Kristie were fabulous host making sure to inform us where to eat, shop and find all the covered bridges in the area. They also pointed out great hiking trails in the area and made sure to mention to drive through Smugglers Notch State Park. So glad they did.
LMUM, Oklahoma

Gardens of Stowe Vermont, June 2018

The Stone Hill Inn is excited to be a destination in this year’s Gardens of Stowe event.

The Gardens of Stowe annual event is scheduled for Sunday, June 24, 2018 from 12:30 – 5:00 p.m.

The Gardens of Stowe special summer event is a self-guided tour that immerses participants in Stowe’s most beautiful gardens. Guests pick up their tour maps at JCOGS and then spend the afternoon enjoying approximately one dozen private gardens in Stowe, Vermont.

This enchanting event closes with a tented, finger-food catered reception; a gardening talk by VPR’s Master Gardener, Charlie Nardozzi; a floral arranging demo by Bramble + Bloom; and a silent auction. It’s truly a gardener’s dream way to spend a day!

Tickets for the 2018 Gardens of Stowe event, presented by Stowe Reporter in partnership with JCOGS, are available for online purchase. Pre-purchase for $20 + Eventbrite fee or purchase at-the-door for $25.

Registration and Reception for the Gardens of Stowe event are at JCOGS (1189 Cape Cod Rd, Stowe, VT 05672).

Learn more about this Stowe Vibrancy event on Facebook.


 

Summer Stowe Gardens

Local? We look forward to hosting you during the Gardens of Stowe summer event.

Create your own garden-centric Stowe Staycation by adding a stay at the Stone Hill Inn to your weekend plans. Last-minute? If you’re booking within 24 hours of your stay, we might have a local Stowe resident discount available.

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Our guests love our backyard garden!!!

Gardens of Stowe - Summer Gardens

Take a look at some of our favorite recent reviews

Look no further!!! This Inn checks all the boxes (waterfall included!) Our room had a two sided fireplace with one side in the bathroom (right next to the Jacuzzi tub!), clean, warm room with the most amazing view of the backyard which has by far the most amazing water feature I’ve ever seen in Stowe!
TripAdvisor Review from Burlington VT, April 2017

Loved this Place!!! Stone Hill Inn came highly recommended and it was a truly fantastic place to stay! The hidden setting is surrounded by beautiful country gardens, but it’s close to everything in Stowe.
TripAdvisor Review from Dallas Texas, November 2017

 

Some of our favorite Garden photos!


 

Todd and Kristie, innkeepers at the Stone Hill Inn

Get your tickets now and book your stay to enjoy our beautiful gardens, even more!

Call us to book your Stowe Staycation today (802) 253-6282 or book online. Romance is always in season!

Our Summer Stowe Garden: Perfect for Unwinding and Small Weddings

We are loving our first summer in Stowe. To put it simply: it’s awesome!

Summer Stowe Gardens: Our gardens are thriving and we’re thankful daily for the beauty and tranquility that the Stone Hill Inn provides both us and our guests. They provide the perfect retreat for unwinding and spending time with the one you love.

Quiet and secluded, Stone Hill is known for its intimacy and charm, making it ideal for elopements, engagements, and honeymoons. Many guests exchange vows along our garden paths or next to our glistening garden waterfall. Our luxurious nine-room Inn provides ample space for romantic small weddings (learn more about our Vermont Elopement packages).

Summer Stowe Gardens

 

Summer Stowe Events

Summers in Stowe also offers many cultural opportunities. This August (2017), Stowe is hosting the 6oth Stowe Annual Antique Car Show, Stowe Tango Music Festival, Stowe Wine & Food Classic, and Northeast Delta Dental Race To The Top Of Vermont. See more events at GoStowe’s event calendar.

We look forward to hosting you at the Stone Hill Inn.

Call us to book your romantic getaway today (802) 253-6282 or book online. Romance is always season!

 

Kristie

Kristie and Todd Roling,
Innkeepers

 

 

 

 

August 2017 – Summer Events in Stowe Vermont

If you love cars, Tango music and dancing, wine festivals and gourmet foods, or races, then this August Stowe is absolutely the perfect Vermont getaway location.


August Event - Vermont Automobile Enthusiasts

Car enthusiasts…you’ll be in heaven!

6oth Stowe Annual Antique Car Show

AUGUST 11 – 13, 2017

View Full Weekend Schedule

This car show features over 800 antique & classic cars on display, food concessions, a giant automotive Flea Market, Street Dancing, Automobile Parade and the Car Corral. Stowe, Vermont has hosted the Vermont Automobile Enthusiasts, Inc. Antique and Classic Car Meet for 60 years. It is one of the largest and oldest in New England and has become a cherished summer tradition in Stowe. The show will be located on Nichols Field, Route 100, South of Stowe Village.

Whether you’re participating in the Stowe Annual Antique Car Show or just coming to enjoy the festivities, be sure to book a stay with us at the Stone Hill Inn to add a restful retreat to your weekend!
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August Festival - Stowe Tango FestivalCome celebrate the romance of tango!

Stowe Tango Music Festival

AUGUST 17 – 20, 2017

View Full Weekend Schedule

The Stowe Tango Music Festival is the United States’ premier tango music festival, noted both for its unique series of performances and its high level of musical training. Dance workshops and live music abound.

The line-up of public events – some are free and some are ticketed – includes a variety of musical performances, dance workshops, dance parties (known as milongas), educational presentations, and social gatherings.

Come to Stowe for a romantic musical weekend getaway, and book a stay with us at Stone Hill Inn.

Book Your Stay


August 2017 - Stowe Wine & Food ClassicFoodies…this is the weekend for you!

Stowe Wine & Food Classic

SUNDAY AUGUST 27th, 2017

View Full Weekend Schedule

The Stowe Wine & Food Classic continues as New England’s preeminent culinary event and the signature event of Stowe Charities, Inc.  It is an elevated beverage and culinary experience designed to heighten the senses.

Guests enjoy an all-inclusive afternoon of wine tasting along with artisan spirits and craft beer for one ticket price. Early Bird is $65 and Day-Of pricing is $75.  Distinctive food pairings from leading Vermont chefs and mountain views make Stowe Wine & Food Festival Grand Tasting a must-attend event this summer.
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August 2017 - Race to the Top of VermontRun, Bike or Hike to the Top Of Vermont!

Northeast Delta Dental Race To The Top Of Vermont

SUNDAY AUGUST 27th, 2017

Learn more about the event or Register

This event draws as many as 800 hikers, bikers, and runners from across the U.S. and Canada to climb Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak. The course climbs up the historic Mansfield Toll Road, is 4.3 miles in length, and climbs 2564 ft. For some, it’s about speed (how fast can I climb this tough 4.3 course); for others, it’s about testing themselves and enjoying the spectacular views.

Whether you are participating or just coming to cheer, finish your active day with a relaxing, couples-only escape at The Stone Hill Inn.

Book Your Stay


There’s so much to see and do in Stowe, Vermont during the month of August.

We look forward to sharing our beautiful town with you.

 

 

British Invasion – September 18-20 – Stowe. Vermont

car show stowe vermont

September 18-20

A celebration of all things British

british car show vermontYes, Linda can still be seen around Stowe and the neighboring communities in this lovely 2000 Jaguar S-Type (This is the car but not the license plate. )

And like last year, we are not going to challenge the other Jags for the Concours d’Elegance prize – highest degree of authenticity when compared to the original vehicle when it was new, just off the assembly line. (Turns out, we’re one year short of meeting the requirement of being older than 15 years. Maybe next year?)

The Concours d’Elegance system will be based on a 100-point system, similar to the Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) judging rules. Criteria for judging includes mechanical operation, paint, interior, woodworking, undercarriage, chrome, engine compartment, and authenticity. A minimum of 90 points is required for 1st place, 85 for 2nd place and 75 for 3rd place. In case of a tie score, multiple awards will be presented. All entrants will receive participation ribbons. So, we’ll keep the Jag safe and warm in our Stone Hill Inn garage this winter so it might have a chance to compete with the coming of next year’s fall season.

NEW LOCATION for 2014 The British Invasion will take place on the Stowe Events Field 1/4 mile north of Stowe village just off Route 108 on Weeks Hill Road.

In addition to the Concours d’Elegance there is another car show at the British Invasion: People’s Choice . Over sixty classes of motorcars compete, everything from humble Mini Coopers to stately Rolls Royces. Enjoy British food, shops, and unique British gifts commemorating this highly anticipated event!

EVENTS

british invasion car show vermontEvents include a Notch Run Driving Tour, Tailgate Picnic Competition, British Pub, British Car Corral and much more.

British Invasion Block Party! Friday, September 19, 2014 | 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. This kick-off event for the British Invasion is a don’t miss event for visitors and locals. Dance to the music of Joey Leone’s Chop Shop and enjoy classic British motorcars all along Main Street, (which will be closed off) while enjoying local food and brews.

 

British Market Place & Auto Jumble– Friday noon to Sunday A collection of British Companies and vendors selling British, and British like products and services. Hard to find car spares, motoring accessories, motoring teddy bears, British candy, Regalia, Barbour jackets, and more.

 

British Car Corral – Friday noon to Sunday An opportunity to buy or sell a British Motor Car or Motorcycle. “For Sale” signs are NOT allowed on the show field. You may place a car for sale in the Car Corral. but in so doing, it cannot compete for honors on the show field.

 

Tailgate Picnic Competition– Sunday A display of creativity, good food, and things British. This event has become a “Classic” and perhaps one of the best Tailgate Competitions on the East Coast! Awards will be given for “Most Elegant“, “Most Creative“, “Most British“, “Best Costume“, “Best Tasting“, and “Most Humorous“.

British Invasion Car Show

Yes, it will be a wonderful weekend at this year’s British Invasion – apparently the 25th year for this event which is rumored to have begun in 1990. Once again we shall host at least one of the Concours d’Elegance judges and we shall, of course, have lots of Iced Tea each day for guests of our Stowe bed and breakfast!

Scrumptious Parfait :: Easy Breakfast Recipe

Parfaits for breakfast? It sounds like it must be sweet. It is, but it’s full of fruit, tastes wonderfully, and it’s a fun, fresh beginning to breakfast.

This recipe combines two different recipes: one for a Zabaglione (from the Bauli Recipe Book); another for curried fruit (from the Much Ado About Food – A Guthrie Theater Cookbook).

First, you must make the curried fruit.
Ingredients:
• 2 ¼ cups peach halves, drained
• 2 ¼ cups pear halves, drained
• 2 ¼ cups apricot halves, drained
• 1 ½ cups pineapple chunks
• 1 fresh orange peeled and sectioned
• ¾ cup toasted slivered almonds
• ¼ cup sugar
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• T tsp. curry powder
Mixing:
• Drain fruit and pat dry between paper towels.
• Arrange fruits and nuts in 1 ½ to 2 qt. baking dish.
• Melt butter, brown sugar and curry.
• Mix well and pour over fruit and nuts.
• Bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour.

While the fruit is cooking, make the Zabaglione. (Note the completed Curried Fruit in the background)

20150723_061408

Ingredients:
• 6 large egg yolks
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup Prosecco (can be omitted)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ¾ cup heavy cream whipped
• 3-4 cups of Panettone (we’ve used extra muffins that are cubed – ½ half inch)

Mixing:
• In a large mixing bowl whisk the egg yolks and sugar until fluffy and pale yellow in color.
• Add the Prosecco and whisk until well blended.
• Transfer the mixture to the top of a double boiler, place over simmering warer and whisk constantly until the mixture is quite thick and heavily coats a spoon.
• Don’t let the mixture come to a boil or the eggs will curdle.
• Immediately transfer to a large mixing bowl and whisk in the vanilla.
• Refrigerate the zabaglione until completely cool.
• Fold in the whipped cream and chill until serving.

20150723_061539

Assembly:

• To assemble the parfaits, you will need 6 tall glasses. (We prefer the ones you see above)
• Spoon about 2 heaping tablespoons of the zabaglione into the bottom of each glass.
• Top with a thick layer of the Panettone cubes, using about ¼ to 1/3 cup
• Add two heaping tablespoons of the curried fruit
• Layer more zabaglione, Pannettone and fruit.

20150723_061622

• Finish with one last pour of the zabaglione.
• If you have time (we didn’t) cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a couple of hour before serving.
• Also, if you like, top the chilled parfaits with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of almonds and fresh mint.

Serving:

Normally, we, at Stone Hill Inn, have a separate fruit course, fresh baked goods, yogurt and home-made granola as a starter for breakfast. We used this dish as a substitute for all of them!
The finished product…we didn’t bother with the whipped cream – it’s already plenty tasty!! (six servings):

Finished product -- six servings!

Finished product — six servings!

Summer in Stowe – Exciting Festivals & Events!

B3 Fest: Bikes, Bevs & Beats

FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY June 26, 27, and 28!

A celebration of Vermont Mountain Biking!

Vermont Mountain Biking

Featuring Vermont music, Vermont craft libations (beers, wines, spirits, ciders, root beer), and a celebration of Vermont mountain biking.

This is a town-wide event, with restaurants serving as the venues!

Area bike shops are hosting mountain bike group rides in town for the B3 Fest weekend, which will start and end at participating B3 Fest venues.

B3 Fest Kick-Off Party Friday, 4:30 downtown Stowe Village! Music, food and drink tastings from vendors including Alchemist, Green Mountain Distillers, Trapps Brewery, Crop Brewery, Stowe Cider, Sage Farm Goat Dairy, Mt. Mansfield Creamery and others. Beer, Wine, Spirits, & Cider Promos!

 

All weekend at Bikes, Bevs & Beats:

  • Guided Group Mountain Bike Rides!
  • Free Beginner Mountain Bike Lessons!
  • 10 different restaurants participating
  • Kids Rides + Free Popsicles!
  • Pool parties & bouncey houses!
  • BBQ’s, races & mini-golf!

 

Mary Chapin Carpenter:  July 2, 2015; 7:00pm  

Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center

Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center

Stone Hill Inn currently includes the Mary Chapin Carpenter as its latest Evenings! promotion.  (Two-night stay, tickets to the concert, and $50 off dinner before or after the show at Phoenix Table and Bar.  Click here for our website.)  Over the course of her acclaimed career, Mary Chapin Carpenter has recorded 13 albums and sold over 13 million records. With hits like “Passionate Kisses” and “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her,” she has won five Grammy Awards (with 15 nominations,) two CMA awards and was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2012. Her songs speak to the most personal of life’s details and the most universal. She will perform in Stowe with her trio. Tickets: Prices start at $20. $45 & $55 regular, $65 premium.

 

Stowe Music in the Meadow:

Open air concerts  — bring your own chair! July 5th and July 12th

A long running tradition in Stowe, Vermont, the Music in the Meadow Concert Series is a favourite among both visitors and residents.

Stowe Performing Arts had its first concert in Whisker’s field back in 1976—this perennial summer series eventually became known as the Music in the Meadow concerts.

To audiences’ delight, The Trapp Family Lodge Meadow acts as a natural amphitheatre allowing concert performances to clearly project over the greens. The front half of the meadow is for blankets and low-back chairs and the rest is “picnic-style” on a “first-come, first-served basis”.

July 5th  Vermont Symphony Orchestra;  7:30pm

As if a summer’s evening in Vermont weren’t magical enough already…the VSO conjures up a dreamscape of enchantment. Wizards, witches, and trolls, oh my! Our musical sorcery spirits you to Middle Earth—and then safely back to your picnic spread. As always, concerts conclude with the spectacular 1812 Overture, marches, and fireworks.  $30 in advance; $35 at the gate.

Vermont Symphony Orchestra

July 12th A Far Cry

Founded in 2007 by a tightly-knit collective of 17 young professional musicians, Grammy-nominated A Far Cry stands at the forefront of an exciting new generation in classical music.  Take a look/listen!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUmxHXsxsug

According to The New York Times, the self-conducted orchestra “brims with personality or, better, personalities, many and varied.” A Far Cry was founded in 2007 by a tightly-knit collective of 17 young professional musicians, and since the beginning has fostered those personalities. By expanding the boundaries of orchestral repertoire and experimenting with the ways music is prepared, performed, and experienced, A Far Cry has been embraced throughout the world with hundreds performances coast to coast and across the globe.  $30 in advance; $35 at the gate.

 

Hot Air Balloon Festival. July 10-12, 2015

This 29th annual celebration will include live entertainment, delicious food, a beer and wine garden, hot-air balloon rides priced at $275 per person, plus tax — advanced reservations are recommended. Tethered rides on the hot-air balloons may be available for $10 per person

Festival Agenda:

FRIDAY, JULY 10th

  • 4:00 pm: Gates Open
  • Children’s Activities Begin
  • Food, Beer & Wine Tent Opens
  • Gift Shops Open
  • Spa Tent Open for Chair Massage & Facials
  • 5:00 pm: Live Music Begins
  • 7:00 pm: Approximate Time for Sunset Launch!

SATURDAY, JULY 11th

  • 6:30 am: Approximate Time for Sunrise Launch
  • 4:00 pm: Gates Open
  • Food, Beer & Wine Tent Opens
  • Gift Shops Open
  • Spa Tent; Open for Chair Massage & Facials
  • 5:00 pm: Live Music Begins
  • 7:00 pm: Approximate Time for Sunset Launch!

SUNDAY, JULY 12th

  • 6:30 am: Approximate Time for Sunrise Launch

The Stowe You Didn’t Know :: Summer in Stowe, VT

Growing up as a Marylander, my exposure to Alpine skiing was limited to ABC’s Wide World of Sports with Jim McKay.  Scarce, however, would be a New England childhood without first-hand exposure to Alpine skiing.  And the name they invariably associate with the best New England skiing would be Stowe.  Even Stone Hill Inn guests who have been neither to Stowe nor Vermont, clearly associate Stowe with what it is best known for, skiing.  They assume that Winter must be our busiest season.

This is the Stowe that we all know.

So, the vast majority of nearly a million visitors that come annually to Stowe come in the Winter.  Right?

Wrong!

This is the Stowe you didn’t know.

Summer in Stowe, VT is by far the season that receives the most visitors!  Eh?  Why is that?

  • Southern New Englanders along with those from PA, NJ, and DC seeking relief from heat and humidity are impressed when a hot day in Stowe is only 89 degrees with much more moderate humidity.
  • For a town of only 5,000 permanent residents, it has over 50 restaurants and supports dozens of lodging establishments representing a wide degree of sophistication and price.
  • Stowe is a strong supporter of the Farm to Table culinary movement and guests often praise the freshness and taste of its food, both at Stone Hill and at the local restaurants.
  • As we mentioned in a previous blog, the Stowe area represents one of the most heralded centers for craft beer production in the U.S.
  • Unspoiled is the word often associated with Vermont and its 300,000 acres of state-owned forests. Stowe, by itself, has 53,000 acres of beautiful forests for enjoyment via the C.C. Putnam and Mt. Mansfield State Forests.

Summer in Stowe VT

But most of all, the reason for Stowe’s summer popularity is that it represents a summer full of fun things to do in Stowe, VT.  We are familiar with all of them and can make reservations for you before you ever arrive.  Some of these include:

  • Ballooning – a 45-minute ride gives you a spectacular view of Lake Champlain, the Adirondacks, and Stowe’s nationally known ski area — mountains Mansfield and Spruce.
  • We’re members of the Stowe Mountain Bike club and have access to maps and suggestions for how you can enjoy the nearly 70 miles of single-track mountain bike trails.  In the third annual Vermont Rider’s Choice Awards, Stowe received three of the 11 awards including The Trail with The Most Flow.  Stone Hill Inn has hoses for bike cleaning and four garages to secure your bikes for you.
  • We’re also members of the Green Mountain Club, keepers of the lauded Long Trail that runs the length of Vermont.  We can provide suggestions for easy, moderate, and more difficult hikes/climbs, and we have maps to help you explore and get the most from your experience.  If you like, we can arrange for local guides – experts in the area and techniques – to accompany you.
  • White water canoeing. Try your hand at a guided Upper Gorge River Challenge in a canoe with Class I and II rapids.  It’s a six-mile trip through stunning scenery and rock formations on the Winooski River.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing by yourself. Most of the local rivers are very tranquil yet offer beautiful views and a sense of peace for two or more hours.  Book directly through Umiak Outdoor Outfitters or Vermont Canoe and Kayak.
  • Yes, even in the summer – it’s on wheels!  We love the Eden Mills location and its natural beauty, and you’ll love the dogs and this memory-laden adventure.
  • Just 15 minutes away from us and you will spend 2.5 to 3.0 hours on eight different zip lines, two bridges, and two easy rappels!  Complete fun for all ages.
  • Well, you probably figured there would be golf in Stowe, and there is via the Stowe CC (public; a mile from Stone Hill – 6300 yards) and the Vermont CC (about 20 minutes away, longer and tougher).  We list them because we like to play golf ourselves!

Canoeing in Vermont

So that’s a sample of The Stowe You Didn’t Know and all the things to do in Stowe, VT during the summer that has made it more popular than Winter in Stowe! 

We look forward to hosting you!

2014 British Invasion Car Show : September 19th-21st

British Invasion Stowe VT

It was Christmas 15 years ago.  We had just purchased a new home within the past year, everyone was employed, and we were British Invasion Stowe VTlooking forward to its second Christmas.  Our current car was seriously old and becoming more expensive with each 1000 miles.  Somehow a picture of a new car that we had never seen slipped across Linda’s desk producing an immediate plea from Linda to swap old for new!  Of course the price was problematic.

The car was absolutely lovely. Even I liked it (all except the price.) Christmas was coming so I, like all males, continued to protest the price and the frivolousness of such a purchase while quietly considering the possibility and looking for a solution.   So, Christmas morning Linda’s brother – on cue – drove the new car down our driveway wrapped with a huge red ribbon and bow on top.  Linda vaulted out the front door in robe and slippers to view the car you see below – a 2000 Jaguar S Type – the first of its kind in the US.  Built in Birmingham, England and designed by Geoff Lawson, the key designer for Jaguar.  We still have this car and Linda still drives it to Shaw’s grocery store to get Yogurt, fresh fruit, and dozens of other ingredients for those fabulous breakfasts she designs at our charming Stowe bed and breakfast.

 

British Invasion Car Show So, this September 19-21, 2014, you are likely to find us attending and reviewing many of the entries into the 24th annual Stowe British Invasion car show.  This is North America’s largest British Classic Sports Car and Motorcycle Event!  Its mission is to provide a “Three Day Celebration and Salutation to the Great British Motorcar and all manner of other things British.”  It includes participants primarily from the US and Canada with over 600 cars on field, and approximately 1000 total.

 

The 24th annual Stowe British Invasion Car Show:

Registrant’s Reception– Friday 5-7pm
The official kick-off reception for this year’s British Invasion is to be held under the tent at the STOWE EVENTS FIELD. This event is open to all Pre-Registered participants in the British Invasion Weekend, Car owners and Vendors alike.

Stowe Main Street Party– Friday 6:30-9:30pm
Come and join the celebration of things British as Main Street will be awash with people in a festive mood and, of course, lots of British Motorcars.  Enjoy live music, food, and beverage service.  The local shops and restaurants will also remain open.  Main Street will be closed to through traffic and reserved for British Motorcar parking on Friday evening.

Concours d’Elegance– Judging on Saturday
The Concours d’Elegance is a “Judged” competition that attracts exceptional show cars.  Requirements: must be British, over 15 years old, and may NOT be replicas. Judging of entrants in the Concours d’Elegance competition will be based on a 100-point system, similar to the Classic Car Club of America (CCCA) judging rules. Criteria for judging includes mechanical operation, paint, interior, woodworking, undercarriage, chrome, engine compartment, and authenticity. A minimum of 90 points is required for 1st place, 85 for 2nd place and 75 for 3rd place. In case of a tie score, multiple awards will be presented. All entrants will receive participation ribbons.The Concours d’Elegance is a pre-registered ONLY event.

 

British Pub Saturday & SundayBritish Invasion Car Show Vermont

Our British Pub will be open to present fine English ales, wine and perhaps a mixed drink or two.

Tailgate Picnic Competition- Sunday

A display of creativity, good food, and things British. This event has become a “Classic” and perhaps one of the best Tailgate Competitions on the East Coast! Awards will be given for “Most Elegant”, “Most Creative”, “Most British”, “Best Costume”, “Best Tasting”, and “Most Humorous”.

 

British Market Place & Auto Jumble– Friday noon to Sunday
A collection of British Companies and vendors selling British, and British like products and services. Hard to find car spares, motoring accessories, motoring teddy bears, British candy, Regalia, Barbour jackets, and more.

British Car Corral – Friday noon to Sunday
An opportunity to buy or sell a British Motor Car or Motorcycle.

Come join us at the show.  One of the judges of the Concours d’Elegance will be staying at the Stone Hill Inn with us!