There’s something magical about waking up in our four-bedroom Airbnb nestled in the heart of Winhall, Vermont, just a stone’s throw from Stratton Mountain. The air is crisp, the quiet is profound, and the promise of a day spent with friends or family in this cozy mountain escape feels like a gift. Let me take you through a day here—because if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to pack your bags and join us by the time you’re done reading.
Morning: Coffee with a View
The day starts slow, the best kind of slow. I shuffle out to the deck with a steaming mug of coffee in hand, the kind you brew in your fully equipped kitchen with beans you grabbed locally from Ungrounded Coffee Roasters. The mountain air nips at my cheeks, but the view—oh, the view—makes it worth it. Stratton Mountain looms in the distance, its slopes already buzzing with early risers carving their first turns. The kids (or maybe my friends who never grew up) are still rubbing sleep from their eyes, but I can hear them stirring inside, lured by the scent of coffee and the promise of pancakes. We gather on the deck, blankets draped over shoulders, swapping stories from the drive up or laughing about who snores the loudest in your four spacious bedrooms. It’s these moments—unrushed, together—that make this retreat feel like home.
Midday: Adventure on the Slopes or Beyond
By mid-morning, we’re ready to dive into the day. If it’s winter—and it so often is here—Stratton Mountain is your playground, just minutes away. We pile into the car (fully charged thanks to the EV charger in the garage) and hit the slopes. Stratton’s got something for everyone: gentle runs for the beginners in your crew, heart-pumping blacks for the daredevils, and a cozy lodge for those who’d rather sip hot cocoa and cheer from the sidelines. If we’re feeling adventurous, we might mix it up—Bromley’s sun-soaked trails, Magic Mountain’s old-school charm, or Okemo’s family-friendly vibe are all within reach, each offering its own slice of Vermont winter magic.
Not a skier? No problem. Some days, we trade the lifts for a snowshoe trek through the woods nearby, the crunch of snow underfoot and the chatter of my crew filling the silence. Or we’ll head into town, browsing the shops or grabbing a quick bite, always with that easy camaraderie that comes from being away together.
Afternoon: Farm-Fresh Cooking and Hot Tub Chats
After a morning of fun, we swing by Dutton Berry Farm, a local gem just down the road. The kids (or, let’s be honest, my foodie sister) insist on picking out the freshest produce—maybe some crisp apples, hearty root veggies, or whatever’s in season. Back at the retreat, the kitchen becomes your hub. It’s got everything—All Clad pots and pans, a big island for prepping—and we turn it into a family affair. Someone’s chopping carrots, someone’s stirring a pot, and I’m probably sneaking a taste while pretending to supervise. The smell of a home-cooked meal fills the air as we debate who gets credit for the recipe. We sit around the dining table, plates piled high, trading stories from the day and planning tomorrow’s adventures.
Post-dinner, the hot tub calls. There’s nothing like sinking into that bubbling warmth, mountains framing the night sky, while my best friend recounts a wipeout on the slopes or my niece giggles about building her first snowman. It’s loud, it’s messy, it’s us—and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Evening: Winding Down in Comfort
As the night settles in, we sprawl out in the living room—some of us nursing sore muscles from skiing, others just happy to be off their feet. The home gym downstairs tempts the fitness buffs (not me, I’ll admit), but most of us opt for board games or a movie, the kind of night where you lose track of time because you’re too busy laughing. The four bedrooms mean everyone gets their own space—king beds, cozy quilts, plenty of room to stretch out after a day of fun. I peek in on the kids (or my brother, who’s already snoring), and I can’t help but smile. This place has a way of bringing us closer, even when we’re spread out across its sprawling layout.
Why Here? Why Us?
Our Vermont mountain retreat isn’t just a house—it’s where memories happen. Whether it’s the thrill of the slopes, the quiet of a snowy morning, or the chaos of a kitchen full of people I love, it’s a place that fits us. With the hot tub to unwind, the gym to keep up (if you’re into that), and an EV charger for the eco-conscious, it’s got all the touches to make your stay easy and special. So come on up—bring your crew, your stories, your appetite for adventure. We’ve got the coffee brewing and the mountains waiting.
