The Waitsfield Farmers Market is only around 10 minutes from the West Hill House Bed and Breakfast, too, which makes it an easy place to spend some time browsing, and maybe even picking up supplies for a picnic later in the day. We’d be happy to recommend some places for your afternoon picnic, too! 

When you stay at our Vermont Bed and Breakfast, you’ll not only enjoy personalized recommendations for your time in the Mad River Valley, but you’ll enjoy our exceptional hospitality, comfortable accommodations, and relaxed country atmosphere. Are you ready to travel this summer?  Book your room at our Vermont Bed and Breakfast today!

Browse the Waitsfield Farmers Market This Summer

If there’s one thing farmers markets do well, it’s bringing a creating a sense of community and connecting growers, artisans, and visitors. They also serve as a vital way for local artisans to proudly display and sell their goods and services. At the Waitsfield Farmers Market, you’ll find exactly this: a charming way to connect with local producers and artisans and to support their businesses!

The Waitsfield Farmers Market is one of the best farmers markets around, and it’s located just 10 minutes away in the nearby town of Waitsfield. It’s held every Saturday from 9 am – 1 pm from May – October, and is the perfect place to get a little taste of Vermont’s local flavor. The Waitsfield Farmers Market has been a community gathering place since its inception in 1993, and is on our list of “must-do” activities in the Mad River Valley. 

The Waitsfield Farmers Market is an outdoor market, held on the Mad River Green in Waitsfield.  There are more than 50 vendors that visit this market every week. With fresh-baked foods, plenty of prepared foods, and an abundance of local produce, it’s a great place to pick up supplies for a picnic later that afternoon.  There is also live entertainment every week at the Waitsfield Farmers Market. Don’t forget to pick up a range of local goodies to take home with you!

Shop Local on the Vermont Cheese Trail, too!

As great as the Waitsfield Farmers Market is, we can’t talk about the many artisans and producers in Vermont without also mentioning the Vermont Cheese Trail.  The Vermont Cheese Trail is a 240-mile loop encompassing some 45 artisanal cheesemakers, many of whom are open to the public for tours and tastings.  There are quite a few within an hours’ drive of our Vermont Bed and Breakfast, too!

There’s an incredible variety of cheese products made in Vermont. More than 150 different varieties of cheese, to be specific! Here are 5 places near us that you won’t want to miss.

1. Head south and you’ll find Billings Farm and Museum, where they offer an interesting look at Vermont’s rural past in their museum, along with tastings of their delicious cheeses. 
2. The Vermont Farmstead Cheese Co. Market is a great place to pick up a variety of cheeses from local farms and artisans in one quick stop. 
3. Plymouth Artisan Cheese is the second older cheese factory in the United States. They’ve been in the cheese business for more than 125 years! 
4. Another great place to sample a lot of Vermont Cheese is The Mad River Taste Place. This local retail store is focused on local, artisan food and drinks, and including a delightful selection of 100+ Vermont Cheese artisans. 
5. Pick up a variety of delicious Cabot Cheese at their Farmer’s store in Waterbury (hopefully opening again in the summer of 2021).

We’re also happy to help you plan a covered bridge and culinary tour of Vermont, which will include stops at Ben and Jerry’s, apple cider and cider doughnuts at Cold Hollow Cider Mill, a mouth-watering variety of treats at Champlain Chocolates, a visit to Montpelier, our state capital, as well as a few of Vermont’s covered bridges and other attractions for a little added fun.

There’s so much to do in the Mad River Valley this summer, and it starts with a visit to the Waitsfield Farmers Market.  We’d love to be your host and to help you make the most of your time here!  Book a room at our Vermont Bed and Breakfast today!

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Mountain biking in Vermont is as fun as it is exhausting.  You’ll need a place to recoup after a day on the trails!  There’s nowhere better for that than our Bed and Breakfast, the West Hill House B&B.  We’re located in the town of Warren, Vermont, in the beautiful Green Mountains, just minutes from Sugarbush Resort. We offer 9 peaceful acres to enjoy, plenty of places to put your feet up when you’re ready, and even some safe indoor storage for your bikes!  What are you waiting for? Book your room now, and let’s plan an adventure!

The Best Mountain Biking in Vermont

If tackling wild twists and turns on two wheels is your passion, then mountain biking in Vermont is your veritable paradise. Below are a few of the most popular trails and routes you can ride along to have your heart pounding with excitement, but know there are many miles more of incredible mountain biking trails in the Mad River Valley.  We’d be happy to recommend a few for you during your visit, too!

Sugarbush Resort

Sugarbush Resort, just minutes from the West Hill House B&B, is an excellent place for some lift-served downhill mountain biking in Vermont. There are 28 trails and if you are not familiar with the Sugarbush terrain or with downhill biking you can book a guide. This season, downhill biking will be open Thursday – Sunday, starting June 26th.  Rentals will be available if needed.  If you’d rather not zip down hills, there is also plenty of trail biking available at the resort and for those not venturing on two wheels, there is also disc golf.

Blueberry Lake Loop

The Blueberry Lake Loop Mountain Biking Trail, located right here in Warren VT, is perfect for beginners and less advanced intermediate riders to try out a bit of mountain biking in Vermont.  It’s a fully single-track loop and a great place to experience the fun of mountain biking without all the usual roots and rocks that can make for trickier riding. Completely within the National Forest, views of Blueberry Lake abound. To help plan your riding, route maps are available on line.

Mad River Riders

The Mad River Riders, a local biking group, has worked through extensive public and private partnerships to create nearly 60 miles of mountain biking trails right here in the Mad River Valley of Vermont. The Mad River Riders develop and steward year-round sustainable trails for biking, hiking, skiing and snowshoeing, and there is free access for everyone. Find all of their mountain biking trails and descriptions here and maps of the trail network are available for purchase at our B&B. Some of the most popular trails in the area include Eurich Pond, Chase Brook Town Forest, and the Camel’s Hump and Phen Basin State Forests.

The Mad River Riders have also put together a comprehensive guide to road biking in the area. The mountain roads in the area are absolutely made for cycling, and is just one more reason the Mad River Valley is one of the best places to enjoy a bit of mountain biking in Vermont!

Rochester Mountain Bike Trails

About 30 minutes south of Warren are extensive mountain biking trails in and around the town of Rochester, mainly in the Green Mountain National Forest. In addition I DIG VT has details on nine varied trails for you to explore in the same area.

Cool Fact

Not only are there an abundance of mountain biking trails in the Mad River Valley, there are also two great bike shops, Stark Mountain Bike Works, a full service bicycle shop and Fix Wert which offers appointment based bike fittings, sales and service. Mountain biking in Vermont, we’ve got you covered from sales to trails!

The Best Vermont Bed and Breakfast

Mountain biking in Vermont is one of the great summer thrills to be found here in the Mad River Valley. However, for you to be able to enjoy your biking adventures to their fullest, you’ll need a place to relax and rest your tired body at the end of the day! West Hill House B&B is nestled in the green mountains of Vermont and offers guests a comfortable place to relax. We’re surrounded by beautiful views, quiet gardens, and access to some of the best activities in the area.

There are 9 distinctive guest rooms all with en-suite bathrooms that feature a jetted tub or a steam shower. All beds are fitted with queens, twins, or king-sized memory foams – and we’re frequently told by guests just how amazingly comfortable they are. For extra comfort, the rooms offer extensive amenities such as air conditioning for the summer months. In addition to that, we’ll fuel you up for your adventure each morning with a delicious 3-course breakfast that will please your tastebuds.

The spirit of adventure is alive at West Hill House B&B, and guests will always find new things to do at each turn. This summer, roam miles of mountain biking trails while enjoying a getaway in beautiful Vermont. Book your room with us before it’s too late!

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During the summer months, you certainly won’t run out of things to do. However, when you’re not busy exploring the valley, our Vermont Bed and Breakfast offers you an unparalleled opportunity to relax and unwind in the quiet countryside. We offer our guests a warm welcome, personalized concierge service, luxurious guest rooms, and plenty of amenities throughout the duration of your stay.  You won’t find better lodging in the incredible Mad River Valley.  Book your room with us today, and come explore with us this summer!

The Best Lodging in the Mad River Valley

Nestled in the quaint town of Warren, Vermont is West Hill House Bed and Breakfast, the finest choice for lodging in the Mad River Valley. Our Inn is nestled in the foothills of the stunning Green Mountains and offers 9 acres of beautiful seasonal gardens, meadows and forest. We’re just minutes from Sugarbush Resort, too, where you’ll find golfing and other fun activities.

Inside our 160-year old Bed and Breakfast in the Mad River Valley, you’ll find nine exclusive guest rooms, each with private en-suite bathrooms. In the bathrooms, you’ll find either indulgent steam showers or jetted tubs, and in the rooms will be the most comfortable beds you’ve ever slept in. Your stay comes with a host of complimentary amenities, including individually controlled air conditioning for the coming summer months.

Each morning of your stay, you’ll awaken to the mouthwatering smells of breakfast being made fresh for you, from scratch in our kitchen by your host, Susan. Our sumptuous three-course breakfast starts with fruit juice, homemade breads or muffins, and a specially prepared fruit dish, followed by a tantalizing hot entrée. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and homemade treats are always available throughout the day, too.

In the afternoons, we also offer wine by the bottle as well as by the glass, and a selection of Vermont beers. We also have champagnes, both French and domestic. In addition to this, we have our unique Quaich Single Malt Scotch bar, and would love to share a bit of this Scottish history and tradition with you!

Things to do in the Mad River Valley This Summer

While you’re staying at our Mad River Valley Bed and Breakfast, you’re free to fill your days with as much or as little activity as you want.  We love sharing our little slice of the valley with our guests and are happy to offer personalized concierge service both before and during your trip.  It’s our goal to help you enjoy the very best of this incredible area – and there is a lot to share!  You can find more information about our favorite things to do in the Mad River Valley during the summer here, but below are a few of our top suggestions.

1. On a warm day, what better way to cool off than to hit the water? Grab a paddle and kayak or canoe (or float!) your way along the Winooski or Mad Rivers. We work closely with local outfitter Clearwater Sports, and have built the perfect Kayak Tour for you!
2. Get outside for some incredible hiking.  It’s a great way to enjoy a bit of exercise while on vacation, but you’ll also be rewarded with exquisite views of the Mad River Valley.  The Vermont Long Trail passes a short drive from our Inn, and we’d be happy to recommend a hike or two while you’re here staying at our Mad River Valley Bed and Breakfast.
3. A must-visit event in Vermont during summer is the Farmers’ Market in neighboring Waitsfield, which takes place every Saturday morning, May to October. It’s a great place to pick up fresh produce and goodies for a picnic lunch, along with plenty of artisan goods to take home.
4. Enjoy some golf at the neighboring Sugarbush Resort. They also offer scenic lift rides and downhill mountain biking, and more throughout the summer.
5. During summer, Mad River Valley Arts puts together a wonderful variety of art events and activities. Some of our favorites include the Green Mountain Watercolor Exhibition, the Valley Garden Tour, and the Green Mountain Photo Show. It’s looking to be a promising summer of art after a break in 2020.

After all these activities, you will definitely need to relax your body by enjoying a glass of wine, beer, or scotch with us, while putting your feet up on our patio or one of the many tranquil spots around our yard & Inn.  Summer is waiting!  Plans your stay at our Mad River Valley Bed and Breakfast today!

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As great as the Mad River Valley is, visiting here is nothing without the opportunity to stay at our Bed and Breakfast. West Hill House B&B, a premier inn located in Warren, Vermont, offers you the very finest in accommodations, with easy access to the best of the valley. The historic family farmhouse was built in the 1850s and today offers warm hospitality and fabulous food. So if you’re wondering if a summer trip to Vermont is worth it, take a look at all the things you can do, and then book a room at the best Mad River Valley lodging there is!

What to do in the Mad River Valley This Summer

There are so many activities in the Mad River Valley, and we’d truly love to help you enjoy the best of it.  From helping you find the best trails to booking your reservations at the area’s top restaurants, we’re happy to help you create the perfect trip itinerary.  We have quite a few trip ideas available to you on our website, but we’ve included a few of our favorite ways to enjoy the Mad River Valley below.

Enjoy Nature

One of our favorite ways to enjoy the Mad River Valley is to hit the trails.  Whether hiking, biking, or even by water, the scenery of the Mad River Valley is like nothing else you’ve experienced before.  A perennial favorite is the Long Trail, which is the country’s oldest long-distance trail. It spans 273 miles, with portions of it easily accessible from our Inn.  It’s enough to keep you busy for days, but it’s certainly not the only great trail worth exploring!

If you need to cool off, you can head to one of the area’s swimming holes – there are many of them along the Mad River. You can also meander along the Mad River to see covered bridges or we can help you arrange a kayaking or tubing adventure. Those looking for an adventure in the skies can check out an adventure package that allows them to take in the scenery from about in a piloted glider.  This is especially magical during the fall!

Get Creative

If you’re looking for a break from nature, there are plenty of ways to embrace your creativity and artistic spirit around the Mad River Valley.  To start, head to the Mad River Glass Gallery, whose incredible artworks have been shown throughout the U.S. You could also try your hand at glassblowing, with a class at Salt and Sand Studios. Make a paperweight or Christmas ornament with professional glassblowers and then unwind with a yoga class. If you’re into fiber arts, head to the Mad River Fiber Arts and Mill to see how wool gets turned into yarn. 

Throughout the summer, Mad River Valley Arts hosts several fascinating events and art shows. Some of our favorites include the Green Mountain Watercolor Exhibition, the Valley Garden Tour, and the Green Mountain Photo Show. All the indications are that after a hiatus in 2020 the many and varied arts events should be able to proceed this year.

Eat Like a Local

We have a delicious and freshly prepared breakfast ready for you each morning at our Mad River Valley Bed and Breakfast – but when it comes to lunch and dinner, we have plenty of recommendations.  We know part of the fun of vacations is eating like a local, and getting to know the local flavors and specialties.  There are plenty of unique opportunities to enjoy good food in the area, and we’re happy to help!

Cheese lovers won’t want to miss a Vermont Cheese Tour. We provide a list of potential cheesemakers to visit and you can plan your own outing. It should include a delicious stop at the Mad River Taste Place in Waitsfield, which stocks a large variety of Vermont’s artisan cheeses. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more than cheese – including a tasty treat at the world-famous Ben & Jerry’s, then try our Covered Bridges & Culinary Tour.  This itinerary includes a stop at places like Cold Hollow Cider Mill, which serves up the area’s best cider. Sit outside and take in great mountain views while enjoying a variety of unique ciders. 

In addition to these tours, we’ve taken the time to include a broad range of our favorite restaurants in the area.  Almost all the restaurants will be open again this summer for inside and outside dining.  We stay on top of the latest developments in the area, so we’re always prepared to help you make the most of your time here. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask us questions.

Where to stay in the Mad River Valley

After you’re done with your adventures for the day, you’ll want to unwind in a relaxing environment and for that, West Hill House B&B is a perfect choice. The B&B is nestled in the beauty of Vermont’s Green Mountains and surrounded by several acres of seasonal gardens and plenty of places for relaxation.  This is what country getaways to Vermont are all about!

Each morning, you’ll start your day with a three-course breakfast complete with homemade bread, fruit dishes, and hot entrées. No matter what adventure you choose during the day, central Vermont has something to offer everyone. Reward yourself with a great trip this summer, and book your room at the best lodging in the Mad River Valley.

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For the rest of your time in the Mad River Valley, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including a variety of itineraries and local attractions. Go to bed each night at our warm, inviting Vermont Bed and Breakfast, and wake up to a delicious breakfast each morning – the perfect fuel for your day ahead.  There’s nothing better than a few restful days in the quiet, scenic countryside of Vermont! 

With plentiful vaccinations and pre-testing available, it’s easier than ever to get here and enjoy a bit of rest and relaxation, too.  What are you waiting for?  Book a room at our charming Vermont Bed and Breakfast today!

Make a Trip to Shelburne Vermont This Summer

Shelburne, Vermont, located on the shores of Lake Champlain, is a wonderful place to visit, and not too far away from our Bed and Breakfast in the Mad River Valley!  It’s a beautiful trip to get there, and the scenery is spectacular.  But there’s more to Shelburne than just the scenery – it’s also home to two great attractions:  Shelburne Farm and Shelburne Museum.

Shelburne Farm offers visitors a variety of activities to choose from throughout the year. Whether you visit us for educational or recreational purposes, there’s something for you to enjoy.  The farm itself is located on historic Abenaki land and encompasses an area of 1,400 acres of a working farm and forest.  It’s also a National Historic Landmark. The farm has an on-site dairy, which has been producing delicious cheeses since 1980, as well as a beautiful mixed vegetable garden that supplies the restaurant. 

The Shelburne Farm hosts a variety of events and workshops throughout the year.  Though there are no currently scheduled events due to Covid, we’re hoping to see events pick up as we head into the summer and fall.  While visiting the farm, make sure to take a hike on one (or more) of our beautiful, nature-filled walking trails. The farm manages over 400 acres of forested lands to explore. 

Though the Welcome Center and Farm Store is currently closed to foot traffic, you can order farm products and prepared meals online, which include such delicacies as cheddar, maple syrup, Bread, meat, vegetables, soups, and so much more. It’d be a great place to pick up a picnic lunch before heading out and enjoying the surrounding scenery in Shelburne Vermont! Unfortunately, the farm has made the decision to close their restaurant for the remainder of 2021, not opening again until May of 2022. 

However, the farm-to-table cuisine offered here is so worth the trip, that we think you should consider planning to visit this incredible place again once it opens.  The menu is built around what’s being harvested in our Market Garden and from other Vermont farms on any given day or week, and always includes farm staples like our farmstead cheddar, seasonal lamb and pork, and more.

While you’re visiting the town of Shelburne, Vermont, make time to stop at the equally incredible Shelburne Museum, which focuses on American history, art, and design. It’s the largest art and history museum in New England. Spread throughout its 45 acres of land are 39 buildings, 25 of which are historic and were relocated to the Museum. This includes wonderful attractions like the Shaker design Round Barn, a General Store, a carousel, and the 220-foot sidewheel steamboat Ticonderoga. As you meander the buildings and grounds, you’ll also enjoy 22 distinct and beautiful gardens. 

Inside, you’ll find a variety of changing art exhibits, along with a permanent gallery featuring significant American paintings by artists such as Andrew Wyeth, Winslow Homer, Grandma Moses, John Singleton Copley, and more. The museum plans to open for the season on June 2, 2021.

Stay at the Best Vermont Bed and Breakfast

We love sharing the great state of Vermont with our guests and helping them plan itineraries filled with great memories and experiences. This includes great towns like Shelburne Vermont! There’s such much to do in the Mad River Valley and beyond, and visiting charming places like the Shelburne Farm and Shelburne Museum are just the tip of the iceberg. 

When it comes to great Mad River Valley lodging, there is, of course, no better place to stay than the welcoming and relaxing accommodations at West Hill House B&B.  We offer 9 uniquely appointed guest rooms, exceptional hospitality and concierge service, and breakfast you won’t soon forget.  In the evenings, we also love to unwind with our guests while they can enjoy a selection of wine, beer, and single-malt Scotch!

What really matters when choosing Mad River Valley lodging is experience.  We consider ourselves local experts, and we’re thrilled to share our little slice of paradise with every guest that comes through our doors. The Mad River Valley is waiting for you.  Book your room at our luxury Vermont Bed and Breakfast today!

The post An Afternoon of Fun in Shelburne Vermont This Summer appeared first on West Hill House B&B (Warren, Vermont).

Many covered bridges are painted red

Covered bridges, there’s just something about a covered bridge. Is it the charm, a reminder of an earlier way of life, the architecture? Perhaps all of these and surely more. Whether long, short, painted, unpainted one span or two, windows or solid walls, there is something almost romantic about these structures.

These amazing bridges are an integral part of Vermont life. They add a quaintness and beauty to the landscape. While Vermont does not have the greatest number of covered bridges, there are just over 100 authentic covered bridges, however this gives Vermont the highest number of covered bridges per square mile in the USA.

Here is the story of one Vermont Covered Bridge.

Waterways have always been important in the life of Vermonters.  Historically they provided a means of food, travel, and transport for logs heading downstream to mills. Later, waterways provided a source of power for early manufacturing. Today waterways provide recreation for residents and visitors alike.
Bridges to traverse Vermont’s wonderful waterways were developed to enhance the transport of people and goods. Early bridges were simple in structure, usually two parallel logs covered by rough timbers. While addressing the need, winter storms made them slippery and heavy rains raised the waters to flood level, often washing them away. Today these bridges are always a great attraction.

The Burr Truss is one type used in covered bridge construction.

A covered bridge is considered authentic not due to its age, but by its construction.

An authentic covered bridge is constructed using trusses rather than another assembly of beams such as stringers which are a popular choice for non-authentic covered bridges.  Queenpost, Kingpost, Burr Arch and Lattice, to name but a few, are types of covered bridge trusses. It is not unusual for devotees of covered bridge construction to be able to identify the bridge builder by the style of truss.

The Lincoln Gap Bridge, usually referred to by locals as the Warren Covered Bridge, is in the center of Historic Warren Village just south of the Pitcher Inn and the Warren Store and just 2 miles from West Hill House B&B. The 65-foot-long bridge is drivable, walkable, photogenic, and with the proper permission, can be used as a wedding ceremony venue! Built in 1879, the date noted on the bridge, it was opened in 1880, nearly 100 years after the Town of Warren was chartered.

To learn more about Vermont’s covered bridges, Spanning Time: Vermont’s Covered Bridges by Joseph C. Nelson is an excellent resource. In his description of the Lincoln Gap Bridge we learn it is an example of one of only two Queenpost Truss bridges in Vermont, with both the interior and exterior trusses being enclosed. You can see this in the photo.

Covered trusses & repaired supports

Wooden bridges need ongoing maintenance and repairs must be attended to in order that they remain not only safe but a legacy to the builders and the history they represent. Our bridge has had numerous repairs over the years to both the wooden structure and the abutments, in some cases at the cost of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Note the new supports in the Lincoln Gap Bridge.

Lincoln Gap Bridge had the honor of being listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

As you travel through covered bridge country, please be kind to the bridgesTake note of the posted bridge restrictions. Many are limited to one car at a time and all bridges have height restrictions! Every year, despite these posted height restrictions, some goofball tries to drive a delivery truck or RV through the bridge resulting in damage to the bridge – sometimes significant damage.

No Trucks please!

Note Height restriction!

So why are bridges covered? The primary reason was to keep the horses and other animals from seeing the river below and being spooked. The sides and roof also provided protection to the structure and roadway from harsh weather thus making crossing safer and the bridge surface last longer. It also makes an excellent place to walk or drive through with your sweetie and sneak a kiss!

You may enjoy our self-guided Covered Bridge and Culinary Tour while you are staying with us. You will get to see eight of our nearby historic bridges.

The post Vermont- 100 Fantastic Covered Bridges: One Story appeared first on West Hill House B&B (Warren, Vermont).

Travel to Vermont

If you have completed your final vaccination at least two weeks before arriving there are now no restrictions for traveling to our beautiful state.  We’ll just ask you to complete a compliance form to confirm your status.

Even if you are not yet vaccinated, it is now much easier to come. As of April 9th you just need to get a negative COVID-19 test within 3 days before traveling here.

You can read the full details on the Vermont Dept. of Commerce website, which is updated frequently.

Things to enjoy in Vermont

Now is the time to plan your spring, summer, and fall visits. The warmer months offer so many outdoor activities it is hard to list them all.  We made a great effort to show the variety in our recent Things to do in the Mad River Valley This Year blog.

Check out day trips, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, the Farmers’ Market and much more.

You can enjoy special vacation packages as well – for example who doesn’t like to have a bit of luxurious pampering after being confined to home for much of the last year!

Why stay at West Hill House B&B?

We love taking care of our guests. Have a look at our recent reviews on Trip Advisor to see what guests say about us. How’s “Great location, great amenities, helpful owners” for starters! Also despite the relaxation of travel restrictions, we are still doing everything we can to keep everyone safe. You can read all about it in our Back Inn Business blog, and also be further assured that we are part of the Select Registry Select Safe Program.

You can book your stay online or just give us a call at 802-496-7162 – we’d love to talk to you!

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A sculpture of Champ.

May we introduce you to Champ, a Vermont legend. Loch Ness, Scotland has Nessie, Okanagan Lake, British Columbia has Ogopogo and Lake Champlain, Vermont has Champ.

Stories & Legends of Monster Sightings

Tales of cryptid lake monster sightings abound. Drawings of such creatures are common place on ancient maps as well as in legends and folklore but, do these creatures actually exist? There are many different lake monsters or strange land creatures in stories and native legends across North America and more around the world. The big questions is, does Lake Champlain harbor a monster.

Vermont

Lake Champlain is much larger than either Loch Ness or Okanagan Lake. Bordered by New York state to the west,  Vermont to the east,  and Canada to the north, the lake is 125 miles (201km) long, extending north 6 miles (10km) into Quebec.

Lake Champlain, bordering two states and one province, has a vast watershed.

Early History

Our resident monster, Champ has been sighted for as long as people have been in this area. Since the emergence of a lake from the Champlain Sea nearly 10,000 years ago, Native Americans living along the shores of what is now Lake Champlain, have told stories of a mysterious serpentine creature, a “horned serpent”, that lives in the depths of the lake. A possible theory regarding these beliefs centers around Split Rock, in Essex, New York, which features natural rock structures that resemble petrified snakes. There is an interesting article (though truncated) called, Out of the Blue, The Early Memoir of a Sea Monster which is an interesting read.

Modern Sightings of Champ

Modern sightings started in Bulwagga Bay, Port Henry, NY in 1819. This spot remains an excellent place to launch a Champ search. If you are fortunate enough to see Champ, you may be able to place your name on the Big Board of Champ Sightings. Apparently there have been sightings as recently as August 2019.

Since 1819, cryptozoologogical studies of Lake Champlain have been done with the hopes of proving this elusive creature exists but alas, no sign of Champ. “Few cryptozoologists deny the possibility of Champ’s existence,” states W. Haden Blackman in his The Field Guide to North American Monsters (1998), “and many openly accept the creature, believing it to be a plesiosaur, zeuglodon, or other unknown or erstwhile extinct creature.”  (Cryptozoology is a defined as a pseudoscience and a subculture that aims to prove the existence of creatures from legend. Because it does not follow the scientific method, cryptozoology is considered a pseudoscience by mainstream science: it is neither a branch of zoology nor folklore studies. Wikipedia)

Famous 1977 photo of Champ.

Champ seeker Joseph Zarzynski has even given it a name: Beluaaquatica champlainiensis (“huge water creature of Lake Champlain”). This special creature has been labeled as an officially protected species by the governments of Vermont and New York.

If you are interested in a 10 minute presentation on Champ, check out the Mysteries of Chaos and Shadow on YouTube.

Port Henry, New York celebrates Champ’s existence with their annual Champ Day celebration, the first Saturday in August.

Lake Stewardship

Each year the ECHO,  Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, in Burlington, VT, has a Champ Festival. Each day guests enjoy an exploration into the mythology and science behind Champ. Guests are also treated to an ECHO exclusive film called “Champ” which shows the connection between a now famous photograph taken of Champ in 1977 and how it has brought the message of Lake Champlain stewardship to many thousands of people.

If you visit the ECHO,  Shelburne Museum, Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, or are walking along the Burlington Greenway, or taking a look at the Drawbridge on Route 2,  have a look across Lake Champlain. Can you see Champ?

Until proven otherwise, for now, Champ exists on t-shirts, key chains, mugs, books, as well as the mascot of the Vermont Lake Monsters baseball team.

Champ of the baseball logo.

The post Champ: Real or Imagined. A Vermont Legend appeared first on West Hill House B&B (Warren, Vermont).

At the heart of all great getaways to the stunning Mad River Valley are stays at our beautiful and luxurious Vermont Bed and Breakfast. Here, guests will enjoy a relaxing escape in one of our 9 guest rooms, a delicious multi-course breakfast made fresh each morning (along with plenty of treats throughout the day), personalized concierge service, and otherwise unmatched hospitality.  Our property is surrounded by stunning seasonal gardens and the rural beauty that can only be found in Vermont’s Mad River Valley. 

Even though the state has strict guidelines for visitors coming across state borders due to COVID-19, there is some light at the end of the tunnel.  We hope to back to freely welcoming guests to our Vermont Bed and Breakfast soon enough – which means now is a great time to start planning those fabulous getaways for the remainder of the year.  Are you ready?  Book your room at our elegant Vermont Bed and Breakfast today!

Experience The Very Best of the Mad River Valley

It’s an absolute pleasure to live and work in Vermont’s stunning Mad River Valley, and we love nothing more than sharing this love of place with our guests. One of the biggest draws to the area, of course, is the towering Green Mountains that stand behind our Inn.  Not only do they offer great opportunities for skiing in the winter, but they offer endless miles of hiking, biking, and exploring the rest of the year.  

But when you come down from the mountains and into the valley itself, you’ll soon begin to understand why so many people love visiting (and living) here year after year.  It’s a special place filled with vibrant small communities, unparalleled natural beauty, a vibrant community for the arts, great food, and plenty of opportunities for year-round recreation. 

We’ve put together a number of tours and day-trips through the Mad River Valley and beyond, all of which we recommend to our guests.  In addition to that, we’ve put together plenty of seasonal guides and other information to help you plan your upcoming trip to our Vermont Bed and Breakfast.  As you get started planning, we want to share a few of our favorite things to do in the Mad River Valley with you!

1. Take our Col & Waterfall Tour, which will guide you to the most beautiful waterfalls within an hour or so of our Vermont Bed and Breakfast, as well as several scenic cols (mountain passes) through the Green Mountains.  If nothing else, this is a spectacular way to take in the natural beauty of this area!
2. Viewing the rustic and preserved covered bridges of Vermont is another popular activity, so we’ve paired up this exciting tour with a culinary tour of Central Vermont.  Our Covered Bridges & Culinary Tour features all the best bridges PLUS some incredible locally made culinary treats along the way (Ben & Jerry’s, anyone?).  
3. While the above tour gives you the opportunity to sample Vermont cheeses, we’ve taken our love of this dairy product one step further by creating a Vermont Cheese Tour – perfect for the cheese lover in you!
4. Sugarbush Resort is located right here near our Vermont Bed and Breakfast and offers plenty of recreation for our guests.  In fact, our guests are welcome at the Sugarbush Health & Recreation Center (SHaRC), which offers indoor and seasonal outdoor pools, tennis courts, squash and racquetball courts, indoor rock climbing, and more. There’s also the golf course at Sugarbush!
5. On warm summer days, there’s nothing better than getting out on the water for some kayaking, of which there is plenty in the Mad River Valley!  We’ve teamed up with local outfitter Clearwater Sports for an exclusive Kayak Tour – they’ll supply everything you need!
6. Vermont’s Long Trail travels through the Green Mountains just behind our Inn – this is the perfect chance for you to explore segments of this incredible hiking trail. 
7. The Mad River Valley has increasingly become a top mountain biking destination, too! Not only are there great trails nearby at Sugarbush Resort, but there are plenty of great trails to explore in the surrounding valley and mountains as well, including those at Blueberry Lake and the Enchanted Forest.
8. While discussing all of the incredible things to do in the Mad River Valley this year, we can’t forget to talk about the wildlife, and especially the birds.  Mad River Valley is a great place for birding, both in the spring and fall – and this is especially true on the beautiful grounds of our Vermont Bed and Breakfast! We’d love to offer you some local favorite birding hotspots when you stay with us!
9. There’s a lot of great golf in the Mad River Valley, too, including at Sugarbush Resort (the course backs up right next to the West Hill House B&B!  Other great golf courses include Montague Golf Club, Green Mountain National Course, and Country Club of Barre.
10. Once it opens up in May, the Farmers’ Market each Saturday morning in Waitsfield is a MUST! There’s no better way to see what’s being grown and made in Vermont than by seeing it up close at personal at this most intimate of shopping experiences. 

Book Your Room at the Best Vermont Bed and Breakfast

Great getaways are made out of fun and memorable experiences, of course.  But along with just having fun in a particular area, like the Mad River Valley, you also need to have welcoming and relaxing accommodations. That’s exactly what you’ll find at our Vermont Bed and Breakfast, we offer just 9 guest rooms, delicious breakfasts each morning of your stay, and a selection of wine, beer, and single-malt Scotch to enjoy after your adventure-filled days. 

Apar from all of that, when you stay with us at our Vermont Bed and Breakfast, you are really staying with local experts who are more than happy to share their beautiful part of the world with guests.  We are happy to act as personal concierges for you for the duration of your stay.  From helping you arrange tours and making dinner reservations for you, to just suggesting fun hikes and trails to explore, we’d love nothing more than to share a piece of the incredible Mad River Valley with you this year.  

The Mad River Valley is waiting for you.  Book your room at our luxury Vermont Bed and Breakfast today!

The post Things to do in the Mad River Valley This Year appeared first on West Hill House B&B (Warren, Vermont).

Are you looking for a place to relax and unwind this spring?  Maybe the winter blues have set in and you’re ready for a change of pace and scenery?  Look no further than our luxury Vermont Bed and Breakfast. Though there are still some COVID-19 restrictions in place when it comes to traveling in Vermont, there are still ways to travel, especially if you’re vaccinated. You can view updated state guidelines here.

Even if you can’t get to Vermont right now, we urge you to book your guest rooms for summer travel far in advance, as we expect travel to pick up quickly!  Once you get here, you’ll have a safe and comfortable place to relax, unwind, and enjoy plenty of social distancing in the Mad River Valley.  You can read more about what we’re doing to keep you safe at our Vermont Bed and Breakfast here.

Our Vermont Bed and Breakfast is located in the picturesque Mad River Valley, in the quaint town of Warren.  We’re still enjoying the final stretch of winter skiing at both Sugarbush Ski Resort and Mad River Glen, but soon enough the weather will be warming up, spring buds will be popping up from their dormant winter state, and we’ll be gearing up for all of the exciting things there are to do in the Mad River Valley during spring, summer, and fall!

Whether you’re looking for a quiet and restful escape right now or planning for getaways in the future, we look forward to seeing you at our elegant Vermont Bed and Breakfast.  Book your room today!

A Welcoming Vermont Bed and Breakfast for a Spring Getaway

At the West Hill House Bed and Breakfast, we pride ourselves on the guest experience. The Inn is nestled in the quiet countryside of Central Vermont, surrounded by beautiful ponds and gardens, and offering the perfect antidote to the modern urban lifestyle.  Just beyond our doors are Vermont’s stunning green mountains, which offer access to miles upon miles of hiking and biking trails, along with plenty of opportunities to view wildlife and appreciate our natural surroundings. 

Our Vermont Bed and Breakfast houses 9 comfortable guest rooms, each of which is tastefully decorated with its own unique character and style. Each guest room is appointed with private baths and plenty of high-end amenities, too, including Fiber-connected internet (in case there are any business or personal dealings you need to respond to while here!).  

Outside our Inn, you’ll find gorgeous seasonal gardens and ponds to enjoy, especially as the weather warms up.  Relax in the hammock with your next favorite read, sit and enjoy a conversation by the pond, or watch the birds flitting to and from our trees and flowers, all the while soaking up what is sure to be a quintessential New England experience. 

As if all of this isn’t enough, we also ply you with a delicious multi-course homemade breakfast each morning of your stay. Our sumptuous breakfast starts with fruit juice, homemade bread or muffins, and a specially prepared fruit dish, followed by a tantalizing hot entrée to give your taste buds an early morning treat. And, of course, we always have a ready selection of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and homemade treats available for our guests.

We do our best to accommodate dietary needs and offer socially distanced dining at set times throughout the morning. In the evening, before heading out to dinner (or before picking up takeout, as is more likely right now), we’d love to share a glass of local beer, wine, or, even better, a delicious taste of Scotland at our unique Quaich Single Malt Scotch bar.

More than anything else, a visit to our Vermont Bed and Breakfast gives you the opportunity to shed your worries, and to relax in the tranquil environment of rural Vermont.  Guests have told us staying here is akin to staying with your favorite aunt and uncle – an honorary titled we’re thrilled to wear!

Things to do Near our Vermont B&B

We understand that many of our guests come to our Vermont Bed and Breakfast to enjoy a quiet, restful getaway surrounded by nature.  But many of them also like to get out and explore the area.  And rest assured, there are plenty of things to do in the surrounding Mad River Valley, which means when you choose the West Hill House Bed and Breakfast, you can stay as busy as you want to be!

If you do want to get out and explore, we’re happy to serve as your personal concierge, helping you to plan however many days worth of fun activities as needed.  Whether you choose to take a tour of Vermont’s best waterfalls, hike along the Vermont Long Trail or any other number of trails in the area, kayak down the Mad River, golf at neighboring Sugarbush Resort (or elsewhere), or sample and buy locally made goods at the Waitsfield Farmers Market and beyond, there are so many incredible things to do in the Mad River Valley.

Spring is a great time to visit us in Vermont, especially if you’re looking to avoid the big crowds that often descend upon the area in summer and fall.  Shake off those winter blues, and come experience the best of New England.  Book a room at our Vermont Bed and Breakfast this fall!

The post Need a Place to Relax and Unwind This Spring? appeared first on West Hill House B&B (Warren, Vermont).