The Best Northeast Destinations for Leaf Peeping in Fall 2020

As warm summer afternoons turn to crisp autumn nights, there’s no better time to visit the Northeast — with its bursts of marigold yellows, fiery reds, and impossibly vibrant shades of orange, the fall foliage in this corner of the country is second to none.

Plan a memorable “leaf peeping” getaway to one of these three charming New England hamlets, featuring scenic views, refreshing outdoor experiences, polished dining and accommodations, and easy access via Tradewind Aviation private charter. To witness this breathtaking season in full flourish, there’s no time like the present.

Stowe, Vermont 

Photo: Jim Liestman via flickr / CC BY

Located just 100 miles south of Montreal, Stowe in the fall feels like a dreamy escape to a far-flung destination — or maybe even a different time. Its tallest “skyline” feature (aside from the Green Mountain views) is Main Street’s white-steeple church, flanked on either side by an array of charming, locally owned boutiques, cafés, and refined dining hotspots. In fact, this region of Vermont happens to be the culinary capital of New England: The Bench, Plate, and Doc Ponds each receive rave reviews by critics and guests alike.

Stowe is also known for its craft brewery scene. von Trapp Brewing Bierhall and Idyletyme Brewing Company are favorites (the latter offering much-loved seasonal bistro fare, too). Beyond dining and drinking in the refreshing autumn air, Stowe of course offers countless outdoor experiences, including hiking, biking, and the Percy Farm Corn Maze off the Stowe Recreation Path.

Photo: The Lodge at Spruce Peak

One of our favorite things to do is simply rent a car and drive — half the joy of Stowe in the fall is simply meandering along its winding roads through colorful leaves as far as the eye can see. Check into either Topnotch Resort (also known for its rejuvenating spa) or The Lodge at Spruce Peak (which offers gold-enthusiast guests access to The Mountain Course at Spruce Peak), then embark on an adventure up to Smuggler’s Notch or toward Waterbury. Truly, there are no wrong turns.

Recommended airport: Morrisville-Stowe State Airport (MVL).

Bar Harbor, Maine

While this small enclave on Mount Desert Island (just off Maine’s Down East shoreline) is lauded for its summer scenery and traditions, autumn offers an equally picturesque time to explore on land and sea. In fact, the spirit of its location, one of the best ways to witness Bar Harbor’s dazzling coastal foliage is on the waters of Frenchman Bay, located next to the charming downtown. Bundle up, rent a kayak, and paddle along the coastline to take in views the island’s craggy outcroppings, dramatic granite cliffs, and colorful fall vistas. 

Warm up afterwards with a hot spiced apple cider at Coffee Hound Coffee Bar, or try a fall-inspired cocktail at Galyn’s — stay for dinner to enjoy fresh Maine lobster or a hand-cut steak overlooking Frenchman Bay. For a fine dining experience paired with nightly live entertainment, make a reservation at The Reading Room at the Bar Harbor Inn (also a historic and upscale place to stay on the island).

Photo: Bar Harbor Grand Hotel

Bar Harbor Grand Hotel is another charming favorite for accommodations, and with its location less than two miles from the Cadillac Mountain entrance of Acadia National Park, it’s particularly ideal for those looking to partake in Bar Harbor’s renowned hiking opportunities amid the season’s blazing foliage (here are five that can’t be missed).

Recommended airport: Hancock County Bar Harbor Airport (BHB).

Lenox, Massachusetts

Photo: Timothy Valentine / flickr / CC BY

This quintessential New England town in the southern corner of the Berkshires is perhaps best known as the home of the famed Shakespeare & Company. While this year’s season is on hold for now, there’s far more to Lenox than its renowned theatre scene (though it’s worth going back for next year) — namely, luxurious resorts, historic homes and buildings, outdoor activities, and of course, a rainbow of fall foliage.

Upon arrival, check into the Wheatleigh or the Blantyre, two resorts housed in ornate country mansions that date back to the 19th and early 20th century, respectively. Each perched on expansive, immaculately manicured grounds, they blend old-school opulence with modern luxury and extraordinary cuisine. The Blantyre’s signature restaurant Boulud (helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Daniel Boulud) is currently open to guests who aren’t staying at the property, and is well worth a visit. (Other top Lenox dining destinations include Mediterranean hotspot Alta and innovative new American eatery Nudel.)

Photo: The Wheatleigh / Tara Consolati Events

For another immersion into a classic Massachusetts mansion, visit the Mount, the historic estate of author Edith Wharton. Featuring public grounds dotted with colorful leaves, house tours are available by reservation only (fans of the paranormal shouldn’t miss the Ghost Tour, in particular). And if you still haven’t gotten your fill of classic estates, make a point to visit the Jacobean-style Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum. (On Saturday mornings, they offer outdoor yoga at 8am.) 

Fit in a final day of leaf peeping at the Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, which offers a glistening pond and seven miles of trails. One of them leads to the summit of Lenox Mountain — a perfect spot to survey the scenery and soak in the incomparable beauty of fall in the Northeast.

Recommended airport: Pittsfield Municipal Airport (PSF).

Tradewind offers charter flights year-round to Stowe, Bar Harbor, and Lenox. To receive a quote, please visit our charter request form or contact our charter specialists at charter@flytradewind.com or 1-800-376-7922. To learn more about Tradewind’s comprehensive safety plan, please visit our COVID-19 Response page. For the latest travel updates, please visit our Travel Advisory page.

Featured Photo: Tony Webster / flickr / CC B

New to Private Charter? Here's What You Need to Know.

In the age of COVID-19, there’s far more to private charter than superior comfort, enhanced flexibility, and significant time savings. These days, the benefits also include a new level of passenger safety compared to commercial flights.

Without having to navigate crowded airports, wait in crammed TSA lines, or interact with across-the-aisle passengers you don’t know, private charter is naturally set up for social distancing, thorough disinfection practices, and more. In other words, there’s never been a better (or more important) time to consider whether private charter might be right for you.

If you’re new to the process, here’s what you need to know when making the jump from commercial to private charter with Tradewind Aviation.

How to Book a Private Charter

Tradewind offers an informative and hands-on approach to inquiring and booking a private charter. Travelers may visit flytradewind.com to learn more about the experience, destinations, aircraft, and payment options. To inquire about a specific trip, a charter search form provides aircraft options and estimated pricing. Travelers may also contact Tradewind directly by phone or email to discuss the trip. 

From there, “the private charter experience starts with a consultation with our flight specialists so we can learn more about the client’s needs and offer the perfect solution,” says Tradewind Vice President and Co-Owner David Zipkin. “We discuss desired timing, routing, most convenient airports, passenger and luggage loads, special cargo, catering, and pets, if applicable.”

Your flight specialist will then match you with the aircraft that best suits your needs. For short-range flights and small airports, one of Tradewind’s Pilatus PC-12 turboprop planes often makes the most sense, while longer flights are usually serviced by the Tradewind fleet of Citation CJ3 light jets. With the Pilatus PC-12, you will achieve substantial cost savings over a jet — and for short-range flights (New York to Boston, for example), the flight time difference to flying a jet will be minimal. In cases where either aircraft is a viable option, your flight specialist will guide you through an honest discussion of pros and cons for each.

Once you’ve customized your options, your flight specialist will book the trip, and you’ll be (almost) ready for take-off. “The trip is now with our client services team, which finalizes the trip by collecting additional information and assisting with other needs such as ground transportation and catering,” says Zipkin. 

When to Book a Private Flight

The process outlined above can truly start as early or as late as you’d like it to — that’s part of the beauty of flying private.

“A private charter can be booked up to just a few hours before departure — although we recommend at least 24 hours to ensure availability of options,” says Zipkin. If you’re traveling in peak periods (such as around long weekends or holidays), you will want to consider planning your trip at least a couple of weeks in advance.

What is an Empty Leg?

During the booking process, your flight specialist will also let you know if there’s an empty leg flight that may fit your itinerary. An empty leg flight refers to a plane that will be re-positioning from one destination to another with no passengers on it, such as a return flight back to the plane’s original location. 

While they don’t offer the same options in terms of choosing your time or airport, if your travel is flexible, these flights offer significant savings on a private charter. (If you’d like to be in the know about Tradewind’s empty legs, you can sign up for the email list or watch for posts on the website, Twitter, and Instagram channels.)

What to Expect When Flying Private 

Flying private offers a very different experience than boarding a commercial flight — no early arrivals, baggage check, or TSA lines (security is handled before your trip with our vetting protocols).

“Most private flights operate from private FBO terminals, which offer a crowd-free environment and expedited departures,” explains Zipkin. (More on FBOs in a moment.) “Some FBOs will allow you to drive right to the airplane… and when you return, your vehicle will be brought out to the plane. At others, passengers are greeted curbside by the pilots and escorted out to the plane. The experience is full service and efficient, and most flights depart within just a few minutes of passenger arrival.” That means no waiting around, which offers significant time savings — rather than showing up 2 hours beforehand, you can arrive just 10 minutes before your scheduled departure.

In-flight, you’ll of course have the cabin to yourself. “Tradewind flights are always operated by two pilots. In turbo-props, light, and mid-size jets, there is typically no flight attendant,” says Zipkin — which means less contact with other people. “In large cabin aircraft, a flight attendant is onboard.”

The deplaning process is equally as seamless as the boarding process — you’ll be on your way moments after the plane lands at the FBO. 

What is an FBO?

If you’re (understandably) wondering what an FBO is, allow us to explain. “FBO stands for ‘fixed-base operator,’ which is a fancy name for a private terminal,” says Zipkin. “Airlines do not operate from FBOs, so the environment is crowd-free and set up for convenience, privacy, and comfort.”

As a bonus, most FBOs also offer complimentary valet parking and convenient self-park options, as well as well-appointed lounges and refreshments.

Cost of Flying Private 

While flying private certainly comes at a premium, you’ll be surprised by the value you can find with Tradewind Aviation. For example, flying from Westchester to Nantucket on a Pilatus PC-12 private charter costs approximately $4,295 (excluding taxes and fees), and with eight people, this rounds out to just over $536 per person. 

Tradewind also now features Private Shuttles (departing on set schedules), which offer an additional 20 percent savings (~$3,436, or ~$430 per person with eight people). By comparison, a seat on a regular shuttle flight (which is shared with up to seven other passengers and departs on set schedules) costs up to $875.

As an example of a longer-haul flight, a private charter from New York to Palm Beach on a Citation CJ3 jet costs around $15,000 and can accommodate up to six people.

Other Benefits of Flying Private 

From customizing your trip details to traveling only with your party (an especially meaningful perk in COVID times), the benefits of flying private are as vast as your options themselves.

You get to choose what time suits your schedule, as well as depart and arrive at airports closer to your destination. “For example, someone traveling from Greenwich, Connecticut to Stowe, Vermont can fly from Westchester County Airport (closer to home, instead of an NYC airport) and fly directly into Stowe (instead of Burlington, VT, 45 minutes away),” explains Grace Richardson, Marketing Manager at Tradewind Aviation. 

“Beyond convenience, privacy, and comfort, private charter offers maximum flexibility,” adds Zipkin. “The departure time can be changed at any time at no cost. On our domestic routes, flights may be cancelled up to 24 hours prior to departure and the client is not charged for the flight.”

At a time when it seems like the world (and your plans) can change on a dime, this is more important than ever.

Visit flytradewind.com to learn more about Tradewind’s private aviation solutions, or contact them directly at 1-800-376-7922 or charter@flytradewind.com. To learn more about Tradewind’s comprehensive safety plan, please visit our COVID-19 Response page. For latest travel updates, please visit our Travel Advisory page.

Why Private Charter Is the Safest Form of Air Travel Right Now

As health concerns remain and necessary precautions are taken to slow the spread of the COVID-19 Coronavirus, frequent travelers are questioning the safety of flying commercial. While a love of travel in all its forms is at the very core of who we are here at Tradewind, even those of us in the aviation industry recognize that crowded airports and aircraft simply aren’t conducive to keeping ourselves and those around us healthy. 

For some, putting a long-term halt to travel isn’t a viable option. Whether you’re conducting essential business, travelling to help those in need, or visiting loved ones, private charter is a safer solution that offers minimized contact with others, streamlined processes, and of course, comfort when you need it most.

Tradewind’s private charter flights are operated on our fleet of Citation CJ3 jets and Pilatus PC-12 turboprops, which each offer spacious cabins designed for small numbers of people Citation CJ3s (best suited for medium-range flights) can accommodate six people, while Pilatus PC-12s (best suited for short-range flights) can accommodate up to eight people, depending on the configuration you choose. With smaller capacities than commercial aircraft, these planes don’t put passengers in close proximity to as many people and they give each passenger more space.

Private charters also avoid many close-contact pitfalls found in large airports. You arrive directly to private terminal or tarmac just before departure time, sidestepping bag check, security lines, and crowded gates. You also bypass baggage claim at your destination, and your bags are handled by as few people as possible. Ultimately, the streamlined nature of flying private reduces your risk of exposure as you travel.

Going beyond the inherent health benefits of a private charter, of course, Tradewind has also implemented a comprehensive plan to keep our passengers as safe as possible while they travel. Tradewind aircraft for private charters as well as our scheduled shuttle flights in the Northeast and Caribbean are undergoing extensive and regular cleaning and disinfecting. All aircraft surfaces have been treated with EnviroSystems BioShield 75 Biostatic, which is an antimicrobial protectant that has been shown to be effective against viruses. Additionally, all aircraft are disinfected and cleaned thoroughly before each flight and undergo Ozone treatments regularly. Our private lounges are also disinfected throughout the day and deep-cleaned at night, and hand sanitizer and other health and safety items are is always available for our guests and team members at our departure locations.

To offer more private travel options, we have also launched a new program called the private shuttle, just in time for the summer season. The private shuttle allows clients to secure an entire plane solely for their party at a significant discount compared to a private charter. On existing Northeast shuttle routes to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, ticket book holders may allocate flight credits to secure the plane. On other Northeast routing (or without tickets,) a private shuttle may be booked at a 20% discount off of normal private charter rates. Private shuttles are available at set times during the day, operated in our fleet of commuter-configured Pilatus PC-12 aircraft, and may be booked on any routing between Teterboro (TEB) or Westchester (HPN) and any location within 200 miles. Popular routing includes TEB or HPN to Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, Montauk, East Hampton, Newport, Provincetown, Block Island, Chatham, and more!

Here at Tradewind, the health and wellbeing of our clients and team members is always our top priority and we will continue to monitor the situation and adapt to this new world. We assure you that our team is doing everything we can to keep you safe and healthy as we get you where you need to go.

To learn more about Tradewind private charters and private shuttles, or to book a scheduled flight, click here or call us at 1-800-376-7922. Tradewind also continues to operate many of our scheduled shuttle flights on our fleet of Pilatus PC-12s. To learn more about Tradewind’s comprehensive safety plan, please visit our COVID-19 Response page. For latest travel updates, please visit our Travel Advisory page.

Up Close and Personal at Grand Cayman’s Stingray City

Imagine yourself standing waist-deep in warm, turquoise Caribbean waters — tropical island views ahead of you, vast ocean behind you, and some of the sea’s most lovable, charming animals around you. 

While this may sound like a scene plucked straight out of a dream sequence, such a place exists, and it’s known as Stingray City. A sandbar just a few miles off the coast of Grand Cayman, it’s been a gathering place for stingrays from the island’s surrounding waters for some 50 to 60 years — as well as those keen to get up close and personal with these gentle sea creatures.

Stingray City, Grand Cayman

“There are these wild stingrays with no fence [around them] brushing up against you — you can hold them if you like, interact with them, and it just really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” says Graeme Brown, operations manager of Cobalt Custom Charters in the Cayman Islands. 

Free to come and go as they please, about 130 southern stingrays visit the sandbar on any given day (out of the thousands of stingrays that live around the island), says Brown. The reason some stingrays are brave enough to frequent this area — and, in turn, become familiar and friendly with their human visitors — is due to the simple promise of a meal.

In fact, this is how it all began. Many years ago, there were far more mangroves around the island, creating a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. This made it nearly impossible for fishermen to clean their fish on the dock at the end of the day, because the mosquitoes were relentless, explains Brown. “So, what they did is they started going to [what is now] Stingray City, because it is inside the barrier reef so the water is generally quite calm and protected, and it’s only a couple miles off shore, and there were no mosquitoes out there,” he says. They would throw their scraps into the water, and the stingrays caught on.

“And so, it just evolved — people started putting on snorkel masks and snorkeling with them, and then the stingrays got more comfortable and familiar [with people], so it just led to where it is now,” says Brown.

As you can imagine, the spectacle has drawn quite a crowd over the years — those who have heard of Stingray City may picture a packed, less-than-idyllic scene with as many large tour boats and people as there are stingrays. Much like your Tradewind charter flight to the Cayman Islands, however, private transportation affords a more convenient, seamless, and pleasurable experience, complete with expert crew guidance and intimate, once-in-a-lifetime interaction with the stingrays.

To begin your journey, “you take a boat ride for 20 to 25 mins across this crystal-clear water, and then all of a sudden you stop and you drop anchors,” says Brown. “You get into water that's three to four feet deep, and you're standing in the middle of the sea with an unobstructed view of the entire island, and there are these stingrays swimming up against you.”

While people tend to be a bit hesitant at first, he assures that these stingrays are completely comfortable with humans, and that they’re entirely safe, too. Stingrays have earned a bit of a dangerous reputation, but Brown explains that there’s nothing to fear.

“There are different types of stingrays, and the ones that are at stingray city are southern stingrays,” he says. “A southern stingray has a single barb, which is the part that everybody's afraid of, and it's fixed about halfway up their tail. But the barb is not an attack mechanism whatsoever — it is purely defense.” In fact, the stingrays have no control over it — they can’t eject it, change the angle, or use it as a weapon. It’s contained in a protective sheath, so you don’t have to worry about it brushing past you, too.

It’s designed to ward off predators (specifically, hammerhead sharks), says Brown. “If a shark comes to eat it, the stingray can sense the shark coming [when it’s buried under the sand], and it’ll lift its tail,” he explains. “The shark is going to impale that barb, and it'll hit it with enough force so that that sheath breaks and the barb injects into the shark.” Human visitors, on the other hand, aren’t in danger. 

Instead, your experience with the stingrays will likely include snorkeling with them, holding them, petting them, and even kissing them. (Sound like too much? Consider this: It’s said that a stingray kiss brings seven years of good luck.)

Sometimes, these one-on-one stingray interactions are exclusive to private charters, because you can plan your trip around when you’re least likely to run into giant tour boats (which can spook the stingrays away and dampen the mood). Brown explains, “when we go early in the morning or late in the afternoon around sunset, a lot of times we're one of maybe two or three private boats there, so there's 20 people there total and 50 stingrays. It's such a different experience.”

Plus, on a private tour, you’ll have more of a chance to feed them the squid they love. As part of conservation efforts, each boat (regardless of size) is only allowed to bring a one-pound bag of food in order to avoid over-feeding them (which can lead to high cholesterol in the stingrays, and overall a decline in the health of stingray populations). 

It’s one of many safeguards put in place to protect these creatures. Developed by the Department of Environment, there is a list of rules, procedures, and proper handling guidelines — for example, water shoes and fins are not allowed because they can harm the stingrays, each boat is required to have a license, and of course, there’s no throwing litter or garbage in the water. Ultimately, Brown says, “the stingrays are wild, so I think the sustainability of it is evident in the very nature that they come back by choice every day.”

It's no wonder the Cobalt Custom Charters crew comes back every day, too — being around these stingrays presents the chance to develop personal relationships with them, and to share those relationships with charter guests. “They get distinct markings as they age and they look certain ways, so we literally know some of them by name and we have a bit of a relationship with them,” he says. “They all have different kinds of attitudes, and they’re playful and gentle… we literally consider them to be underwater puppies.” 

This might just be reason enough to make your way to Grand Cayman to take part in this one-of-a-kind experience for yourself. 

Swim With Stingrays Grand Cayman

Tradewind offers private charter flights to the Cayman Islands year-round in their fleet of Citation CJ3 jets. To reserve a charter, call us at 1-800-376-7922 or click here. To learn more about Cobalt Custom Charters or to book your Stingray City experience, visit their website at cobaltcustomcharters.com.

All photos courtesy of Cobalt Custom Charters.  

5 Weekend Ski Trips to Take in the Northeast This Winter

As the Northeast winter’s chilliest days set in and flurries rule the forecast, there’s no better way to make the most of the weather than to retreat to one of the region’s premiere ski resorts. Whether your warm-up method of choice is to layer on your gear for an exhilarating run or sidle up by the fire with a hot toddy (or both), somehow, winter weekends feel a little cozier during a ski or snowboard getaway.

The best part? For those in the Northeast, these snowy wonderlands aren’t far off. Sure, high-profile resorts in the west get plenty of attention, but there’s a reason the phrase “ski the east” exists. Nestled in close proximity to major metropolitan hubs like New York City and Boston, the region’s ski destinations are accessible to escape to for just a couple of days, and many are surrounded by charming New England hamlets brimming with activities off the slopes, too.

Here are the best winter mountain playgrounds east of the Rockies (with plenty of après ski hotspots to boot) to consider for a memorable weekend getaway this season.  

Stowe 

Photo: Stowe Mountain Resort

Situated on Vermont’s highest peak, Stowe Mountain Resort is one of the Northeast’s top ski destinations, and with good reason. With more mile-long lifts than any other resort in the east and 485 acres of skiable terrain between two gondola-connected mountains, Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak, the resort is a veritable snow sport paradise surrounded by a picturesque winter village. 

The town’s only ski-in, ski-out accommodations can be found at the rustic, luxurious Lodge at Spruce Peak, just steps away from the ice-skating rink in Spruce Peak Village Center if you’re looking for another idyllic winter activity. Or, reserve your stay at the highly regarded Top Notch Resort, a stylish mountain-inspired setting just minutes from the base.

When it comes to après, Stowe is well-known for its thriving brewery scene. With its welcoming woodwork interiors, “bierhall”-like atmosphere, and of course, expertly crafted lagers, von Trapp Brewery is a can’t-miss slice of Austria in Vermont. Another Stowe mainstay is The Alchemist. Their unfiltered IPAs are exclusive to the state, and almost worth the trip on their own (especially their local-favorite Heady Topper and Focal Banger). Can’t decide? Turn to 4 Points’ brewery tours for a sampling of the town’s top watering holes.

For dinner (plus another craft beverage, if you’re up for it), head to Idletyme Brewing Company for flavorful American bistro classics in a warm, inviting setting. And on the town’s Main Street, Harrison’s offers the mountain tavern setting you’d imagine in a ski town, with warming fare to match. Afterwards, there’s no better way to end the day than wandering under the twinkling lights strung throughout the town.

Sugarbush

Photo: Sugarbush / Abby Sessock

A day on the slopes feels especially sweet at Sugarbush — pun intended. Located in the town of Warren in central Vermont’s Mad River Valley, the resort offers more than 100 trails, three terrain parks, and access to Slide Brook Basin’s 2,000 acres of backcountry powder action (outside of resort boundaries). So, while the resort has plenty of beginner terrain, too, it’s particularly suited to skiers and snowboarders seeking serious adventure, especially in the trees (there are nearly 30 wooded areas).

For closest access to the slopes, stay at Clay Brook Hotel & Residences, the resort’s only ski-in, ski-out accommodations complete with in-room Jacuzzi tubs to ease tired legs, grocery delivery service, and ski and snowboard valet service, so your gear’s ready to go for first tracks. Also near the resort, the romantic Pitcher Inn blends the quaint charm of a New England B&B with refined Relais & Châteaux luxury. The hotel’s reputation for fine dining is particularly notable, as is its 500-bottle wine cellar and the roaring fireplace at the center of it all.

If you’re venturing into town for dinner, make a reservation at the iconic Chez Henri to discover the closest thing to Paris in the northeast. And if you’d prefer to spend your days and nights on the mountains, bundle up for a snowcat ride to Allyn's Lodge Fireside Dining to enjoy a four-course, farm-to-table meal at Sugarbush’s mid-mountain lodge.

Sugarloaf 

Photo: Sugarloaf / Noelle Tuttle

Not to be confused with Sugarbush, the almost-cult-like favorite Sugarloaf mountain is home to supreme snow sport opportunities in western Maine. Sure, its 1,240 acres are the perfect canvas for carving on a snowboard or pair of skis, and Sugarloaf's Snowfields offer exceptional vantages as the only lift-serviced skiing above treeline in the East. But one of the things that makes this resort so special is its focus on other exciting snowy activities, including dogsledding, snow biking, cat skiing, and more.

The signature Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel is the perfect launching pad for your action-packed escape. Aesthetically inspired by classic New England farmhouses, the property is a welcoming mountain respite just steps from the lifts, featuring newly upgraded rooms and upscale dining at 45 North. They present live music to complement your après-ski cocktail here, scheduled on Saturdays from 3-5pm, as well as a refined-meets-rustic dinner experience that comes highly recommended (reservations are suggested). Another favorite for a post-slopes libation is the freshly revamped Widowmaker, also offering live music and mountain views from the top of the base lodge.

Looking for a more private lodging experience with a full kitchen of your own for a quiet night in? The slopeside Premier Properties purvey the area’s most luxurious accommodations outfitted with high-end finishes and upscale amenities.

Killington

Photo: Hyun Lee / Flickr

Back in Vermont, Killington is the largest ski area in the East by acreage, clocking in at nearly 2,000 acres over seven mountain areas and earning it the nickname “the beast of the east.” With so much terrain to explore, it’s a good thing the resort is also known for having the longest ski season in the region, often staying open till early May thanks to a combination of 250 inches of natural snowfall each winter as well as diligent snowmaking that covers 600 skiable acres.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of other thrills to be found at Killington — namely, its Beast Mountain Coaster, a 4,800-foot-long alpine coaster complete with tree-dodging sections and 360-degree corkscrews. The Killington Tubing Park is another family favorite, offering all the joy of sliding down the mountain without stepping into a pair of ski boots.  

The area’s best digs can be found at the ski-in, ski-out Killington Grand Resort Hotel. There’s an on-site spa to soothe sore muscles after hitting the slopes, offering a relaxing complement to all of Killington’s opportunities for outdoor adventure. And, since Killington is known for its vibrant nightlife scene with live music around every corner, it’s no surprise that the area is also a hub for top-notch après hotspots and dining destinations. Head to the Wobbly Barn Steakhouse and Nightclub for prime cuts in a space that’s true to its name — it’s quite literally made from wobbly barns, piecing together remnants of 10 from across New England. Meanwhile, the Foundry at Summit Pond is also a destination in its own right, lined with outdoor string lights and presenting live entertainment, ice skating, and new American cuisine.

Mont Tremblant 

Photo: ©Tremblant

North of the border, Mont Tremblant’s proximity to Montreal gives it the old-world feel of a European ski resort without requiring a hop across the pond. At the mountain’s base is a French-style village of colorful chalet buildings, cobblestoned streets, street performers, and plenty of excellent dining and drinking opportunities — but on the mountain, things aren’t always so relaxed. Mont Tremblant has some of the steepest skiing in the east, including its famed Dynamite trail with a pitch of 42 degrees. Needless to say, that’s recommended for experts only, but there are plenty of options for less-advanced skiers among its 102 trails.

For prime access to the village, Hôtel Quintessence is perched along the serene Lake Tremblant and is just a few minutes walking distance from the town. Reminiscent of a European chalet, each of the 30 suites is equipped with a wood-burning fireplace, a deep soaking tub, and très magnifique views. To get closer to the action on the slopes, the Fairmont Tremblant boasts ski-in, ski-out access to the mountain, along with a luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites and a can’t-miss spa.

Dining-wise, Mont Tremblant favorites include La Savoie, a Swiss-inspired eatery serving up the best fondue in town alongside expertly crafted cocktails. For something a bit more in line with the French surroundings, savor meats and fish uniquely cooked on a hot stone at Restaurant C’est La Vie. The name is fitting — a weekend in this charming Quebecois village really is the life.

Tradewind offers charter flights year-round to Morrisville-Stowe State Airport, Sugarloaf Regional Airport, Southern Vermont Regional Airport (Rutland), and Mont Tremblant International Airport, as well as seasonal scheduled shuttle flights to Stowe. To reserve a charter, call us at 1-800-376-7922 or click here.

A Weekend Guide to Stowe, Vermont

Nestled in Northern Vermont just 100 miles south of Montreal, Stowe is often considered the “ski capital of the East,” and with good reason. Featuring 485 snow-covered acres spread across Spruce Peak and Mount Mansfield (the highest peak in Vermont), this world-renowned resort offers alpine adventure for winter sports enthusiasts of all kinds.

But make no mistake: There’s just as much to discover beyond the slopes, too. The historic village of Stowe is brimming with local character and friendly small-town charm, from its quaint shops to the idyllic white church steeple overlooking Main Street. Featuring impressive culinary outposts, one-of-a-kind boutiques, craft breweries, and plenty of places to pick up a bottle of the region’s signature maple syrup, this quintessential New England town is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

Photo: The Lodge at Spruce Peak

While spring blooms, warm summer days, and colorful Autumn leaves make Stowe an outstanding place to visit at any time of year, there’s nothing quite like the magic of its frosty winter wonderland state. And lucky for those in the New York area, Tradewind offers seasonal shuttle flights to Stowe from Westchester (in partnership with Stowe Aviation), as well as charter flights year-round.

Here’s how to make the most of a weekend getaway to Stowe.

Friday

Photo: Mark Vandenberg

Take off from Westchester County Airport at 2:30pm, and in about an hour, you’ll be touching down in Stowe to begin your mountain getaway. First things first, reserve a luxury transfer ahead of time with Fleet Transportation to bring you to your accommodations in style, or rent a car to explore the region at your own pace.

Stowe has many upscale lodging options to choose from. At Topnotch Resort, the reputation is right there in the name — this intimate property offers impeccable service in an elegant, contemporary mountain setting. Another popular option is the luxurious, rustically appointed Lodge at Spruce Peak, offering the town’s only ski-in, ski-out accommodations. 

Photo: The Lodge at Spruce Peak

No matter where you choose to stay, Stowe’s best attractions are never far off. Most hotspots (including both Topnotch Resort and the Lodge at Spruce Peak) lie along the winding Mountain Road, which meanders through the entire town. 

Once you’ve settled in, make your way to Pinnacle Ski & Sports to arrange your equipment rentals for a day on the slopes. More advanced skiers should take note: They’re known for having an excellent selection of demo skis available to rent, so you just might fall in love with a new favorite. Or, pack along your own skis — Burlington, Vermont-based Renoun Skis are crafted with HDT polymer, which is 50 percent lighter than a typical wood core (meaning they’re lighter to travel with). Plus, they’re made to adapt to whatever snow conditions you’ll find on the mountain.

Photo: Danielle Visco/Luvlens

After you’ve been properly fitted, Stowe’s robust brewery scene is calling. Head to The Alchemist to sample some of Vermont’s finest — in fact, the family-run brewery’s fresh, unfiltered IPAs aren’t available outside the state. (Try the Heady Topper and Focal Banger to drink like a local.) For dinner, Idletyme Brewing Company down the street serves seasonally driven American fare in a warm, welcoming setting, along with their own stellar lineup of in-house brews. 

Saturday

Photo: Stowe Mountain Resort

Rise and shine early to jumpstart your day on the mountain. With 116 trails totaling over 40 miles long and 12 lifts (including more mile-long lifts than any other resort out East), there’s no time to waste. Before you hit the slopes, download the EpicMix app (available since Vail Resorts acquired Stowe in 2017) so you can check lift line times, grooming reports, and your vertical feet for the day — comparing with your group is the perfect après-ski activity.’

Once you’re ready to go, Stowe offers a range of terrain for all ages and experience levels, and group and private lessons are also available. When mid-day rolls around, break for lunch (or to warm up with a hot chocolate) at the Cliff House Restaurant, a chalet-style eatery featuring panoramic alpine views through floor-to-ceiling windows, before closing out the afternoon with a few more runs.  

Photo: Jesse Schloff / Harrison’s

In keeping with ski culture traditions, an après-ski cocktail is in order. For an authentic experience, sidle up to the bar at Matterhorn Bar and Grill, which is routinely considered one of the best après-ski watering holes in the country. Or, to soothe tired legs, head back to the resort hot tub or book a rejuvenating massage at the spa.

Given Northern Vermont’s foodie-approved status, there are many stand-out culinary hotspots to choose from for dinner. If you’re willing to wait, head to Doc Ponds for pub fare with a gourmet twist. (It was founded by the owners of Hen of the Wood, one of Vermont’s top epicurean outposts, so you know it’s going to be good.) On Main Street, indulge in creative American cuisine with a side of cozy mountain-tavern ambiance at Harrison’s. For the town’s best slice in a funky, charismatic atmosphere, Piecasso is the place to be.

Sunday 

Photo: 4 Points

Spend your morning back on the mountain, or take the opportunity to wander among the classic buildings and locally owned boutiques of Stowe’s picturesque Main Street. Stop for brunch at Butler’s Pantry, a Stowe mainstay that serves breakfast favorites in a charming historic home.

Leave your afternoon plans in the hands of 4 Points. After picking you up from your hotel, they’ll hand-craft a brewery tour hitting five of Stowe’s top beer spots (or even hard cideries and distilleries), considering any of your group’s requests as well as offering up some local go-tos. Thankfully, there’s no shortage to choose from — there are over a dozen options within a half-hour drive.

Favorites include von Trapp Brewery, Stowe Cider, Green Mountain Distillers, Lost Nation Brewery, Prohibition Pig Brewery, Rock Art Brewery, Ten Bends Brewery, and more. (Hill Farmstead Brewery is another favorite, though their taproom isn’t open on Sundays.) Your tour includes a flight or a beverage at each stop as well as appetizers and snacks, and ends with your designated driver dropping you back off at your hotel (or even at the airport). Offering a knowledgeable overview of the area’s beer scene, 4 Points’ tour is the perfect way to raise a glass to your winter weekend getaway before your 6pm Tradewind flight brings you back to reality.  

------

Tradewind offers scheduled shuttle flights to Stowe from mid-December through mid-March, as well as charter flights to Stowe year-round. To reserve a charter, call us at 1-800-376-7922 or click here.