If you are looking for a unique hotel in Vermont, consider checking out these two historic hotels. The Grafton Inn and The Castle Hill Resort and Spa are both located in the southern half of the state. Each is on the Historic Hotels registry, and each brings a bit of old world charm to relaxing skiing or hiking vacations. The two hotels are roughly 30 minutes from one another and about an hour from Hartford, Vermont.
The Castle Hill Resort and Spa
Nestled in the Green Mountains of the Okemo Valley, The Castle Hill Rnesort and Spa is as luxurious as it is relaxing. The hotel was built in 1905 and was originally the home of former Vermont Gov. Alan Fischer. Then, it was the first home in Vermont to have an full electricity and an elevator.
Today, visitors to the hotel are greeted by beautiful dark woodwork, the original wallpaper, and an elegant historic ambiance. The hotel boasts 30 guest rooms, most of which have fireplaces and whirlpool bathtubs. In addition, the hotel also has 20 condominiums available.
Located in Ludlow, Vermont, The Castle Hill Resort and Spa sits in a perfect location for activities such as skiing, hiking, biking, and swimming. In addition to being on the list of Historic Hotels, The Castle Hill Resort and Spa also is on the Small Luxury Hotels of the World list.
Those who are looking for more modern accommodations can stay on the property, as well. The Pointe Hotel & Suites, which also is a part of the resort, offers standard and modern hotel rooms.
The Grafton Inn
The Grafton Inn is one of the oldest continuously operating inns in the United States. Originally opened in 1801, the Grafton Inn was the vision of Enos Lovell, who converted his home into a place for travelers to stay. Throughout the years, the inn became quite popular. Additions helped the inn to grow to meet the demand, and business continued to grow, as well.
Until the 1930s, that is. Like many other businesses, The Grafton Inn fell on hard times during the Great Depression. It wasn’t until 1964, when the inn was purchased by the Windham Foundation, that the inn began to recover. Today, the profit from the inn helps to support local rural communities.
Located in Grafton, Vermont, the inn has 45 guest rooms and four guest houses. Each of the rooms is unique with antique-style furniture and printed wallpaper. Many of the rooms offer canopy beds and sitting areas, and nearly every room has a private bath. One of the more interesting rooms is the room Ulysses S. Grant stayed in during his campaign for presidency. Decorated with his photo and the register he signed when he checked into the hotel, the room feels very historic.