A Topnotch stay in Stowe, Vermont!

The town of Stowe Vermont, commonly known by its nickname 'The Ski Capital of the East', is an easy 30-mile drive from Montpelier and a 50-minute jaunt from Burlington. We packed up the car and headed out on a typical crisp northeast winter day to travel over the snowy mountain range, excited to see the beautiful valley that nestles the lovely town of Stowe. We selected Stowe because we had heard wonderful things about the town, as well as the lux Topnotch Resort, our planned final destination.

Stowe did not disappoint! It is vibrant and alive, filled with people snuggled up in warm winter jackets, sipping hot drinks and window shopping the numerous quaint and unique stores. A few of the storekeepers mentioned that Stowe is a hot-spot for all seasons. We definitely could see why, the town was welcoming, cheery, a feast for the eyes and very dog-friendly — a perfect spot for our long awaited getaway.

After checking out the town, and with Bear, and Harper in tow, we headed to the Topnotch Resort, excited to explore the relaxed and elegant estate, and perhaps in the evening go for a traditional New England sleigh ride. Arriving at the Resort, we were warmly greeted and welcomed into the grand entrance. While we took care of signing in, Topnotch Resort’s friendly staff fawned over the dogs, calling them by name and giving them tasty treats.

The pup pampering didn’t stop at check-in, Topnotch Resort knows that for pet parents, dogs are a part of the family. Their dog-related amenities were absolutely fabulous! To keep Bear and Harper comfy during their stay, each pup received an in-room fluffy dog bed and individual water bowl, a genuinely thoughtful and homey touch. All of the dog-friendly rooms at the Resort are located on the first floor, which makes it easy for things like quick exits to walk the grounds and take potty breaks. No need to bring waste bags, the Resort offers them throughout the premises.

But Topnotch Resort doesn’t just dote on dogs, and they definitely know how to pamper humans too. The recently renovated spacious guest rooms appointed to perfection with modern conveniences sure to spoil travelers. The roomy king size mattress with double-sheeted duvets was just begging us to snuggle in for a nap, and with all of the high-end personal care products, it was hard to leave the premise to continue our exploration.

After we made ourselves at home, we leashed up the pups and walked around the Resort as well as the 120-acre wooded estate. If you stay at Topnotch in the warm months, you and your dog can enjoy one of their Yappy Hours. But, since it was a snowy winter wonderland on our visit, we explored some of the nearby trails to get the dogs tired before peeking into the spa. When you have professional massage therapists nearby, as you do at the Topnotch Spa, there’s honestly no excuse not to hit the slopes at Stowe Mountain, or cross-country ski at the Resort itself.

It’s clear to understand how Topnotch Spa is continually considered one of the world’s top resort spas by Spa Finder, Condé Nast Traveler, and Travel + Leisure. The Spa is pure indulgence! With a variety of services that include massage, wraps, scrubs, and Ayurvedic rituals, you’ll be chill throughout your stay. If you want to turn your weekend getaway into a date night, you most certainly could. You can work out in the fitness center, walk to the spa for the treatments of your choice, and top it all off by getting a facial and your hair and nails done. The hardest decision you’ll need to make is: where to eat? Perhaps the grand, and view enticing Flannel, where the passion for Vermont fresh ingredients is evident by the herbal infused, delicious meals. Or the more casual The Roost, where savory comfort food is served in a living room-styled dining bar that also offers a fire pit and bocce ball court. At Topnotch Resort, there just isn’t a wrong choice.

We opted for Aprés drinks at The Roost, finished with a 3-course dinner at Flannel and were thoroughly spoiled by the decadent food, and impeccable service. But before we did that we had to unwind from our afternoon of walking around the beautiful snow covered grounds. When you are at the Topnotch Resort, you really must splurge, and so we did. Upon check-in, we learned that the Spa at Topnotch offered a 25-minute doggy massage and reiki service. There’s indeed nothing more delightful than everyone in the family receiving an excellent, relaxing spa service - including the dogs, too! With the Bear in a state of bliss, and our delicious dinners were eaten, as well as a decadent cocktail, or two, we all snuggled up for a good night’s rest.

Topnotch Resort, you truly did not disappoint. I can absolutely guarantee that we will be returning once the weather turns warm to partake in all of your sweet summer glory.

P.s. you can book your stay at Topnotch Resort using code KNOX and they will waive your pet fee: click here.