Walking into Top Notch Resort in Stowe, Vermont, feels like being enveloped in a long, deep hug. From the constantly burning fire in the cozy and rustic lodge to the plush, enormous beds in the guest rooms to the way the staff smiles, big and genuine, the message is clear: you are welcome here.
It’s not just your imagination. The Top Notch Resort is a smart choice for anyone, but it also happens to be the only TAG Approved gay-friendly hotel in the entire ski town of Stowe. Better still: Top Notch offers an elopement package for just $1,500. Where better to tie the knot than Vermont – one of only six states in which gay marriage is legal – and what better way to celebrate than with champagne, dinner for two, cake, flowers, luxurious robes to take home and a Justice of the peace to officiate? Forgo the limo in favor of a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride over the grounds; it’s all included in the package.
If you’re not ready to exchange vows, Top Notch can offer you whatever type of getaway you’re in the market for. Those in search of relaxation and pampering will find solace in the spa, which offers everything from a wealth of massages, facial care, full salon services and even a wink at local fare with a maple sugar body scrub. The spa, which spans 35,000 generous square feet and includes 30 treatment rooms, a sauna and steam room, three pools, a Jacuzzi and a hot tub with a cascading waterfall, is open year-round.
With six outdoor and four indoor tennis courts and a pro shop on the grounds, those who crave athletic adventure are sure to be satisfied. The Grand Slam tennis package, available from Mid-May through Mid-October includes nightly accommodations, morning small group workshops, racquet tune-up and a discount on pro-shop merchandise. And don’t forget about the mountains! The Stowe ski area is minutes away from Top Notch.
Dine on the grounds at Norma’s, a beautiful restaurant with mountain views that features creative, Vermont-inspired cuisine with dishes like a local cheese tasting and roasted beet carpaccio with Vermont feta and endive. Or just order in 24-hour room service and share a meal in your guest room. With stunning views of the natural landscape and resort, as well as decor fit for a king – or a queen – one thing is for certain. Staying at Top Notch Resort is like coming home.
TopNotch Resort was featured in Connextions Magazine, Issue 3, which includes gay friendly travel to Vermont.
Top Notch Resort
1 (800) 451-8686
www.topnotchresort.com
4000 Mountain Road
Stowe, VT 05672
LGBTQ Travel Blog 