Inn at Shelburne Farms- Shelburne Farms, Vermont

If things on earth may be to heaven resembled,
It must be love, pure, constant, undissembled.
But if to sin by chance the charmer press,
Forgive, O Lord, forgive our trespasses.

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This fascinating sixty-room brick-over-wood Queen Anne mansion sits amidst 1,400 acres of working farm-land on a crowning bluff overlooking Lake Champlain. This National Historic Site features grounds that were designed by noted landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted of Central Park fame and this perhaps explains why it was named the "Most Fascinating Country Inn" in 1992 by Harper's Hideaway Report. The Inn at Shelburne Farms has two dozen authentically appointed guest rooms, most of which have private baths. The Rose Room, W. Seward Webb Room, Overlook Room, and Brown Room are particularly recommended for your stay. They are decorated with fine antiques, private baths, and offer a view of the lake from their second floor perch. Third floor rooms are less expensive and decorated in a more basic style. They have shared bathrooms but offer garden views. There are crackling fires to be enjoyed at times in the public areas. These actually become a necessity in winter since this home has no heating (so pack accordingly). There are plenty of lounging areas that are lined with ancestral family portraits. Take in a brisk morning or evening on porches filled with wicker chairs. The many activities available to the guests include fishing, swimming, boating, tennis, and hiking.

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