Just returned from a weekend at the Brass Lantern Inn in Stowe, VT and had a great time there. First off, the quality that impressed me most about the establishment was the keen sense the owners have about allowing people the space and privacy to enjoy their time together. One the things that tends to irk me about the B&B experience in New England is the forced interaction between guests/oversolicitous nature of the proprietors. I'm not antisocial by any means, but when vacationing from a large city like NY, often the last thing you want to do is feel compelled to make small talk with strangers. The Innkeepers Joe and Nancy recognize this and so the layout of the place is structured to provide for privacy as well as interaction, should you want it. (Ie, you can sit at a private table or a long group table for breakfast.) As Nancy put it, "I think people mostly go on vacation because they want to spend time with each other." Yes! Thank you! I don't know why more folks don't get this...

At any rate, the Inn itself is immaculate and well appointed with *tasteful* decorations and terrific views of Mt Mansfield from both the dining area and the rooms. (No overstuffed pillows, austere velvet drapery that looks like something you would see on Antiques Roadshow, or clattering knick-knacks.) We stayed in the Traditional Fireplace Suite, which was billed as "a sanctuary within the inn," and it was. In fact, we were the only room located on the lower level, where we enjoyed a stunning large-window view of the peaks, a cozy fireplace, and easy access to the hottub out back--hands-down the best feature of the place. The bed was one of the most comfortable I've ever slept on, and the room itself, which looked out on the back of the property was very quiet--unlike some of the Inns in the area that are situated right on Mountain Road or Rt 108. The drive to the slopes probably takes about 10-15 min, which I think is the perfect distance. Who wants to vacation in Vermont and have to hear endless, loud traffic noise??

Nancy was extremely pleasant and helpful with regards to things to do in the area, and arranged a discounted slopes pass for my boyfriend. She also makes a mean blueberry pancake. (Both breakfasts we had there were delicious.) Again, she knows how to be friendly without seeming intrusive.

Overall, our experience at the Brass Lantern exceeded my expectations--I booked the room sight unseen after reading some positive reviews of the place--and I would not hesitate to return or to recommend it to others.

The B&B was in good shape and very clean. You could tell that the owners loved the place and were doing everything they could to keep it in tip-top shape.

I took a room on the back side with a fireplace and with a view of Mt. Mansfield. It was delightful.

What made the stay special was the caring attention of the owners. And, of course the breakfast was delicious.

Highly recommended !

Trina

The owners of this B&B have found their calling. Our room was large and lovely. There were many areas of the house that made you feel like you were at home--a great room, an enclosed porch, and the spacious dining room. I spent a couple of rainy afternoons on the porch or in the great room just reading and relaxing. Breakfast was fabulous every day, and they were very accommodating about food preferences, allergies, etc. They provide coupons for local activities, and are knowledgable about local dining choices. Truly a delightful stay.

Where do I start? The Brass Lantern Inn more than fulfilled my expectations of a Vermont Bed & Breakfast. The Inn was immaculate, the breakfast was delicious, and the innkeepers, Nancy and Joe, were so gracious and warm that we definitely felt as if we were "home away from home". Nancy and Joe just bought the Inn in July of 2005 and since then have made beautiful improvements to the Inn. The view is absolutely gorgeous and the rooms are decorated with that country charm that can only be found in Vermont. I would highly recommend the Brass Lantern Inn to anyone visiting Stowe. There is no reason to stay anywhere else.