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I cozied up legs crossed on the floor taking in all of the warmth of the crackling fire that I could handle while spoon-feeding myself Vermont-made ice cream in a room adorned with vintage snowshoes, skates, traps and trinkets hung from the three surrounding walls. As I got up to throw another log on the fire, I noticed the snowflakes were still gracefully making their way to the ground. It was the first big snow of the season for the small town of Waterbury, Vermont. I could have stayed forever.

In fact, many of the guests who have come to stay at Moose Meadow Lodge in Waterbury have done just that. They’ve gone and bought property after their stay. Once you’ve experienced the hospitality of owners Greg and Willie, you’ll not only fall in love with their quaint B and B, but the entire Green Mountain State.

While this property must be just as idyllic in the warmer months, there is no shortage of a nice balance of serenity and adventure throughout the winter. We bunked up for two nights in the Sled Room, one of four themed rooms in the lodge each equipped with their own balcony or patio. Breakfast was on each morning at 9 am including local Vermont Cabot Cheddar over eggs, french toast and maple bacon with maple syrup tapped from the trees on their very land.

With 86 acres of private property to explore, snowshoeing after morning coffee was at the top of our list. With several different paths to choose from, we listened to the sounds of nature and crunching of the snow under our feet as we made our way to the top stopping to enjoy the picturesque views along the route. If you hike all the way up to the top, you’re in for a beautiful surprise: a simple fully enclosed gazebo with large windows shielding you from the elements where you can reflect, relax, and take in the aerial mountain views. There’s even a heater if you wish to stay a while!

Once we were back at the lodge, I stepped into the bathroom barefoot on heated floors to warm up and had a nice twenty minute steam on the bench in the shower. There is also a jacuzzi tub in the basement! It’s really easy to get too comfortable in the lodge and not even leave the property during your stay, with the option to use the kitchen to make dinner. If you do decide to venture out, there’s so much to do for the epicurious traveler.

For a taste of Waterbury, venture just down the road and taste the world at Vermont Liberty Tea Company, sip small production, family owned, and naturally produced wines at Cork, enjoy small plates at Prohibition Pig, and dine at Hen of the Wood. Not far down the road, the food scene in Stowe is just as exciting. We enjoyed innovative apps at Doc Pond and the classic underground dinner scene at Harrison’s. Vermont also has a huge influence in arts and culture and I especially loved making a trip to the West Branch Gallery and their outdoor Sculpture Park.

Speaking of sculpture, every detail back at the Moose Meadow Lodge was done by hand and all of the Maple and Birch inside of the house is from the property. For those looking for a more secluded escape, book a stay in the Treehouse out back. Open the three warmer seasons of the year, this feel like a kid again beautifully hand crafted room has all you could ever need including an outdoor shower and overlooking the fully stocked pond, perfect for paddling out or fishing.

An affordable luxury escape that feels like home, don’t forget to remain young and adventurous at heart as you plan your next escape in Vermont. A great retreat for all types of travelers including the solo adventurist, couples, or entire family or friends weekend retreat, experiencing a stay at the hidden gem that is Moose Meadow Lodge will leave you refreshed, restored, and curious for more childlike wander.