The Equinox in Manchester, Vermont, is the quintessential New England luxury resort, unique in its rich heritage, but equipped with utterly contemporary amenities befitting a property of its stature. The property’s history dates all the way back to 1769 and the American revolution, when it was known as the Marsh Tavern. Fast forward 250 years and the tavern is now a compound of stately white columned buildings and various other structures added over the intervening decades—17 of them in all. Located in the most beautiful part of Southern Vermont on 2,300 acres, it is now the only Luxury Collection property in rural New England, and as such carries the coveted 5-star rating.
Still pretty much a quaint family gathering place when we first visited the property 30 years ago, we’ve watched the Equinox evolve in the years since into a world-class resort drawing visitors from every corner of the globe. But it hasn’t lost its timeless appeal, even if some of the decor these days is much more Park Avenue than country inn. Aside from the main building of the hotel however there are some other options for accommodations if you want an immersive experience sampling New England Colonial history. Located just across the street from the main building is the 1811 House, a perfectly preserved private house that was once a bed and breakfast whose rooms feature period correct furnishings and wood-burning fireplaces.
Overlooking the renowned Golf Club at the Equinox, the 1811 House is the former home of Abraham Lincoln’s granddaughter and retains the historic character of that era. Away from the hustle and bustle of the main part of the hotel, guests there can still access all the luxe amenities of the property including the heated indoor swimming pool, bar and restaurants. The Equinox has long been known as a culinary destination as well, and the most recent updates to the food and beverage program carry on that tradition. Our favorite is the Chop House, rightly considered one the finest steakhouses in the Northeast. It’s located in part of the original Marsh Tavern section of the building, and features a historic stone fireplace from the property dating to the 1850s.
Dinner in such a warm, inviting and historically important setting with a fantastic menu to complement the surroundings is an experience we highly recommend. Start with a cocktail on the front porch to get in the Vermont spirit. Then once seated at your table call for a platter of oysters on the half shell with pink peppercorn and blackberry mignonette and caramelized lemon, and a “BLT” wedge salad with house smoked bacon, baby Iceberg lettuce, blue cheese, cherry tomatoes, and red wine vinaigrette. Then of course, steak. There are several on the menu to choose from, including a chop cut filet mignon, to which, as an ultimate indulgence, a lobster tail can be added. You then choose from among six perfect sauces and and a number of delectable side dishes including truffled steak fries with house made ketchup and sautéed seasonal local mushrooms. Pure heaven.
We arrived for our stay and feast at the Equinox at the wheel of a thoroughly modern supercar, the incredible Ferrari 488 GTB, on our epic 70th anniversary of Ferrari road trip through New England. The Equinox has been catering to well-heeled travelers for over a century and beautiful vehicles are frequently visible outside its famous portico, but a car like the 488 never fails to turn heads wherever it appears. Ferrari of course has its own storied history of luxury which makes it the perfect car for a visit to such a legendary property, and its impeccable handling and performance made it equally incredible to drive on the many scenic roads and byways of the Green Mountain State. We graciously posed for photos with the fire-engine red thoroughbred as it ticked over musically, itching to get back on the road, but quite happy to park in such a picturesque location for the moment.
