The Zen Master

After your morning meditation grab some homemade granola + berries layered with Greek vanilla yogurt with a cup of Jade Cloud Tea. Where: Flannel @ Topnotch Resort Price: $$ Hours: 7am-11pm Tip: “Take a 10 minute meditation on the Topnotch lawn before breakfast to clear your mind.”

Learn tai chi at Topnotch! A gentle, holistic Asian exercise, T’ai Chi is practiced through a series of movements that develop and enhance health, energy, relaxation and well-being. Where: Topnotch Fitness Price: $ Hours: See schedule Tip: “Come in with an open mind. It feels awkward at first but if you aren’t self conscious it is such a rewarding practice.”

Take a short hike through the woods and feel the power of the falls. Gaze into the stream that flows through the woods as it remains static yet constantly moving invoking a sense of impermanence that would leave even Buddhah in awe. Where: Bingham Falls Price: Free Hours: Daylight Tip: “Bring a camera and a swim suit and take a leap into the falls from the jumping rock! ”

Keeping it zen its all about natural. Head to the Sunday farmers market for fresh local ingredients for a taste of the land. Where: Stowe Farmer’s Market Price: $ Hours: 10:30-3pm Sundays Tip: “Make sure to check out the local musicians playing folk, bluegrass or jazz”

Through the woods, by the river and across the meadow. Get in touch with nature and serenely glide along with a four legged friend. Where: Topnotch Stables Price: $$ Hours: 11am, 1pm, 3pm May-Oct Tip: “Ask your group to not talk for several minutes so you can enjoy the sounds of nature to their fullest.”

A private reading will provide insight into yourself, your career and your family—for the present and the future. 50 minutes Where: Topnotch Price: $$$ Hours: By Appointment Tip: “Tarrot card reading is also available through the spa!”

Get cleaned up after your spa treatment and head to Topnotch’s newest restaurant to explore the notion that food can be playful & passionate at the same time. And that beer, wine and drinks, done well, are the craft that compliments the process. Where: Roost @ Topnotch Price: $$ Hours: 4pm to close Tip: “The bar is also a shuffle board table, make sure to get a game in.”

Carry a candlelit lantern as you hear entertaining stories of the resident ghosts of Stowe. Hear compelling stories of early settlers & view Stowe’s historic downtown. Regain your composure with some hot cider & cookies in the historic & haunted Green Mountain Inn. Where: Stowe at Night Lantern Tours Price: $ Hours: Ask concierge for a schedule Tip: “Hope you aren’t not afraid of the dark!”

Sprawling across several acres with nature trails, a 30,000 sq ft spa, two restaurants, outdoor pools and so much more--Topnotch is an easy decision for the true Vermont experience. Whether you're traveling as a couple or with the whole family this place is fantastic. Where: Stowe, VT Price: Approx. $350/night Tip: "Upgrade to one of their suites to live in luxury!"