Vermont is exactly what it’s hyped up to be: quaint, romantic and downright beautiful. The towns are small, the houses are homey and the people are welcoming. Despite being a Montreal native, there are few other places in the world where I have felt more at home. One town in particular still holds a sizable chunk of my heart: Ludlow.
There are ski towns a plenty, especially in New England where small ski hills still thrive. Somehow, Ludlow seems different. Could it be the candy coloured houses or perhaps the maple syrup smothered breakfasts from the small eateries? Maybe it’s the impeccably groomed runs of Okemo or the unparalleled service of the ski shops? All I know is this: to go is to be perfectly enchanted.
Where to apres-ski: Tom’s Loft Tavern
This just might be one of my favourite places in the world, no joke. With a motto like “Warm beer, lousy food and a grumpy owner” one might not have such high expectations, but I can attest to it’s perfect irony. The craft brews on tap run freely, the buffalo wings have seriously brought me close to tears of joy and the company is always spot on. The tavern is located directly at the base of Okemo’s slopes, in a big red barn that was rolled down the hill from it’s original location. It’s creaky and packed so full with *lifties, instructors and tourists that you second guess the structure’s integrity. Of course, this only adds to the authenticity of the experience.
Where to eat: The Downtown Grocery
Foodies rejoice! Homemade and local is the name of the game here. This small eatery came to Ludlow in 2010 as an answer to the lack of fine dinning. I can say with absolute certainty that they did not miss the mark. Though the food is sublimely refined, the dress code remains casual, true to it’s rustic location. I was blown away by the locally sourced mains and fell in love with the buttermilk bacon ice cream; a must try! Reservations are highly recommended as the small venue packs in quickly.
Clearly, skiing happens at Okemo Mountain Resort. Stay tuned for more on what may be the best ski town in Vermont!
Winter is coming,
K
*Lifties: snow sport lift attendants