Christmas Dinner at The Inn at Thorn Hill

Chef John Russ has created a wonderful Christmas Dinner menu for our guests. The Inn at Thorn Hill will be serving Christmas dinner from 3pm to 7pm in our main dining room overlooking Mt. Washington. Call us for reservations at 1-800-289-8990 or 383-4242. Make your reservations early as we were sold out for Thanksgiving. You can also email us at stay@innatthornhill.com

Cold Station

Hickory Smoked Salmon with Accoutrement

Charcuterie with Mustards and Pickles

New England Cheeses with Accoutrement

New Potato Salad with Bacon and Scallions

Winter Kale Salad with Shrimp, Oranges and Pecans

Crisp Greens with Accoutrement

Hot Station

Seared Scallops with Risotto and Tasso Jus

Oyster Rockefeller Soup

Housemade Gnocchi with Apricots, Bacon and Cheddar

Pork Schnitzel with Red Cabbage

Yams with Marshmallows and Spiced Nuts

Wild Rice with Dried Fruit and Caraway

Green Bean Casserole

Pasta with Béchamel and Cheese

Roast Turkey with Accoutrement

Cod En Croute with Bacon and Swiss Chard

Prime Rib with Accoutrement

Christmas Ham with Cherries and Cloves

Dessert Station

Christmas Triffles

Gateaux

Crepes Nanou

Petit Fours and Candies

Crème Brulee

Warm Winter Pies

Apple Torte

Pear Tatin

Plum and Rice Pudding

We thank you for spending the holiday with us, and hope that you enjoy this day with friends, family and have a memorable meal.
The price is $36 for adults and $18 for children 12 and under

New Chef at Rabbit Hill Inn in Vermont

Rabbit Hill Inn proudly introduces accomplished Chef Matthew Secich

Food lovers may remember Chef Secich from several acclaimed establishments, including The Inn at Erlowest on Lake George (earning four stars from the Times Union,) The Alpenhof Lodge, in Jackson Hole, WY (noted by critics as creating the best dining experience in all of Jackson Hole), The Oval Room in DC (receiving frequent raves in the Washington Post) and most recently, Charlie Trotters in Chicago.

His impressive culinary journey began as a young gold-medal winning student at Johnson & Wales Culinary. He then spent several years with renowned chefs domestically and abroad, including ACF Master Chef Hartmut Handke, Patrick O'Connell of the famed 5 Star Inn at Little Washington, and Chef Craig Shelton of the Mobil Four Star, AAA Four Diamond, Relais Gourmand Ryland Inn in Whitehouse, NJ. In France, he studied at Restaurant Pierre Gagnaire, with Guy Martin at Le Grand Vefour, and with Raymond Blanc at La Manior Aux Quat' Saisons.

After a one year sabbatical, Secich excitedly returns to the culinary stage. He now finds himself "at home" in the internationally acclaimed, AAA Four Diamond Rabbit Hill Inn, in Vermont.

Inspired by his uncompromising commitment to the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from the best local farms, he brings a heightened dimension of fine creative cuisine to Rabbit Hill Inn. Although there are strong French influences, his cooking style is without boundaries -beyond a label or description. Secich masterfully blends classical and new age techniques, unlimited imagination and artistry, topped with amazing attention to detail. The results are extraordinary.To see his exciting offerings, be sure to bookmark a link to his frequently changing menu. Also check out his "Inn Good Taste" Cooking Class Getaways!

His philosophy is "when you cook with love and passion, everything is cooked to the brink of perfection. One can taste the passion." Expect to meet him while you are there and enjoy the conversation. His passion is contagious! Above all, his dedicated focus is on always exceeding guest expectations and proudly bringing joy to all that find their way to Rabbit Hill's table.

Midweek Ski and Stay Package

Ski and Stay in Luxury at the Inn at Thorn Hill
Midweek Ski and Stay Packages starting from $359 for two in a superior room, includes two midweek tickets valid at 6 Mt Washington Valley Ski resorts and 6 Nordic touring centers, a 60 minute Swedish massage therapy for one, full three-course dinner, country breakfast and our signature afternoon tea and cookies. Single night or multiple nights available, and all prices based on double occupancy for one night. Luxury room pricing begins at $437 per night, double occupancy, inclusive of tickets and one spa treatment, and Suite pricing begins at $457 per night, double occupancy, inclusive of tickets and one spa treatment. Now there's no reason not to ski and stay with our flexible midweek package. Stay one night or more, add ski tickets or spa treatments to extend your stay the way you want it, and build yourself a custom mini-midweek vacation in luxury and style Call to reserve your midweek package today. More InfoPricing: Superior: $359 PN/DO MIDWEEK - Luxury: $437 PN/DO MIDWEEK - Suite: $457 PN/DOFrom: 11-20-08 To: 03-31-09Restrictions: Ski and stay in luxury packages are midweek only during Non-holiday, non Peak season. Lift tickets are valid only Monday through Thursday, midweek, NON HOLIDAY times. Peak and High season rates would include Christmas Vacation Week and February Vacation Week. Call us at 1-800-289-8990 or email us at stay@innatthornhill.com

New England Romantic Weekend Getaway: Holiday Gift Certificates Feature Luxury Travel & Getaway Gifts To Newport Rhode Island

Newport Rhode Island's leading luxury bed and breakfast, Cliffside Inn, debuts a new holiday gift certificate program with a luxury and value twist, featuring the ultimate New England romantic weekend getaway.

Everyone who buys a Travel Gift Certificate for at least $250 this holiday season, will automatically be entered in a drawing for a 2009 romantic weekend getaway to Newport Rhode Island's Cliffside Inn, a founding member of Distinctive Inns of new England. The winning couple enjoys 2-nights in a State Room or Luxury Suite with fireplace and whirlpool, plus our Grand Romance Package which features Veuve Cliquot Champagne, artisanal chocolates, roses, and organic spa products for the bath. In all, a luxury getaway value of $1,000.

> In addition, holiday gift certificate buyers who spend $500 - $700 receive a $75 Getaway Coupon, good for any 2009 getaway to Cliffside Inn, or the other Legendary Inns of Newport, with no restrictions.



> Gift certificates of $750 or more, also receive a Farmaesthetics Sustainable Beauty Spa Gift set. Valued at $60, the organic travel set features a selection of all natural skincare products put together for us by Farmaesthetics founder Brenda Brock, one of the country's leading organic skincare and spa specialists.


Holiday Gift certificates are good at all Legendary Inns of Newport, and have no expiration date. To order a holiday gift certificate or get more information, call Cliffside Inn at 401-847-1811 or visit the gift certificate or holiday gift idea webpages. Read more about the program launch.

CONDE NAST READERS' CHOICE AWARDS

Conde Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards

The Inn at Thorn Hill & Spa, located in Jackson, New Hampshire in the White Mountains has been selected as the number two resort in the Mainland United States . The award is the second time the Inn has been choosen in the top three resorts in the Mainland USA. The four diamond Inn is a four season destination and is popular with skiiers in the winter and hikers and mountain bikers in the summer.

The Inn also placed as the #12th best lodging establishment in the United States and is a destination for weddings, small corporate meetings.

The wine list has also been selected by The Wine Enthusast as the only New Hampshire restauarant as the "Best of the Award of Excellence" for its 1800 selecion wine list.
Call the Inn for current rates at 1-800-289-8990 or email at stay@innatthornhill.com
Posted by Jim & Ibby Cooper at 7:56 AM

Rombauer Vineyard Wine Dinner

ROMBAUER VINEYARDS WINE DINNER

The Inn at Thorn Hill is hosting Rombauer Vineyards on October 23, 2008 at 7:00pm for five course wine dinner.
Rombauer was founded in 1982 by Koerner and Joan Rombauer and sits on a tree covered knoll overlooking Napa Valley. The Rombauer family is orginally from Reingau region of Germany and his great aunt, Irma Rombauer, wrote the book The Joy of Cooking. Their wines are consistently ranked high in the wine trade journals.
The menu:
Hors d' oeuvres
Piper Sonoma, Blanc de Blanc, NV

Red lentil salad with smoked bacon, puff pastry, fresh garden grown leeks and mimolette essence
Carneros Chardonnay, 2007

Grilled beef shortribs with fresh turnips, parsnips and
aigo boulido "braised" bread
Napa Valley Merlot, 2005

Roasted squab with red kuri gourd, sweet garlic, black olive
poached fennel and a hint of curry
Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2005

"The fruit bombe"
Zinfandel, 2006
The dinner is $75 per person and starts with hors d' oeuvres at 7:00pm in the lounge. Call us at 1-800-289-8990 for reservations or email us at stay@innatthornhill.com

CATENA ZAPATA WINE
DINNER, SEPTEMBER 18

The Inn at Thorn Hill is hosting its monthly wine dinner featuring the Argentinian wines of Catena from Mendosa. Jorge Lilory is representing the winery on Thursday, September 18th. The Menu follows:

Hors d' oeuvres

Catena Alamos Torrontes, 2007

* * *

Roasted Oysters with Uni Butter, Roasted Garlic

& Citrus Tuile and Locally Grown Mache

Catena Alta, Chardonnay, 2005

* * *

"Sofrito" Braised Beef Cheeks with Black Grits

and Scallion and Almond Salad

Alamos, Seleccion, Pinot Noir, 2007

* * *

Earle Family Farms Chicken Roasted with

Summer Truffles, Rosemary and New Potatoes

Catena Alta, Malbec, "The Stick", 2005

* * *

"Chocolate Pot" with Spiced Organic Chocolate,

Dried Cherries, Prickley Pear and Coco Nibs

Catena, Alta, Cabernet Sauvignon

The dinner starts with hors d'oeuvres at 7pm and costs $75 per person. Call us at 1-800-289-8990 or email us at: stay@innatthornhill.com

A Typical New Hampshire Visit

If you have a laundry list of things to do on your next vacation, your destination is New Hampshire. The state truly justifies their motto, "Live Free or Die", with tons of indoor and outdoor activities, plenty of shopping and antiquing, all season sport events, many art and entertainment scenes, and lots more. This year spice up the adrenaline with some white water sea-kayaking in the Saco River among the White Mountains. Slow down the pace instead on a panoramic hike with your family and children or follow a tour guide. Having 48 4,000 foot peaks, your bound to find a trail perfect for you. Try horseback riding at several of the state parks, play golf with some peers, visit historic sites on hundreds of different walking routes, or rent an ATV or snowmobile for some extreme action.

Stumped on where to stay? New Hampshire hosts warm hospitality with umpteen very unique inns and bed and breakfasts in just about every town you choose. For the nature type, boundless campgrounds lie from full-service RV sites to extremely rustic back country and remote spots. Now stumped on when to go? Because New Hampshire is so versatile, you can ultimately book your vacation depending on what you want to do. For the undecided, avenge in the maple sugaring time, that is mid-February to mid-April. During this time, the maple industries will produce more than 90,000 gallons of maple syrup so you know your pancakes will be smothered in the finest maple of the year. Plan and book your trip now stress-free today.

Caramelized Onion & Goat Cheese Tart Recipe

The finest restaurant in Lenox, Massachusetts, an award winning wine and spirits bar, and a stay in the Arthur Fiedler room make the Gateways Inn your new escape to serenity. You will find the Fiedler room European enthused by Italian marbled spacious floors, Venetian lace curtains tailoring French doors, a Mahogany library with a dry-bar, an antique armoire aside the French Aubusson bedding print. Tie up your nights at the Gateways Inn Restaurant for a purely fresh meal with the talented Culinary Team offering Creative and Contemporary American dishes supporting locally grown food. Experience the recent bar and lounge, "La Terrazza", for some dessert, cocktails, cappuccino, and most certainly a glass of wine. With an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectators and Sante' Magazine, endeavor their vast selection of sophisticated Italian and American wines to fit your taste. After you stay, try this Gateways Inn recipe to remember that classy and refined European feel.

Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tarts

Makes 15 small tarts

Tarts:

Pie or unflavored pizza dough

Olive oil

Goat cheese spread:

1 (8-ounce) package goat cheese, softened

1/2  cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Dash of salt and white pepper

Caramelized onions:

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 large yellow or Spanish onions, thinly sliced

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon sugar

2 teaspoons finely chopped flat leaf parsley

For the tarts: Preheat oven to 350˚F. On a floured surface, roll out pie or pizza dough 1/8-inch thick. Cut dough into 15 (4-inch) circles. Pierce dough randomly with a fork. Brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and crisp. Remove from oven and cool.

For the goat cheese spread: Combine all spread ingredients.

For the caramelized onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over low heat. Add onions and cook until translucent. Add garlic, salt, pepper and s

ugar; cook for about 10-15 minutes, until onions are dark brown and sweet. Stir in parsley. Remove from heat and cool.

To assemble: Spread some goat cheese mixture over each crust. Spread caramelized onions over goat cheese. Bake for 5-7 minutes. Serve immeadiately and enjoy.

A Camden Maine Musical Stay

The Camden Opera House hosts a thrilling occasion for the musically enthused. Scheduled for the summer of 2008 are several showings varying from Deathtrap! to Seussical the Musical! The atmosphere is equivalently pleasurable as the highlighted shows. What additionally makes the opera house exquisite is the recently renovated Victorian style together with grand chandeliers, a horseshoe balcony, and antique moldings. The 500-person capacity and three distinct function rooms cater to all performers any size. And better yet, a quality seat stands at a sheer $16.00 per person; so don't hesitate to see more than one show. Settle down after a show to elegant and romantic ambiance not even a half a mile down the road.

This cozy and warm mood can only be found at the Camden Maine Stay. Innkeepers, Bob and Jaunita Topper, dedicate themselves to provide eight charismatic rooms each very unlike the other to suit your taste. Speaking of taste, the first brew of coffee for the day starts at 7:30 A.M., so you will still have time for that early morning walk. Return to fresh juice, stuffed French toast, egg casserole, homemade granola baked in pure Maine maple syrup, and plenty more. And if you loved the food so much you can even find the recipes at their website. Check their availability online and mark your calendar with a loved one or friend to unwind after a tiresome week.

A Blast From the Past in Historic Deerfield, MA

Flashback to at least seven generations before us in a walk through Historic Deerfield located in the 330-year-old New England Town of Deerfield, Massachusetts. Back in the 1930's, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Flynt migrated to the small town wishing to restore as much of the beloved town possible. Nowadays, more than 25,000 17th, 18th, and 19th century items, which were made or utilized by America, are revealed in eleven old museum houses. These houses alone were constructed from 1730 to 1850 in a town that attracts many by downright age. With special events running constantly, tours, a library, and even cooking programs no person could possible go uninterested. If you're still hyped over the past after your visit, retreat to an inn equally as historic as the surroundings.

With twenty-three guest rooms, an authentic 125-year-old vibe, fresh and naturally raised cuisine, and plenty of conveniences, no other inn could compare to The Deerfield Inn. Each room is meticulously decorated one by one with complete services from private tub/shower bathrooms to high-speed internet access to flat screen DVD televisions to complimentary gourmet breakfast to even homemade cookies and tea served every afternoon. Very simply you can book your room and while you're at it, make a dinner reservation online and gourmand cooking will be awaiting when you prefer.

Vermont's Best Kept Secret - Lake Memphremagog in Newport, VT

Travel through Vermont’s green rolling hills until you reach nearly a mile before Quebec, Canada and you will discover one of Vermont’s coverts, Lake Memphremagog. Try and say that ten times fast. Newport, Vermont’s 27-mile fresh water glacial lake is one not to be missed. Mostly surrounded by residential estates, your best luck is to stay in the rental homes and that is certainly no complaint. For the most part, the rental homes will present two stories, full amenities, a private driveway, and plenty of space to play volleyball and have a cookout in the lawn. Plenty of activities lie within this sacred lake all year around.

Plan your vacation week for sunshine or snowfall and prepare for a variety of things to do. The spring and fall season bid perfect conditions for a bike ride or walk on the rail trail. Rent some kayaks or canoes nearby and explore the picturesque Lake Memphremagog. Throw your shades and sun block on in the summer and watch the sailors and windsurfers from the sandy white beach. With numerous boat launches, you can cruise the perimeter with your family and kids on their water skies or in their tubes. Rejuvenate yourself with a simple swim in the crisp and fresh water of Newport, Vermont.

Visit again in your winter gear for further enjoyment on the frozen Lake Memphremagog. Grab those cross-country skies or haul up the snowmobile for a pictorial route in the radiant snow. For the extremists, travel less than 20 miles to ski or snowboard at Jay Peak, a very reputable ski mountain in Vermont. So book your house for a week, a month, or a whole season because Lake Memphremagog works around you with activities to do any time of year.

Scenic Walk in Newport, Rhode Island

A simple trail charted by local deer more than 200 years ago transformed into today’s lure of Newport, RI. That trail, now called The Cliff Walk, borders part of the spirited town of Rhode Island presenting such aged and wealthy homes of the 1800’s. New Yorkers of that time urbanized the shore of the Rhode Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean in their vastly prosperous mansions. In spite of the rich owners’ competitiveness, they shared one unanimous strive for summer retreat. Walk the three and half miles of extravagance and you will feel the peace and tranquility those men reached for.

A featured and luxurious accommodation of Newport, RI located walking distance from the shore is The Cliffside Inn. The residence, once owned by a well-known artist, Beatrice Turner, now imparts a splendidly calming stay to the New England travelers. The authentic fireplace, synthetic bedding, “Legendary style” room service, and endless points of charm craft a terrifically soothing quarter for visiting guests. With an art museum, fine cuisine, and complete wine bar personally served who would ever want to leave? Select your room and book the date online for a spectacularly serene getaway from your busy world.

Laconia Motorcycle Week - Famous New Hampshire Bike Week

Coming just around the corner is the renowned Laconia Motorcycle Week held from June 14-22, 2008 bringing its 85^th anniversary. Everyday is filled with promos, food, fun, stunts, demos, and of course, motorcycling. Not too far away at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, more than 27 races are held on the 14^th and 15^th for a mere $25 a person. Take a break from riding and enjoy the ECM stunts at Flip Fest ’08 held at Gunstock Mountain Resort. Or relax to music at the market featuring four new bands everyday, all day. Grab some free prizes and specials at demos provided by Harley Davidson, Budweiser, Jägermeister, and plenty more. There’s no better way to wrap up the fun with some good food. Bring your friends and reward yourselves with an excellent meal at the Brick Front Restaurant, the notorious Lobster Pound, or join the fun at a Rally Cookout.

If you feel like taking a day off from all the excitement, you’ll find the fun doesn’t stop at Laconia Bike Week. Try out the many beautiful accommodations nearby Holderness, NH such as the Manor on Golden Pond on Squam Lake. This space, along with many others, grants gourmet dining, a cozy and warming welcome, and anything to do from whale watching to scrap booking to amusement parks. Bring your kids along for a thrill at the Weirs Beach Go-Kart Track. Grab your whole family and kick back to a spectacular view of Lake Winnipesaukee, Belknap Mountain and the islands on the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad. No matter who you are, there is always something for you in store at Laconia, NH.

Pack your bags and make your reservations for the 85^th anniversary Laconia Motorcycle Week. Bring your friends and family on a pleasurable week of pure excitement at the heart of New Hampshire.

Inn at Thorn Hill named BEST OF NEW HAMPSHIRE

The Inn at Thorn Hill's lounge menu has been selected as the best bar food in New Hampshire.

The menu is a selection of small plates and large plates served in the lounge or adjoining porch which overlooks Mount Washington.

The menu created by Chef John Russ's staff is a blend of many tastes. Small plates might be Crab Spring Roll, Grilled Artichoke or Cornmeal Fried Oysters. Large plates include a Venison Patty Melt, Duck Confit Salad, Hand Cut Tagliatelle or Pale Ale Steamed Mussels.

The lounge is open nightly from 5pm to 10pm and there is Michael Jewell on the piano on Saturday evenings. Reservaions are available for parties of six or larger.

Call for an updated menu - 1-800-289-8990 or 603-383-4242

White Mountains Arts Festival

This August visit Jackson, New Hampshire for the annual White Mountain Arts Festival. This two day long festival is sponsored by the Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce and is held in the Jackson Village Park on the 18th and 19th.

Artists both selling their work, as well as those there to be judged on their work, will be showing off their pieces to the public during the weekend. There will be musicians and an abundance of food vendors to attract visitors to the area as well. Jackson grew its popularity from artists traveling far and wide to paint there due to its outstanding view of the White Mountains.

If you want to spend a romantic weekend with your special someone at the Art Festival, be sure to visit the Inn at Thorn Hill. This full service inn has 25 rooms, a fine dining room as well as more casual lounge offerings. The Inn at Thorn Hill also offers a spa facility. This adult sanctuary was voted one of the ten most romantic inns in North America.

For more information on the White Mountains Arts Festival email info@jacksonnh.com .

Inn at Thorn Hill AAA Awards

The Inn at Thorn Hill was awarded AAA Four Diamond Awards for both its inn and restaurant for the eighth time on May 12th, 2008 at the annual luncheon. The Inn was presented its ninth consecutive lodging award and the restaurant was awarded for the eighth year. The awards were interrupted by a fire to the Main Inn in 2003 which has been rebuilt with all new amenities and a complete spa.

The Inn was one of only four properties in New Hampshire to receive both awards and it included Distinctive Inns of New England member, The Manor on Golden Pond where the luncheon took place.

The Inn at Thorn Hill has been owned by Jim & Ibby Cooper since 1993. Reservations for rooms, dinner or spa treatment can be made by calling 1-800-289-8990 or emailing us at stay@innatthornhill.com

With Warm Weather Comes an Abundance of Wildlife

The Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Lenox, Massachusetts. The Sanctuary has 1,314 acres of land which holds seven miles of trails that weave through meadows, forests, wetlands, and even the Lenox Mountains.

The Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a large and growing beaver population, birds, and June-blooming Mountain Laurel. The peaceful scenery is also blooming with an abundance of flowers and wildlife.

The Sanctuary offers canoe trips on the Housatonic River beginning in mid-May until Columbus Day. Admission to the Sanctuary is $4 for adults and $3 for children.

Lenox is also home to the picture-perfect, elegant yet comfortable Gateways Inn. This enchanting inn is located in the Berkshire Hills with breathtaking views and 12 recently restored guest rooms. In the summer, lunch and dinner are served daily at the inn’s restaurant.

Getting Married In New England

New England is quickly becoming a popular location for destination weddings. New England offers a wide variety of beautiful locations for every bride’s unique dream wedding. From crystal clear lakes, sandy beaches or snowy mountains, each New England state offers something picture perfect for your wedding all year long.

New Hampshire offers pristine lakes, mountains and oceans that each holds breathtaking views for your special day. A New Hampshire marriage license costs $45 and is valid for 90 days – then a certified copy can be requested for $12.

For a picturesque fairy-tale wedding, visit New Hampshire’s Chesterfield Inn in Chesterfield. The inns’ 10 acres of outdoor gardens is home to beautiful flowers and quaint ponds edged with cattails and willow trees and the habitat of a choir of frogs.

The Chesterfield Inn is a perfect fit for intimate weddings. The Inn design, reminiscent of an old New England farmhouse, has 15 guest rooms that have breathtaking views of the gardens and grounds with crab apple trees hung with white lights. Contact the Chesterfield Inn to start planning your special day.

Yoga Hikes in the Whites Inn at Thorn Hill

Join our yoga instructor, Carlene Sullivan of Symmetree Yoga, for a weekend adventure in the White Mountains as you reside, replenish and rejuvenate in the heart of Jackson, New Hampshire at the Inn at Thorn Hill & Spa.Upon arrival you will be greeted by dinner and a brief orientation where you will meet your yoga teacher, Carlene and mountain guides. Start the day off with breakfast, a guided hike through the pristine forests of the Mount Washington Valley and a restorative mountain top yoga class. The yoga excursion includes transportation to and from the trail head, a guided hike, safety techniques and skills to deepen your hiking techniques, lunch and a mountain top yoga class focusing on beginner yoga postures paired with breath & meditation. We will wind the day off with a little more yoga and dinner. An additional morning yoga class and breakfast will be offered the morning of your departure; leaving you feeling restored, invigorated and ready for a fresh start.

Experience yoga at its fullest by listening to the sounds of nature and discovering what the Mount Washington Valley really has to offer with Yoga Hikes in the Whites Tour. Yoga Hikes in the Whites Tour Include: Superior room in the Main Inn for two nights with private Jacuzzi bath and separate shower, gas fireplace, TV/DVD (upgrade to a Luxury room or Suite). Nightly three course dinner for two full country breakfast each morning, and afternoon tea and cookies served daily. Packed lunch for two with your choice of sandwich, fruit, cookies, and bottled water. Outdoor activities with skilled facilitators Daily yoga class, meditation, and relaxation. Comfortable lounge, fitness room, library and tea meditation area. Relaxing sauna, hot tub, and outdoor pool .

Superior rooms: Double Occupancy: $760/ Single Occupancy: $691

Luxury rooms: Double Occupancy: $880/ Single Occupancy: $810
Suite Rooms: Double Occupancy: $960/ Single Occupancy: $890
*8% state tax and gratuities not included

Tour Dates: June 27th, July 18th, August 15th, September 5th

Call the Inn at Thorn Hill 1-800-289-8990 or email us at: stay@innatthornhill.com

Horseback Riding In New England

Lenox Massachusetts, in Berkshire County, has beautiful mountains to both the East and the West, making this town in Western MA a perfect location to go horseback riding.

Aspinwall Equestrian Center has riding lessons through the scenic trails of Kennedy Park and the Lenox Mountains. Aspinwall Equestrial Center offers group lessons as well as private lessons, from beginners all the way to advanced riders. The Center takes riders on one hour rides, half day rides or even adventures that last overnight!

After your riding lesson, be sure to relax at the Gateway's Inn – a beautiful Manor house with European charm. The Gateways Inn has 12 lovely guestrooms and offers breakfast and dinner in its charming dining room.

Aspinwall Equestrian Center is open Monday through Friday from 8AM to 8PM. Contact Terry Cook at 413-637-4894 or by email at trockinghorse39@yahoo.com .

History of Deerfield, Massachusetts

Often times, Deerfield, Massachusetts is referred to as New England’s gem. Deerfield is home to thirteen beautifully restored, historic homes built in the 18th century, as well as the Flynt Center of Early New England Life Museum and two memorial libraries.

The Flynt Center of Early New England Life is a great place to visit if you are interested in learning about 18th and 19th century New England, with its constantly rotating exhibitions and knowledgeable staff. Currently, the Flynt Center is showing the following exhibits:
“Clothes Make the Man: The Colonial Gentleman in New England.”
“Engraved Powder Horns from the French and Indian War and the American Revolution: The William H. Gutham Collection.”
“Celebrating the Fiber Arts: The Helen Geier Flynt Textile Gallery.”

Just this past weekend, the Flynt Center opened a new exhibit – “Into the Woods: Crafting Early American Furniture,” where visitors can learn about antique furniture.

Deerfield is also home to the jointly administered Henry N. Flynt Memorial Library and the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association Library with volumes totaling 41,000 combined. These volumes include not only books, periodicals and microforms, but also local account books, diaries and letters.

To top off a visit to Deerfield, be sure to relax at the Deerfield Inn. The Inn offers 23 guest rooms and an award winning dining room that serves both lunch and dinner.

History of Chatham, Massachusetts

Located in Barnstable County, Massachusetts, Chatham is a beautiful town that is perfect for a summer vacation. Chatham is home to the Chatham Lighthouse, which was established in 1808 by Thomas Jefferson to protect the ships circling the Cape. Main Street Chatham has a provincial feel with its numerous family owned and operated shops and restaurants, including the Captain’s House Inn – great for a gourmet breakfast before you start your busy day.

Chatham is also home to the Cape's second oldest theatre, Monomoy Theatre. Open for fifty-one years, the theatre offers a summer theatre program for college students. Each summer the students perform eight plays with the mentoring help of seasoned visiting artists, actors and directors.

With 260 seats, anywhere you sit offers a great view. Tickets are $17-$22.

This summer, the Monomoy Theatre box office opens on June 16th. This year the students are performing Guys and Dolls, Scapino, The Matchmaker, Doubt, A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum, The Front Page, The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-In-The-Moon Marigolds, and The Merry Wives of Windsor.

Contact us:
Monomoy Theatre
776 Main Street
Chatham, MA 02633

Phone: (508)945-1589

Celebrate the Warm Weather at the Manor on Golden Pond

Warm weather means being able to relax outdoors – and where better to take a stroll through the woods than beautiful New Hampshire. Holderness, NH, located in Grafton County, is home to the pristine Squam Lake and Rattlesnake Mountains. The area’s serene scenery was discovered in the 19th century by visitors to the area, and continues to bring guests each year.

The Rattlesnake Mountains are home to 173 acres of protected, public property with a network of trails waiting for your footprints. If you are adventurous, you can even climb Mount Webster, the highest point in Holderness, reaching an elevation of 2,076 feet.

After your tranquil hike, visit the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center to learn more about the wildlife in New Hampshire. Open for over forty years, the Science Center offers live animal exhibits, education programs and even lake cruises. Visit http://www.nhnature.org/for more information. To complete your stay in Holderness, enjoy a relaxing getaway at the Manor on Golden Pond where elegant surroundings, kind hospitality, and fine dining await.

Inn at Thorn Hill's Tour of Italy Wine Dinner - May 3rd

The Saturday evening event is a five course dinner with paired wines at each course. The reception starts at 7:00pm and costs $75 per person. Below is the menu we will be serving.

Assorted Hor d'oeuvres
Wine- Pieropan, Soave Classico

Fresh Frog Legs with Chard and White Asparagus
Wine- Canella, Prosecco

Buckwheat Tagliatelle with Potatoes, Greens and Quail
Wine- Jerman, Pinot Grigio

Tuscan Pig Trio with Porchette, Crema Paradise and ossibuchi all Toscana
Wine- Terrabianca, Campaccio

Fresh Milk Sorbetto with Lingonberry Zabaglione, Polenta Cake and Hazelnuts
Wine- Villa la Delva Vin Santo, Vigna del Pappa

Call us at 1-800-289-8990 or email us at stay@innatthornhill.com
Hope to see you here for this fabulous dinner!

Newport RI AAA Four Diamond Award: Cliffside Inn Makes It Five-Years In A Row

Distinctive Inns of New England founding member Cliffside Inn has received the prestigious AAA Four Diamond award for the fifth consecutive year. The luxury Newport RI bed and breakfast is one of five Distinctive Inns hotel or inn properties that are AAA Four Diamond rated, the others are Vermont’s Rabbit Hill Inn, New Hampshire’s Manor on Golden Pond and Inn at Thorn Hill, and The Captain’s House on Cape Cod.

The Cliffside Inn joins its sister Newport RI bed and breakfast Abigail Stoneman Inn with the AAA Four Diamond distinction. Owned and operated by the same family under the name Legendary Inns of Newport, the group is now in the unique position of running more than a quarter of all the AAA Four Diamond inns or hotels in Rhode Island.

The coveted Four Diamond award is given each year to only about three percent of the more than 32,000 AAA rated inns and hotels in America. Only seven Rhode Island bed and breakfasts, inns, or hotels have been honored with AAA Four Diamonds for 2008. Cliffside Inn was the first Newport RI bed and breakfast or inn to be awarded AAA Four Diamond status in Rhode Island. Check availability at Cliffside Inn. See all DINE inns.

New England Country Inn - What Is The Difference?

Many people often wonder the difference between bed and breakfasts, country inns, and historic inns. One kind of bed and breakfast, known as a homestay, is usually a private home with just a few rooms and offers a simple breakfast to its visitors. Homestays are often a part-time operation run as a means of extra family income.

Most bed and breakfasts, however, are professionally run and offer more rooms than homestays. The Camden Maine Stay has nine rooms, while the Cliffside Inn in Newport, Rhode Island, and Captain’s House Inn, in Chatham Massachusetts, have around sixteen. B&Bs are owner managed and operated, and usually employ additional staff to help with cooking, housekeeping, and guest services.

Country inns are bed & breakfast inns that offer dinner service as well as breakfast. Often, their dining rooms are open to the public like Gateway’s Inn in Lenox, Massachusetts, which is an ideal getaway for conferences and weddings. Country inns tend to have between five to thirty rooms and, like the Windam Hill Inn and Rabbit Hill Inn in Vermont, or the Chesterfield Inn in New Hampshire, can have a staff of 20-30 people to maintain the inn and care for their guests. Some inns go one step further by offering on-site spas like those found at New Hampshire’s Manor on Golden Pond and Inn at Thorn Hill.

Many inns and bed & breakfasts are also historic inns as they are located in historic areas or are themselves a National Historic Landmark like the Deerfield Inn located in Deerfield, Massachusetts. The Deerfield Inn opened in 1884, and is part of a 350 year old village that is home to an assortment of 18th and 19th century museum houses.

Whether you are looking to visit a quaint bed and breakfast, a renowned country inn, or an inn that is part of history, New England is your destination and the Distinctive Inns of New England offer it all.

Inn at Thorn Hill's Tour of Italy

The Tour of Italy Friday Event on May 2nd at the Inn at Thorn Hill will start its wine weekend with a strolling feast of Italian foods and sixteen carefully selected Italian Wines. The event starts at 7:00pm in our lounge and costs $75 per person. The menu follows:

Anti Pasti:
Grilled Vegetables to include Asparagus, Gourds, Eggplant, Marinated Tomatoes and Peppers
Sliced Cappicola, Prosciutto, Soppressata, Bresola and Mortadella
Fresh Mozzarella, Smoked Mozzarella and Marinated Mozzarella
Grilled Breads, Olives and Dried Fruit

Meats and Seafood:
Braised Lamb with Stone Ground Polenta
Risotto alla Piedmontese
Fettuccine with Cheeses and Flavored Oils
Grilled seafood to include Sardinian Prawns, Scallops, Octopus, Sardines, Bronzini and Swordfish
Braised Breast of Veal with Risi e Bisi and Caponata

Desserts:
A full range of sweets

Come and join us for fun, food and wine and look for our Saturday night wine dinner menu to follow. Call us at 1-800-289-8990 or email us stay@innatthornhill.com