Hotel Intel: The Inn at Round Barn Farm, Waitsfield, Vermont
Photos by Jumping Rocks
Last winter, I lost my B&B virginity in Vermont. This year, when planning a quiet winter getaway, another Vermont B&B called to me: a farmhouse and round barn built in the 19th century now serving as an inn with 12 guestrooms.
Perfect for bed-and-breakfast newbies, The Inn at Round Barn Farm is much larger than the B&Bs most people imagine. With the capacity for plenty of guests, 245 acres of wander-worthy space and a large and usually full breakfast room, it’s easy to remain anonymous. Whereas a typical B&B’s close quarters and intimate meals can be a bit intimidating, it’s comforting to know you won’t really be missed if you skip breakfast at this inn. At the same time, if it’s a small town feel and friendly atmosphere you’re after, the guests and hosts are more than happy to provide it.
First Impressions
Driving up to this nationally registered historic place, the first thing you’ll notice is the giant pale yellow round barn, one of five that remain in Vermont (there were originally 25 round barns in the state, as it was a common way to build barns amongst Shakers). The rooms are located in the L-shaped farmhouse next to it, where a covered porch beckons you with its white furniture worthy of a knitting grandma. Reception is right past the front door, where you’ll get your first heavy dose of homeliness.
The small space is filled with tchotchkes for sale, like tiny bottles of maple syrup and postcards with the round barn emblazoned on them. Usually, there’s someone sitting behind the desk to check you in or answer any questions you may have about the area. This room is plastered with white and pink floral wallpaper—get used to wallpaper, because you’ll see a lot of it here.
Change into the complimentary slippers on loan for guests, and let the staffer take you on a quick tour. You’ll want to know where they keep the 24/7 snacks and where the pool is (more on that later).
The inn expands from both sides of the reception area, but they both have a different feel. If you go to the left and toward the round barn, you’ll pass through the wide-open breakfast room with hardwood floors partially covered in Oriental rugs, a wooden ceiling held up by exposed wood beams and a handful of basic dining tables and chairs. This area has a rustic vibe, which is fitting since that direction takes you closer and closer to the barn.
If you go the other way off the reception area, you’ll enter a land of flowers, fireplaces, flouncy curtains, upholstered furniture and patterned wallpaper. This area is fit for your sweet yet lively grandparents—unless your grandparents are woodsmen, then send them in the other direction. This initial room (pictured above) is the library filled with books (obviously), plush patterned furniture and warmth coming from a roaring fireplace. There’s often jazz emanating from the library, making it the perfect place for a cocktail.
Both wings have guestrooms, each with elements reflecting the section in which they’re located.
The Rooms