Hotel at a Glance: The Cornell Inn, Lenox

More than 200 years of history set the tone at Cornell Inn, Lenox: the B&B is comprised of two historical homes (the oldest dates back to 1777) and a carriage house. All three have been well-preserved, boasting original floors and woodwork, and all guest rooms are decorated with antiques. Many even include whirlpool tubs and wood-burning fireplaces. If you really want to go all-out, pony up for the main house—it’s a 19th-century Victorian that contains a private pub, a living room with fireplace, and a breakfast room overlooking the grounds.

• Seasonal, homemade breakfasts are served each morning from 8–10 a.m.
• Within walking distance of restaurants and shops in downtown Lenox
• Must-see attraction: Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum (1 mile away)
• Winter and spring activities: cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking in neighboring Kennedy Park

Berkshires, Massachusetts: Historical Highlands Region with Thriving Arts Scene and Outdoor Recreation

The Berkshires, a mountain range in western Massachusetts, has long served as an inspiration and source of solitude for artists and writers, including Herman Melville and Edith Wharton. Residents in the mountain town of Lenox carry on that tradition—it has a thriving arts scene, with a number of repertory theaters and world-class museums.

There’s also plenty to keep outdoor enthusiasts busy. In fall, it’s popular to take a leaf-peeping drive through the colorful countryside. Mount Greylock, the highest peak in Massachusetts, is crisscrossed by 70 miles of hiking and mountain-biking trails. After a heavy snowfall, those same paths open for snowmobiling and backcountry skiing. The area boasts a variety of downhill skiing options, including nearby Bousquet Mountain, Butternut Mountain, and Jiminy Peak.

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