5 ideas for great weatherproof getaways when it seems like spring will never arrive

March snowstorms in #DINEcountryHow many of you are saying “enough is enough”?  Two Nor’easters in a row and now talk of another one next week?  For many travelers, this weather is getting old, unless of course, you’re a skier, snowmobiler or fatbiker.   The frightful weather has impacted all 12 of the Distinctive Inns of New England (DINE).  From battered shores to endlessly snow-covered sidewalks, March is a season of fickle weather.  Yes, March came in to DINE country like a lion, which means it’ll hopefully go out like a lamb, but you never know.

As we sit on the cusp of spring looking at snow out our windows or crashing waves and rain, we can’t help but think that our guests must be as ready for a getaway as they’ve ever been.  Enough of the shoveling and mopping up standing water.  When the weather gets rough, the tough go to inns and B&Bs for that much needed getaway.  And DINE innkeepers welcome weather-weary traveler with great ideas for weatherproof escapes.

Here are five great weatherproof ideas for romantic New England getaways in March.

SpaAhhhhhhh

Each of the 12 DINE inns offer options for spa getaways. Whether you wish to enjoy the in-house spa, like at Manor on Golden Pond, or allow us to arrange a couples massage in your room, this is the season when a massage can  be medicinal after days of shoveling.  Many of our inns have made arrangements with nearby day spas for everything from Manis to Pedis.  Treat yourselves to a day of beauty or a relaxing massage.  Come Mud Season in New England, we have plenty of options for mud-masks and oh yes, delicious Mudslide drinks to go with them.

Afternoon Tea or Wine and cheese by the fire with a good book

After a tough week at work, curling up next to the fire in either your own room or in one of the inn’s common rooms with a cup of tea or a nice glass of wine is just what the doctor (and innkeepers) ordered.  Bring your favorite book along or enjoy some of the reading materials you find at the inn.  The Captain’s House Inn, Manor on Golden Pond, Cliffside Inn, and Deerfield Inn all offer afternoon tea and homemade treats.  Chesterfield Inn and Camden Maine Stay offer homemade cookies at check-in too.  And Inn at Harbor Hill Marina’s guest pantry is available with snacks, beverages, coffee and tea 24/7.  Perhaps you’d like to tackle one of the Stave puzzles at Rabbit Hill Inn while you enjoy time in front of the fireplace or enjoy a glass of complimentary port and a movie, found at the Captain House Inn’s library.  You won’t want to miss the evening reception at the Captain Jefferds Inn and on wine and hor d’oeuvres on weekends at Cliffside Inn too.  Of course, all of these wonderful options are included in the cost of your stay.

snowshoe tour at Grafton Ponds near Grafton InnWinter hikes, bikes or XC skiing

For those who don’t get enough outdoor time during the week, use your March getaway to get out on skis, snowshoes, or fatbikes.  Hit the trails at the Grafton Ponds Outdoor Center and on weekends take part in one of their guided snowshoe or fatbike events.  Then, return to the Grafton Inn for some fine dining in Old Tavern or casual dining in Phelps Barn.  The Berkshire Mountains are resplendent in winter outdoor activities, so combine a stay at the Gateways Inn & Restaurant with some XC or downhill skiing nearby.

Shopping

Did you know that the #1 vacation activity mentioned most by those who travel is shopping?  From outlets to boutiques and eclectic, independent stores, you’ll find so many great options nearby when you visit any of the 12 Distinctive Inns of New England.  For those who love poking around local shops, Marblehead, MA, within a nice stroll of the Harbor Light Inn is a great choice.  Look for unusual gifts, apparel and cool remembrances here, then return to the inn for a drink in the tavern.

Unplugging

Most likely, this is a novel idea for most travelers, and one that is not easily achieved.  Yet, rather than watch the weather forecasts or the stock market or worse yet, the political news of the day, why not allow yourself to totally unplug, relax and love the one(s) you’re with? Turn off the phone and leave it behind.  Go for walks on the beach or in the woods in solitude.  Allow yourself to really focus on what matters – local experiences, great food and accommodations and those that matter most in your life.  We dare you to try it.

Time to get started planning your unplugged spa and tea vacation to the 12 Distinctive Inns of New England by clicking below on links that will take you directly to each of their websites.

In Maine:  Captain Jefferds Inn in Kennebunkport & Camden Maine Stay Inn in Camden.

In New Hampshire:  Manor on Golden Pond in Holderness & Chesterfield Inn in West Chesterfield

In Massachusetts:  Harbor Light Inn in Marblehead, Gateways Inn & Restaurant in Lenox, Deerfield Inn in Historic Deerfield and Captain’s House Inn in Chatham on Cape Cod.

In Rhode Island: Cliffside Inn in Newport

In Connecticut: Inn at Harbor Hill Marina in Niantic

In Vermont:  Rabbit Hill Inn in Lower Waterford & Grafton Inn in Grafton