Trapp Family Lodge Stowe Vermont
An Austrian-style mountain resort in Vermont, offering stunning views, hiking, and a taste of the von Trapp family's legacy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant foliage & fewer crowds
Trapp Family Lodge Stowe Vermont
Best Time
Vibrant foliage & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An Austrian-style mountain resort in Vermont, offering stunning views, hiking, and a taste of the von Trapp family's legacy.
"The Hills were definitely ALIVE!!! The lodge reflects Austria in several ways and offers a beautiful, charming, and peaceful experience."
Book Dinner Early! :knife_fork_plate:
Reservations for the Dining Room and Bierhall are essential, especially during peak times.
Embrace the Austrian Charm :flag_austria:
Enjoy Austrian-inspired cuisine and the lodge's unique heritage.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The von Trapp Family Lodge Grounds
The entire property
Explore rolling hills, gardens, and scenic mountain views reminiscent of Austria.
Kaffeehaus Apple Strudel
Kaffeehaus
Indulge in a delicious, freshly baked apple strudel that sells out fast!
Meet the Cows Tour
Farm area
Hike with friendly Scottish Highland cows for a unique and memorable experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Dining in Advance
Understand Dog Policies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Dinner Early! :knife_fork_plate:
Reservations for the Dining Room and Bierhall are essential, especially during peak times.
Embrace the Austrian Charm :flag_austria:
Enjoy Austrian-inspired cuisine and the lodge's unique heritage.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The grounds are extensive; prepare for walking and hiking.
Check for Events :calendar:
The lodge hosts various tours and activities, book in advance.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Dinner Early! :knife_fork_plate:
Reservations for the Dining Room and Bierhall are essential, especially during peak times.
Embrace the Austrian Charm :flag_austria:
Enjoy Austrian-inspired cuisine and the lodge's unique heritage.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The grounds are extensive; prepare for walking and hiking.
Check for Events :calendar:
The lodge hosts various tours and activities, book in advance.
Dog Policy Nuances :dog:
Understand the limited access for dogs even if advertised as dog-friendly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise the Trapp Family Lodge's stunning grounds, Austrian charm, and friendly staff, often highlighting the delicious apple strudel and unique farm tours. However, some visitors note that many activities are now monetized, and dining reservations can be difficult to secure without advance planning. The dog policy also causes confusion for some.
"The grounds are absolutely beautiful with many hiking trails around. Our room was nice and comfortable with the only downside being that we overlooked the driveway/parking lot (with large tour buses). Staff were friendly and willing to help as needed. Overall we had a great stay here and would not hesitate to recommend this resort."
Linda Jones
"For many, the Sound of Music film is a family tradition and visiting the von Trapp Resort does not miss the mark. They have renovated the lobby and my room was also renovated.
I cannot say enough about the excellent customer service provided by Bob Schwartz. He is a joy to work with and he makes sure everyone on the team is ready for the group. He greets us on arrival and follows up with any questions.
For groups or individuals, this will not disappoint."
Dea Hoover
"We stayed three nights in a 1 bedroom "mountain suite" in the main lodge at the height of fall color season. This was our first trip back here in 40 years. We were trying to do a "rerun" of our anniversary from 1985 when we also stayed here. (On that trip we had tea with Maria!)
Our suite was lovely. Beautiful views across to the mountains. Very clean and well kept. Bed was SUPER comfortable. It had a mini-fridge and a coffee maker which we used. There was a wide shared balcony overlooking the grounds with chairs, which was a pleasant place to watch sunset colors occur on the mountain opposite.
One morning we walked down to the Kaffeehaus and the apple strudel was delicious. Get there early because it sells out! Fabulous views from there also across to the mountains. As we went we walked past their herd of sheep. They also have fuzzy Highland cattle in another field and lovely vegetable and flower gardens.
One day we hiked up to the chapel. It seemed steeper than 40 years ago. It also appears several more family members have joined Baron von Trapp in the small cemetery adjacent.
One major change since the last visit it that literally EVERYTHING has been monetized. Want to see the cattle? That's free. Walk down the path and go look. Want to go on brewery tour, history tour, yoga, exercise class, meet the cows tour, meet the sheep tour, hike with the goats tour, bird watching tour, lodge tour, various hiking tours to the brewery, chapel and forest? All available for a price. There were also a large number of day visitors on the grounds arriving on bus tours. Generally there were 3 or 4 tour busses visiting every day. Multiple extensions have been built as well with time shares and condos around the property.
It's a huge place and a very expensive operation employing many people, and overall I don't begrudge them most of the monetizing element, but it is certainly a change from 40 years ago when the place was American Plan and meals were included.
It was also quite difficult to book dinner in either the main restaurant or the beerhall, though we did eat in both. They use Resy for bookings but I did not book far enough in advance and it was difficult to get in with most days fully booked. Book early. The whole place gets very quiet by 8:30 or 9. There was no evening entertainment or music, though I saw they have some events noted on the web site.
Fortunately we were blessed with perfect weather and the mountains were blazing in reds, oranges and yellows, same as before. So I would come back and maybe next time bring some family too."
Kate Kosche
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Trapp Family Lodge is located at 700 Trapp Hill Road, Stowe, VT 05672. If driving, it's accessible via local roads from major highways. Public transportation options to Stowe are limited, so a car is often recommended for exploring the area.
Yes, parking is available for guests. However, during peak times and with tour bus arrivals, parking can become challenging.
Yes, you can visit the grounds, restaurants, and shops without being a guest. However, access to certain areas and activities may be restricted for day visitors.
Having a car is highly recommended for exploring Stowe and the surrounding areas. Local taxis or ride-sharing services may be available but can be less frequent.
The lodge itself does not typically offer shuttle services to external locations. Check with local Stowe transportation providers for options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds and lodge common areas is generally free for visitors. However, specific tours (like the 'Meet the Cows' tour) and activities require booking and payment.
The lodge, restaurants, and shops have varying hours. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on operating times for dining and specific attractions.
While exploring the grounds is free, costs will be incurred for dining, accommodations, and any paid tours or activities you choose to participate in.
It's highly recommended to book tours like the 'Meet the Cows' tour in advance, as they can sell out, especially during busy periods.
Yes, the lodge often hosts special events, including viewing parties for holidays or significant dates. Check their 'Happenings' page for details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include hiking, farm tours (Meet the Cows, Meet the Sheep), brewery tours, yoga, exercise classes, and exploring the lodge's beautiful grounds.
Absolutely! The lodge boasts numerous hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The lodge is advertised as dog-friendly, but access is restricted. Registered guests' dogs have limited access, and day visitors' dogs are generally not permitted on the grounds.
This popular tour involves a hike with Scottish Highland cows, offering beautiful views and a unique interaction with the animals.
Yes, Wi-Fi is typically available for guests staying at the lodge. Availability for day visitors in common areas may vary.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The lodge offers several dining experiences, including the Austrian-inspired Dining Room, the more casual Bierhall, and the Kaffeehaus for pastries and coffee.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended and often required, especially for dinner, as they book up well in advance.
The cuisine is largely Austrian-inspired, featuring dishes like schnitzel, sausages, and pretzels, alongside American favorites. Don't miss the apple strudel!
The Kaffeehaus is popular for its strudel and coffee, but it often sells out early. Check their specific hours, as it may not be open all day.
While specific menus can change, most restaurants are usually accommodating. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant staff about dietary options.
📸 📸 Photography
The scenic mountain views, the lodge's architecture, the gardens, and the farm animals (especially the Highland cows) offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Generally, yes, but always be mindful of any posted signage regarding photography restrictions in specific areas or exhibits.
Drone usage is typically restricted at resorts and private properties. It's essential to check the lodge's specific drone policy before flying.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful light for landscape and architectural photography.
While the lodge is inspired by the von Trapp family's story, specific filming locations from the movie are primarily in Austria. However, the lodge's setting evokes a similar feeling.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the lodge's connection to 'The Sound of Music' might be more of an inspiration than a direct movie tie-in, the overall Austrian mountain lodge atmosphere can still spark imagination. Be aware that while advertised as dog-friendly, access for pets is quite restricted, so plan accordingly if traveling with furry family members.
⛰️ Outdoor Enthusiasts
Beyond hiking, the lodge's location in Stowe provides access to a wealth of outdoor activities, from scenic drives to exploring nearby natural attractions. The fresh mountain air and picturesque scenery make it an ideal base for an active getaway.
🎶 'Sound of Music' Fans
Fans can enjoy the lodge's grounds, which evoke a similar European mountain charm. While there aren't specific movie set recreations, the overall experience provides a tangible link to the von Trapp family's journey and their love for music and nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The von Trapp Family Legacy
While the lodge is inspired by the von Trapp family's story, it's important to note that the iconic movie 'The Sound of Music' was filmed primarily in Austria, not Vermont. However, the lodge's ambiance and connection to the real von Trapp family offer a unique and authentic experience for fans and history enthusiasts alike.
Today, the lodge remains a family-run business, with descendants of the von Trapp family actively involved in its operation. This continuity ensures that the lodge maintains its authentic charm and commitment to hospitality, offering guests a glimpse into a rich cultural heritage.
Exploring the Grounds and Activities
Beyond hiking, the lodge offers a variety of unique activities. The 'Meet the Cows' tour, featuring fluffy Scottish Highland cows, is a particular highlight and a must-do for many visitors.
It's worth noting that many of these activities come with a fee, reflecting a shift from the lodge's earlier days. While the grounds themselves are free to wander, specialized tours and experiences are monetized. This approach allows the lodge to maintain its extensive operations and offer diverse activities to its guests.
Dining at the Lodge
Reservations are crucial for both dining venues, especially during peak seasons like fall foliage or holidays. Many visitors report difficulty securing a table if they don't book well in advance.
While the menu leans towards Austrian specialties, there are typically options to satisfy various palates. The lodge aims to provide a comforting and authentic culinary experience that complements the overall Austrian mountain resort feel.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit