The Studio

Fantastic VT Men’s Getaway!

It’s difficult to come up with the perfect words to describe the Frog Meadow B&B – Relaxing? Rejuvenating? Or just plain fun? Whatever those words may be, there is something completely refreshing and liberating about being on a lush and beautiful Vermont farm surrounded by friendly men in a completely non-judgmental environment. Plus – and this is the best part – you can be as clothed or unclothed as you feel comfortable with. Want to skinny dip in a crystal clear pool fed by underground springs? No problem. Want to relax fully clothed in a hammock by a small meadow with a good book amid breathtaking views of the Green Mountains beyond? Sure, why not. Here in the mountains it’s all about finding your inner peace, whatever that entails. No one cares what you look like, clothed or otherwise.

Dave and Scott are the consummate hosts, going the extra mile with equal doses of wit and candor. Their little slice of heaven outside the village of Newfane is easily accessible from major highways and well worth the final, winding 2.7 mile drive uphill on an unpaved road in true rural Vermont fashion. The payoff at the end for those unaccustomed to such rustic paths is an immaculately designed and maintained post and beam house with a huge granite kitchen, large eating area, comfortable family room, and three large bedrooms, plus a separate suite over the garage with two beds, a sofabed, and kitchen that’s perfect for groups. Those of a more solitary bent can opt for the literal cabin in the woods, unencumbered with modern necessities such as running water for the pure pleasure of being surrounded by nothing but the quiet sounds of chirping insects and a babbling brook amid the cleansing aroma of cedar planks.

All the rooms are comfortably furnished with Vermont wood beds, plush chairs, pillow-top mattresses, and sheets with a high enough thread count for the pickiest Queen. Ahem. Dave and Scott have a discerning eye for the smallest detail, include towels that are kept nice and toasty on a towel warmer in each room.

The best part of Frog Meadow is that there simply is never a shortage of things to do. Start the day with a hearty breakfast made fresh every morning by Dave, including banana-infused waffles served piping hot from an enormous, beeping waffle iron or perhaps crustless quiche infused with local dill and fresh onions supplemented by crunchy bacon and peppery nasturtium flowers. Dave, in addition to being a talented chef, also gives what is possibly one of the best massages on the face of the planet. We’ve had our fair share of professional massages through the years and believe me, his puts most therapists to shame. Dave has clearly taken his training and gone one step beyond, unencumbered quite frankly by the subliminal hangups most straight massage therapists have about the male body.

We were fortunate to be there during naked yoga weekend, where instructor Jon Poupore knew just how far to push you without requiring a chiropractic medic, whether you were a novice or seasoned pro (thanks again, Jon!) While definitely not an activity for the terminally shy, naked yoga will get you acquainted with muscles you never knew you had, all in a non-threatening and liberating environment. If yoga is not your thing, perhaps side trips to neighboring attractions like Mount Snow or the infamous Appalachian Trail might do the trick.

While Newfane is a small burg, there are enough nearby dining options to make things interesting at the end of a busy day. While we opted not to partake this time in the AAA and James Beard award-winning gourmet meals at the nearby Four Columns Inn (although other guests at Frog Meadow raved about the food), we did enjoy an excellent fish fry at funky and rustic Rick’s Tavern just outside Newfane village. Excellent eclectic cafe fare such as paninis, thai noodles and crab cakes are also available at the Newfane Cafe and Creamery.

And what can you say about that glorious hot tub. Wood fired, deep and well stocked with nearby towels and beverages. One soak under the brilliant stars with the moonlit landscape glowing beyond and all your problems – however fleetingly – disappear into a haze of steaming, swirling water. There is no better therapy in existence.

You’d have to be the greatest Scrooge in all of Scroogedom not to leave Frog Meadow rejuvenated, refreshed, and ready to take on the world. Thanks again guys for a fabulous weekend, and we’ll definitely be back with our friends on tow, along with all their body issues. They can just get over it.

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