Trip Advisor Reviews | Windekind Farm & Country Cottages

Memorable November Visit

We stayed in Breidablick Cottage from Thursday - Monday the weekend of our son's wedding (6/2-6/16) This was the perfect place to be. The quiet beauty of the grounds and the mountain vistas, trails, gardens and meadows calmed us. As we returned late nightly, the peace and beauty of the area gave us the rest and refreshment necessary to get through the next long and busy day. Mark was so very considerate to make sure our cottage was lit to welcome us back safely - such a very kind touch. The day after the wedding we thoroughly enjoyed the wind and rain resounding throughout the cottage. There seemed to always be a cooling breeze onsite which restored our joy and peace as did the beautiful gardens, mountain views, and frog pond. The sounds of frogs, birds and wind filled us and brought us back to harmony and thankfulness for God's creation and for the insight of the owners who planned the landscapes and cottage designs. This is a truly blessed place and we highly recommend it. Douglas L

A Refuge for the Soul

My experience with Windekind farms goes back to 2001 when Mark and Marijke started out on what has been a life enhancing journey. They decided to share their love of Windekind with the rest of us fortunate enough to have found this jewel tucked away in the mountains of Vermont. My deceased wife and I have stayed at the Farm over a dozen times and came to regard it as a second home. It is indeed a refuge for the soul. Not only is the location beautiful and nourishing, but the Smiths are very special people. Mark and Marijke instinctively strike the right balance between allowing for privacy and sharing information about the area and themselves. They have become dear friends who have a unique combination of Yankee character, urban sophistication and New Age compassion and awareness. The Farm has developed organically as an outgrowth of who they are and the values they hold dear. It is indeed much more than a place to vacation. It is a place to be. Bartolomeo

Perfect to celebrate 20 years of marriage!

We stayed in the Studio which I must say was larger than it seems in the photos. Other than size, the photos are a good guide. We came to the end of the road and saw the farm in the little hollow and fell in love before we even got out of the car. This was exactly what we hoped for our first visit to VT. It is only a half hour from Burlington and close to a few cute small towns with excellent coffee shops. Mark was the perfect host; he was ready with maps and info when we wanted it and seemed to sense when we needed alone time. We love to hike and this is perfect; trails up to Camel's Hump are steps away from the accommodations. There are enough to keep you busy for a week of hiking. Windekind is perfect for writers or artists of any sort - peaceful. We found this a very good value for the money. Book now because we are telling all of our friends about it!! Karen B

Windekind Farms is a complete sanctuary

My husband and I stayed at Windekind this past week and had a private wedding ceremony on the grounds of the Farm. We were both completely blown away by the beauty and tranquility of this very special place. I felt like we'd stepped into a Disney movie or a fairy tale! We both joked that we wouldn't have been surprised if a bird flew down and landed on our shoulders. Windekind is a sanctuary. The grounds are beautifully maintained, and Breidablick (our cottage) was comfortable, charming, and perfect for the two of us. We did not want to leave when the week was over.

Mark and Marijke are the perfect hosts. Mark helped me to organize some of the

smaller details of our ceremony, and he even took our wedding photos for us. Marijke made me a small, sweet bouquet using some flowers from the Farm, and they attended our ceremony with their sweet Labrador, who kindly posed with us in some of our wedding photos. The entire experience was simply perfect.

I really can't say enough good things about this place. Words don't capture it. I thought the website looked incredible, but you have to see it in person to feel the experience of this place. Windekind is truly picturesque, and staying there was an experience that neither my husband nor I will ever forget. It's a sanctuary!!! We arrived home late last night feeling rested and restored after an amazing, relaxing, beautiful week. Thank you, Mark and Marijke, for allowing us to experience this piece of paradise that you have created at Windekind. Jennifer D.

Live like the French in Beautiful Vermont

My husband and I chose to visit Green Vermont for my 40th Birthday. We ended up being both stimulated and able to fully relax by staying at Windekind Farm and came back refreshed, inspired and with a new vision that would mirror what we saw and experienced in this gorgeous place.

As attractive and special as this property is, it would be something less seductive without the two special people who created it and who lovingly care for it. Marijke and Mark Smith are an inspirational duo, filled with wisdom, laughter and vision. We were able to share some time with them and still feel inspired a month later. One could only hope to create such a grounding and enlightened life as they have in the middle of pastoral beauty like this. They haven't been in the back seat during their ride through life!

We hold these memories of Vermont dear and look forward to returning next year. For the locavore and gourmet food-lover, Vermont is light years ahead of most of America. Pro small business, proud of its home-grown products, and with its priorities in all the right places, we were stunned by how similar it was to Europe. Even small towns in the middle of nowhere are filled with friendly people who appreciate local products and support their local economies. This is not about price or convenience, it's about sustainability, passion and intelligence. Not to mention the scenery is gorgeous and Windekind awaits. Bon voyage to those who love such integrity., Bo Voyagers

More perfect than we could have imagined.

The property is absolutely stunning, and in a very specific way--it is the only place in the world like it--because the owners designed it themselves, with care, craftsmanship, vision, and creativity. Each building on the property is unique, feels so solid and lasting, and is finished with an exquisite eye for detail and materials. When we were there, in late July, the gardens were positively exploding with flowers.

Perhaps the most special part of Windekind is the owners. They believe philosophically in creativity, and they are people who live their values. All along, we wanted to design our own wedding--one that would, by all standards, be quite non-traditional. The owners of Windekind encouraged us and empowered us to pursue our vision, whereas most other venue owners we encountered had discouraged it. They provided us advice and counsel, but they also trusted us completely. They were present during the wedding weekend, but they were not micro-managerial, nor managerial at all. They seemed pleased that such a peaceful, loving ceremony had come to fruition so successfully on their property.

We will most certainly be returning to Windekind to stay in the cottages on vacation and to see its owners again! Whether you intend to have a wedding there or simply holiday there, we cannot recommend it enough! Emily W.

Favorite place in the world

Almost every time I come to Vermont for work I stay at Windekind. It is gorgeous, comfortable and feels like home. I have stayed in all three units which were all full of character. Over the past year I have had four stays at Windekind and never once have I turned on the television. Nothing beats drinking a glass of wine on the porch looking at the beautiful scenery and listening to the birds. Great place for families, couples and singles looking to get away and disconnect. Michael

Stunning beauty and Magical Re-TREAT space!

Windekind Farm was the perfect space for my large group of kids (8) to connect with nature and each other this summer. Mark and Marijke have lovingly created a magical playground of 9 majestic gardens, a few thoughtfully placed buildings nestled into a hillside, a miniature train big enough for children to actually drive that meanders for an impressive distance through their homestead and inviting trails that take explorers into a surrounding whimsical forest. The kids said they felt they were walking into a Jan Brett fairy tale book. We are so grateful to have found such a rare blend of cottage comforts and a gorgeous natural environment to enjoy. Windekind Farm has a unique way of sparking imagination for all ages. Jeanette M.

A Homestead Haven for All

Windekind Farm was a blessing beyond anything we could have imagined. We were lucky enough to stumble upon this breathtaking beauty and had the fortunate opportunity to stay in both the cottage and studio. Our goals were to hike the mountains, bike around Lake Champlain, eat farm to table food, play music in Burlington and receive spiritual nourishment from Vermont's calming landscape. We would've stayed forever if we could, as this farm and its location provided access to all that we desired and more. In all sincerity, Windekind felt like the home we have always dreamt of and we deeply respect the care that has gone into this magical homestead. The mountain views, the gardens and the energy of this farm has tranquil and restorative element. The authenticity in craftsmanship and detail in the gardens, farm houses and railroad is unbelievably charming and inspiring. Mark and Marijke are kind, hardworking and gracious folks who treat you like friends as they’ve created this place of peace out of their labor of love. They are intuitive to your needs whether you want solitude and relaxation, yet they are equally as resourceful and helpful when discussing the vast opportunities and activities to engage in while staying in Vermont. Part of us wants to keep this organic sanctuary a secret, yet we know anyone at any age would enjoy their stay in this spacious and spectacular haven. We plan to return again and again. Antonietta & Jim

Windekind is Heaven on Earth!

My husband and I stayed at Windekind in May of 2011 and loved every minute of it. Even though it is marketed as an “inn,” I felt as if I were visiting family. Mark and Marijke have made their corner of the world absolutely beautiful and I am so grateful they opened it up for others to share. They are nice people and very helpful about giving directions and advice about restaurants, attractions, etc. They were very respectful of privacy and even though they are constantly working on something, the farm is very quiet. Being a lifelong New Jersey resident, it is amazing to me that such beautiful places still exist.

If you’re a nature lover, Mark has created some beautiful hiking trails in the back of the farm. There is also a stream and small waterfall. My husband enjoyed hiking in the woods and exploring. During our time there, we explored Burlington, Waterbury, Vergennes and Shelburne. I loved the shopping and we both enjoyed the restaurants we found.

My husband and I definitely plan on returning to Windekind in the future. If you are looking for a place to truly disconnect and go off the grid, then this is the place for you. I have a high stress job and wanted to go somewhere where I could simply just sit and read a book. Mission accomplished. I personally cannot wait to return! MSJNL

This has to be the prettiest place on earth (mid Oct, fall foliage). The Campanula Cottage was very comfortable, charming, and quiet. A quick walk through the meadow and you are at the hiking trails (which are great). We could have talked with Mark all day long about his trains, the farm, etc. We cannot wait to go back! – BF

Magic at Windekind

Mark & Marijke have one of the most magical spots in Vermont- which is saying something! My wife and I live in Vermont and wanted a weekend getaway on the other side of the state. Mark had a fire going and got us settled into the Breidablick cottage. It was clear he has a love for preservation and taking care of things. We loved the stories of the evolution of their time at Windekind, from working farm to current incarnation. And the trains are amazing! The cottage had everything we needed to make some great meals, and to be able to come home to a toasty fire after a day of cross country skiing and snowshoeing. We ran across friendly locals on the trails who were happy to chat and share. What a great weekend! Thank you Mark & Marijke and we hope to be back in the summer to see your gardens. Amos M.

No place quite like it

Our experience of Windekind was probably unique. We stayed for over a month, at a time of transition in our lives when we were moving to Vermont and looking for a new home. We confirm what others on this site have said about the extraordinary beauty of the location and the friendliness of the hosts. But there is more: the longer you stay there, the more fully you appreciate that you are living in a place where natural beauty and human history weave together in amazing ways. Let Mark and Marijke tell you about how they bought the future Windekind as a derelict farm back in the 60s, rebuilt the farmhouse and slowly brought it to life as a place to share with others. This is not a luxury resort. You won't find a chocolate on the pillow when you go to bed; if that is what you want there are plenty of those places around Vermont. Instead, you get an extraordinary alpine setting with killer views, complete with a trail system (the Camels Hump Ski Area) for great xc skiing and hiking, lodging in cabins that while rustic have all the amenities you'll need (the sauna in Campanula cottage is a particular favorite), and above all the endless warmth and local knowledge of the hosts. If you happen to have an interest in steam locomotives, or even if you don't, it's great fun to have Mark show you his miniaturized replicas and machine shop where he and friends build them. In our several weeks staying here, we can probably claim truthfully that we discovered something new every day about either the natural or human ecology of Windekind and the surrounding area. And it was during mud season! Geoffrey B.

Wonderful place to commune with nature, spend quality time with loved ones, and put fast-paced 21st century life on hold

My family has stayed at Windekind approximately 10 times over the past 7 years (at least once, and sometimes twice per year since my son was 2 years old). We always stayed in the cottage called Breidablick, until our most recent visit (late December 2013 through early January 2014) when we stayed at the newest cottage, named Campanula. Both cottages are full of charming and unique architectural details, are very cozy and comfortable, and are perfect places to relax and just enjoy each other's company. We've become friends over the years with the owners, Mark and Marijke, who've always been very gracious, warm, and helpful to us. Each year we try to stay at Windekind once during the summer and once during the winter, because both seasons offer different magical experiences that we look forward to. In the winter we go sledding, we walk or cross-country ski on the trails, we make snowmen and snow forts and have snowball fights, and sometimes we just stay inside our delightful cottage, curled up by the woodstove with a mug of hot cocoa and a book or a puzzle. In summer, the kids have a blast catching frogs, making wildflower bouquets, building secret hideouts in the woods, visiting the herd of cows in the fields, and riding Mark's amazing train that runs throughout the property. They especially look forward to playing with Elsa, Mark and Marijke's spirited yellow lab, who is kind of like the Windekind mascot! Windekind has had a very positive influence on my kids, teaching them to love nature and giving them a sense of freedom. I love being there, taking a break from our over-scheduled lives, just looking out at the lovely view, cooking hearty meals (both Breidablick and Campanula have good kitchens), strolling around the grounds and into the fields and woods, spotting a hummingbird or a woodpecker or a toad. Windekind is a rare gem. If you desire peace, quiet, beauty, unpretentiousness, comfort, and privacy you will be very happy there! Nibuye

Windekind is Heaven on Earth!

Peaceful Bliss at Windekind Farm

It is hard to find words to appropriately capture the beauty and serenity of Windekind Farm - you really just need to go there and experience it first-hand. I have stayed at Windekind Farm for the past four years - three times with my very good friend, and once with my husband and our two dogs. Whether you are traveling with a friend or with family, Windekind Farm is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Vermont. The Studio, Breidablick Cottage and the Campanula Cottage all offer comfortable, clean lodging - each with breath taking views of the farm and surrounding mountains - and immediate access to the surrounding trails. We especially enjoy the gardens that Marijke has so lovingly nurtured, and the one-fifth scale railway that Mark has so ingeniously blended into the landscape. The Smiths are good people and amazing, generous hosts. Seeing them again is part of what makes each return trip so special for us. We will continue to make it an annual vacation destination. Karin and Jeff.

Wish there was another, higher rating!

We stayed at Windekind Farms for 2 weeks in November. Not the best time of year (part-time drizzle and snow), but the facilities we enjoyed and the customer care provided by Mark and Marijke was beyond the 5-star rating of Trip Advisor.

Our Family - my wife and I, along with our son, his wife and daughter (granddaughter) - utilized both the Breidablick Cottage and The Studio. What wonderful accommodations - cozy, fire-in-the-fireplace warm and a great place to bring in materials and cook for ourselves. On the sunny days, the walk through the compound, meadow and the woods was fabulous. Marijke found a sled for my son and granddaughter to sled down the hill - squealing all the way. Mark hosted my son and I in his shop to describe his train hobby (Wow!).

What a warm and gracious couple! And the accommodations were just as great. My son and family stayed in Breidablick (we cooked our Thanksgiving Turkey dinner with all the trimmings there) while my wife and I snuggled in The Studio.

While we were there, Mark, having finished Campanula, gave us a tour and then welcomed his first guests there. The next time we go to Windekind - AND there will be a next and more - we'll certainly consider this great new accommodation.

And I haven't even mentioned the wonderful land surrounding Windekind - suffice to say, whatever you imagine a Vermont wooded and meadow setting to be - double it! Bob. W.

Most Beautiful Place in Vermont

When my now husband and I decided to tie the knot, we wanted to have the wedding at a unique place that captured all of Vermont's beauty. After lots of searching, I came across Windekind. It looked perfect, and after one visit to the property, I knew that this was the place that we had been searching for. The views were breath taking, the gardens looked like something right out of a country magazine, and the cottages on the property were gorgeous. I have lived in Vermont my whole life, and my husband's family is from New Jersey. We wanted to show all of our guests from out of town why we loved Vermont so much, and why it was such a wonderful place to live in. As we knew they would be, our guests were amazed. Most said that it was the most beautiful place they had ever seen. From the mountain sunset, the cows grazing in the background, and the miniature train with a very knowledgeable conductor, everything was perfect.

The owners, Mark and Marijke were so helpful. They were happy to give advice, let us borrow things needed from their home, and they even let our caterer take over their kitchen for a bit.

My family stayed at the cottage on the property for the weekend, and had a hard time saying goodbye. I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful wedding, or more gracious hosts. I would recommend Windekind to anyone looking for a beautiful place for a wedding, or just a relaxing weekend get-away. You will not be disappointed!

From the Valley to the Mountains

My husband and I live only a few miles from Lake Champlain in Vermont. We live on a 200-acre paradise of our own, but this winter we have not been able to ski on any of our trails due to lack of snow fall in Champlain Valley. So, last weekend we drove 40 minutes north to Windekind where we found a winter wonderland. We skied on 12" of fresh power which had been perfectly groomed. We happen to be friends and admirers of the owners due to a mutual passion for gardening, but this past weekend immensely boosted our admiration for Mark and Marijke. Their vision, ingenuity, artistic talents, and building skills have created a place of world-class beauty. Plus, Marijke is an accomplished Nordic skier. Terry and I spent three rigorous days trying to keep up with her as she guided us through an extensive and lovely network of trails. When they told us they are building more guest cottages our hearts soared. We can soon look forward to escaping with a few of our favorite friends to the magical world of Windekind. Also, Mark has promised to let me drive the train so summer visits are in order also. So no matter what the season, visiting Windekind is like going back in time when life was slower, and people savored the simple pleasures of everyday life. Thank you, Mark and Marijke, for allowing us to spend a few days in the winter quietude of Windekind. Muddy Creek

Always look forward to going back

My family and I just returned back from Windekind Farm just a few weeks ago. This was our first time back with our children. My husband and I went to Windekind for the first time about 3 and 1/2 years ago and we fell in love with everything Windekind has to offer so we were looking forward to taking our 4 children and my mom back this time to enjoy and experience everything we did. Since we were going to stay a week this time with the children we wanted to stay in a "home like" environment. Windekind definitely has that feel to it.

As soon as we walked in to beautiful Breidablick cottage all you smell is the scent of wood which we love. It definitely brought flashbacks from the first time my husband and I went. Upon entering it reminded me of why I love it there. It definitely feels like home. Being that we have small children and we travel a lot with them we always like stay in a clean and comfortable place that is well maintained. Windekind definitely offers that. It's clean and very well stocked with everything you need including kitchen equipment and dinnerware items. This was a plus for us because it's a little difficult eating out all the time with the kids. Cooking in the cottage was great because we could all eat comfortably and we all felt at home.

There are not enough words to describe Windekind. For us it's like heaven and no one will ever know what a beautiful experience it is unless they go check it out for themselves. We have traveled with and without our children enough times to safely say that Windekind is our favorite. We have even traveled to Disney a year ago and my children would choose to stay at Windekind over Disney anytime. It has definitely left a mark in all of our hearts and we will definitely be back again soon.

Thank you Mark and Marijke for sharing such a beautiful place with not only us but with the world. We look forward to seeing all of you again soon! Eneida 424

Idyll

My husband and I had a wonderfully restful time at Windekind farm. If a vacation is supposed make you feel recharged, it was a great success. We rented Breidablick cottage and brought our Aussi. Honestly, it was a dream landscape -- bring your art supplies! Mark and Marijke are gracious and kind. You can either lie low or use it as a wonderful touring base. We did both. Since we hit the Burlington Farmers' market and co-op on the first day, we had fun cooking and eating in. Mark's information about the area can help you really find the highlights. VAMacs

Our "second home"

In essence, we will forever be returning to Windekind, whether as a couple, with our pups, or even with friends and family in tow. For us, Mark, Marijke, and Elsa are now part of our extended family, and Windekind will always be our “second home.” Wayward Comma

Windekind is a perfect place.

It's difficult to fully express what a special place Windekind Farm is, but I'll give it a try. My husband and I were married here in June of 2012, and it could not have been a better experience. I simply can't speak highly enough of Mark and Marijke; they are warm, wonderful people who opened their home to us and made every aspect of planning and executing our wedding a joy. It was clear to us from the beginning that this was more than a commercial transaction for them- they truly invest in the people who visit them, and we felt completely welcomed every time we came by, both before and after the wedding. They have unbelievably beautiful grounds and accommodations (the guest houses are gorgeous, the gardens spectacular, and did I mention there are trains to ride??) and you couldn't ask for a more picturesque location. I grew up in Vermont, and it was very important to me that our wedding take place somewhere that felt truly Vermont to me- a lot of other venues were a little too polished and impersonal. The second I got out of the car and saw Windekind, I teared up and knew that this was the place. It is everything I love about Vermont all in one location, and what makes it even better is that it is owned by people who love to share it with others. If you want to know what Vermont is like, visit Windekind! Our wedding guests (many of them from New York City) were awed and impressed, and even native Vermonters told us how perfect the location was. We went back to visit on our one-year anniversary, and plan to do so every year. We can't wait to stay in the beautiful new guest house that is under way! I know this review is quite superlative, but I mean every word. Windekind will always hold a very special place in our hearts! Maren S

Windekind is simply wonderful.

I recently spent three nights in the studio at Windekind Farms, and I can't say enough about how perfect it was. I was looking for a comfortable, cozy place to spend my evenings while on vacation from Boston (days were spent hiking all of Vermont's 4,000-footers) and did a lot of research before making my choice. Based upon the reviews of other travelers and the pictures on the website, I expected Windekind to be nice--but it outlived even my lofty expectations. As others have said, the owners, Marijke and Mark, are warm and welcoming while still respecting their guests' privacy, and the pictures simply do not do justice to the charm and comfort of the accommodations.

On the final night of my stay, Mark took me around for a quick peek inside both Breidablick Cottage and their still-under-construction third building (Campanula), so I can say with complete confidence that you cannot go wrong, no matter which building you choose. In short, if you are traveling to Vermont and looking for a cozy (and surprisingly affordable) place to call home, you simply will not find a better place than Windekind. If you're on the fence, don't be. Book it. You'll love it. James8909

Most Beautiful Place in Vermont

The owners, Mark and Marijke were so helpful. They were happy to give advice, let us borrow things needed from their home, and they even let our caterer take over their kitchen for a bit.

I would recommend Windekind to anyone looking for a beautiful place for a wedding, or just a relaxing weekend get-away. You will not be disappointed! Jessica T.

Would live there forever !

A piece of heaven. The gardens, the pound, the surrounding mountains... Everything is exquisite.

We stayed 2 nights at the studio with our Great Dane, and we had lots of space! Everything is clean, beautiful country style decoration. I couldn’t stop saying to my boyfriend: "Aren't we happy here? Isn't it paradise?" 🙂

Our dog had so much fun chasing the cows and playing with the owners 2 dogs. The dogs came over one morning, at our door, like they were saying to our Great Dane: "Hey! Come out play with us!" If you have a pet, it's going to be a true vacation for him to.

We were also able to make a camp fire under the magnificent stars after we cooked dinner at the studio.

Everything, from the charming owners (great conversations!) to the beauty of the scenery and the comfort of the studio was impeccable. We surely want to come back one day, maybe in the winter. I was sad to leave!! Prof –Katrine

Spring Road Trip

Traveled here from North Carolina. We stayed in the studio and loved it. Very cozy and comfortable. Mark was amazing... knowledgeable about the area...he offered maps and highlights. However, this was our destination and we really didn't leave the farm. Tranquility was the order of this visit and Windekind Farm delivered. If you need to "unplug" from the pace of the city...you need look no further. - Terri K.

A Piece of Perennial Paradise in Vermont

My husband and I have been going to Windekind Farm now for the past six years. We go at least twice a year for several days or more. (We wish we could move into one of the two cottages on the farm). The place is a serene oasis of gorgeous perennial gardens, two ponds, a chortling stream and a miniature railroad for kids. It is nestled in the valley of the Green Mountains which embrace it with love and affection. Windekind's hosts Mark and Marijke Smith are a delight, giving great advice on local sites and restaurants. And it’s just a 20-minute ride from Burlington which is one of our favorite small cities. We can't recommend Windekind highly enough. Suzanne.

Exactly what we needed...

Windekind Farm is without a doubt, one of the most wonderful and beautiful places we have ever visited. Nestled against the picturesque Camel's Hump, and surrounded by sprawling forests, streams, and the sounds of wildlife, Windekind provided the perfect backdrop to our much needed rest and reprieve per the daily grind. The owners of the property were always available, helpful, genuine and kind. In fact, one night my spouse and I walked into the cottage, after a long day’s rain, to a lit wood fire waiting for us. All I can say is that this place was outstanding. A+ NE Vagabond

Windekind is always wonderful."

My wife and I have been coming to Windekind Farm on a regular basis, in all seasons, for more than three years. It represents the best of Vermont, old and new--always warm, welcoming, with breathtaking Green Mountain scenery and host/owners who have created a very special place, through four decades of painstaking (and, in some cases, back-breaking) work on the property. If Robert Frost were still with us, he'd have written a poem about Windekind. Good fences make good neighbors and Mark and Marijke Smith make good friends with all who visit their farm. Bring your skis in winter, your hiking boots in spring, summer and fall. One visit will lead to another and another and another. Soon you will be wishing you lived in Huntington year round too! Steve Early

Stillness, tranquility and peace: Windekind is a work of art.

It looks like a scene from the European countryside; perfect country buildings and a cottage right out of a fairy tale. It has a handmade train, big enough to ride, that whooshes around the property. There are cows and dogs--and they welcome your dogs--and it has glorious mountains. It has what even the best country inns don't have, a feeling of stillness, tranquility and peace.

Windekind is a work of art. You must make your own food arrangements, however, either cooking food or bringing food in. It has a very well equipped kitchen that is very comfortable to work in or be in. There is a farmer's market at a nearby town with fresh, locally grown food and excellent home baked goods. (Look for breads and pies by baker Ann Goss--she's marvelous.)

Windekind is a place to read, to listen to music, to hike, to relax and to let Vermont soothe and heal. Proprietors Mark and Marijke Smith have created a real gem. As remote as it feels, it is only 1/2 hour from Burlington, a delightful city.

It’s the best place we've ever found and we've been going to Vermont every summer for 30 years. OvertheRainbowCt

Loved our stay at the Windekind Farm - so much to do, so little time

We thoroughly enjoyed our two night stay at the Windekind Farm. The farm is nestled in a quiet, gorgeous valley with views of mountains close-by and in the distance. There are hiking and well-groomed x-country skiing trails right outside your doorstep. We skied for hours and only met 4 other people. You can see the Adirondacks and other 360 degree views along the trails. There are restaurants within 10-20 minutes of the Farm that meet all tastes and have very kind of atmosphere - romantic, fun, lively, quiet. There are 6 skiing areas from 15 - 40 minutes away and bustling Burlington 35 minutes away. You can't go wrong.

The accommodation ranges from bedrooms in a wonderfully restored, old farmhouse to a new apartment to a 2 story brand new cottage with great views. The apartment is cozy with a huge kitchen - the best equipped one I have ever seen -, an inviting living room with a wood burning stove if you choose to use it, lots of books, a terrace. TV, a sound system and wireless are there as well - but we chose to stay blissfully ignorant of the outside world. We had a hard time deciding between the activities outside in the winter wonderland and the cozy cottage. We read, ate, watched the fire, admired the views. Everything was warm, clean, a wonderful bed with comforter, colorful materials and all wooden interior.

The owners are generous, very knowledgeable about the area and willing to share tips and advice. They have been living there and creating a wonderful landscape right next to the Green Mountain State Forest for decades. Christianefrischmuth

Peace at the end of a gravel road...

If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature in the mountains of Vermont, look no further. You have found paradise! We have stayed many beautiful places throughout the US and Europe and Windekind is, by far, our favorite!

The location is wonderful. The farm is located at the end of a gravel road near the base of Camel's Hump Mountain in Huntington, Vermont. Huntington is a small Vermont town with a couple of small stores in which the owners run the cash register and know most everyone in town by name! Miles of hiking trails await you, accessible from the property by foot. A short drive and you can be hiking Camel's Hump, which is a great half day hike and actually quite challenging. The farm itself seems to be isolated from the rest of the world when you are there, yet you are only about a half hour drive from Burlington and Lake Champlain.

The facilities are great! We stayed in Breidablick Cottage and were very impressed. It was built out of an old Blacksmith’s shop and even has the forge in the main living area. The cottage had a fully equipped kitchen and a very comfortable bed. The overall impression was luxury. Many of the fixtures around the place were actually made by Mark who, in addition to many other things, is also a blacksmith. The rest were of great quality, too. Name brand fixtures, utensils, etc. are found throughout.

The people. Mark and Marijke are two of the nicest people you will ever meet. They both have fascinating stories and are a great help in finding some secret spots, whether it is a drive through the country, good food nearby, a restaurant in Burlington…you name it. They are people you will remember and hopefully keep in touch with forever.

I have to mention the railroad. If you check out the Windekind website, you will find information about Mark’s railroad project. I, admittedly, thought of it at first as a really cool hobby. It certainly is that, but is a LOT more. Mark has a long history of working for and writing about the railroad, has great insight into the history of rail travel, and has real hope for the railroad in the US to re-emerge on the national transportation scene. His railroad is at once a piece of history and a look to the future…and really really cool.

I really hope that whoever reads this review gets a good picture of just how wonderful Windekind is. I haven’t exaggerated one bit. I hope you, too, will soon have the chance to see what I am writing about. I know we will be back soon, and often! Thanks Mark and Marijke! ~Scott and Julie

Nature Lover's delight (w/ a gourmet kitchen too!)

Windekind Farm is a fabulous place, tucked away in the mountains of Vermont. Our cottage (Breidablick) was gorgeous with everything we needed, but maintained a cottage character. The location is beautiful -- and the trails right from the property kept us busy for a week. We are very discerning travelers and search long and hard for amazing places to stay. This is definitely one of our top finds. You won't regret it.... especially perfect for those who love privacy and the outdoors. The pics on the website were very accurate. We cannot wait to return.... Sumi-Travels