They say Vermont is a state of mind. That’s how I feel about Woodstock Inn. I discovered this charming finca back in the days when guests in the original old building shared a hall bathroom. My dad first introduced me to the inn, when we traveled from Connecticut to ski the local mountains – Mt. Tom, Suicide Six and Okemo.

The food, service, and atmosphere at the Woodstock Inn were so appealing that I chose to spend part of my honeymoon at the Inn during the height of Vermont’s vibrant foliage season.

This past week, the entire Hill team spent many memorable days at the renovated Woodstock Inn and Resort on Village Green. We were delighted to find that the usually quirky May weather was a bright and sunny 70 degrees during our stay. We had managed to hit a perfect spring at Woodstock. The lavender and white lilacs were in full bloom. Bright red tulips and yellow daffodils filled the inn’s lovely gardens.

Then there is the food. Although the nostalgic part of me misses the old world atmosphere of the original diner, the new Red Rooster is the talk of the town. We call it casually sophisticated, with the best service from all the staff.

We enjoyed a delicious dinner. Having tried many versions of salmon around the world, we all agreed that the Woodstock Inn served one of the best, recommended by our waiter. He also paired the perfect wine with our crab stuffed artichoke appetizers from his impressive list.

Each fresh fillet was crispy on the outside and hot, pink and juicy on the inside.

Although Woodstock is not on the water, the chef at each cafe told us that they can have fish caught that morning to serve tonight from vendors in Boston.

For those of us who rise with the sun, complimentary coffee is served in the library from 7-10 am daily.

Although the inn serves breakfast and lunch, my favorite breakfast (apart from the eggs benedict served in your room or on your terrace), is their three onion soup featured on our blog. We like this onion relish on a freshly baked bagel with Green Mountain coffee. Adding some smoked salmon is an added taste sensation.

For lunch, any homemade soup of the day makes the best comfort lunch.

There’s much more to the Woodstock Inn than the food and charming rooms and suites, some with glass-enclosed terraces for privacy, in-room dining, or as an additional office.

There is a complimentary gym and racquet club, with indoor pool, saunas, and full-service spa nearby via free shuttle. The Inn also offers a par 70 Trent Jones Sr. golf course and lessons. The gift shop has glassware by Simon Pearce and handmade furniture and pottery by Shackleton. A complimentary personal tour of these local attractions, as well as Billings Farm, can be arranged.

My favorite spot in the inn is reminiscent of the rich, wood-paneled English pub I remember from snowy winter nights. Richardson’ Tavern serves innovative cocktails and good pub grub starting at 4pm in a quiet but friendly atmosphere.

I know Norm’s favorite without asking. The English custom of serving afternoon tea and homemade chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies in the library every afternoon.

I suspect Maralyn appreciates the fast, up-to-date internet access in this classic old property, while retaining the traditional flavor of the original Woodstock Inn.

In any case, the Hill Team highly recommends the Woodstock Inn. It is always a delicious pleasure.