Field Guide Lodge

The hotel's distinctive retro mountain lodge aesthetic and its inviting common areas with multiple fireplaces create a unique and memorable atmosphere. Guests are consistently drawn to the hotel's charming and stylish decor, which evokes a cozy, vintage ski lodge feel. This makes it an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families looking for a comfortable base for exploration, and ski enthusiasts who appreciate its proximity to the slopes and a vibrant après-ski scene. Many travelers praise the hotel's overall vibe, describing it as warm, welcoming, and a true "home away from home." However, some guests note that while the common areas are well-maintained, certain parts of the property, particularly older rooms, show signs of wear and could benefit from updates. To ensure a comfortable stay, guests sensitive to noise should consider requesting rooms away from high-traffic areas or bringing earplugs, as sound insulation can be an issue in some older sections.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's lobby and common areas are consistently praised for their inviting atmosphere, featuring multiple fireplaces, comfortable seating, and a selection of board games and a shuffleboard table, creating a social hub for guests. A bar is available, often hosting live music, though its operating hours can be inconsistent. The outdoor hot tub is a popular amenity, with guests appreciating the private reservation system, although some found the time slots restrictive or experienced issues with water temperature or cleanliness. While a pool is present and generally well-regarded, some reviews indicate it can be unmaintained or closed during certain periods. Complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are available throughout the day, and some rooms include a mini fridge. However, the absence of an elevator is a significant drawback for guests with heavy luggage or mobility concerns, and the unpaved, unlit parking lot can be challenging.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is notably mixed. Many guests praise the comfortable beds with soft sheets, finding the rooms generally spacious and beautifully decorated with a unique aesthetic. Specific amenities like soaking tubs and fireplaces in certain suites are highly appreciated, contributing to a cozy experience. However, a significant number of reviews highlight concerns about cleanliness, mentioning issues such as dust, stains, and a general lack of thoroughness in housekeeping, with some rooms appearing worn out or dated. Room size is a frequent point of contention, with many finding the standard rooms and especially the bathrooms to be very small and cramped, sometimes lacking adequate storage or counter space. Noise is another recurring issue, with thin walls leading to disturbances from neighboring rooms, hallways, or external sources like traffic and AC units, impacting sleep quality. Some guests also reported problems with hot water availability or inconsistent room temperatures.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's complimentary breakfast receives varied feedback, though many guests describe it as delicious, fresh, and a significant improvement over typical hotel offerings. The menu often features unique and healthy options like chia pudding, overnight oats, fresh fruit, and various pastries such as croissants and scones, along with egg dishes like mini quiches. Guests appreciate that the selection changes daily, providing variety. However, some find the breakfast options to be limited in quantity or variety, occasionally lacking traditional protein choices or being unsuitable for specific dietary needs due to a lack of allergen labeling. The coffee is generally well-regarded. The on-site bar is a popular spot for evening drinks and light bites, with guests enjoying the atmosphere and offerings like popcorn chicken and smores, though its operating hours can be inconsistent.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location, consistently highlighted by guests as a major advantage. It is centrally situated within easy walking distance of downtown Stowe, offering convenient access to numerous restaurants, shops, and the Stowe cinema. Its proximity to the Stowe Mountain Resort and the availability of a free shuttle service make it particularly appealing for skiing and other outdoor activities. Guests also appreciate being close to the Recreation Path for walking and biking, as well as various hiking trails. Parking is readily available on-site and is generally described as convenient. While some guests noted noise from the main road, the overall accessibility and central position for exploring the area are highly praised, making it a prime base for both active and leisurely pursuits.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and accommodating nature. Guests frequently commend their attentiveness and willingness to go above and beyond, providing personalized touches and excellent recommendations for local attractions and dining. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as quick and efficient. Many reviewers highlight specific instances of staff assisting with requests, extending stays, or providing upgrades, contributing to a positive guest experience. Communication, particularly through text, is also noted as a convenient and responsive service. However, a few guests reported initial underwhelming check-in experiences with limited information, and some felt that staff were not always sufficiently concerned about reported issues. Despite these isolated instances, the overwhelming sentiment is that the team is a significant asset, making guests feel welcome and well-cared for.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel operates with a pet-friendly policy, offering specific accommodations for those traveling with animals. A unique aspect is the frequent presence of live music in the bar area, contributing to a lively atmosphere. The hotel provides thoughtful touches such as complimentary water bottles and gourmet coffee stations like SPINN espresso. While there is a hot tub, its use often requires a reservation for limited time slots, and guests can sometimes access facilities at a sister property for additional amenities like an indoor pool. It is important to note that the hotel does not have an elevator, which can be a challenge for guests with heavy luggage or mobility issues. Some reviews also mention a Stowe marketing fee charged separately. The hotel's distinctive retro ski lodge decor and the availability of board games and fireplaces in common areas enhance the overall guest experience.