Where to Stay in Colchester: Vermont's Lakeside Retreats and Charming B&Bs

Perched on a gentle slope overlooking Lake Champlain's Malletts Bay, this meticulously restored 19th-century estate marries Victorian architecture with contemporary comforts in a way that feels both authentic and indulgent. During my two-night stay, I found myself repeatedly drawn to the private veranda of my Champlain Suite, where the morning mist rising from the lake created an almost mystical atmosphere as the sun illuminated the distant Adirondack silhouette.

The property's seven unique suites each feature gas fireplaces that prove particularly welcome during crisp autumn evenings. The attention to period detail—from the hand-carved four-poster beds to the carefully preserved original hardwood flooring—creates a sense of temporal transportation without sacrificing modern necessities. The marble-appointed bathrooms feature deep soaking tubs where one can unwind with the complimentary bath salts while watching the sunset paint the lake in impressionist strokes.

Breakfast deserves special mention: locally-sourced ingredients transformed into seasonal specialties like pumpkin spice Belgian waffles topped with maple syrup harvested from trees visible from your dining table. For those seeking ultimate privacy, request the Carriage House suite, a standalone accommodation with its own entrance and uninterrupted lake views.

Nestled within Colchester's historic district, this impeccably preserved Federal-style mansion once hosted Vermont's political elite and now welcomes guests seeking a more intimate connection with the region's past. The property's three-acre grounds feature heritage gardens that, in autumn, become a tapestry of russet chrysanthemums and ornamental cabbage bordered by century-old maple trees.

During my stay, I was particularly taken with the Library Suite, where floor-to-ceiling bookshelves house first editions and local histories that proprietor Eleanor Whitcomb encourages guests to explore. The four-poster bed, draped in locally-woven linens, faces a wood-burning fireplace that the staff thoughtfully prepares each evening with a selection of aromatic Vermont birch and maple.

Breakfast is served in what was once the governor's formal dining room, beneath a chandelier that reportedly illuminated discussions about Vermont's constitutional amendments in the 1850s. The morning ritual begins with house-pressed apple cider (from the property's own orchard) served in antique crystal, followed by seasonal specialties like maple-glazed pork belly with poached eggs and foraged mushrooms.

For the ultimate romantic evening, arrange for the staff to prepare the property's hidden garden gazebo with outdoor string lights and a private dessert service featuring locally-distilled spirits and Vermont cheese selections.

For couples preferring contemporary design that frames rather than competes with nature's autumnal display, The Glass House Retreat offers an architectural counterpoint to Colchester's predominantly historical accommodations. This collection of five modernist standalone cottages sits on a secluded peninsula, each positioned to maximize privacy while optimizing views across Lake Champlain.

My October stay in the Maple Cottage revealed how thoughtfully these structures engage with Vermont's seasonal transitions. Floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides created the sensation of floating among the colorful canopy, while the minimalist interior—featuring locally-crafted furniture of Vermont cherry and bird's eye maple—provided a warm contrast to the sometimes dramatic weather patterns moving across the lake.

Each cottage features a private hot tub on a sheltered deck, positioned for optimal stargazing. The in-room amenities include a Nespresso machine with locally-roasted specialty pods and a curated selection of Vermont craft spirits and local wines. The gas fireplace can be controlled via the provided iPad, which also manages the cottage's sophisticated lighting system and privacy blinds.

While there's no on-site restaurant, the retreat offers an innovative solution: partnerships with Colchester's premium dining establishments for direct delivery, presented in specialized containers that maintain restaurant-quality presentation. Alternatively, for culinary-minded couples, each cottage features a fully-equipped kitchen with professional-grade appliances and the option to arrange for pre-stocked ingredients from local farms and markets.

Occupying what was once a prosperous merchant's estate from the 1880s, Bayside Manor represents Colchester's most sophisticated marriage of historical architecture and contemporary luxury. The property's recent three-year renovation under the guidance of renowned Vermont preservationist Helena Montgomery has transformed this once-private residence into an eight-suite boutique hotel that respects its architectural heritage while catering to modern sensibilities.

During my stay, I was particularly impressed by the thoughtful integration of technology—smart lighting, climate control, and entertainment systems—that never intrudes upon the period ambiance. My Harbor Suite featured original bay windows overlooking the water, restored using traditional techniques but fitted with modern thermal glass that kept the space perfectly temperate despite the autumn chill.

The property's greatest asset may be its restaurant, Merchant's Table, where Chef Thomas Beaumont (formerly of New York's Le Bernardin) creates seasonal tasting menus that showcase Vermont's remarkable agricultural bounty. The intimate dining room, limited to just 24 guests nightly, features a central fireplace and views across the illuminated gardens.

For couples seeking relaxation, the converted carriage house now houses a spa offering treatments that incorporate local ingredients—the maple and bourbon body scrub followed by a hot stone massage proved particularly effective after a day of hiking nearby trails. Each treatment room features a bluetooth speaker pre-loaded with custom playlists designed to complement specific therapies.

The property's gardens, meticulously maintained to reflect their historical design while incorporating sustainable practices, include a secluded meditation labyrinth particularly enchanting when blanketed with fallen maple leaves.

While Colchester offers exceptional accommodation options, securing your preferred property requires advance planning—particularly for fall weekends when Vermont's foliage attracts visitors from across the globe. I recommend booking at least three months ahead for standard rooms and six months for premium suites or standalone cottages.

Transportation merits consideration as well. While Burlington International Airport is just 15 minutes away, I suggest renting a vehicle to properly explore the region. Most luxury properties offer complimentary parking, and having your own transportation allows for impromptu scenic drives as you follow the ever-changing palette of autumn colors.

For couples planning special occasions, most properties offer customizable romance packages. However, I've found that personalized requests often yield more meaningful experiences. During booking, mention any celebrations, and follow up with the concierge about specific preferences. Consider packing a insulated wine tote to bring special bottles for lakeside sunset toasts.

Finally, while Colchester's luxury accommodations provide ample reason to remain on-property, the surrounding area offers exceptional experiences that complement your stay. Ask your concierge to arrange private tours of local vineyards, charter sailing experiences on Lake Champlain, or guided foraging expeditions with local experts who can identify edible mushrooms and berries that flourish during autumn months.