City Lifestyle

Want to start a publication?

Learn More
Charter Oak Cottage bedroom. Photo courtesy of Winvian Farm

Featured Article

Romantic Road Trip to Winvian Farm

Leave Your Cares Behind and Reconnect with Your Valentine at This Romantic Cottage Resort

Article by Marisa MacLean

Photography by Winter Caplanson and provided by Winvian Farm

Originally published in Westport Lifestyle

A beautiful road trip to the Connecticut countryside, about one hour north of Westport, will lead you to Winvian Farm.

Winvian Farm is a calming space surrounded by natural beauty and incredible views. It is a dining destination as well as a spa destination, perfect for a romantic Valentine's Day getaway close to home. The Relais & Chateaux resort has received Five Diamond awards for both its restaurant and its accommodations.

“It is where Norman Rockwell meets Alice in Wonderland!” says Maggie Smith, proprietor of the property.

The Private Cottage Accommodations

The architecture and design of the 18 private cottages are an unparalleled vision for the eyes courtesy of 15 architects who were commissioned to bring to life their versions of all things Connecticut. Each cottage has a different theme.

Guest favorites include Camping, Connecticut Yankee, Stable, Treehouse, Helicopter (there’s an actual helicopter in the room), Maritime and Charter Oak. All cottages feature oversized baths, rainfall steam showers, Jacuzzi tubs, radiant heated floors, at least one fireplace and screened-in porches.

The Restaurant at Winvian Farm

The epitome of farm-to-table dining, the resort is the only luxury resort in New England with a full-working farm. Three acres and four greenhouses provide menu items 70 percent of the year. Executive Chef Chris Eddy is a protégée of Alain Ducasse and Daniel Boulud. Guests are literally experiencing Michelin Star-quality cuisine right in the Litchfield Hills. Additionally, their wine cellar features more than 350 labels.

The Spa

The property features a 5,000-square-foot oasis made of reclaimed barn beams, steel and metal cable. Six rooms (two with wood-burning fireplaces) provide a wide variety of body and facial treatments, including the Biologique Recherche custom facial. The spa is one of the only facilities in the region providing this service from the exclusive French beauty line.

Activities

The property is an ideal retreat for those seeking a private and relaxing getaway. Guests may also enjoy activities like private cooking classes, hiking and cross-country skiing. When weather and season allow, there is a heated swimming pool, hot air balloon rides and complimentary bicycles for exploring the countryside.

Do’s and Don’ts: Top tips when staying at Winvian Farm

  • Do reserve time for a massage and/or facial. The spa is a wonderful and tranquil oasis.
  • Do eat at the 5-Diamond restaurant. The food is farm-to-table (many menu items were grown right on the property), delicious and should not be missed.
  • Do order s’mores. The private cottages have fireplaces where you may roast marshmallows right in your room.
  • Do check out Litchfield. It is a destination in itself with year-round events, theater, antiques and arts.
  • Don’t procrastinate when booking your stay! Each cottage is completely unique, and they are reserved on a first come, first serve basis.
  • Don’t forget to bring that special someone with you.

Reservations: 860.567.9600
155 Alain White Road
Morris, Connecticut

Rates range per night.

  • Artist Cottage entrance. Photo courtesy of Winvian Farm
  • Camping Cottage living room. Photo courtesy of Winvian Farm
  • Charter Oak Cottage bedroom. Photo courtesy of Winvian Farm
  • Yankee Cottage bedroom. Photo courtesy of Winvian Farm
  • Treehouse Cottage exterior. Photo courtesy of Winvian Farm
  • Winvian Farm Spa. Photo courtesy of Winvian Farm
  • Beaver Lodge bedroom. Photo courtesy of Winvian Farm
  • Roasted lamb with seasonal garnish - The Restaurant at Winvian Farm. Photo courtesy of Winvian Farm
  • A cozy dining room at the Restaurant at Winvian Farm. Photo by Winter Caplanson
  • Executive Chef Chris Eddy and the Restaurant at Winvian Farm team. Photo by Winter Caplanson
  • Farm-fresh pork at the Restaurant at Winvian Farm. Photo by Winter Caplanson
  • The Spa at Winvian Farm. Photo by Winter Caplanson