Twin Farms

Twin Farms is truly unique . The setting is spectacular, the accommodations are beautifully designed, and the staff is genuinely warm, kind, and eager to help. There is a wonderful sense of ease to the experience—you can spend your days exactly as you like, with activities available at your leisure and nearly everything included. It’s a very special property. Our cottage was thoughtfully appointed and incredibly comfortable. The design strikes a beautiful balance between rustic Vermont charm and sophistication. That said, it feels like it’s missing just a touch of understated luxury—the subtle details that distinguish a truly world-class luxury hotel from a very good one. That same theme carried through several aspects of our stay. Twin Farms excels at the big things but occasionally misses on the small touches that elevate an experience from memorable to extraordinary. One example was the onsen, which is marketed as a unique and tranquil experience. Because reservations are required, I expected it to be refreshed between guests. Instead, we arrived to find used towels and robes hanging from previous visitors, along with quite a few spiders. It didn’t feel serene or especially well cared for. A few thoughtful additions—fresh towels, a quick reset between reservations, soft music, infused water or light refreshments—would make this a much more memorable experience. We understand a new spa is under construction, and hopefully it will bring this level of attention to wellness experiences. Dining was another area where a little more guidance would go a long way. The food was excellent, but no one explained the wine program or mentioned that the kitchen is happy to prepare many off-menu dishes. Those are wonderful touches, but we only learned about them after overhearing another table. Guests should be introduced to these options so they can fully enjoy everything the property has to offer. The dining experience lacks a few touches that could make it great- the music was non existent at Twigs and strictly Frank Sinatra at the main dining room. The fitness center is another example. It’s surprisingly well equipped, but it’s entirely carpeted, which doesn’t feel particularly clean or appropriate for a luxury gym. Again, it’s a small detail, but details matter at this level. Despite these criticisms, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The people are lovely, the property is beautiful, and the overall concept is unlike anywhere else. With just a bit more attention to the finer details and guest experience, Twin Farms could easily be a five-star destination. We’d happily return and look forward to seeing how the new spa and continued improvements enhance an already very special place.

Most of the food was excellent. Much preferred the Dining Room. The wooden furniture in the seating areas largely has no cushions so is not inviting. Outside Twigg you'll need to dust off the ash and insects. The actual waitress service is good but there's just no one around if you want a drink and when you finally find someone everything takes ages. No one to tell you where lunch is served (it varies). It almost feels as though the head honchos are absent and the others are filling in. Absolutely no idea what wines are on offer. The wine list at Twigg consists of 4 very average reds and 4 whites. No sommelier around to offer anything else. There was a sommelier at the other restaurant but no wine list so you just have to go with his suggestions. The gym is carpeted which is not hygienic. The onsen is positively dirty. Scum around the watermark, broken tiles, massive spiders' webs. I don't like moaning but it's a long way to come for some hiking trails in a rustic setting where service just isn't up there. Too many things in the room are irritating. Water temperature takes forever to adjust, cupboards don't shut properly, ugly a/c unit inserted into the window. Not 5 star. We felt it was overpriced.

Two days before we were scheduled to depart for two weeks in India, I broke my foot. Clearly a major adventure was not possible, and we were disppointed and unsure how to salvage anything from our lost opportunity. Several people suggested that we spend a few days at Twin Farms, and it was the best possible solution. In addition to what others have written about the amazing staff, the fabulous food (the nine course taster's menu was perhaps the best meal I have ever had), the serenity and beauty of the place, it was a perfect place to be as I awkwardly hobbled around in a boot. Everyone was thoughtful and solicitous about my limitations and made it possible for me to get around safely and for my husband to continue to be active. We send particular thanks to Britt who worked with me about possible exercises during this time, and who was insightful during two meditation sessions. Thank you all.

If there is a gold standard for the "All-Inclusive Luxury" experience in North America, Twin Farms is it. Nestled on 300 acres of wildflower meadows and quiet woodlands in Barnard, this Relais & Châteaux property isn't just a hotel—it’s a private estate experience that feels like staying at the home of a very wealthy, very tasteful friend. The Design & Art: Originally the 1920s farmhouse of Nobel prize-winning author Sinclair Lewis, the property is now a living gallery. Each cottage is uniquely themed (from "Treehouse" to "Moroccan") and features museum-quality art, including works by David Hockney and Frank Stella. The Gastronomy: There are no menus here. Instead, the culinary team crafts daily masterpieces based on what is fresh on the farm and your personal preferences. The wine cellar is legendary, and the pairings are included and impeccable. The "No Request is Too Big" Service: The staff-to-guest ratio is incredible. Whether you want a private champagne picnic set up at the top of a hiking trail or a specialized fly-fishing lesson at the copper pond, they make it happen seamlessly. True All-Inclusive: Unlike many "luxury" spots, "all-inclusive" here actually means everything. From the spirits in your minibar to the high-end sporting equipment (skiing, paddleboarding, biking), you never have to reach for your wallet. Seasonal Magic: Winter: Private downhill ski trails with no lift lines and a stunning Japanese-style furo (soaking tub) to warm up in afterward. Autumn: The foliage on the Royalton Turnpike is world-class, and the property's "Foliage Season" is arguably the most beautiful time to visit. Summer: Canoeing on the private lake followed by an outdoor farm-to-table lunch in the garden. The Vibe: It is sophisticated, quiet, and deeply private. Since the property is generally adults-only, it remains an oasis of calm and refined relaxation.

Twin Farms is an absolutely top notch, best in class- I'd run out of adjectives for this place.. this experience. There are just a few of these all-inclusive, but the highest end possible resorts. Accommodation is just glorious- the best experience is the cottages, ours was the "Woods" cottage, it could be a luxury home essentially. My requirement was a working fireplace, and it has that- with unlimited wood, kindling. Beautiful windows, bathroom with windows and snowy woods all around was sublime. Shower, furniture, all high end. Bed I thought was maybe not quite top top notch: bedding, sheets are alright, but otherwise best anywhere. The place is loaded with activities, but you just have to take initiate to set up, and if you do, you'll receive all "yes!" responses. I did: cooking class, downhill skiing, sledding, private bathhouse use, personalized medication in our own cottage, and so much more. Food: some of the best I've ever had in my life. I can't explain how great it is- but every meal is 5 star cuisine, as much as you'd like, and you can think up something expensive and luxurious in your head, tell them, and they'll make it. Too hard to explain how amazing, top notch, high end every single meal was. There are absolutely no negatives, none. Shout outs: Wesley in the main restaurant- for us, he made things great. He represents the Twin Farms brand in its best possible way and form. We met him our first meal, and to us, stole the show. He helped usher in what was our best culinary experience of a lifetime- so Thanks, Wesley Two other superstars: Myra and Britt: all smiles, oozing with warmth, positivity, great energy always, you're happier just around them. If I wanted to start a new company and hire the best and brightest people on the planet, I'd start with them. Overall: 10 stars, Best of the Best.