Twin Farms

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.

If you're reading this, you probably already know all about Twin Farms - it's kind of a big deal - so I'm not sure I can do much besides confirm that it lives up to its reputation and is absolutely worth it. I expect that most people go for three reasons - food, activities, and relaxation - so I'll touch on each briefly. For reference, our perspective is as a NYC-based couple in our mid 30s, which likely puts us on the youngest end of the typical guest spectrum. Food: highest level of execution. In terms of style, I get the sense that the team is intentionally staying within the boundaries of what feels comfortable to the average Twin Farms guests, who are basically wealthy middle aged couples from anywhere in the US. The food does not push boundaries or challenge the eater in an attempt to impress critics or reviewers. Rather, it adheres to well-established flavor profiles, excellent ingredients from the farm, and impeccable execution. In a way, it was comfort food as fine dining. Every bite was exquisite. The wine program is also exceptional. The picnic lunch at departure was a nice touch. Activities: we went in the late fall and enjoyed hiking the property, canoeing on the pond, and a few other activities. It rained so we spent a bit more time inside than planned, but they have puzzles, excellent drinks, and a fireplace. We also got massages, which were top-notch. We want to return to try the rest of the activities in all different seasons. Relaxation: the entire property is relaxing, and for us that started with the cottage. We stayed in the Orchard cottage, which is literally in an apple orchard. I'll never forget the water pressure in the shower, which was basically a liquid TheraGun. Beyond the cottage, the rest of the property has lots of cozy places to relax. We particularly enjoyed the Onsen bath house. I don't think there's a question as to whether Twin Farms is an incredible experience. It most assuredly is. The question is whether it's worth the rather steep price, and we believe it is.

An important and emotionally meaningful trip for my Husband and me, our recent trip to Twin Farms was beyond wonderful. They ordered spectacular weather for starters, but our 6 day stay in The Studio (a “cottage” that borders on indescribable) was truly perfect. We were there for a guest chef weekend (Zach Woodworth….who genuinely became a new friend by the end of his time there!) making it even more special. Every meal, whether we ate incredibly multi-course meals in main dining room or had dinner at the bar at Twiggs (we are “eat at bar”…..were superb. We pampered ourselves in spa a bunch and staff was superb. Every request was met with such professional precision and there were instances where Guest Services anticipated things without a word needing to be said. Every member of staff was beyond attentive and the friendliness and caring was genuine….everyone, from Michael and John on down the line. Impossible for me to express our satisfaction and gratitude. Thank you…..and meeting the bear was just icing on the cake for us.