In SW Vermont, along Rte. 7, we have some favorite inns:

For many, many years we stayed at Equinox Mountain Inn on top of Mt. Equinox, south of Manchester, VT, at the end of the toll road up the mountain. However, last year, it was closed for renovation but is supposed to reopen in May, 2001 (?) One of the rooms on the back side, esp. the corner rooms, will give you fantastic views (if the mountain doesn't have a cloud hanging over its top). The toll road and inn have an interesting history: Both were built by Dr. Joe Davidson, President of Carbide and Carbon, back in 30's and 40's--his hobby! after he bought thousands of acres encompassing Mt. Equinox. He and his wife had no children, so left it all to the Carthusian monks, who have a monastery there (not open to public, but you can see it from road). He also build several lakes for his own hydro-electric system, also visible from road. There is good hiking on the mountain--lots of trails starting from top. Former leasee had marvelous dining room--fine views matched by fine views, but don't know about upcoming year.

Other favorites in the area: West Mountain Inn (http://www.westmountaininn.com) near Arlington VT--good food too and wonderful rooms and suites, many with fireplaces, some with own porches--all different. In June they will probably still have some lower rate deals.

Hill Farm Inn (http://www.hillfarminn.com) near Sunderland, VT, just off historic Rte. 7) -- real old farm buildings with scenic view of Mt. Equinox. We especially like the Lilac Suite with its own living room, small kitchen, gas fire, and separate bedroom and porch. Not fancy. Serves only breakfast.

Manchester View Motel, Rte. 7 just N. of Manchester, has fantastic views and lovely rooms with fireplaces and porches.

In the NE Kingdom, VT, a place I want to stay and eat is the absolutely outrageous and improbable Zacks on the Rocks (I think that is the name--never been there--but there is a website and many articles written about owner and the eclectic place he has created!)

More about restaurants and sites later. Cheers, Pat