1. Visit ANICHINI 802: The Flagship Store For ANICHINI’s Luxury Textiles
We obviously think that visiting ANICHINI 802 should be at the top of your list! ANICHINI 802 is truly a full-service home furnishings store like none other. It is the flagship brick and mortar store for ANICHINI, the Vermont-based luxury textile company. Located in Quechee, Vermont, our store is a pure reflection of the interests and direction of founder, Susan Dollenmaier and her colleagues. In addition to carrying the entire ANICHINI collection, the store also includes unusual new products sourced personally by Susan. The emphasis is on traditional artisanal textiles and techniques, of which Susan is an expert. The selections are global in reach, featuring artisans and small companies from around the world. ANICHINI supports these artisans, usually women, in maintaining these ancient traditions and crafts by creating a stage and a marketplace for them in America. The store is unlike anything else in Vermont. We hope to see you!
2. Have Lunch At Simon Pearce
Located just around the corner from ANICHINI 802 is one of our, and our customer’s, favorite places to lunch while shopping and exploring the area. Simon Pearce really needs no introduction. His signature style of handcrafted crystal glassware has become an icon of design. Moving from Ireland to America to follow his dream, he found a mill on the Ottauquechee river in Quechee to be the perfect place to base his company.
The Mill’s inspired design speaks to Simon’s beliefs in simplicity, quality, and artisanship. It is a destination for the design enthusiast. The flagship store has bright, sprawling spaces filled with signature handblown glass, hand-thrown pottery, and home decor. It also houses a turbine-powered glassblowing studio where you can see these pieces coming to life. And finally, there is the restaurant.
Voted one of “America’s Most Romantic Restaurants” by Travel and Leisure and recipient of the Wine Spectator “Best of Award of Excellence” the restaurant at Simon Pearce overlooks the rushing Ottauquechee river. The food is fabulous and comes served on Simon Pearce’s glassware and pottery.
Learn more about Simon Pearce in the video below.
Photos and video via Simon Pearce
3. Stay At One Of Our Favorite Local Resorts
Twin Farms is located on 300 secluded acres in the Green Mountains of Vermont. This Relaix & Chateau resort has won numerous awards for it’s stunning design, idyllic grounds, personalized service, exceptional cuisine, and attention to every detail. The resort feels like a private getaway, with every part of the experience tailored to you. The service is impeccable. Feel like going for a hike? There’ll be a picnic basket waiting for you at the top. Their award winning chef consults with you on your preferences before you go and crafts the menu to suit. See the exceptional things he creates in the video below. (A must see!)
The resort consists of four guest rooms, six suites and ten private cottages nestled through the woods all stunningly designed in different styles, and including ANICHINI linens. Each is it’s own experience! This exceptional retreat offers something for everyone… ski at the resort’s own ski hill, soak in the Japanese furo bathhouse, or explore the resort’s eclectic and extraordinary private art collection.
Photos and video via Twin Farms
4. Shop One Of Our Favorite Local Shops
The artisan doesn’t fall far from the tree. Andrew Pearce, maker of hand turned wooden bowls and accessories is the son of famed glassblower Simon Pearce (above). Each of his designs are crafted by hand from a single piece of locally sourced Black Walnut or Cherry hardwood. His craftsmanship is stunning, each piece is a singular work of art, taking it’s direction from the wood itself. His store, Andrew Pearce Bowls is located just down the road from us. Learn more of his craft in the video below.
Photos and video via Andrew Pearce Bowls
5. Visit VINS: The Vermont Institute For Natural Science
Truly an experience! VINS has been a leader in environmental education and wildlife conservation and care since 1972. Located in Woodstock, Vermont they operate New England’s premier avian wildlife rehabilitation clinic. Offering education and adventure and a chance to learn more about the natural world and it’s inhabitants. Explore the grounds and exhibits, go on a forest walk on the sprawling nature trails, see a raptor up close, or watch their rehabilitation in action.
Photos and video via VINS