We are always on the lookout for pet-friendly travel destinations. Especially if they are within driving distance of New York City since mom has two terriers in tow plus all of our gear. Our friends at Celebrity Catwalk told us about Phineas Swann Bed and Breakfast, a renovated farm and carriage house in northern Vermont, and we were hooked. Lanier Travel Guides have awarded the Inn the “Most Pet Friendly” award for both 2010 and 2011. TripAdviser.com gives a paws up, too. And The Bark magazine just gave the B&B pawvery high marks in their recent issue.
Getting there: The B&B is located in Montgomery Center, Vermont. This is a scenic 7-hour drive from New York City with several stops along the way including Ben & Jerry’s, the Stephen Huneck Gallery at Dog Mountain, the Stowe shopping district, and many quaint cheese, chocolate, maple syrup, and cider stands. Maple season opens the end of March!
The rooms and rates: Pups are invited to stay in the Carriage House and River House. (The Inn is kept dog free for people with allergies.) The first dog stays for free and there is a $25 fee per stay for each additional dog to help with cleaning costs. We stayed in the Carriage House in the Terrier Suite and loved it! The thoughtful staff had homemade doggy cookies on our nightstand, plush doggy beds on the floor, doggy dishes, poop bags, dog towels for paws, chew toys, and more. The fridge was also stocked with wine, beer, and other beverages! Additional human snacks and treats are kept on hand at the Inn for munchies at any time of the day. And the breakfast each morning is amazing. Rates start at $149 a night depending on the season.
Things to do: Explore the beautifully decorated Inn. There are doggy antiques in every nook and cranny of the renovated farmhouse. Visit Stowe or another shopping area for quaint shops and Vermont novelties. View the covered bridges and cemeteries in the area. Participate in outdoor activities in the area — skiing, hiking, kayaking. (The staff was very willing to dog sit if needed.) Doggies are welcome to swim in the Trout River that borders the property and hike on the trails. Watch a movie by the fire in your room. Bring your passport and head to Montreal. Check out the Stephen Huneck Gallery at Dog Mountain. We stayed two nights and definitely could have stayed longer!
Bottom line: This is truly a dog-friendly destination. We will be back for sure! The staff and owners love the dogs and you will love them! Check availability to book your trip. There are many return guests, so book in advance.
We hope your pup diary is filled with great plans, too!
Sleigh ride in Vermont
Covered Bridge in Vermont
the pup diary 
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