Von Trapp’s Vermont
Von Trapp Lodge has 2,600 acres and is known for its cross-country ski trails.
By Eli Siegel (posted 4/2/25)
“The Sound of Music” brought the Von Trapp family’s story to the big screen. And while it took liberties with the family’s history, they did flee the Nazi regime, eventually arriving in Stowe, Vermont, in the early 1940s. First touring as singers, the family welcomed guests in 1950.
Since then, the farm has expanded into a first-rate resort, still run by Maria and Georg’s grandchildren.
For those looking for a family-friendly outdoor destination with something for everyone, the Von Trapp Lodge cannot be beat. This cozy retreat is located on a beautiful hillside with gorgeous views of the Green Mountains.
And it’s only a short drive from Burlington, Vermont, a 3-hour drive from Boston or 5 hours from New York. Once there, the year-round resort has an array of options, from Nordic skiing to mountain biking and hiking.
On arrival, visitors have access to more than 2,600 acres of cross-country ski trails, farm animals, daily activities, such as yoga and fitness classes, a hot tub, pool, sauna and game room. Everything, from the welcoming faces of the staff to the kids' activities to the daily cookies and tea at 3 p.m., radiates comfort.
Owner Kristina von Trapp describes the lodge as “luxurious, but not pretentious — like you are walking into a friend’s home.”
Recent updates include a new Austrian-designed rug throughout with a triangle from Austrian folk art. There are also photographs of the von Trapp family and artifacts from the “Sound of Music.”
“People often expect me to sing,” laughs Kristina. “They expect music, so we have live music every night in the restaurant.”
Just down the hill, near the resort’s disc golf course, is the state-of-the-art, 30,000-square-foot Von Trapp Brewing and Bierhall. Founded in 2011, it specializes in European-style lager and Austrian food, emblematic of the family’s heritage. The beers are excellent, as is the cuisine. Everything is incredibly fresh. The burgers are made with beef from cows on the Von Trapp farm. There’s even a ski-in, ski-out patio.
It’s clear the staff takes pride in what it does. Everyone from the bartenders to restaurant waiters to the ski-rental staff go the extra mile to make visitors feel included, comfortable and welcomed. In many ways, it feels like staying at a friend’s — a feeling rarely found in more corporate ski environments.
Cozy rooms let visitors relax and enjoy afternoon tea. The new rug takes the design from Austrian folk art.
Come June 25-27, the Stowe Hot Air Balloon Festival will be held on the property. August 13-15, the resort partners with the Vermont Symphony Orchestra and the Lyric Theatre Company to bring the Broadway classic “Oklahoma!” in concert. It’s all part of the lodge’s 75th anniversary celebration.
The resort may be known for its famous owners, but most importantly, the Von Trapp Lodge offers a home away from home.
“We have many families that love coming here and have regularly for years,” said Kristina. “We love having them.” That’s the 2025 sound of music: a warm, inviting atmosphere enjoyed by new generations.
If you go:
Trapp Family Lodge
700 Trapp Hill Rd, Stowe, VT 05672
www.vontrappresort.com/ (800) 826-7000