Once the harmony of goldfinches and buzzing cicadas fill your ears, you’ve checked in for a Berkshires summer.
The Whitlock is the perfect boutique inn for a weekend getaway.
Whether wandering through Edith Wharton’s garden or picnicking at a Tanglewood concert, the Berkshires’ idyllic landscape calls Bostonians for a breath of mountain air. At the region’s heart— Lenox—find a slew of outdoor pursuits, farm-to-table dining, tranquil havens for weary travelers and more.
Indulge in decadent bites at Alta Restaurant & Wine Bar
ALTA RESTAURANT & WINE BAR
Situated in Lenox village, this Mediterranean-inspired eatery boasts a menu bursting with local flavors and organic ingredients. After perusing their extensive wine list—featuring 24 by the glass— indulge in bites like seared duck breast with a salty caramel sauce and chipotle braised pork cheeks. 34 Church St., Lenox,altawinebar.com
BISTRO ZINC
The French countryside may be far away, but a taste of the region rests at Bistro Zinc. While sipping an ice-cold martini, prepare your palette for mouthwatering dishes packed with locally sourced ingredients. Duck confit, boeuf bourguignon and trout meunière dot the menu—just remember that no meal is complete without a side of pommes frites. 56 Church St., Lenox,bistrozinc.com
FIREFLY GASTROPUB
Treat your tastebuds to comfort food and blood orange martinis at Firefly Gastropub. Delectable bites from burgers to buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches and pan-seared scallops are sure to be a highlight of your Lenox getaway. 71 Church St., Lenox,fireflylenox.com
THE CORNELL INN
A piece of history waits on every corner of Lenox—especially at The Cornell Inn on Main Street. The over 150-year-old boutique hotel houses 28 custom-designed rooms bursting with color and charm. Sweetening the stay are complimentary fudgy brownies, in-room wine and a goodnight cognac. 203 Main St., Lenox,cornellbb.com
LIFE HOUSE BERKSHIRES
A writer’s retreat like no other, Life House Berkshires opened its doors in 2022, welcoming travelers inside their reimagined 1970s motel. Eclectic and vibrant decor envelops the rooms, library lounge and cocktail bar, creating a tranquil and eye-catching escape. 194 Pittsfield Road, Lenox,lifehousehotels.com
THE WHITLOCK
When thinking of the quintessential country inn, chances are you’re envisioning The Whitlock. The 18thcentury farmhouse turned hotel offers a rustic yet elegant experience with 30 guest rooms. A patio, fire pit, live music and enclosed porch with rocking chairs complete the storybook stay. 16 Church St., Lenox,thelenoxcollection.com
CANYON RANCH LENOX
Unwind, unplug and recharge at this award-winning wellness resort. Hosted at the historic 19th-century Bellefontaine Mansion, Canyon Ranch is a tranquil paradise featuring a spa, 100,000 square feet of fitness facilities, pools, a ropes course, cooking classes and more. 165 Kemble St., Lenox,canyonranch.com
Find sweet serenity at this outdoor pool at Miraval Berkshires.
MIRAVAL BERKSHIRES
Steeped in history, Miraval Berkshires sits on 380 acres designed by Frederick Law Olmsted—famously known as the architect of New York’s Central Park. At the heart of the property is an 1894 mansion, where world-class wellness programs abound, from spa treatments to gourmet bites. 55 Lee Road, Lenox,miravalresorts.com
CASABLANCA
Just behind the doors of this unassuming boutique on Church Street awaits a fashionista’s dream wardrobe. Frocks by Margiela, Issey Miyake, MaxMara, Escada and Missoni line the racks, ready to wear on your next night out in Lenox. 50 Church St., Lenox,casabgroup.com
MACKIMMIE CO.
Commemorate your Berkshires holiday with a gift from MacKimmie Co. The home and lifestyle boutique specializes in European and American-made textiles like throws crafted with luxe natural fibers, such as lambswool and merino cashmere. 69 Church St., Lenox,mackimmieco.com
ANTIMONY BREWING
Beer aficionados will find their haven at Antimony Brewing. The indoor-outdoor brewpub serves up delectable craft beers and cocktails made with local spirits from Berkshire Mountain Distillers. Summer nights on the patio with your pooch are a must, featuring live music every weekend. 55 Pittsfield Road, Lenox,antimonybrewing.com
GET LIT AT THE BOOKSTORE
Tucked behind the tomes of award-winning authors, find the ever-charming and intimate Get Lit wine bar. A glass, or two, of your favorite bottle paired with a gripping tale is just what the doctor ordered to feed your inner bookworm. 11 Housatonic St., Lenox,bookstoreinlenox.com
THE LION’S DEN
Filled with a harmony of live music and cocktail shakers, The Lion’s Den is the perfect place to end a night on the town. The old-school lounge has been a local staple since 1937, and this summer, it will host the likes of Mark Bryan from Hootie & the Blowfish, The Cadleys and many more. 30 Main St., Stockbridge,redlioninn.com
THE COLONIAL THEATRE
A ticket to a Colonial Theatre production invites guests to step into the past—in 1912, Ronald Reagan’s mother-in-law Edith Luckett founded The Colonial Players. To this day, the gold and red velvet-wrapped playhouse hosts well-known talents, adding to its history of notable performers like Anna Pavlova and Ethel Barrymore. 111 South St., Pittsfield,berkshiretheatregroup.org
Warm summer nights at Tanglewood are a must in The Berkshires
TANGLEWOOD
Every summer, the Boston Symphony Orchestra migrates west to Lenox for their annual Tanglewood residency. Spend a warm evening on the lawn, nestled onto a picnic blanket, while listening to the symphonious sounds of the orchestra. 297 West St., Lenox,bso.org
Those seeking a dose of the outdoors can explore Kennedy Park
KENNEDY PARK
Hit the trail in this town-owned and maintained hardwood forest. Nearly 15 miles of hiking paths, including a mountain view lookout point, old carriage roads and picnic spaces, are sure to awaken your inner outdoorsman. Route 7 and 20, Pittsfield Road, Lenox,lenox.org
Photography by: COURTESY OF BRANDS
