New England Falconry Takes Flight at the Woodstock Inn & Resort

Located nearby in the resort's historic 10,000 square foot Rutherford Barn surrounded by a 50 acre meadow, New England Falconry at Woodstock Inn & Resort offers guests opportunities to get “up close and personal” with the fascinating birds of prey.

“As beautiful as the Woodstock Inn & Resort is, we encourage our guests to get out to experience the many riches of the town of Woodstock, the Green Mountains and Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park,” said Gary Thulander, president and general manager. “Falconry and our newest Kelly Way Gardens classes, while wildly different, are both natural fits for our guests to explore different aspects of the resort that will enrich their stay.”

Under the watchful eye of Master Falconer Chris Davis, the director and founder of New England Falconry based in Hadley, MA, the collection of six Harris's hawks, a falcon and an Eagle Owl are trained for a variety of guest experiences including hawk walks, raptor receptions, and even as skilled ring bearers for weddings.

The New England Falconry staff, skilled in the ancient sport of kings, will conduct introductory and extended flying and handling sessions, sharing the history of falconry, raptor adaptations and conservation. Prices start at $50 for observers and $95 for participants. For additional information, visit: https://www.woodstockinn.com/resort/recreation



How Does Woodstock's Garden Grow?

Also this summer, the Woodstock Inn & Resort invites guests to explore the art and techniques of gardening at its flourishing 2.5 acre Kelly Way Gardens, certified organic by the Vermont Organic Farmers Association.

Master Gardener Benjamin Pauly has overseen and nurtured more than 200 varieties of vegetables, 50 types of herbs and edible flowers, 75 berries and orchard plantings, a mushroom glen, and both annual and perennial flowers. Produce from the Kelly Way Gardens provide culinary inspiration for the daily menus at the resort's two restaurants, the Red Rooster and Richardson's Tavern.

Garden classes for guests are scheduled daily Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, and cover a variety of topics such as floral arranging using the several hundred varieties of cultivated cut flowers, organic gardening fundamentals and seasonal gardening techniques. The Kitchen Garden Collaborative session on Saturdays shares a behind-the-scenes look at the partnership between the chef and gardener and gives insight into how the current harvests make it on the menu and to the restaurant's tables. A full list of classes can be found here: https://www.woodstockinn.com/resort/packages/kitchen-garden-package. Classes cost $15 per person and include a take home item.

The resort also offers an overnight Kitchen Garden Package, available through September 12. Package details include:

• One night luxury accommodations
• Seasonal bouquet from the garden
• Breakfast for two
• A tour of the Kelly Way Gardens
• Horticulture activity and educational session (Wednesday-Saturday 10:00-11:00 am)
• Take home items specific to the horticultural emphasis
• Rates start at $347 per night based on double occupancy

As guests attend the garden classes on the morning following their overnight stay, reservations must include at least one Tuesday through Friday night. Guests with multiple nights booked may attend the class each morning. Visitors who did not purchase the package may join a class on a space available basis by registering at the front desk or concierge before attending.

The Woodstock Inn & Resort features 142 distinctive and luxurious guest rooms, a 10,000 square-foot LEED-designed spa with a hot tub and outdoor pool. The Racquet & Fitness Club, a complete facility with indoor and outdoor tennis courts, racquetball courts, a 30-by-60 foot indoor lap pool, a whirlpool, workout equipment, and steam and sauna rooms available for guest use.

Guests can explore the scenic biking trails nearby, suitable for all ability levels, with mountain bikes rented from the Racquet & Fitness Club. Complimentary cruiser bikes are also available for a leisurely cruise through town.

Golfers can make use of the full-service Woodstock Country Club which includes an 18-hole Robert Trent Jones, Sr. designed course, a practice range, putting green, fully equipped Pro Shop, and golf carts. Golf pros are onsite to help guests perfect their stroke, and provide guidance on club choices.

Visitors can dine at The Red Rooster, the resort's award-winning fine dining restaurant, and Richardson's Tavern, a cozy old-world atmosphere with a full bar.

Visit website: www.woodstockinn.com