The Berkshires in western Massachusetts is an ideal year-round destination, what with its vibrant art scene, rich culture, and outdoor adventure. Over thirty charming villages and towns comprise the region, which over the past two years has witnessed a bevy of new places to stay. Here are two fabulous new options.
In the heart of Lenox lies Doctor Sax House, a swanky, nine-room boutique hotel that Kelly Binder and her husband Bryan opened in October 2024. Having fled Brooklyn for Lenox during the pandemic, the couple never looked back. They loved the town's Hallmark charm and deep roots in the region's culture, art scene and community. When the former Candelight Inn came up for sale, they decided to transform it into the sort of property they'd wished existed.
For the hotel's look and style, Binder wanted the space to feel layered and rich in detail, yet not overwhelming. This meant saturating the space with rich paint colors, lining the walls with quirky wallpapers and adding stylish furniture and lighting throughout.
The bedrooms are airy and light and decorated in an elegant mix of cream, black, beige, and gold. All come with complimentary snacks (such as high-end chocolates), Dyson hair dryers and a full, hot breakfast.
One of the most enchanting spaces at the hotel is the bar, set with comfy leather stools in a sage-green room with horse-themed wallpaper and a working fireplace. Steps away is Dulu restaurant, with its smoky-blue walls, gold cherub-and-lion ceiling wallpaper, and curved honey-colored banquettes. The restaurant is only open for dinner and features seasonal Berkshires fare, along with a few Persian dishes in a nod to Kelly Binder's Persian heritage. Come morning, the restaurant serves breakfast to hotel guests only.
Like many posh hotels, Doctor Sax House hosts various events throughout the year, ranging from live jazz evenings and comedy nights to yoga sessions and nature walks. The hotel also can arrange a variety of experiences, including a visit to a nearby spa or an outdoor gourmet picnic at a historic home, complete with vintage tableware and seating, courtesy of Berkshire Muse, which creates bespoke gatherings inspired by the region's natural beauty and bounty.
Another special property is Prospect Berkshires, which opened this past May to immerse guests in the bucolic Berkshire foothills. The year-round getaway features 49 Scandinavian-inspired cabins set on 30 acres of woodland overlooking Prospect Lake. Forty cabins are crafted for couples and small families and include heating and cooling systems, full bathrooms, Bluetooth speakers, biodegradable bath amenities, and coffee and tea supplies. Nine smaller, more rustic cabins share a communal bathhouse with toilets and showers. While internet service is available, there are no phones or televisions on the premises to help guests immerse themselves in nature.
The heart of the property is The Cliff House, a light-filled wooden space that houses reception, an exercise class area, and The Cliff House Restaurant and bar. The latter serves dinner Wednesday through Sunday and offers farm-driven seasonal fare. For breakfast, The Cliff House offers fresh-brewed coffee and tea, along with grab-and-go bags featuring healthy goodies like fresh fruit and chia pudding. In addition to an outdoor saltwater pool, the property has four Finnish-style saunas and paddle boards and kayaks to enjoy on the lake.
Looking ahead, Prospect Berkshires plans to expand its gardens, develop pollinator habitats and bring in a flock of sheep. The property also plans to host a variety of events, including inviting local chefs, writers and musicians to share their craft and engage with guests.
Dr. Sax House, 35 Walker House, Lenox, MA Prospect Berkshires, 50 Prospect Lake Road, Egremont, MA
