Stipulated: the perfect travel time for a three-day weekend getaway is four hours. More, and you waste your vacation. Less, and you’re still near home. Hence our series, The Four-Hour Rule, dedicated to revealing the best destinations that are far away, yet still close to home.
This month: We visit the Berkshires, where a former J.Crew mens chief recently opened a boutique hotel that could easily double as the backdrop for a prep-style photoshoot.
STAY
When former J.Crew men’s chief Frank Muytjens decides to open a woodsy B&B, we listen. Welcome to The Inn at Kenmore Hall, a five-bedroom restored 1792 Georgian estate tucked away on 20 acres outside of Richmond, Mass. Mid-century modern decor, wood-burning fireplaces, art, porch, orchards — this place is exactly what you expected, in the best way possible. From the parlor seating to the linens, every nook and cranny looks dressed for Kennedy family reunion.
Images: Kenmore
EAT
If Alta is an option, we’re going to mention it. And it is. Twenty-four wines by the glass. Homemade foie gras and a lasagna pile with locally sourced veggies?. You bet. But also in the area, don’t miss Bistro Zinc, soothing and conducive to a leisurely Saturday night meal with friends, or the tried-and-true Rouge, with accessible French fare and delectable mussels. There’s also the omnipresent Nudel, not to be confused with the nearby nudist hotspot.
Image: Alta
DO
Saddle up, kiddos. The Berkshires offer the best cultural scene outside of a major city in the entire Northeast. Tanglewood music is right next door, as is the Berkshire Theater, along with the Williamstown, Colonial and Mahaiwe theaters. What? You want more culture? Check out MASS MoCA. And should you want to get away from getting away from it all, Canyon Ranch offers ace spa and wellness services within shooting distance.
Image: Canyon Ranch
Main image: Kenmore
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