Holiday Inn Club Vacations Oak n’ Spruce Resort

Holiday Inn Club Vacations Oak n’ Spruce Resort is located in the Berkshires. This is an area for travel that is fairly new for me, so I am really excited to travel to the area and learn what it is all about.

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Day One Travel & Arrival at Holiday Inn Club Vacations Oak n’ Spruce Resort

My trip begins with a flight. I could drive, but for whatever reason, I do tend to drive less going north than I do going south from Virginia. Maybe it is because of the traffic, or at least how I perceive the traffic is going north on I95 versus south.

Instead of driving 9 hours, my flight time was less than 2 hours, including the time to check in at the airport. I flew into Albany International Airport which is about 1 hour from the resort. So, in the end you can say I cut 2/3 of my travel time out by flying. It is more costly to travel by air and then grab a rental car, especially for a family, but when you are a single traveler or a couple, it may pay for itself.

Located in the scenic mountains of Western Massachusetts, with incredible vistas, sparkling lakes, and abundant fresh air, the Berkshires are truly a destination for all seasons. It’s the ideal escape, at just a short, three-hour drive from both New York City and Boston, and under six hours from Montreal and Ottawa.

First things first, I get checked in to the resort and get my bags set up in the room. I like to unpack a few things refresh and shower most of the time when I first get to a resort after a flight and drive. Then I want to get something to eat, and usually a drink or two to unwind. I do not mind flying, but it does throw my system some and 2 drinks seem to usually hit the spot after a flight.

Not too far back out the road from the way into the resort is 51 Park Restaurant & Tavern, a local spot that has a decent 4.6-star rating. So, I got in the car and headed in that direction. It had a good rating and Tavern in the name, so I was all in. I landed with some wood-fired pizza and a blueberry ale that was great. They had many other local brews as well as national brands and Guinness. If I did not have to drive back to the resort, I might have stayed until they kicked me out of there. Whoever made the menu and chose the beverages was a genius.

Villa Amenities

Resort Amenities

I’m here in the beautiful Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. With world-renowned cultural attractions, farm-to-table dining, and year-round outdoor recreation, the Berkshires have it all. In the 19th Century, writers, musicians, and artists of all types came to the Berkshires, inspired by the natural beauty of the region.

Today, the Berkshires boasts an impressive artistic community, with over a hundred diverse attractions to enjoy. Catch a show at the turn-of-the-century Colonial Theater in Pittsfield. With beautiful and historic architecture and impressive acoustics, the theater hosts live music performances, family-friendly entertainment, and much more. In Stockbridge, make sure to explore the incredible 122 acres of Chesterwood, the country home of legendary sculptor Daniel Chester French, who sculpted the famous Lincoln Memorial. Meander through the home’s impressive formal gardens and woodland paths, after exploring the estate’s remarkable collections and exhibits.

I enjoyed the visit to Chesterwood to see a little of the lifestyle of such a fantastic artist. I have never tried sculpture and what little pottery I ever made once seen would have southern ladies saying well bless the child’s heart that made that. Meaning looking at it would certainly lead some to believe I was special needs. Hey, painting is more my artistic thing, nothing to be ashamed of.

Nearby, the incomparable estate of Naumkeag, with its opulent gardens and iconic Blue Steps, features the extravagant architecture that the Berkshires have become known for. Constructed by the affluent attorney Joseph Choate as a summer home, the 44-room “cottage” is the quintessential example of an 18th-century Gilded Age estate. This National Historic Landmark is a must-see for amazing views of Monument Mountain and a true taste of Berkshire’s history. To soak in Berkshire’s magnificent vistas, head to Kemble Inn’s Table Six restaurant in Lenox for outdoor dining at its finest.

During the summer months, grab a seat outside for incredible views, historic ambiance, and creative dishes.

It’s the perfect place to relax after an exciting weekend in the Berkshires. Whether you come for world-class cuisine, diverse culture, or unrivaled outdoor scenery, the picturesque Berkshires offer a stunning backdrop for your unforgettable vacation.

Day Three Berkshire Scenic Railway

Having seen several amazing estates yesterday and views with an early dinner that were amazing, I wanted to see more of the local communities today.

There’s no denying that the northwest hills of Connecticut and the Berkshires of Massachusetts are areas of tremendous beauty and have been vacation destinations at one time it was the railroad that brought people to the region for fun and relaxation today it’s an easy car ride to get there. The nostalgia of riding the rails is being kept alive — thanks to the Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum.

If you are fortunate enough to be in town on vacation when there is a scheduled train trip available, book ahead of time and make sure to capture this opportunity to take advantage of this historic experience in beauty. The train trip lasts about 1 hour and covers a 10-mile stretch on a round trip during that time. It is very affordable with adult tickets for only $18 and kids tickets for even less.

The Lenox Station museum and grounds will be open every Saturday between May 29 and September 4, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Come for a personal tour of our restored train station, featuring exhibits and displays of historic railroad equipment. Enjoy a short “Lenox Jitney” train ride from one end of our museum grounds to another, and inquire about riding in the cab of the locomotive! Click here for more historical information on the Lenox Station.

Stay at the best resort in the area and book through Tzort.