Topnotch Resort and Spa, Stowe

I have several comments for consideration for improvements. First, let me focus on the positives: the spa is the jewel of the resort , great bed and bedding, lovely views, lovely flowers, friendly concierge staff, wonderful gym facility, the room was clean and neat (with the exception of the carpet stains), free wireless is very helpful, and tea time was a nice touch. Unfortunately, that is where the positives end. Areas that need improvement: our room had a nasty stain in the carpet but we didn't feel like moving; Norma's food was expensive and not remarkable nor memorable; charging for pastries at morning coffee is tacky; charging for s'mores at the resort campfire is tacky; we felt nickel-and-dimed on everything; the halls to the rooms had a very weird odor; the carpeting, walls, and elevator areas near the rooms were very worn and in need of attention; several signs were chipped or knicked; the morning paper was not delivered consistently, someone turned off our room keys and we had to have them reprogrammed; nobody at the resort enforced the adults only rule for the adult pool which was overrun with kids every time we wanted to use it. When people ask me about the resort, I will emphasize the positives but I will tell them that I'd advise waiting on staying here until they see it has undergone renovations for the hotel part of the place or ask for a discount on the room.

We were disappointed with our expectation of the resort: it was more a 3 stars than a 5 stars resort. The staff was very nice but a number of the staff were young eastern europeans who were "in-training" sort of.... The housekeeping staff I felt was overwhelmed and sometimes could not even communicate in english. Though our bedroom suite was new and comfortable, and the swimming pool area was brand new, the lobby area was in need of renovation. The food in the restaurant was fairly good but choices were limited. In conclusion, if Four Seasons hotels were 7 stars and Amanresorts were 9 stars then Topnotch Resort would be 5 stars.

Really cool place (kind of modern but yet country). Great location a few minutes away from town. The pools and spa were really nice. I would give it a 5 star.

Location, service, luxurious pools, outstanding spa offerings. We all loved it. Mom got pampered. Kids had a blast and were made to feel welcome. Dad enjoyed all the different ways to play with the kids while mom had her spa time. The rooms were comfortable and well appointed. Breakfast was good and some nice touches with manager's welcome, afternoon tea, etc.

While the location is lovely and in a beautiful town, this hotel has seen better days and is in dire need of the massive construction underway when we came for a much-needed bit of R & R. If we wanted the noise and bustle of the city, we would've stayed home.

I can´t wait to return. I never have enjoyed a travel like the one that ended at Topnotch. It was just beutiful. The sightseeing, espectacular.