RabbitHillInn

FREEBIE FRIDAY! Enjoy Vermont Fun for FREE or Dirt Cheap!

2009-06-25T14:50:00.001-07:00

Take a covered bridge tour. Everyone always says..."we just have to see some covered bridges while we're here!" And it's true - covered bridges are a trademark of Vermont. These amazing structures are a unique feature of the Vermont landscape, taking us back to a distant time and place. And there are more covered bridges per square mile in Vermont than any other place in the world, with 107 authentic covered bridges located throughout the state. In nearby, New Hampshire, there are several others to see. A photographer's delight, for sure.

Your cost for this glorious day - $0.

Here's a peek at what you'll see here - watch video.

The Perfect Short Vacation in Vermont

2009-06-21T07:55:00.000-07:00

Meet Alex & Lori. They were anxious to escape Manhattan and all the stress that comes along with busy city life. Off to Rabbit Hill they went, for a perfect 3 day Vermont vacation. They wanted to do it all... adventurous fun, countryside drives, "Vermonty" things, visit the wonderful folks at Stave Puzzles, and yet, have time to relax and do as many Stave puzzles as possible, and maybe squeeze in a little "do nothing" time. Three days... hmmmm... is it possible??? Absolutely! They crafted the perfect plan and proved it very possible. Here's how they did it...

Day One - Enjoyed a leisurely drive to Rabbit Hill Inn, arriving in the evening, and cozied into their luxury suite.

Day Two - A day in the Kingdom

Enjoyed a full breakfast (by candlelight)
Drove to Norwich to visit the infamous STAVE Puzzle Shop. They have been addicted to Stave puzzles for so long it was time to meet the folks behind these tormenting treasures.
Wandered the backroads of the Northeast Kingdom countryside.
Visited Cabot Cheese factory (tasting room was the best part)
Visited Grand View Winery & tasted several lovely wines (a few bottles made it to the car).
Stopped at Braggs Maple Syrup Farm. Learned all about the process, from tapping to boiling (again, a few bottles made it into the car).
Wandered off to Barre and found an "outstanding lunch spot".
Returned home to Rabbit Hill to relax, soak in the whirlpool tub.
Wrapped up the day with a glorious dinner at the Inn, some fine wine, and puzzled the night away in our Snooty Fox Pub. Alex & Lori were in charge of "lights out" that night.

Day Three - The adrenaline rush!

A Full breakfast prepared them for the adventurous day ahead.
Off to Alpine Adventures for a heart racing ZIPLINE tour.
While the blood was still pumping, they headed to the local gym for a great workout.
Returned home to the inn, simmered down for well-earned IN-ROOM MASSAGES.
Spent the duration of the day "in the zone" with long soaks in the double whirlpool, and reading on the porch.
The grand finale -- another outstanding dinner at the inn, more fine wine, and more puzzling into the night. We're not kidding...those Stave puzzles are addictive. Guess who was in charge of "lights out" again?

Day Four - Upon a sad departure, they left us saying... "We'll be back in the winter for skiing!"

The result: the perfect short vacation. Well, done Alex & Lori. Can't wait to welcome you "back home" when the snow flies. You'll always be in charge of "lights out".

Rice Crispy Encrusted Scallops...really????

2009-06-20T09:06:00.000-07:00

This might sound a bit wacky, but guests absolutely LOVE it. You have got to try this recipe!

Rice Crispy Encrusted Scallops with Grilled Asparagus and Melon (Appetizer to serve 4)

Ingredients:
8 Large Sea Scallops (U/10)
1/2 cup Rice Crispies

1/3 of melon (honeydew or canteloupe)

12 Asparagus Spears
1/2 bunch parsley-chopped

Egg wash (beaten egg in bowl)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Prep hot grill /Have blender handy
Chef note: Only use very fresh dry-packed scallops, nothing soaked in "treated liquid".

Method for purees:

Cut asparagus spears in half and place on hot grill. Cook only 1/2 way through. Set aside
Place melon pieces on grill until slightly limp. Remove and set aside.
Cut tips off 6 asparagus spears. Place stalks in blender and puree until smooth. Season with salt & pepper. Set aside.
Rinse blender. Place melon pieces in blender (no rind). Puree until smooth. Season with salt & pepper. Set aside.

Method for scallops:

From scallops, remove tough ligament if still attached. Rinse and pat dry.

Coat the flat sides of each scallop with Rice Crispies. Brush with egg wash. Keep sides clear of Rice Crispies. Secure the coating by patting down with hands.

Place a skillet on medium high heat. Heat 1 tsp of oil. Sear the flat sides of scallops only until golden in color.

If they need to cook more, place them on baking sheet and bake in oven at 350 degrees until preferred doneness. Note 2-3 minutes = medium rare.

In bowl, toss remaining asparagus spears with a little EVOO and 1/2 the parsley.

To Plate:

Spoon some asparagus puree on the center of each plate.

Place the asparagus spears on top of puree.

Spoon the melon puree all around, as garnish design

Place scallops on top of asparagus. Drizzle with a little EVOO. Sprinkle with parsley. Serve & enjoy.

FREEBIE FRIDAY! More fun stuff to do that's FREE or Dirt Cheap!

2009-06-19T07:52:00.001-07:00

Don't stay home...get out and enjoy your summer. It doesn't have to cost you a dime! This week, it's all about biking. Saddle up your bike, fill the water bottle and ride the roads and trails of Vermont's beautiful Northeast Kingdom. Since we're so close, you can also explore the terrific biking trials of the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Take a day trip, cycle for a few hours, or ride miles and miles of scenic backcountry roads. The varied terrain includes routes through valleys, along ridges, over mountains, through quaint towns and villages, across covered bridges on both paved and unpaved roads. You can easily find trails to accommodate all levels of availability.
This glorious summer day will cost you $0.

Looking for something more thrilling? In addition to the roads and paths, mountain bikers can enjoy the famous Kingdom Trails network, rated "among the top 10 in the world" by the International Biking Assoc. BIKE Magazine rated them the "Best trail network in North America". Need we say more?

Your cost for this adventurous day - only $10 per person.

Bike rentals are available on site. You'll find several videos of these trail adventures on YouTube. Check this out.

FREE (or dirt cheap) Vacation Ideas - Part 3. Visit the Grand View Winery

2009-06-12T17:11:00.000-07:00

It's Freebie Friday again! Folks are starting to catch on to the fact that you can enjoy great getaway days up here in "North Country" and not spend the bucks!

Our Free vacation activity for the week is... a delicious visit to the Grand View Winery. Take a glorious countryside drive to this wonderful winery in East Calais, VT. (just 30 minutes from Rabbit Hill Inn) Here you will be welcomed by some very friendly folks, taste some lovely and very unique wines.

Besides all that, you'll be blown away by glorious view of the Northeast Kingdom. They don't call it "Grand View" Winery for nothing. Wander through the gardens and soak in the tranquility. It's a perfect place for a picnic. You'll want your camera, for sure. Your cost for this memorable experience - $0

FREE (or dirt cheap) Summer Vacation Ideas ~ Stephen Huneck's Dog Mountain

2009-06-05T11:43:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our 2nd blog entry of "FREE (or dirt cheap) Summer Vacation Ideas". Everyone should know that there is great stuff to do up here in Vermont & New Hampshire that DOESN'T COST MONEY! So check out this blog every Friday, and you'll discover a new and fun vacation activity idea. I'm talking about real activities, not just strolling through a gift shop.

This week, we introduce you to the internationally noted DOG MOUNTAIN. If you are an animal lover (or just an animal liker), you will be amused, entertained, and deeply touched by this place. Here you will discover Stephen Huneck's Gallery, the famous Dog Chapel and glorious hiking trails of Dog Mountain (great place for a picnic). You'll probably meet Stephen and his wife, Gwen.

Your cost $0. Your experience...priceless. Bring your camera.

Boston Magazine said it best, "The work of Stephen Huneck is like laughter, enriching to life and uplifting to the soul" Watch this.

Donut Muffin Recipe - Everyone's asking, so here it is! Warning - they are addictive!

2009-05-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

Rabbit Hill Inn Donut Muffin Recipe

yield 24 muffins

Dry Ingredients mixed in bowl:
4 cups all purpose flour
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp nutmeg

Wet ingredients in separate bowl:
1 cup oil
4 eggs
2 cups sugar
2 cups sour cream
2 tsp vanilla

Topping mix in separate bowl:
1 cup sugar
1 Tbsp cinnamon

1/2 cup melted butter in separate bowl

Method:

Wisk dry ingredients together in bowl

Wisk wet ingredients together in separate bowl

Gently fold wet & dry mixtures together with spatula until just combined

Spray muffin tins with cooking spray

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Wisk Using your hands, scoop out batter and fill each muffin to top.

Bake 15-20 minutes (test for doneness

While muffins are baking, stir together the topping ingredients. Set aside.

When muffins are cool enough to handle, take each muffin and dip tops into melted butter,

Dip into cinnamon/sugar mixture. Coat tops generously. Let sit for a few minutes.

Now they're ready to enjoy!

FREE (or dirt cheap) Summer Vacation Ideas ~ Franconia Notch State Park

2009-05-25T10:42:00.000-07:00

Looking for some great summer getaway ideas? Don't want to travel too far or spend too much? Keep your eye on this blog for great (and cheap) travel tips to make your New England vacation fun-filled. Here's tip #1 -

Franconia Notch State Park - it's loaded with summer fun!

Miles & miles of hiking trails (from easy to exhilarating) - $0

Great Bike Path (both paved and packed dirt) - $0

Explore the Flume Gorge & waterfalls - $13 See Video

Hike the waterfall trails of the Basin - $0 See Video

Ride the Tram to the summit of Cannon Mountain - $13. See Video

Covered bridges - $0

Relax & swim at Echo Lake Beach - $4

Rent kayaks or canoes and paddle the day away - $10 per hour

Fly Fishing in Profile Lake - just the state license fee $10

Franconia Notch State Park is just 20 minutes away from Rabbit Hill Inn. Check out the Park Packages now available.

SUMMERFEST, June 13th ~ Huge fun in a small town!

2009-05-16T14:10:00.000-07:00

Just 10 minutes away, you'll discover Littleton, New Hampshire ~ proudly listed as one of the Top Ten Small Towns in America. A small town filled with old fashioned charm and genuinely friendly folks. You are invited to join them in their annual celebration of Summerfest held on Saturday, June 13th.

Just come on down to Main Street and you'll be in the middle of the party. Festivities start at 10:00am. In addition to all the unique shopping, the working gristmill and beautiful covered bridge... you have to check out the special Summerfest activities.

Start off at the Craft Fair for wonderful wares crafted by true artisans. Then bring your appetite down to Main Street to the "Taste of North Country". Enjoy the amazing fare of 12 outstanding area restaurants. Yes! Rabbit Hill Inn will be there, serving delicious Four Diamond dishes. No hum drum hot dogs at this event. This is really good stuff! At 1:00, join everyone to watch the parade. Then return the "The Taste" for dessert. If you wish, stick around for the Block Party that starts at 6:30. What a day, huh?

Summerfest is like the celebrations of days gone by. But for Littleton, it's an annual party that everyone awaits. Folks come from far and near. So mark your calendar and come join the fun. Be assured, you'll have a few new friends before you leave Summerfest. We look forward to seeing you there!!!

Twitter doors are open at Rabbit Hill Inn. Come on in!

2009-05-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

Now you can chat with Rabbit Hill Inn on TWITTER. Chances are, that if you are reading our blog, you are probably turned on to Twitter. So come on board and join us on Twitter. It's a great way for us to stay in touch. You'll always be the first to know what's going on here! And watch for occasional special offers exclusive to our Tweeple.

Our Twitter address is http://twitter.com/rabbithillinn.

See you there.

Vermont Locavore Chef goes "Farm Fresh" All The Way

2009-05-05T09:51:00.001-07:00

Chef Matt is a dedicated locavore ~ a true "Pasture To Plate" chef.

Starting from our own gardens and greenhouse, more than 90% of all foods served at Rabbit Hill Inn come from a 60 mile radius of the Inn. This includes dairy, produce, herbs, poultry, and meats. Seafood is premium catch from Browne Trading on the coast of Maine.

Vermont's Northeast Kingdom is mostly unspoiled countryside, rich with farmers who proudly provide us with endless varieties of everything. Chef Matt visits select farms and farmers markets daily for product harvested just a few hours before. Our farmers are always at the kitchen door delivering the "best of the day". As a result, our Four Diamond cuisine is truly extraordinary. Menus revolve around the farmers offerings.

During your next visit, join Chef Matt at the Farmers Market and learn how to be a locavore shopper. Or, if you prefer, visit one of our local farmers. We guarantee, you'll be taking a taste of Vermont back home with you. Some plan in advance and take coolers. And don't forget the locally roasted coffees, artisan cheeses, chocolates, jarred and canned treats, flowers, plants, and fine crafts. It's all here. It's all delicious. Be sure to meet Jill from Gourmet Gardens ->

Maybe this is why Vermont is one of the TOP 3 HEALTHIEST STATES IN THE USA! Not that we're bragging. So when you come to visit...bring your appetite. You DON'T want to miss this.

WOW! America In The Morning Radio covers Pink Slip Getaway Giveaway

2009-04-25T09:12:00.000-07:00

What a thrill! We got a call from the producer of the Jim Bohanon Show/America In The Morning - Westward One's award-winning radio news magazine. The show broadcasts from Washington D.C. and is syndicated across the US.

They heard about the "Pink Slip" Giveaway and wanted to share the story with their nationwide listening audience. The piece aired in a few time slots and before you know it, we heard from folks from Scranton, PA to Las Vegas, NV. It was an amazing opportunity, for sure. Our heartfelt thanks to Jim Bohannon and Tom Delach for helping us share the news! If you wish to hear the show - click here.

Rabbit Hill Inn appears on FOX 44 News AND Wheel of Fortune on same day.

2009-03-27T17:49:00.000-07:00

This has been a HUGE media week for Rabbit Hill Inn. Certainly more excitement than we're used to around here. On Wednesday, 3/24, reporter, Ben Kennedy from FOX44 News came to film an interview regarding our Pink Slip Getaway Giveaway. His producer learned of our Giveaway and insisted that it be on the air that night! "Finally, a positive story! We could not pass this up!", said the producer.

Ben did a wonderful job telling our story and sharing the details of the Giveaway with their viewership. FOX44 News aired the story that night at 7pm, 10pm, and again at 7:30am the following morning. Thanks Ben!

But it didn't end there... at 7:30, on the same night, Rabbit Hill Inn appeared on national TV, on the Wheel of Fortune. The scheduling was purely coincidental. Fox News had no idea about "The Wheel".

No one took home the 6 night Rabbit Hill Inn vacation prize that night. But the Inn sure did look great in the promo film clip. Many thanks to Spreading Flames Media for the terrific video! If permission is granted by Sony Productions, we'll show the film clip on our website.

"Pink Slip Getaway Giveaway" ~ Rabbit Hill Inn gives a break to unemployed.

2009-03-15T08:28:00.000-07:00

Rabbit Hill Inn is giving away (6) two-night getaways to couples dealing with the anxiety of unemployment. Why? Because we are tired of all the negative news! As unemployment rates are skyrocket, we asked ourselves, "How can we make a difference?" We can't change the economic climate, but we can soothe the souls of others who find themselves suddenly caught up in the nightmare of job loss.

We know first hand the challenges of being unemployed. For a few years, back in the 90's, we were in the same boat. We remember the intensity of that stress and its effects on a relationship so our compassion goes out these people. A relaxing getaway is needed now more than ever. They may have the time, but not the money.

A free Rabbit Hill getaway is the perfect remedy - allowing couples to unwind and turn their back on the daily grind for a couple of precious days to focus on each other. Hopefully, they leave re-energized, emotionally stronger, and ready to conquor the challenge of a job search.

If you know someone who has been unemployed for more than six months and can really use a break, urge them to enter the "Pink Slip Getaway Giveaway". Click the link and learn the details on how to enter. All entries must be submitted by June 1st.

Watch Rabbit Hill Inn on Wheel of Fortune!

2009-03-10T11:38:00.000-07:00

Vermont's Rabbit Hill Inn is going to be a prize on "The Wheel"! How cool is that? Watch Wheel of Fortune on Tuesday, March 24th to see if someone wins a 6 night getaway to this luxurious Four Diamond inn. Although the show has already been taped, it's a big secret whether or not someone has won the prize. Wheel of Fortune airs in 28 countries to some 44 million viewers. We think this is great exposure for the Northeast Kingdom, the real Vermont! Through BedandBreakfast.com, who covers airfare and rental car, Rabbit Hill was selected as the quintessential New England getaway for quiet romance, elegant and sophisticated dining, great outdoor activities, and nature's peace. We are thrilled and we hope you'll watch!

Rabbit Hill Inn Video - A Virtual Romantic Vermont Vacation

2009-02-10T14:45:00.000-08:00

Is winter starting to drag? Need a romantic Vermont Vacation NOW? Well, the ideal thing to do is call Rabbit Hill Inn and book your Vermont escape. If that's not possible, perhaps watching the Rabbit Hill Inn video might help. Think of it as a virtual Vermont vacation.

Just take a few minutes and watch it whenever you feel like you need a break. We've been told that it reduces stress immediately. You've got nothing to lose. Give it a try!

Vermont Getaway Deals starting at $250 w/ meals & gratuities!

2009-01-27T13:03:00.000-08:00

"HOT DATE" winter specials are back!

Save 20% when you book this "room and dinner"

package for specific dates. Getaways start at $250

for two, with breakfast, dinner and gratuities.

Don't waste another minute.

Click here for further details

New England Getaway Done Perfectly

2009-01-25T14:41:00.000-08:00

We just waved goodby to Angie & Irv, who flew from Nebraska to Vermont for a real New England winter vacation - 5 glorious days in the Northeast Kingdom! Their mission was to "enjoy everything that Rabbit Hill Inn & Northern Vermont had to offer". Many come with the same intention, but these folks really pulled it off.

They did everything on their list...well almost!
* Snowmobiling at Alpine Adventures
* Dog sled ride at Eden Mountain
* Snowshoeing - everywhere
* Horsedrawn sleigh ride with Bruce Brink
* Ice skating at Mount Washington
* Zip line tour at Bretton Woods
* Glorious spa treatments at Mt. Washington Hotel

Each afternoon, they returned home to Rabbit Hill Inn to relax by the fire, soak in their double whirlpool tub, sip fine wine and enjoy exquisite fine dining by candlelight. As each day passed, their smiles grew bigger and bigger. Endless fun & adventure by day, peaceful relaxation & romance by night. Does it get any better? Here's what they had to say...

"There's just so much to do here...after five days, we ran out of time. Two or three more days would have been great. We didn't get to cross country ski, downhill ski, go sledding or tubing. We'll just have to come back." "Although it was tough to choose, our favorite adventure was Dog Sledding. Everything was fantastic!"
Thanks so much Angie & Irv.
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!!!

"TOP TEN" LIST TO WINTER FUN

2009-01-08T14:05:00.000-08:00

Vermont is all about fun winter vacations. Use this official "Top Ten" list as your guide and you'll enjoy a fantastic winter getaway.

10. Winter Truck Safari ~ The fine folks at Alpine Adventures will take you for a crazy trek up Barron Mountain.

9. Winter Hiking through the Basin in Franconia Notch State Park. Waterfalls are amazing in winter!

8. Cross Country Skiing ~ ski here at the Inn, along the Connecticut River or head on over to the Kingdom Trails. No equipment? No problem. Kingdom Trails has all you'll need.

7. Snowshoeing ~ do it here, there, or anywhere. Kingdom Trails is a terrific choice! This is even fun to do by moonlight!

6. Downhill Skiing ~ 3 mountains to enjoy (Burke, Cannon, Bretton Woods)

5. Horsedrawn Sleigh Ride ~ Private romantic ride through the Vermont countryside. Moonlight rides are amazing! No one should miss this one.

4. Snowmobiling ~ huge fun! The guides at Alpine Adventures will take you through the breathtaking trails of the White Mountains. They even have snow suits, boots & gloves if needed.

3. Snuggle by the fire with a good book, hot cocoa and a loved one.

2. In-room massage by the fire. (Oh yeah...)

1. Enjoying the snowfall...knowing that you don't have to shovel!

Rabbit Hill Inn awarded "TOP 12 INNS WORLDWIDE" by Bedandbreakfast.com

2008-11-30T14:47:00.000-08:00

Rabbit Hill Inn was selected as one of the Top 12 Inns Worldwide in the annual Best of BedandBreakfast.com Awards for 2008-2009. The Best of BedandBreakfast.com Awards are based upon a qualitative and quantitative review of nearly 50,000 independent reviews submitted to BedandBreakfast.com, the leading online B&B directory and reservation network worldwide.

"We know how important independent reviews are. We're delighted that inngoers concurred that Rabbit Hill Inn is a favoirte among those seeking the B&B experience" explained BedandBreakfast.com's Sandy Soule, one of the most highly recognized authors and a spokeswoman for the B&B industry. "It's clear that the Rabbit Hill Inn earned high marks from inngoers for their fine accommodations, fantastic dining, amenities, and wonderful hospitality and service," commented Soule.

"We are thrilled to be chosen one of the Top 12 Inns Worldwide by BedandBreakfast.com Award and proud that our guests posted reviews that resulted in this award," stated Leslie Mulcahy. "It's gratifying that our level of hospitality and attention to detail were recognized by inngoers who took the time to write reviews of Rabbit Hill Inn." Here's an excerpt from one of our reviews:

"You need to see for yourself as it is so difficult to describe how absolutely fantastic it is to stay at this Inn. From the innkeepers, staff, rooms, food, nothing is too much trouble and every comfort catered for -- just brilliant! November 2008

NEW CHEF AT RABBIT HILL INN!

2008-11-28T10:14:00.000-08:00

Introducing Chef Matthew Secich...a new member of the Rabbit Hill family.

Food Lovers may remember Chef Secich from several acclaimed establishments, including The Inn at Erlowest on Lake George (earning four stars from the Times Union,) The Alpenhof Lodge, in Jackson Hole, WY (noted by critics as creating the best dining experience in all of Jackson Hole), The Oval Room in DC (receiving frequent raves in the Washington Post) and most recently, Charlie Trotters in Chicago.

After a one year sybatical, Chef Secich excitedly returns to the culianry stage. He now finds himself "at home" at the internationally acclaimed, AAA Four Diamond Rabbit Hill Inn, Vermont.

His impressive culinary journey began as a young gold-medal winning student of Johnson & Wales Culinary. Then spent several years with renowned Master Chefs domestically and abroad, including Chef Hartmut Handke, Patrick O'Connel at famed 5 Star The Inn at Little Washington, Chef Craig Shelton at The Ryland Inn, the Mobil Four Star, AAA Four Diamond, Relais Gourmand restaurant in Whitehouse, NJ. In France, he studied at Restaurant Pierre Gagnaire, with Guy Martin at Le Grand Vefour, and with Raymond Blanc at La Manior Aux Quat' Saisons.

Inspired by his uncompromising commitment to the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from the best local farms, he brings a heightened dimension of fine creative cuisine to Rabbit Hill Inn. Although there are strong French influences, his cooking style is without boundaries; beyond a label or description. Secich masterfully blends classical and new age techniques, unlimited imagination and artistry, topped with amazing attention to detail. The results are extraordinary.To see his exciting offerings, be sure to bookmark a link to our frequently changing menu.

Chef Matthew is a passionate Cuisinier, and an artist too! His paintings can be seen on the walls of the dining room as well as the kitchen. We are thrilled to have this extraordinary talent at Rabbit Hill Inn.

His philosophy is "When you cook with love and passion, everything is cooked to the brink of perfection. One can taste the passion." Expect to meet him while you are here and enjoy the conversation. His passion is contagious!

Above all, our dedicated focus is on always exceeding guest expectations and proudly bringing joy to all that find their way to Rabbit Hill's table.

"TOP TEN" ACTIVITIES FOR SUMMER VACATION

2008-07-12T08:18:00.000-07:00

Without exaggeration, there are endless activity options for summer fun in Vermont. But the votes are in from the Rabbit Hill Inn guests. Here are their TOP TEN summer fun choices -

10. The Tasters Tour ~ A very tasty journey through the Northeast Kingdom, including Cabot Cheese Factory, Goodrich Maple Farm, Grand View Winery, Ben & Jerry's, Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Green Mountain Chocolates, and more.

9. Visit the Summit of Mt. Washington ~ 3 ways to get there: Drive the Auto Road, Ride the Cog Railway, or, if you dare, hike the trail.

8. Crystal Lake ~ swim & relax by this pristine, beautiful lake. Locals like to keep this spot a secret!

7. Bike The Kingdom Trails ~ 100 miles of awesome trails. Highly recommended by National Geographic Traveller. Bike rentals easily available.

6. Daytripping to Stowe, Woodstock, Montpelier, and several other neighboring hot spots.

5. Lake Willoughby ~ This grand glacier lake offers swimming, canoe & kayak rental and terrific nearby hiking trails up to Mt. Piscah & Mt Hor.

4. Zipline Adventure ~ Ready for something new? Nothing beats "the Zip".

3. Drive the White Mountain Trail & Kancamagus Byway ~ New England's most scenic 100 miles!

2. Golf, golf and more golf! 3 terrific courses. Great savings with our Golf Getaway package. Need we say more?

1. Franconia Notch State Park wins 1st place!~ This summer fun destination has it all. Endless hiking, bike path, waterfalls, covered bridges, swimming, kayak & canoeing, fishing, and an awesome Tram to the summit of Cannon Mountain. Everyone goes back for more!

Try This New Lobster Recipe

2008-07-05T11:00:00.000-07:00

Summertime dining calls for fresh seafood. In our recent "Inn Good Taste" Cooking Class, Chef Tim prepared this terrific lobster dish. Try it at home, you'll be glad that you did!

Lobster, Roasted Corn, and Smoked Cheddar Ravioli

served in a Brandied Lobster Consomme

Serves 8

Ingredients for the ravioli:
32 wonton wrappers
3 cooked lobster tails
2 oz lemon zest
2 tsp olive oil
2 roasted corn cobs
4 oz shaved smoked cheddar
salt & cracked pepper to taste
1 oz water

Method:

Cut corn off cobs
Finely chop lobster meat, then mix with corn
Add salt & black pepper to lobster mix
Whip single egg with water
With pastry brush, egg-wash the edges of wonton wrappers
Place one ounce of lobster mix in center of each wrapper. Add a pinch of lemon zest & a sprinkle of cheese to each center
Place top wrappers and press to seal edges
Cut with a 2" round cookie cutter. This makes round ravioli.
Saute in frying pan with 2 tsp of olive oil until golden brown on each side

Ingredients for Consomme:
3 Tbsp canola oil
1 lb lobster shells
1/4 cup brandy
2 Tbsp tomato paste
2 galic cloves
3 shallots
1/2 fennel bulb
4 cups water

Method:

Heat oil in a large saucepan. Add shells and saute for 1 minute without stirring
Start stirring occassionally until shells are brown
Add brandy, garlic, shallots, and fennel. Cook until veggies are soft
Stir in cold water and tomato paste and bring to boil. Boil for 15 minutes
Strain through a fine sieve

Place 2 raviolis in each bowl. Ladle consomme over them and serve.

Ziplining...It's The Hottest Summer Activity!

2008-06-13T19:21:00.000-07:00

Have you heard? ZipLining is one of the hottest new outdoor adventure activities. What's even better is that you can Zipline right here in New England (just 25 minutes away from Rabbit Hill Inn).

For those who need a little explanation, this exhilarating outdoor adventure forces you to lunge out of your comfort zone and experience new heights -- literally. You get strapped into a harness, securely clipped to a cable and then zip along the tree tops of the White Mountains.

But know one thing -- at Alpine Adventures, your safety is paramount! You're in good hands with the folks at Alpine Adventures. Every precaution is taken, and your guides are always present. If we had the slightest doubt, you would NOT be hearing this from us. The Boston Globe checked it out and said, "It's magical, breathtaking and awesome." You can even choose your level of adventure. The extreme zipline course offers up to 1800 feet of zipline, 250 feet off the forest floor. They also offer dual zips and shorter zips from 100 to 800 feet.

Now it's your turn to take the plunge. Book your ZipLine Adventure package. We'll take care of all the details. All you have to do is bring your thirst for fun and adventure!

Shhhhhh... Free Wireless Internet, But Don't Tell Anyone

2008-06-06T11:51:00.000-07:00

Can you keep a secret? Yes, we do have Wireless Internet. And yes, of course, it's free (I can't stand it when places charge you for stuff like that). So, if you must, go ahead and bring your laptop. But remember... YOU ARE ON VACATION!

It's nice to check in with family, send pictures of your Vermont vacation to your friends, saying "wish you were here". Take a video of your Zip Line ride or visit to the waterfalls and put it on YouTube. This is fun stuff.

But try to resist the "other stuff". Set up your email auto-reply and tell everyone that you are away and have no internet access. They don't need to know that we have WiFi. It will be our little secret.