The Lauren
3 Church St., Woodstock, Vt.
802-457-1925
What we liked best: The rooms were spacious and stylish with modern amenities, while retaining a simple New England charm.
What we liked least: The service, though well-meaning, was haphazard at best and absent at worst.
What surprised us: The excellent cuisine by chef Mark McInnis.
You know you're at the Lauren when . . . you sit on the back porch and view a wide sweep of lawn leading down to the pool and the Ottauquechee River.
Rates: Rates for standard rooms, studios , and suites vary from weekdays to weekends, $169-$325, plus 9 percent tax and 15 percent gratuity. Foliage, Christmas, and New Year's $300-$375.
Directions: The Lauren is 140 miles or about 3 hours from Boston. Take Interstate 93 north to Concord, N.H. Merge onto Interstate 89 north toward Lebanon/White River Junction. Take exit 1 in Vermont onto Route 4 toward Woodstock/Rutland. Turn left onto Route 4 Quechee/Main Street and follow about 10 miles into Woodstock. After passing the town green, bear right onto Pleasant Street. The Lauren will be on your right.
