A Whistling 'Dixi' at The Charleston House in Woodstock, Vermont

by Debbie Stock

OK, so I never actually heard proprietor Dixi (Dieter Nohl) whistle a tune during my recent stay at the cheerful B&B, The Charleston House in Woodstock. Yet this Austrian-born skier and his proprietress wife, Willa, are so genteel, guests can't help but take note of the warm hospitality that greets them at the 174-year old Vermont abode.

Fragrant lilacs in the spring and a big furry feline, K.C. (short for Katmandu Cat), welcome guests as they step onto the porch of the large, red brick building neatly tucked in a row of historic homes and inns in downtown Woodstock. "K.C. is the head of the house," Dixi said as I stopped to pet the friendly master of the manor. No matter who's in charge, you'll instantly notice the warmth and harmony at this charming bed & breakfast inn as you meet the owners and check into a room at one of the finest hotels in Vermont's picturesque village of Woodstock.  And whether you stick around for a day, a week or an extended vacation, the visit is never long enough when you stay amongst happy people at The Charleston House.

From the beautifully-appointed, yet comfortable rooms and suites that enjoy views of lush greenery in the summer or snowscapes in the winter, to "Willa's Famous Breakfasts," you'll surely be hooked on this luxurious home away from home. If you're treated so well at home, then how lucky you are!

After a restful sleep in my perfect bed (not too soft or hard), I awoke to the fragrance of baked goods. Succumbing to my urge to investigate, I followed my nose to the state-of-the-art kitchen where Dixi often assists Willa in preparing her breakfast plates. A professional in her own right, Willa holds a career in counseling, but you'd never know it when you watch her skillfully decorate a plate. From the seasonal fresh fruits such as melons, oranges and strawberries that are hand-selected, to the yummy, hot muffins, gourmet quiche, entrees and eggs, breakfast is not a meal at The Charleston House, it's a work of art!

Your day begins the old-fashioned way, dining at a table lit with candles. As you meet and enjoy a discussion with a small group of friendly travelers from around the globe who've discovered The Charleston House (often through word-of-mouth), you realize just how many nice people there are. Brits, Southerners, New Yorkers and Californians all enjoy a hearty breakfast and opportunity to compare notes on highlights of their journeys. Some discuss the charms of the village, the shops just one block away, tours of the Rockefeller Mansion, hikes through the forests or challenging ski slopes. Energized by fantastic food and new friends, you may decide to take a walk around the village or get out and explore Vermont's 2,000 square miles of splendid scenery and attractions.

For those who prefer to take it easy, there are some comfortable chairs on a partially-sunlit porch where K.C. likes to hang out (and sleep). The second floor "B and B" suite includes its very own tree-shaded deck where you can stretch out on a chaise lounge in comfort and privacy for a closer view of jays, chickadees, black-backed woodpeckers and yellow warblers that sing in the trees. During the fall these same trees turn brilliant hues of orange, yellow and red, heralding the fall foliage season. The 30-day foliage season from late September to late October attracts leaf peepers to Vermont and to The Charleston House, where you must reserve accommodations early to assure there's a special room waiting for you.

Whether you come to look at leaves, to shop, to hike or ski, you're guaranteed superb accommodations when you stay with the Nohls at The Charleston House. And though I didn't stay long enough to find out if Dixi likes to whistle, I noticed his and Willa's smiles―their genuine hospitality shines through in all that they do. They make you feel like part of the family and when you're happy, you find yourself "Whistling Dixie."

Note: "Whistling Dixie" is a popular expression derived from an 1850's song, Dixie. "Whistling Dixie" means  "engaging in idealized, rosy fantasy."

The Charleston House • 21 Pleasant Street • Woodstock, Vermont 05091
(888) 475-3800 • (802) 457-3843  www.charlestonhouse.com

Getting there:

Southwest Airlines flies from many US destinations to  Manchester (NH) Airport. Burlington International Airport also offers a nearby option. Designated one North America’s prettiest towns, Woodstock is located less than 100 miles from Burlington. This hub for exploring all of Vermont's unique attractions is 10 miles off of I89 on Vermont Rt. 4.

Additional information:

Woodstock Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 486
Woodstock, VT 05091
Phone: (802) 457-3555 / (888) 496-6378
www.woodstockvt.com

Vermont Tourism
www.travel-vermont.com