Whimsical woodland hideaway
Eighteen whimsical cottages and an eighteenth-century manor scatter across rolling woodlands, offering deep rural seclusion warmed by roaring wood-burning fireplaces.
“Each of the 18 cottages and one main suite are done up in a unique style by one of 15 architects.”
What it’s good at
Remarkable
Eighteen architecturally distinct cottages scattered across the estate feature whimsical themes, including a restored vintage helicopter.
Notable
Attentive, tailored service pairs with deeply private designer cottages warming themselves beside roaring wood-burning hearths.
Notable
A dedicated spa sanctuary features treatment rooms with crackling fireplaces, hydrotherapy rituals, and trails winding through the woods.
What they say
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and AFAR.
the accommodations are set within 18 cabins smattered across the property. Owner Maggie Smith is not far off base in describing the place as ‘Norman Rockwell meets Alice in Wonderland.’
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Bordering the White Memorial Conservation Center, the rural estate sits minutes by car from Litchfield and the historic village of Washington Depot.
The rooms
Individually conceived cottages include a bi-level treehouse canopy and a hangar housing a restored Sikorsky Coast Guard helicopter turned private lounge.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The heated outdoor swimming pool sits enclosed by trimmed hedges and wide lawns, serviced by a white pool house.
The spa
Six treatment suites offer hydrotherapy rituals and massage bodywork, opening into relaxation lounges with roaring stone fireplaces.
Yoga and trails
Sunlit vaulted rooms host indoor yoga, and trails across the 113-acre estate provide hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
The Restaurant at Winvian Farm
Seed-to-table menus draw from on-site organic gardens and greenhouses, served across historic dining rooms with open brick hearths.
Bar
Maggie's Tavern
Flagstone floors and exposed timber beams define this rustic tavern, serving craft cocktails and casual dinners.
How it began
Built in 1775 by Dr. Seth Bird, the estate was renamed Winvian in 1948 as a portmanteau of owners Winthrop and Vivian Smith.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.