Location: 110 Main St., Stanhope, N.J.
Drive time: Two hours.
Cost: Rooms $115-$129 weekdays, $129-$159 weekends; mini-suite $179 weekdays, $199 weekends; suites $189 weekdays, $249 weekends.
The scoop: Bordered by two national parks, with more than 60,000 acres, sparkling lakes and rivers, historic small towns and a multitude of other charms in between, the Skylands of northwestern New Jersey is a great getaway spot any time of year. And the Whistling Swan’s centrally located, beautifully restored Victorian home is the perfect base from which to enjoy it all.
Amenities: The nine rooms and suites are thoughtfully decorated with period antiques and reproductions. Some have two-person Jacuzzis, and gas or electric fireplaces. A lavish country buffet breakfast, home-baked snacks all day, and evening sherry are included.
Don’t miss: Take in the splendor of the Paulinskill Valley Trail on a guided ride with the nearby Spring Valley Equestrian Center. Join passionate food artisan Jonathan White for a cheese-making class at his Bobolink Dairy—and unbelievable bread from his wood-fired outdoor hearth.
Contact: (973) 347-6369, whistlingswaninn.com
