Explore the Enchantment of Blantyre in the Berkshires

Spend the night in one of the last remaining Gilded Age mansions in the Berkshires. To visit the Blantyre, a Tudor-style estate tucked away in the Berkshires, is to step back in time. Built circa 1902, this palatial western Massachusetts property is one of the 12 remaining Gilded Age mansions in the area—an extraordinary reflection of an era when affluent families retreated to their second homes for glamorous gatherings and lavish feasts.

Arriving at Blantyre

However, this refined experience begins long before you arrive at the hotel. A private gravel driveway—graced with snow during our recent winter visit—winds through the 110-acre wooded grounds, building anticipation for half a mile. This journey ultimately reveals the Manor House, an impressive ivy-clad building adorned with turrets. The scene is reminiscent of Downton Abbey, especially since its former owner, Robert Paterson, modeled the house after his mother’s ancestral home in Blantyre, Scotland.

Elegant Decor and Warm Atmosphere

The handsome red-brick structure has undergone numerous transformations over the decades, yet it retains its original air of elegance. Inside, perfectly appointed decor evokes Gatsby-era luxury: leaded glass windows, intricate chandeliers, plush chairs, elegant portraits, burnished wood, and cozy fireplaces throughout—an ideal setting against the brisk outdoors.

Intimate Accommodations

Moreover, the Relais & Chateaux hotel embraces a homey charm: shelves brimming with books line the hallways, and a chess set is available in the Music Room for those who enjoy a friendly challenge. With just 24 accommodations spanning the Manor and Carriage House, along with secluded, standalone cottages, the inviting atmosphere is further enhanced. Rooms feature four-poster beds, inviting fireplaces, soaking tubs, and sweeping views of the picturesque hills.

Warm Welcoming Service

“Your keys are in the bunny bowl,” the hotel’s general manager said warmly after showing us to our room, pointing to a brass rabbit-shaped dish. The staff always wear smiles and are eager to share ideas for nearby activities—offering a plethora of options to explore.

Discovering the Berkshires

Unfolding with idyllic villages, charming barns, and scenic mountains in the distance, the Berkshires—recognized for its historic small-town charm—offers an abundance of wholesome outdoor adventures, allowing for a balance of activity or leisure.

Local Cultural Attractions

In keeping with the nostalgic theme, the Mount, Edith Wharton’s enchanting home, lies just a few miles down the road. Other cultural highlights include the Norman Rockwell Museum in nearby Stockbridge, where the artist lived and worked for over two decades, along with Mass MoCA and The Clark—making it ideal for art enthusiasts. Seasonal outdoor activities abound, including hiking, maple sugaring, and hot-air balloon rides in warm months, while snowshoeing and cross-country skiing shine during colder weather.

Activities and Amenities at Blantyre

Exploring Blantyre is a delightful endeavor. A year-round destination, this mansion becomes especially picturesque in winter as it evolves into a romantic retreat. Couples can spend their days ice skating (although the on-site rink was closed during our January visit), snowshoeing, or hiking on private trails before enjoying homemade hot cocoa by the fire in their room. The enchanting Warming Hut provides another cozy escape, perfect for curling up with a good book or playing a game of pool. Conversely, summer brings life to the outdoor pool, tennis courts, and sprawling lawns.

Exclusive Dining Experiences

At the heart of the experience is an exceptional dining option: if you find yourself at Blantyre before the end of February, Café Boulud, a pop-up restaurant from Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud, is a must-visit for brunch or candlelit dinners featuring a prix-fixe menu with creative twists on French classics.

Health and Safety Considerations

Consequently, while enjoying the timeless ambiance, there are necessary reminders of present-day realities. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the hotel has implemented several adjustments: contactless check-in, housekeeping upon request, and daily complimentary breakfast served in rooms. Guests must undergo temperature checks upon arrival, and high-touch areas are routinely sanitized. The restaurant includes plexiglass separators between tables and air purifiers to ensure a safe dining atmosphere. At the time of publication, visitors from out of state must present proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of arrival, alongside a health declaration form.

Conclusion: An Experience to Remember

Rest assured, it takes little to transport you back to a beloved era—just a soothing piano melody, a complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival, or gazing out at nature shrouded in snow can evoke memories of a bygone time.