Nestled in the picturesque Berkshires of Massachusetts, The Wheatleigh stands as a timeless icon of luxury and tranquility. Steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, this grand estate beckons travelers seeking an unparalleled escape from the ordinary. From its acclaimed restaurant space and architectural splendor to hotel’s 19 guest rooms and suites that exude a sense of sophistication and comfort, seamlessly blending modern amenities with Old World charm., the Wheatleigh offers an exceptional experience.
We were greeted with a smile and a delicious glass of bubbly upon arrival and immediately got a sense of ” we are in for a treat”. The rooms at The Wheatleigh are a study in understated luxury. Rich fabrics, sumptuous linens, and beautiful furnishings create an ambiance of warmth and serenity. From cozy marble fireplace to spacious suites, every accommodation is meticulously appointed to ensure the utmost comfort and relaxation. We loved a tasty cheese plate welcome upon entering our room, with some more bubbly just in time for a gorgeous sunset from our room’s terrace. Guests may choose from a variety of room options but no matter the choice, every room offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, inviting guests to unwind and embrace the beauty of nature.
Rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, high ceilings, fine antiques, and museum-quality art. Each room has a flat-screen television, high-speed internet access, and luxurious bathrooms complete with soaking tubs and rainfall showers. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, guests will find everything they need for a truly unforgettable stay. We visited during holidays so tasteful decorations just made our stay more joyous and tempted us to really enjoy the lobby and walks around the property. There is also a heated pool available during warmer months.
Why is this property so special and it is like no other? It is a jewel of the Berkshires and as you visit surrounding mansions and museums you would catch photographs of the Wheatleigh going back many years. An exceptional luxury hotel, added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1982 is just minutes ride from Lenox, Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum, The Mount – Edith Wharton’s home , Tanglewood Music Center and many restaurants and cafes.
If you are interested in some outdoor activities, Berkshire Camino is the way to go. We were lucky to meet the founder Mindy Miraglia, and she took us for a fun hike. It is important to note that getting around by car is the best especially if you want to visit surrounding towns, Stockbridge, Great Barrington and Sheffield. We had a little antiquing lesson from very knowledgable Mrs Silver of Susan Silver Antiques in Sheffield.
To be honest, if you are staying at the Wheatleigh, the ambiance is so wonderful you simply want to spend most of your time on this beautiful property. We did just that and dined-in both nights in addition to breakfast. James Beard awarded Chef RJ Cooper is very creative and personable, and it was a great pleasure to experience both of the restaurants on the property Sage and Sparrow, and Hawthorne. Focused on locally sourced ingredients Sage and Sparrow is great for a special occasion. We tried the pre-fix menu with about 14 dishes. It was adventures with a mixture of all sorts of taste buds surprises. Caviar and ice cream, squab and many more sweet and salty combos. Each dish was beautifully presented. “Oooops!! I dropped the apple pie” was one of my favorites. It was “carefully dropped” and brought to the table. After the last course, the chef greeted us, and we ended the night with one last treat, handmade chocolates.
Hawthorne, also located at the Wheatleigh, is a modern American cuisine restaurant with global influences. Their breakfast menu is great and my absolute favorite was the breakfast basket full of scrumptious pastries. A sugared donut-like delight, with cheesy filling is an addictive menu item. Chef RJ Cooper served it with homemade strawberry jam made with pepper. An “interesting” combo yet so tasty. In addition we had a really delicious dinner with more traditional dishes.
The restaurant space itself is a work of art, with soaring ceilings and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The elegant dining room exudes an air of timeless sophistication, making it the perfect setting for intimate dinners and celebrations. During the warmer months, guests can dine al fresco on the hotel’s spacious terrace, surrounded by manicured gardens and sweeping vistas of the Berkshires.
Guests at Wheatleigh can indulge in world-class dining experiences, relax in opulent suites, and enjoy personalized service in a serene setting. Perfect for a romantic getaway, family gathering or a wedding, Wheatleigh promises a memorable stay marked by sophistication and attention to detail. In conclusion, Wheatleigh stands as a symbol of timeless elegance and impeccable service.
Little bit of history: In 1893, Henry H. Cook purchased estate land in The Berkshires. He hired the Peabody and Stearns architectural firm in Boston to build Wheatleigh, an Italianate-style country home inspired by his ancestral family home in Wheatley, Oxfordshire. The luxurious hotel features contemporary accommodations in an elegant Gilded Age mansion.
Wheatleigh
11 Hawthorne Road
Lenox MA 01240
(413) 637-0610
*Wheatleigh is now no longer open to public
The Berkshires of Western, MA now has its first comprehensive online portal for all things outdoors, you can visit to plan activities.
Virgin Voyages’ “Duel Reality” Makes History in First Sea-to-Land Debut
