Grand Summit Resort

HOTEL OVERVIEW

So here’s the thing about Grand Summit Resort – it’s one of those places that looks way better in person than you’d expect from the name alone. I mean, “Grand Summit” sounds like every other ski resort trying too hard, but honestly? This place actually delivers on most of what it promises. It sits right on Grand Summit Way (which, if you know Dover, is basically the sweet spot between being close to Mount Snow but not right in the chaos of the base lodge traffic).

The resort itself has this solid, unpretentious vibe that I really appreciated. You know how some 4-star places try to act all fancy but then nickle and dime you for everything? This isn’t that. The lobby’s got these huge windows that actually frame the mountains instead of just pointing vaguely toward them, and check-in was refreshingly straightforward – no upselling, no weird resort fees sprung on you at the last minute. The rooms are well, they’re comfortable without being Instagram-perfect. Good beds (seriously, I slept better than I have in months), decent space to spread out your gear, and the heating actually works properly, which – trust me – matters when you’re here in January and it’s 15 degrees outside. I will say the WiFi can get spotty during peak times, probably because half of New York seems to migrate here on weekends, but that’s honestly par for the course in Vermont.

What really won me over was the little stuff that shows someone’s paying attention. The parking situation is actually manageable, even during busy periods, and they’ve got this heated walkway that means you’re not slipping on ice while hauling your luggage. The restaurant’s nothing revolutionary, but the breakfast hits the spot and they know enough to keep the coffee strong and the portions generous – exactly what you want before heading out to the slopes. Location-wise, you’re about a 7-minute drive to Mount Snow’s base (longer during weekend morning rushes, obviously), but you’re also close enough to walk to some of the quieter spots along the Dover trail system if that’s more your speed. The evening scene tends to be pretty mellow, which I actually liked – you can hear the occasional snowmobile in the distance, but it’s not like staying next to Route 100 where trucks are rumbling by all night. Is it perfect? Not quite – the 7.2 rating feels about right, honestly. But for a Vermont ski weekend where you want comfort without the Stowe-level prices, it’s a solid choice that won’t leave you with any major regrets.