Best Weekend Getaways: Litchfield, Connecticut

For an idyllic New England-retreat weekend.

By Christine Speer Lejeune· 2/22/2012, 6:22 a.m.

The strategy

Get comfortable with blissfully unscheduled days in this secluded town. Trust us: You won’t want to be tethered to a timetable as you enjoy all the traditional rural New England activities (kayaking, biking, antiquing … ).

The Travel Time

It’s a scenic 4 hours by car.

The Lodging

The Winvian features a whimsical collection of 18 fairytale-esque themed “cottages,” each designed by a different architect, sprinkled about 113 acres. You can’t go wrong with any of them, though a few aren’t for the faint of heart. (See: the “Treehouse” cottage, perched 35 feet in the air and swaying gently in the breeze.) It’s like Disney World for adults—equally magical, infinitely more relaxing. $$$

The Food

Winvian’s all-inclusive rate (starting at $1,050 per night) includes seasonal, locally sourced dishes by a Ducasse-trained chef, as well as box lunches for afternoon picnicking and the in-room wet bar. But those who venture out will be rewarded with a tasty brunch at nearby G.W. Tavern and dreamy strawberry-rhubarb tartlets at the Pantry.

The Sights and Diversions

Take the Winvian’s bikes and pedal around the resort’s bucolic grounds, then hit the resort spa for the Guerande salt glow, which will leave you with skin you haven’t seen since babyhood. Be sure, too, to ask the staff to arrange a hot-air balloon ride over the acres of untouched nature.