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Where to Stay in Litchfield Hills

Where to Stay in Litchfield Hills

Litchfield Hills Connecticut, USA Travel Guide

Neighborhood Guide

Town Spotlights

  • Litchfield

    Elegant, historic town centered around a grand village green, suited for history enthusiasts.

  • Kent

    Artsy and quaint, known for galleries, boutiques, and outdoor activities. It is for artists, hikers.

  • Washington Depot

    An upscale, sophisticated atmosphere with literary connections and fine dining. It suits luxury travelers.

  • Salisbury/Lakeville/Sharon/Norfolk

    Northern towns with pristine lakes, cultural events, and proximity to ski areas. Good for outdoor enthusiasts.

General Considerations

  • Pros and Cons by Town Type

    Historic villages feature an immersive New England experience, but often have higher prices. Rural areas offer seclusion but mean driving for all services. Torrington has more services and budget options but less quaint charm.

  • Safety Considerations

    All areas within the Litchfield Hills are generally very safe, showing low crime rates across the region.

  • Proximity to Attractions

    Staying in one of the central villages offers good access. A car remains needed for broader exploration.

  • Connectivity Note

    Cell service is spotty in some very remote spots.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies secure your preferred accommodation, especially during busy times.

Advance Booking

Peak Fall Foliage October
  • Book 6-12 months in advance for prime weekend dates.
  • This period sees the highest demand.
  • Lodging fills quickly.
Summer Weekends July-August
  • Book 3-6 months in advance.
  • Summer is a popular time for lake activities.

Booking Platforms

Online Travel Agencies OTAs
  • For a wide range of options:
  • Booking.com
  • Expedia.com
  • Hotels.com
Specialized Options
  • For B&Bs/inns, direct booking often works well.
  • VRBO.com and Airbnb.com for rentals.

Policies

Deposit & Cancellation
  • Policies vary by property.
  • B&Bs often have stricter terms.
  • Check policies before confirming.
Walk-in Rates
  • Negotiating walk-in rates typically does not occur.
  • Rates are generally fixed.
  • Booking in advance is a good idea.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Higher Rates

Prices increase during fall foliage season and on summer weekends due to demand.

Lower Rates

Expect lower rates during the winter (excluding holidays) and early spring.

Accommodation Recommendations

This table summarizes accommodation types and their typical pricing, supporting your choice based on preferences.

Unique Stays

  • Historic Inns / B&Bs: Unique, charming, personalized service, often includes breakfast.
    Price: $150 - $400+ | Best for: Couples, romantic getaways, classic New England experience.
  • Boutique Hotels: Stylish, upscale, modern amenities, often with restaurants.
    Price: $200 - $600+ | Best for: Luxury travelers, those seeking curated experiences.
  • Vacation Rentals: Houses, apartments, cabins. Offers privacy, kitchens, more space.
    Price: $150 - $500+ | Best for: Families, groups, long stays, self-catering.

Standard & Outdoor

  • Chain Hotels/Motels: Standardized, predictable amenities. Found on periphery of region.
    Price: $100 - $200 | Best for: Budget travelers, business travelers, basic lodging.
  • Campgrounds: Tent and RV sites in state parks or private grounds (seasonal, May-October).
    Price: $20 - $50 | Best for: Budget travelers, outdoor enthusiasts.

Booking Considerations

Property Choices
  • Consider booking a B&B or inn.
  • Check for fireplaces or common rooms.
  • These features contribute to the cozy New England atmosphere.
  • Especially appealing in cooler months.
Pricing and Availability
  • Prices vary significantly by season.
  • High demand means booking well in advance.
  • Especially during fall foliage and summer weekends.

Additional Advice

Direct Bookings

For B&Bs and inns, booking directly through their websites is often a good method; they may have better rates or special packages.

Cancellation

Always check specific deposit and cancellation policies before confirming. Some properties require 14-30 days' notice for a full refund.

Local Charm

Choose accommodation that reflects the local charm for a richer experience, rather than standard chain hotels unless convenience is the main priority.

Other Litchfield Hills Stays

Explore other specialized accommodation options across the region.

Rural Getaways

New Preston/Washington Area

Home to Lake Waramaug and upscale shops. Suited for lake activities, dining, and boutique shopping.

Trusted Housesitters

Consider house-sitting for longer stays and local immersion.

Urban Periphery & Budget

Torrington City

The largest city in Litchfield County, Torrington has more services and a local arts scene.

  • Find more budget-friendly lodging options.
  • Access chain hotels and amenities.
  • Has a more urban feel.
Hostelworld

For budget-conscious solo travelers or groups, explore hostels on the region's fringes.

  • Hostelworld.com
  • Provides economical dormitory options.
  • Often social environments.

Chain Hotels & Rewards

  • Standardized Lodging

    Chain hotels mainly appear on the periphery of Litchfield Hills, in larger towns like Torrington, Danbury, or Waterbury.

  • Predictable Amenities

    These lodgings offer a more standardized experience and amenities compared to unique local inns.

  • Loyalty Programs

    Travelers with loyalty memberships may prefer these options for points or benefits.

  • IHG Hotels

    Consider IHG for consistent service outside the quaint village centers. Ihg.com

Specialized Stays

  • Winter Accommodation

    Northern towns offer proximity to ski areas like Mohawk Mountain or Catamount. Ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.

  • Group Travel Options

    Larger vacation rentals in rural areas frequently suit families or groups seeking more space and privacy.

  • Artistic Retreats

    Towns like Kent, with their art galleries and creative vibe, attract those seeking an inspiring environment.

  • Nature Immersion

    Camping and outdoor accommodation, available seasonally, suits budget travelers and nature lovers.

Special Considerations

Pet-Friendly Stays

Some inns and many vacation rentals welcome pets. Always confirm directly with the property before booking.

  • Look for pet policies on booking sites.
  • Additional fees may apply.
  • Check for nearby pet-friendly trails.
Accessibility

Older historic inns may have limited accessibility features. Inquire directly with the property for specific needs.

  • Consider newer hotels for better accessibility.
  • Check for ADA compliant rooms.
  • Plan routes to accessible attractions.

Local Lodging Providers

Local B&B Websites

Many local B&Bs operate their own websites where direct booking is possible.

Tourism Boards

Regional tourism websites often feature lists of local accommodations.

Community Groups

Local community groups or chambers of commerce may offer accommodation directories.