THE VENERABLE EQUINOX HOTEL, nestled in the Green Mountains of Vermont, entered a new phase in its 245-year history last year after a multimillion-dollar renovation and the opening of a new spa and ballroom, bringing meeting space to 19,000 square feet.

These additions add greatly to what is especially exciting about the Equinox: its wonderful blend of history, Vermont scenery, and unique variety of guest rooms, meeting facilities, and recreation. The Manchester resort has 183 rooms, suites, and townhouses. These include the Charles Orvis Inn, a historic 19th-century home that has nine one- and two-bedroom suites. Groups can buy out the inn, which has a private bar and billiard room.

The tranquil 13,000-square-foot Avanyu Spa offers a full range of services, including, of course, a Maple Syrup Scrub. There's also an indoor pool and the 18-hole Gleneagles Golf Course. The hotel is home to the British School of Falconry, an off-road driving school, and an archery school.