Berkshire Mountains Majesty: Lenox, MA

Duration: 3 Days | Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners

 

Trip Highlights:

 

Hilltop Orchards

Enjoy a true taste of the Berkshires at Hilltop Orchards, where scenic beauty and rich tradition come together. Nestled in the foothills with sweeping views spanning three states, this charming orchard has been thriving for over a century and features 27 varieties of apples, including prized heritage and heirloom selections.

 

Enjoy a guided tour that brings the orchard’s history to life, followed by a tasting experience showcasing their acclaimed ciders—crafted by one of New England’s oldest continually operating cideries. It’s a flavorful and unforgettable stop that captures the essence of the region.

 

Norman Rockwell Museum

Discover an American treasure at the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, the beloved hometown of Norman Rockwell. Home to the world’s largest collection of original Rockwell works, the museum brings his iconic illustrations to life, capturing the heart and spirit of American culture.

 

Explore a dynamic range of rotating exhibits that offer fresh perspectives on Rockwell’s timeless artistry, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. Before you leave, be sure to browse the gift shop for unique and meaningful keepsakes.

 

 

The Mount Estate & Gardens

Experience the elegance and vision of The Mount, the extraordinary estate designed and built by Edith Wharton in Lenox. A quintessential example of American Renaissance architecture, the home reflects the design principles outlined in her influential 1897 book, The Decoration of Houses.

 

Surrounded by meticulously planned formal gardens, this classical revival estate offers a rare and immersive look into Wharton’s architectural and landscape philosophy. As one of the few National Historic Landmarks dedicated to women, The Mount holds a distinctive and meaningful place in American history.

 

Guided tours bring the estate’s story to life—from its original construction to its thoughtful restoration—while exploring Wharton’s remarkable life, literary achievements, and lasting cultural impact. Inside, guests can wander through three floors of beautifully preserved spaces, including her personal library, restored bedroom suite, and the original kitchen, each offering an intimate glimpse into her world.

 

Hancock Shaker Village

Discover Hancock Shaker Village, a registered National Landmark, and the largest Shaker museum in the eastern United States. Opened as a living history museum in 1961, it features 20 historic buildings, extensive gardens, and an impressive collection of Shaker artifacts. The Round Stone Barn is a highlight, showcasing the Shakers' innovative spirit. The village also offers Shaker craft demonstrations, historic livestock breeds, and a restored 19th-century water system. Explore the Center for Shaker Studies, which includes two exhibition galleries, one dedicated to Shaker gift drawings. An on-site café provides a convenient spot to relax and enjoy your visit.

 

 

Meal Information:

 

Dinner on day one is included at The Red Lion Inn. Choices are:

Menu TBA

Lunch on day two is included at The Mount

Menu TBA

 

Dinner on day two is included at Barrington Brewery. Choices are (Guests order when seated):

• Smoked Salmon Salad - Mixed greens, smoked salmon, red onion, bacon, capers, fresh dill, hard-boiled egg, choice of dressing

• Chicken Ceasar Salad - Romaine lettuce, parmesan, croutons, & house Caesar dressing with Grilled Chicken

• Cobb Salad - Mixed greens, grilled chicken, blue cheese crumbles, avocado, bacon, tomato, hardboiled egg

• Beer Battered Fish & Chips - Fresh beet battered cod, with coleslaw & fries

• BBQ Ribs - 1/2 Rack with cornbread, mac & cheese, coleslaw

• BBQ Beef Brisket - served with cornbread, mac & cheese, coleslaw

• Eggplant Rollatini (v) - thinly sliced, breaded eggplant with sweet roasted red peppers, provolone cheese, & marinara sauce

• Chicken Parmesan - served with linguini

• Meatloaf - Chef's meatloaf with gravy, mashed potatoes & corn

Dinner also includes dessert, soft drinks, coffee, and tea.

 

Lunch on day three is included at The Norman Rockwell Museum. Boxed lunch choices are:

Menu TBA

 

Menus are subject to change.

 

Need to Know:

• Norman Rockwell Museum: Please note that photography is not allowed inside the galleries, and large bags or backpacks should be left outside to ensure a comfortable experience for all visitors.

• Every Starr trip includes deluxe round-trip motorcoach transportation from one or more of our departure locations.

• A Starr Tour Director will accompany you on this trip.

• Baggage handling at hotels is included.

 

Accessibility:

• The Norman Rockwell Museum is fully wheelchair accessible.

• The Mount Estate is fully wheelchair accessible with elevators to all floors, though the gardens offer partial accessibility.

• Hancock Shaker Village: Most of the village is wheelchair acccessible.

• Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Hampton Inn Berkshires/Lenox (Lenox, MA)

 

The hotel features an indoor pool and fitness room. Guest rooms include coffee maker, mini-fridge, hair dryer, and iron/board.

See Trip Highlights from Starr's Tour Tuesday!