Burlington, Vermont is built around Lake Champlain, a lake dotted with small islands and sailboats, set against a backdrop of rolling mountains. When you’re staying somewhere this beautiful, you don’t want to stop looking at the view, and at The Harborvale, you don’t have to.
Checking in on my most recent stay, I opened the door to room 703 and stopped in my tracks. The far wall was almost entirely glass, and Lake Champlain filled it completely, water and mountains stretching out like the room simply didn’t have a fourth wall. It took a solid minute before I even registered the rest of the space, decorated in calming, neutral hues that stay out of the view’s way. A room like this can entice you into ordering room service and watching the lake from bed all weekend, but if you want to venture out, the rest of Burlington is right at your doorstep.
Want to know what to do during your stay? Follow our Perfect Burlington, Vermont Weekend Itinerary.
Location
The Harborvale has one of the best locations in Burlington, right across the street from the lake and within easy walking distance of green spaces and spots to take a dip. You’re close to everything on the waterfront, and just a few blocks from Church Street, the city’s brick-lined main hub, lined with some of Burlington’s most popular restaurants and shops.
Rooms
I stayed in a Lakeview King, which I highly recommend. In addition to those unbeatable views, there’s a sitting area with a couch against the window, ideal for reading while the boats go by, a small desk for working, and a large, comfortable king bed.
The marble bathroom is equally impressive, with a spacious shower and a rain showerhead.
Dining
Even if I weren’t staying at The Harborvale, I’d make a reservation for dinner at the on-site restaurant of the same name, which was hands down the best meal I’ve had on any of my trips to Burlington. Our waitress could name the exact farm behind each ingredient we ordered and tell us about the chef’s relationship with the supplier. Alongside classic comfort food like roasted chicken and a twice-baked potato, there were surprises with a local twist, like wild boar sourced from an overpopulation in Texas and served with blackberry compote, or the classic New England summer staple, grilled corn on the cob with maple butter. Save room for dessert, especially the hand-rolled chocolate truffles, and try to time your reservation for sunset, when the hotel rings a bell to mark the moment, paired with a special sundowner cocktail.
The espresso martini the night before was so good I had to come back the next morning and try the espresso on its own, sans alcohol, and it held up completely. I found a live cellist softly playing at the bar to set the mood for brunch, served Saturdays and Sundays. Lunch is also available every day of the week, as is a late night menu (rare for early-to-bed Burlington).
Fitness & Wellness
For those who find Lake Champlain too chilly (or are too wary of meeting Champ, America’s version of the Loch Ness Monster), The Harborvale has a heated indoor pool.
A 24-hour, well-stocked fitness center is also available if the weather doesn’t cooperate with outdoor plans. And when the skies cooperate, guests can borrow bikes free of charge to explore Burlington and the nearby Island Line Trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Harborvale have lake views?
Yes. Some rooms offer expansive views of Lake Champlain, and my Lakeview King had floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the water. If you’re choosing between a cityside room or a lakeview, the upgrade is worth the money.
Does The Harborvale have a pool?
Yes. The hotel has a heated indoor pool that’s great for kids.
Is The Harborvale walkable?
Yes. The hotel is across from Lake Champlain and within walking distance of Burlington’s waterfront, green spaces, restaurants, shops, and Church Street.
Does The Harborvale have a restaurant?
Yes. The on-site restaurant, The Harborvale, serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and is worth visiting even if you’re not staying at the hotel.
Does The Harborvale have a fitness center?
Yes. The hotel has a 24-hour fitness center, and guests can also borrow bikes free of charge for exploring Burlington and the nearby Island Line Trail.
What is the best room at The Harborvale?
I’d recommend a Lakeview King for the expansive views of Lake Champlain. The room combines the lake view with a sitting area, work desk, and comfortable king bed, making it particularly well suited to a relaxing weekend stay.
How much are rooms at The Harborvale?
Rates start at around $280, with prices varying by season. We found the best rates at Booking.com.
