Tourism thrives in the Stowe-Smugglers' Notch Region

Vermont Business Magazine, Dec 01, 2004 by Tabor, Jim

Stowe, Smugglers' Notch and the surrounding area have long been a fertile environment for business growth and operation. In fact, the historical record shows that Stowe's very first business sprang up about 1800- a rough log inn where a room for the night and a shot of rum cost six cents each and meals went for about 12 cents. In the early 1800s, Smugglers' Notch began its infamous commerce when Congress placed an embargo on the imports of all English goods. To circumvent the embargo, the British merely shipped supplies to Canada and smuggled the materials down the Long Trail and through what is now called Smugglers' Notch. More than 100 years later, the Notch was again used for smuggling during Prohibition.

Things have changed a bit in the intervening years. Today, Stowe is a worldfamous, four-season destination of choice for travelers from around the world. The historic town combines the classic ambiance of a 200-year old village with one of the East's most challenging mountains, and is home to 50 hotels, resorts, inns, and B&Bs; 45 restaurants; and 70 unique shops. Smugglers' Notch Resort is recognized as North America's #1 family resort featuring state-of-the-art childcare, all-encompassing ski and snowboard camps and outstanding family lodging, located at the base of three major interconnecting mountains. These two world-class destination resorts are located within two to three hours of major metropolitan areas, ideally situated for quick getaways and long term vacations.

Just what is it about Lamoille County that draws so many visitors each year, and convinces businesspeople to locate their operations there? For vacationers and locals alike, it starts with quality of life. Though often tossed about by many venues, those three words have a unique ring of truth when applied to the StoweSmugglers' Notch Region. Home of Vermont's highest peak in the Green Mountains, with Vermont village centers from rural to sophisticated, blessed with abundant outdoor opportunities in aweinspiring natural beauty, the region offers a variety and quality of life unsurpassed in New England. The harmonious nature of the open land and surrounding hillsides has drawn an extraordinary community of artists, performers, painters, sculptors, crafters, and musicians. Cultural life here is incredibly rich with musical performances, dramatic productions, art shows, and more. The ample supply of amenities also draws those looking to change their lifestyles, while still enjoying fine food, good shopping, and in many cases, the opportunity to telecommute.

Economic health and vitality is key to businesses looking to locate their tourism operations in Lamoille County. The tourism industry is an economic engine that helps maintain the prosperity of the whole region. 61% of all those employed in the County are in the service and retail sectors. The region's workforce is trained in tourism and hospitality through the dedicated courses at Green Mountain Technical Career College, Johnson State College, preparatory classes in the high schools, and some of the best on-the-job training from master chefs and service industry professionals.

"I think it's safe to say that those in Stowe, Smugglers' Notch and Lamoille County who work in tourism-related businesses are aware of this area's reputation, and bring an extraordinarily high level of professionalism to what they do," noted Stowe Area Association Executive Director Valerie Rochon. One obvious example of that commitment is the fact that area restaurants have won six Wine Spectator Awards for Excellence. That's more than any other town in New England except Boston and Providence, both of which are many times Lamoille County's size. Another is the fact that both Smugglers' Notch and Stowe are consistent winners of major awards from elite sources like MSNBC, SKI Magazine, Conde Nast Traveler, and others.

Finally, with the awareness of its historical stature, this region has worked diligently to preserve its unique characterand has succeeded. Today, Smugglers' Notch, Stowe and its environs are a dynamic blend of sophisticated services and businesses flourishing in an atmosphere of unspoiled historic and natural ambiance. Put all those elements together, and you have an environment where doing business really is a pleasure for businesses of all types and guests from around the world.