January 10, 2007

US & CANADA | US | CONNECTICUT

Connecticut Comfort

By Mark Jolly

Winvian re-invents the country house experience.

view map

With suitable pomp for a lodge that charges just shy of two grand per night, Winvian finally declared itself open for business today — as “the country’s most anticipated private resort” that “lacks nothing.” After a two-month slow burn of open houses (keep the locals happy) and pre-launch coverage (keep the Times happy), the Litchfield, Connecticut, property is now ready to prove itself as New England’s ultimate retreat to recharge and indulge. (Though try telling that to the folks at Twin Farms.) Covering 113 acres of countryside, and conceived by 15 different architects, Winvian’s 18 cottages are all about whimsy and fantasy: one is a converted Sikorsky Sea King helicopter (the very same that was used in Top Gun); others include the fancifully named Treehouse, Camping Cottage, and Beaver Lodge (oh come on, grow up). Despite all the PR bluster, Winvian’s marketing focus is in fact squarely aimed at a creating a pretentious-free, low-key atmosphere where guests are encouraged to dress down for upscale dinners and stroll through the main lodge in muck boots.