The Blind Tiger

Are you looking for a short get-a-way not far from home? Somewhere that is quaint? A place that has plenty of charming restaurants and shops to choose from? Or close to ski hills or hiking trails?  Then look no further!  The Blind Tiger Bed and Breakfast in Burlington Vermont is the place to go.  

Let’s find somewhere beautiful and go on an adventure…Anonymous.

Where To Find The Blind Tiger?

Location:  Situated in Burlington Vermont – the town features a thriving art scene with museums, the University of Vermont, Champlain College and many seasonal outdoor activities to choose from – all with a beautiful setting along Lake Champlain.  The town is not far from Stowe Vermont (45 minutes), roughly 4 hours from the Ottawa area, and only about an hour and 3/4 from Montreal.  A great location for a short get-a-way.  

The Blind Tiger – according to their website – is described as a love letter to Burlington.  It was originally built in 1881 and still stands tall and proud.  Situated along a lovely tree lined street with picture perfect Victorian homes and close to downtown, as well as Lake Champlain – you will be transported into a peaceful dream staying at this establishment. Upon arrival, you will be pleasantly greeted by the hosts of this Bed and Breakfast (We were greeted and assisted by Shay).  Your hosts will provide you with many must-see and to-do tips for your stay – from dinner and activity suggestions, personal amenities in your room during your stay,  to even where to find a special local find.  Just ask and they will deliver.  

Arrival:  

Stepping inside this gorgeous dwelling we were instantly taken away by its beauty. A grandiose hardwood staircase is the centre piece of the entry. Branching off of the foyer is the parlour/ sitting area, a quaint bar area with complimentary water, soft drinks and snacks, a spectacular dining room, and finally at the back of the house is a magnificent solarium providing plenty of seating, tables to eat at, as well as 2 fireplaces providing an at-home comfort atmosphere to enjoy. 

Room Selections:

We stayed in the Horizon Times room which was located on the second floor facing the back gardens with a view of Lake Champlain as well as the Adirondack Mountains . The room was simply elegant.   The decor of the room included a king bed, 2 wing back leather chairs, a beautiful bathroom, as well as a charming writing desk area set within the bay windows. 

Sidenote:  There are 14 rooms in total to choose from and if undecided on which room to complete your stay – the hosts will certainly provide insight and suggestions upon booking. You’ll be certain to find a room for your liking. 

Some rooms that we were able to have a glimpse at were:

• Twin Tips: Situated on the second floor facing the front of the house – this room contains a plush king bed with modern elegant décor and ensuite bathroom.
• Mini Bar:  Situated in the lower level under the solarium and facing the back of the house – this room features its own walkout entrance and separate sitting area with a fireplace along with an ensuite bathroom.  
• Current:  Situated on the main floor off the front foyer – this room offers a bright and cheerful décor along with a fireplace for a cozy romantic atmosphere.
• Colouring Room:  Situated on the second floor next to the fabulous wood staircase – this room offers views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack mountains.  
• Forever Tomgirl: Situated on the second floor facing the front of the house – this large room features a bright and classic décor along with a fireplace for a cozy and romantic atmosphere.  
• Treehouse: Situated on the third floor facing the rear of the house with a fantastic view of the Adirondack mountains and Lake Champlain – this room offers a canopy queen bed and a separate ‘turret style’ sitting room for your peaceful viewing pleasure.  

Please note: If you are sensitive to noise – the Current or the Colouring Rooms may not be a first choice due to their location – that being said – noise was not a factor anywhere in the house while we slept in our beautiful Horizon Times Room. There was a small reception going on in the common rooms (Solarium and dining room) when we returned after dinner – however it was not bothersome in any way and it was actually quite enjoyable to see that receptions or gatherings are offered as an option as well at The Blind Tiger.  

On-Site Activities:

Provided within the bed and breakfast were plenty of books, games, and puzzles for your enjoyment.  Located within the bar area, you could find complimentary:

• Water
• Sparkling water
• Coffee
• Tea
• Snacks (trail mix, pretzels, jelly beans, crackers, chips, oranges, and cookies)
• Puzzles
• Board games
• Toiletries – if you forgot anything (toothpaste, toothbrush, razor, and deodorant)
• Mystery Books – for purchase
• Blind Tiger beanie hat – for purchase

Continental Breakfast: 

Outstanding! 

The Blind Tiger offers a delectable continental breakfast.  Upon arrival – a check-off menu was given for your continental breakfast choices, desired time of eating and whether you would want it delivered to your room or to eat in their solarium area. 

We chose to eat in their stunning solarium and it did not disappoint.  A coffee and juice bar was set up with dairy and non-dairy cream options for your freshly brewed aromatic coffee, tea or espresso selection, as well as a selection of sugars or a flavour syrup pump for added pleasure.   

We had chosen a few items from the savory breakfast menu the night before and once we arrived at our desired time, they were brought on elegantly arranged platters to our chosen table.  

Our morning spread included fresh pastries, oatmeal, artisan toast and bagels and all were absolutely scrumptious. Mouthwatering fruit and berries along with a multitude of oatmeal toppings (candied walnuts, slivered almonds and maple syrup) were beyond delectable.  Topping off our palate with paprika sprinkled hardboiled eggs created a satisfying and indulgent morning spread.  

Sidenote: With it being the week of Groundhog day – this Bed and Breakfast was a definite highlight.  Groundhog day – the actual day and the movie – is a favourite of my husbands.  Staying in this enchanting establishment not only had a similar feel of the bed and breakfast featured in the well-known movie, but it resonated profoundly a deep sense of nostalgia and old-world charm that both my husband and I love to explore.  

The Town:

Delightful and charming. The town of Burlington is set on Lake Champlain and not far from many ski and hiking trails.  As mentioned above, it features Champlain College and the University of Vermont – giving it a lively vibe.  Burlington has quite an arts scene with many events occurring regularly.  On the outskirts, you will find mainstream shopping picks which include Target and Kohls, but within the downtown core – you will find a fabulous pedestrian cobblestone shopping district with many vintage finds as well as original local retailers and outstanding outdoor merchants all among plenty of fabulous dining possibilities.  

Fun and interesting Burlington Sites that may peak your interest:

• Lake Champlain – the 6th largest freshwater lake in the USA with many summer activites to choose from (boat cruises, sailboats, and paddleboard rentals are available)
• Churchstreet Market Place – a pedestrian mall with 100+ shops, restaurants, galleries and events.  
• Stowe – known for it’s outdoor activities – skiing, moutainbiking etc. 

Overall, I would highly recommend The Blind Tiger for your desired get-a-way.  Originally, we were only to pass through – a 1 night stay- on route to a friend’s home in New Hampshire, but due to unpredictable winter weather – we were unable to continue our journey to New Hampshire.  However – we will definitely return and stay longer on a future holiday.   

The Blind Tiger will not only provide you with an authentic local feel – they pride themselves on being allergic to tourist traps – you will stay in a blend of sophisticated lavishness and luxury allowing yourself to be captivated in the beauty of old-world classic decor resulting in a refreshed and renewed spirit upon waking.