What Is Hygge?

While the rest of the United States is heating up in April, Vermont is a cool sanctuary of crisp days and chilly nights.

As the last traces of snow melt and the trees begin to bud, we invite you to slow down and soak up the quiet magic of early spring. At Swift House Inn, we believe this season is the perfect time to embrace hygge — the Danish art of coziness, comfort, and simple pleasures. By the way, this is how you pronounce hygge: “hyoo-guh.”

Here’s how to plan the ultimate hygge-inspired weekend getaway with us:

Embark on a Tranquil April Stroll from Swift House Inn

There’s something deeply calming about an April walk in Vermont — misty mornings, birdsong, and the soft rhythm of spring rain on your umbrella.

Before you head out, stop by the doorway of the Main House to borrow one of our large, Swift House Inn-branded golf umbrellas. Perfect for exploring wooded trails or meandering through the village while staying dry and stylish.

For a scenic and invigorating outing, we suggest a short but steep hike up Chipman Hill. The trail begins just a few minutes away:

• Exit the Inn and turn left on Stewart Lane

• Then, take an immediate left on High Street

• Walk about a quarter mile to reach the Trail Around Middlebury (TAM) trailhead

This wide fire road leads uphill with several small offshoot trails that loop back, so it’s easy to explore without getting lost. Along the way, you’ll be treated to beautiful vistas of Middlebury from above. In about 45 minutes, you’ll emerge on the far side of town, refreshed and reconnected with nature. Looking for something longer or more challenging, here are more suggestions. 

When you return, rehydrate with a warm pot of tea from one of our cozy beverage stations throughout the inn. And if it’s after 5 PM, swing by the Blue Bar, where our bartender will gladly mix you one of her cool-weather seasonal specialties.

Escape into a Page-Turner from Our Library  

Tucked inside the Main House, our wood paneled library is stocked with page-turning thrillers, gripping mysteries, bestselling novels, and timeless classics, organized by color, because we’re fastidious about design. If you’re winding down after a day of exploring or searching for the perfect rainy-day read, feel free to borrow a book and make yourself at home. From flipping through poetry or journaling with a view, we’ve created a peaceful atmosphere made for stillness and reflection.

Here’s what we’re reading lately: 

• The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking: Consider this your hygge handbook. Meik Wiking, head of the Happiness Research Institute (yes, that’s real), explores why Danes are some of the happiest people on Earth. Expect charming infographics, plenty of candles, and deeply simple truths about what makes life feel full.
• The Cozy Life by Pia Edberg: Short, sweet, and brimming with comfort, this book is like a handwritten note tucked into a warm mug of tea. Pia Edberg gently nudges you toward slowing down, embracing simplicity, and creating spaces that feel like a hug.
• Hygge: The Danish Art of Happiness by Marie Tourell Søderberg: Part journal, part coffee table beauty, this book invites you into everyday Danish life through recipes, rituals, and stories. It’s not just about what hygge looks like—it’s about how it feels. A lovely blend of heart and aesthetics.

And if you’re looking for a bookshop, you’re in luck: Middlebury is rich in bookstores. Check out these three outstanding book shops: 

• Vermont Book Shop: Located in the heart of downtown Middlebury. Well stocked with new releases and staff favorites. Specializes in literary fiction and local authors.
• Otter Creek Books: Located in Marbleworks. Treasure trove of used books. Amazing Vermont history and literature section. Serendipitous stacks.
• Monroe Street Books: Located just outside of town in a storage facility, massive selection at bargain basement prices. Always a great book hunt. The photo above is of Monroe Street Books.

Restore Your Body With Massage & Yoga

Massage lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) and boosts serotonin and dopamine, helping you feel calmer and more balanced—fast. Whether it’s from travel, daily posture, or old injuries, massage works out the kinks, increases blood flow, and reduces soreness in muscles. By promoting relaxation and reducing tension, massage helps your body naturally ease into deeper, more restorative sleep.

That’s why we’re excited to introduce our new massage therapy experience, offering personalized treatments to help melt away tension and restore your sense of balance. Prefer movement? Our free Saturday yoga classes are gentle and welcoming to all levels — perfect for stretching out after travel or waking up the body each morning.

Warm Up in Our Sauna & Break a Sweat (Gently)

After your massage or yoga session, slip into our sauna for deep, muscle-soothing warmth. Regular sauna sessions help relax muscles, ease tension, and promote deep, restful sleep. The heat boosts circulation and encourages a healthy sweat, supporting detox and glowing skin. It’s also a natural stress reliever—great for resetting body and mind. You can find our steam and dry saunas in the basement of the Carriage House, which is equipped with cabana towels, a bathroom, and a shower. 

Want to keep your fitness routine going during your stay? Our guest-only gym is open daily and fully equipped for a light workout or a full session.

Eat Well, Sleep Deeply

End your days with comforting, hearty meals from local restaurants or nearby farm-to-table spots (we’re happy to recommend our favorites). Of course, you must book a table at our own restaurant Jessica’s, which is located in the Main House. But if we happen to be closed on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday (from January 1 to Memorial Day), then ask the Front Desk for other dinner recommendations. You can’t go wrong with Fire & Ice or Two Brothers Tavern, which are reliable and often open. Then head back to your room, pull on your favorite socks, and let the quiet of Vermont lull you to sleep. Room 32 pictured above.

Spring Is the Season of Soft Beginnings

Whether you’re seeking rest, reconnection, or a reset, April is the perfect time to experience hygge in Vermont. We invite you to come unwind, unplug, and savor the art of cozy — your spring sanctuary awaits.

Book your hygge weekend at Swift House Inn today.