The von Trapp Story

Winter Traditions at von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort

A family legacy, a love of the mountains, and the Austrian-inspired traditions that make winter here unlike anywhere else.

01
Where the Story Began

A Family Legacy in the Mountains

Long before von Trapp became a beloved mountain retreat, it was a family's new beginning.

The von Trapp family's journey from Austria to Vermont is a story of music, resilience and finding a place to call home. Drawn to a landscape that reminded them of the Austrian Alps, the family established roots in Stowe and gradually welcomed travelers into their mountain world.

Historic photograph from the von Trapp family story
The von Trapp Family

From Austria to a Vermont Mountainside

After leaving Austria, the family settled in Stowe in 1942. Their home became a place where the traditions they brought with them could continue in a new setting.

In 1950, the family began welcoming guests, laying the foundation for the resort visitors know today. Over the decades, that personal connection between family, landscape and hospitality has remained central to the von Trapp experience.

More than a famous name: The von Trapp story is woven into the resort's history, architecture, outdoor recreation and Austrian-inspired hospitality.
The Alpine-inspired setting of von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort
A Living Heritage

Traditions That Still Welcome Guests

Today, the resort's Austrian roots are more than a chapter in its history. They help shape the atmosphere guests experience throughout their stay.

From Alpine-inspired architecture and family history to mountain recreation and dining, the von Trapp identity is visible in the details.

Winter offers a particularly beautiful setting for discovering that heritage: snow across the mountains, warm gathering places and the enduring pleasure of sharing time together.

02
A Love of the Outdoors

Winter on the Mountain

At von Trapp, winter recreation is part of a tradition that spans generations.

Cross-country skiing at von Trapp Family Lodge and Resort
Nordic Skiing Heritage

A Trailblazing Winter Tradition

Cross-country skiing holds a special place in von Trapp history. In 1968, the family opened its cross-country ski center, helping introduce generations of visitors to the beauty of Nordic skiing.

Today, the resort's trail network and Outdoor Center continue that connection between recreation, mountain scenery and time spent outdoors.

Whether you're an experienced skier or trying the sport for the first time, the experience offers a direct connection to one of the resort's most distinctive winter traditions.

Read Our Beginner's Cross-Country Ski Guide
Snowshoeing through the snowy von Trapp landscape
The Mountain in Winter

More Ways to Enjoy the Snow

The family's appreciation for the outdoors extends beyond skiing. Snowshoeing and other seasonal activities invite guests to experience the mountain landscape at their own pace.

Some visitors come for a full day on the trails. Others prefer a shorter outing followed by a warm meal and time indoors. Both are fitting ways to enjoy winter at von Trapp.

Plan ahead: Trail access, lessons, rentals and other winter activities depend on conditions and seasonal schedules. Check with the Outdoor Center for current information.
03
Austrian-Inspired Hospitality

A Taste of Austria, a Feeling of Home

Some traditions are best shared around a table.

The von Trapp family's Austrian heritage remains part of the resort's culinary identity. From traditional flavors to welcoming gathering places, food offers another way to experience the family's story.

von Trapp Bierhall at the resort
The von Trapp Bierhall

Gather Around the Table

Inspired by Austrian beer hall traditions, the von Trapp Bierhall offers a welcoming place to enjoy food, conversation and the resort's distinctive Alpine character.

The experience reflects a simple idea at the heart of hospitality: good food tastes even better when shared.

For winter visitors, a meal here can become a favorite part of the day after time spent outdoors.

Assorted pastries and baked treats at von Trapp
The Kaffeehaus Tradition

Take Time for Something Sweet

Austria's coffeehouse culture celebrates the pleasure of lingering over coffee and something freshly baked.

At von Trapp, the Kaffeehaus brings a touch of that tradition to the mountain setting. It's an inviting stop for a warm drink, a sweet treat and a moment to slow down.

Whether you're beginning your morning or taking a break from winter activities, these small rituals can become lasting memories.

Discover the Traditions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort?

The von Trapp family settled in Stowe, Vermont, in 1942 after leaving Austria. They began welcoming guests in 1950, establishing the foundations of the resort known today for its Austrian heritage and mountain setting.

Is von Trapp connected to the family from The Sound of Music?

Yes. The resort's history is rooted in the real von Trapp family, whose story inspired The Sound of Music. The family's life and experiences extend well beyond the familiar film portrayal.

Why is cross-country skiing an important von Trapp tradition?

The family opened its cross-country ski center in 1968, establishing Nordic skiing as a defining winter experience at the resort. Its Outdoor Center and trails continue that tradition today.

What Austrian traditions can guests experience at von Trapp?

Guests can discover Austrian-inspired architecture, dining, the Bierhall, Kaffeehaus traditions and the resort's family history, alongside seasonal mountain activities.

Do guests need to ski to enjoy von Trapp in winter?

No. Guests can enjoy the mountain setting, dining, family heritage, comfortable accommodations and other available seasonal experiences without participating in skiing.

Dining hours, outdoor activities, rentals and seasonal experiences may vary. Confirm current availability with the resort.

The von Trapp Experience

Become Part of the Story

Discover a place where family heritage, mountain traditions and Austrian-inspired hospitality continue to welcome new generations of guests.

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