We are in the swing of the high season and preparing for families, weddings and events happening at the estate over the next few months.  Our busy schedule keeps us hopping and the mansion is quite lively, but it certainly does not draw away from planning for future guests.  The winter, for example, holds great opportunity for celebration at the mansion. The estate is just as beautiful in the winter months as it is now.  With a blanket of fresh sparkling snow draped over the 6-acre lawn, fireplaces blazing, and hot cocoa on the stove, the estate is just as charming and elegant as ever. Above is a photograph of a wedding that took place here last New Year's Eve.  Votives flickering, guests enjoying the company of friends and family, and the celebration of a gorgeous union made this event truly special.  One guest even expressed her genuine surprise that a New England winter wedding could be so successful.  Sleigh rides and hot cocoa seemed to do the trick.

It's remarkable that Berkshire county tends to be most popular during the summer and fall.  People tend to be attracted to this placid setting for the quintessential New England small town environment, moderate summer weather, and stunning foliage.  But the truth of the matter is that the winter can be just as good as (or even better than) other times of the year.  Cross country skiing and snowshoeing in the Berkshire hills is a breathtaking experience, not to mention great downhill skiing and sledding.  The Winthrop Estate tends to take on a cozy, elegant feel during these months.  With warm fireplaces heating the library, music room, master bedroom, and dining room, the mansion provides the perfect refuge from the cold weather. 

Yes, the weather is quite nice in the summer, but you would be surprised to see just how much fun the Winthrop Estate can be during the winter months.  Family vacations, retreats, winter weddings and receptions are always full of pleasant surprises in this Berkshire winter wonderland.