For many, Okemo is the perfect small, family resort. Resplendent in winter, it explodes with color in summer as visitors descend on the resort and neighboring town of Ludlow. There are five lakes, the Black River, Okemo Mountain and acres of leafy splendor - the perfect place to cycle, fish, play tennis and golf. Take a horse drawn carriage ride through Ludlow, Picnic at nearby Buttermilk Falls. Fall foliage seekers find time for hiking, horseback riding and hayrides. Winter weather lovers go ice skating, sledding and sleigh riding.

The outdoors may beckon but there's plenty to do indoors, too. Antique hounds love the area for its bargains and if you tire of prowling the stalls step back in time with local blacksmiths, glassblowers, furniture makers, quilters and candle crafters. Okemo exudes charm and quiet and a return to life the way it was meant to be lived.

This is not part of a giant conglomerate, though Okemo's owners do operate nearby Sunapee Resort in New Hampshire. They also own Crested Butte Mountain Resort in Colorado. It is one of the last of the family run resorts in North America, and two of the key reasons for its success are Tim and Diane Mueller, the personable, approachable, hands-on owners.

Driving to Okemo is easy. If you are coming from the south, just take I-91 North to exit 6. The resort is only 25 miles away. It is 4.5 hours from New York City; 2.75 hours from Boston, Mass.; 2.5 hours from Hartford, Conn., and two hours from Albany, N.Y.

Ludlow is a small Vermont town of 2,449, located at 1,067 feet high, most likely named in 1781 for Viscount Ludlow. The village is a blend of shops, restaurants and attractions. You'll find church bazaars, lawn concerts, fairs and community suppers enjoyed by visitors and locals.

Ludlow is surrounded by farmland and granite quarries. The village long proceeded Okemo, yet it has retained a New England charm and historic architecture. Okemo, by the way, means "Chieftain."

Okemo Mountain Resort is a carefully planned and designed mountain village arranged around one of New England's most delightful ski and snowboard layouts. Condos (1 to 5 bedrooms) and homes dot the mountainside and the clock tower village is welcoming.

The mountain's newest base area is also home to the Jackson Gore Inn. The Inn is refined, rich with charm and features amenities and services found only in luxuty hotels. Rooms ranged in size from artfully appointed guestrooms accommodating four people, up to opulent 3-bedroom suites equipped to comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests. Most are fully equipped with all of the amenities of home including personal stereo systems, whirlpool baths, and kitchen facilities. Bell/valet/room service, concierge. full-service restaurant and lounge, underground parking, health club, indoor/outdoor swimming pool, whirlpool spas, and heated walkways are among the many amenities and services provided.

The nearby Okemo Valley Golf Club is Vermont's first Heathland-style links course.

You'll also want to take time to explore the Black River Academy Museum operated by the Historical Society for a look at Ludlow's early settlers and their lifestyles. Don't miss a visit to the Plymouth Notch Historic District on Route 100A. This is the rural Vermont village that was the birthplace and home of President Calvin Coolidge, where his home, neighboring homes, church, cheese factory, and general store have been preserved with many of their original furnishings. Silent Cal is buried there.