Von Trapp Brewing and Bierhall

Most Vermont breweries lean toward hazy ales, but the brewery on the Trapp Family Lodge property takes an old-world approach, focusing on lagers and other traditional styles brewed in the Austrian and German manner. The bierhall next to it is a relaxed, timber-framed space where long tables, big windows and an outdoor terrace make a good place for a late lunch after a hike or a ski. The beer list typically includes crisp pilsners, amber and dark lagers and seasonal releases, and the kitchen serves hearty food in keeping with the setting. The connection to the von Trapp family gives the stop a story, and the view across the hillside is an attraction in itself. It is a social place that suits groups, couples and families, and in winter it is a warm refuge after a day in the snow.

A visit can be as quick as a beer on the terrace or as long as a full meal. Many visitors combine it with a walk on the lodge trails or a ski day in the touring center, then settle in for a flight of lagers to compare. The staff can explain the styles for those who are not regular beer drinkers, and non-alcoholic options are generally available, so the bierhall works for mixed groups.

Food tends toward pretzels, sausages, schnitzel-style dishes and other comfort plates, with seasonal specials that use regional ingredients. Check the current menu and hours because kitchens and seating can change with the season.

The terrace is a highlight in good weather, with views toward the mountains, and a fire or heaters can extend its use into cooler evenings. In winter, interior seating is warm and lively, with skiers coming in from the trails. Weekends and holidays are busy, so go early or on a weekday if you want a quiet table, and consider reservations for larger groups. If you plan to drink, arrange a designated driver or a ride, because the roads around Stowe are winding and dark.

Beer fans should compare this stop with the rest of the local scene. Stowe and the nearby valley are home to several breweries, and the approaches differ widely, from small taprooms to destination cannery visits. A lager-focused hall is a refreshing change if you have been drinking hoppy ales. The bierhall also fits well into a day of other stops, such as the recreation path or the Waterbury food attractions.

Treat it as a relaxed pause, order a flight, ask the staff for pairing ideas and enjoy the view. Minors are generally welcome in the dining areas, but confirm policies when you plan your visit.

If you are new to lager, the bierhall is a friendly place to learn. Ask for a sampler to compare a light pilsner with a malty amber and a darker style, and notice how clean and crisp the flavors are compared with the juicy ales found elsewhere in Vermont. Designated drivers can usually enjoy a non-alcoholic drink or a hot chocolate, and families with children can eat in the dining room without feeling out of place. A table by the window on a clear evening is worth waiting for.