The Orchards

A New Luxury Resort and Spa
Bennington, Vermont
The Orchards, A New Luxury Resort and Spa (Initial Planning Phase)

Originally constructed in 1911 as the private summer estate of Edward Everett, The Orchards is one of New England's most extraordinary historic properties — a magnificent 371-acre hillside retreat commanding sweeping views of the Vermont countryside. With over 145,000 square feet of well-maintained existing structures, the estate offers a rare canvas for a world-class luxury destination: a property of sufficient scale, historic gravitas, and natural beauty to support a resort experience genuinely unlike anything currently available in the Northeast.

AWRE is developing The Orchards as a 120-key luxury resort and spa, with 24 for-sale villas, and is in advanced negotiations with a globally recognized luxury hotel brand to operate the property under one of the world's most prestigious hospitality flags. The development program is designed to honor the estate's architectural heritage while delivering the amenities, services, and design standards expected by today's most discerning travelers and residential buyers.

At the heart of the resort will be the 30,000 square foot Everett Mansion, meticulously restored to house a reception lounge, a world-class wine cellar, a fine dining restaurant, a full-service spa, and luxury guestrooms. Former buildings on the estate will be reimagined, and new construction will house the finest luxury suites.  A 17,000 square foot activity barn with an attached 10,000 square foot spa will be created from the property's former gymnasium — providing exceptional programming and amazing amenities. 

The programing at The Orchards is designed to deliver a true four-season destination resort experience. Outdoor pursuits include tennis, miles of blazed hiking trails, mountain biking, equestrian facilities, snowshoeing, and ice skating. The resort will also feature a summer outdoor pool, an indoor pool, a sporting club, an amenity suite that ensures guests have no reason to look beyond the property's 371 acres for entertainment, recreation, or relaxation.

The result will be a destination resort of rare distinction — one that draws equally on the natural grandeur of the Vermont landscape, the historical significance of the Everett Estate, and the operational excellence of a world-class luxury brand partner. For investors and lenders, The Orchards represents a compelling combination of irreplaceable real estate, a proven development team, and a market opportunity with no direct competitive comparable in the region.