When visiting Stowe, Vermont, the Von Trapp Bierhall is a must-visit! World-class lager beers and mouth-wateringly delicious Austrian food served in an unmatched setting (inside and outside) should put the Von Trapp Bierhall on your Vermont list.
The Von Trapp Family is known best as the inspiration for The Sound of Music, the story of the family escaping the Nazi annexation of Austria and landing in Vermont, a land similar in look to their homeland. In Stowe, the Trapp Family Lodge is an all-seasons resort with accommodations in the stately hotel, as well as villas scattered about the property. Cross-country ski trails, footpaths, and horse-drawn carriages are just some of the extracurriculars available on the property.
Beer Anyone?
Roughly 15 years ago, the Lodge started brewing their beer. They served it both in the main dining room and in a smaller building on site. This eatery served lunch with an emphasis on soups and sandwiches. Visitors were able to enjoy a glass or a flight of beer, as well as take a growler home.
A few years later, the Von Trapp Bierhall was created. It is located at the beginning of their property at 1333 Luce Hill Road if arriving from the center of Stowe. You can’t miss it; it’s a huge facility. Although gigantic, it retains a charming alpine feel. Open the large front doors to a world of an authentic beer hall, I mean “bierhall.”
Into the Bierhall
Inside, the Von Trapp Bierhall is warm and inviting, retaining a hunting lodge feel with taxidermied animals on display. When crowded, it gets loud, which means it’s a fine place to bring the whole family. A store welcomes you on the left upon entering.
The Food and Drink
Since I’m only able to get here once or twice a year, it’s hard for me not to order the sausage sampler. The bratwurst, bauernwurst, and knackwurst combo is simply divine. It’s served with cabbage, potatoes, and tomatoes. Each bite is simply delish. Scoop up bites of the sides along with a chunk of sausage and…Yum!
Although they no longer serve traditional flights, you can order small pours. When here I try to stay away from their flagship beers like Helles, Dunkel, and the Vienna Lager, since they are readily available in stores. I might choose something different such as the “Stowe series” limited release or a seasonal or brewery-only release. Whatever it is though, I can promise the beer will have a clean, crisp taste with the full intended flavor shining through impeccably.
The next time you’re in Stowe, Vermont, make sure to add the Von Trapp Bierhall to your list!