West
Stockbridge
B y B e n j a m i n L e r n e r // P h o t o s b y J i m m y i e n n e r , J r .
On the western border of Berkshire County , a tranquil and inviting town welcomes visitors looking to savor a truly unique vacation experience . Travelers who come to West Stockbridge will find a rich and diverse cultural scene , gorgeous natural sites , and a delightful assortment of shops , restaurants and boutiques . Get ready to discover one of the best kept secrets in the Berkshires — it ’ s time to enjoy a remarkable trip to West Stockbridge !
FRIDAY
➧3PM
To reach West Stockbridge , Take Route 7 to Stockbridge , then head west on Route 102 . After reaching the center of town , you will pass over the Williams River . If you make a left onto Oak Street , you will find the Shaker Mill Inn on the right side of the street . This child- and pet-friendly bed-and-breakfast offers luxe lodging for an affordable rate . Each of their nine rooms and suites features a private entrance , fireplace , and kitchenette , and is stocked with delicious breakfast goods that guests can enjoy at any time . Their Tanglewood Room on the ground floor is outfitted with music-themed décor pieces and a private patio that is perfect for outdoor dining . Their aptly-named Rockwell suite pays tribute to the countrified aesthetic of Norman Rockwell ’ s paintings . With antique barn board paneling , a queen bed and an additional sleeper sofa , this room is perfect for visiting families . Check in for the night , leave your cares behind , and take a moment to unwind and acclimate .
➧4PM
Now that you ’ ve adjusted to the relaxed local atmosphere , head out into West Stockbridge ’ s downtown village for some shopping and sightseeing . Book lovers will delight in the literary treasures at Shaker Mill Books on Depot Street . Shaker Mill Books houses an impressive array of over 30,000 used , rare , and out-of-print books , including an exceptional selection of photography , art , and local history books . In the adjacent Shaker Gristmill Building , colorful illustrated books and visually arresting oversized books are juxtaposed with eye-catching literary memorabilia displays , including a typewriter collection , a group of art pieces made from books by local artists , and a custom-built checkout counter made entirely of books .
To spice up your home décor with some country-chic flair , stop in at Flourish Market on Albany Road . Their eclectic assortment of painted furniture , antique lighting fixtures , cards , gifts , and home décor pieces is sure to appeal to the sensibilities of any stylistically-inclined homeowner . For additional home décor pieces and furnishings , head to Main Street , where a series of vibrant shops offer phenomenal furnishings , accessories , and bijouterie . Sandy Klempner @ Home features an extensive collection of mid-century modern , rustic , and internationally-sourced furniture and accessories . Sandy Klempner is a passionate home designer who also offers her services as a home stylist to visiting clients , and she encourages visitors to bring any funky , beau-
84 // BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE August 2022