Cranwell Resort, Spa and Golf Club

The resort offers 114 rooms including six mansion suites and 23 resort suites. There are seven different room categories in several different buildings. For those who want to be near everything, the main building, which houses the spa, restaurants and reception, is great for larger groups or families traveling together. My favorite is Beecher's Cottage, overlooking the golf course. These oversized rooms offer all the basics -- wireless Internet, CD player, coffeemaker -- but the spacious size and classic decor made me want to move in for an extended stay.

Another great option is staying in the older part of the resort, the historic Guilded Age Cranwell Mansion built in 1894. The large rooms, stain glass windows and Victorian decor -- plus views of the Berkshire mountains -- are worth the extra money. Nightly turn-down service is available upon request, which requires a phone call.

After spending the morning getting a facial and massage, the spa cafe was the perfect lunch option. Salads, salmon, grilled chicken, in-season fruit -- everything was fresh, light and delicious

The Wyndhurst restaurant, located in the historic Mansion, is not only gorgeous -- crown moldings, Victorian design -- but it offers an amazing breakfast buffet complete with an omelet station, fruits, cheese, salmon and plenty of hot dishes. It kept me full until dinner. The classical music was a nice touch.

For casual fare, it's hard to beat Sloane's Tavern located on the golf course, which serves up favorites such as salads, burgers and sandwiches at very reasonable prices.

On the 380-acre grounds of this family-friendly resort are indoor and outdoor pools, several tennis courts, cross country hiking and ski trails, an 18-hole Championship Golf Course and, for the truly active, mountain bike rentals. Be sure to take advantage of the bike rentals on property. Biking in the Berkshires is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the area. The Olympic-sized indoor swimming pool was a favorite among the kids at the resort.

For those looking for a little R and R, you won't be disappointed in the award-winning spa -- one of the largest spas in the Northeast. I had no problem unwinding in the relaxation room among the chaise lounges, woven ottomans, overstuffed armchairs and crackling fireplace. The spa is over 35,000 feet and includes 16 treatment rooms, over 50 services, a sauna, Jacuzzi and steam room. The state-of-the-art gym offered an expansive array of machines and free weights and was always clean and ready for use (which made me feel guilty every time I bypassed it on the way to the spa or pool). The spa is extremely popular with both local and hotel guests; be sure to book treatments before your arrival.

The resort is a short drive from Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts. One of my favorite activies was hiking the well-marked and well-maintained trails. Be sure to stop at the lodge at the top for lunch and dramatic views of the state.