Topnotch Resort & Spa in northern Vermont has a long history of devotion to tennis, including at one time hosting the Head Classic, a men's professional tournament. That tennis mystique still contributes to its allure, as does a European spa newly expanded to 35,000 square feet. It is home to a well-run academy, under the direction of Milan Kubala. It has four indoor hard courts, the largest indoor complex of any resort in the Northeast. And it has been one of the earliest to embrace new technology, including Boomer, the first ball machine that can talk and play games (it defeated Luke Jensen in an early exhibition), and Dartfish, software that can be used to analyze strokes.

The expansion of the spa was the first phase of some significant changes taking place at the resort. Plans call for replacing the old south wing of rooms with the Ledges, a suite of 14 two- and three-bedroom condominiums that will be privately owned but connected to the hotel via a brand-new five story lobby. Meanwhile, the rooms in the north wing have been refurbished. Tennis, which lost courts to the spa expansion, has been promised four new red-clay courts across the road next to the indoor facility, and during the summer of 2007 the long derelict stadium across the road was resurrected to host a Fed Cup match. That's all good news.

Overview

Topnotch itself is a rambling 120-acre estate on a rise 5 miles from the village of Stowe. Rather than a lobby, it has a spacious living room dominated by a central fireplace, a moose head, and walls of glass framing the ski slopes of Mount Mansfield. Check-in formalities take place in a library-like alcove lined with books. From there, branching hallways lead to some 100 rooms and suites, no two of them exactly alike except in their fondness for well-chosen country furnishings.

That style and intimacy aside, the wonder of Topnotch is the breadth of its facilities. Apart from the courts—four of which are indoors and thus allow the tennis academy to operate even in winter—it has a 35,000-square-foot European spa, an equestrian center, summer children's programs, and two restaurants, chief among them Norma's, whose regionally inspired cuisine always includes several low-calorie, low-cholesterol spa options. Tennis is only the beginning.

Tennis Features

Pro Shop: 802-253-9649

Several things set Topnotch apart. It is one of only a handful of New England inns to run a full-fledged tennis program, and the only one in the Northeast to do so year round. The main outdoor season runs from mid May to mid October, weather permitting.

Tennis Staff. Tennis director Milan Kubala joined Topnotch as assistant director in August 2004 then moved up to the top spot early in 2005. Kubala had previously been the director at the Midland Community Tennis Center in Midland, Michigan. A ranked junior in his native Czech Republic, he later played for Northwoods University in Midland, where he had a Top 20 ranking in NCAA Division II. He heads a staff of international pros—a few of whom have ATP Tour points—and there is a sports psychologist on staff for private consultations in mental toughness.
Tennis Programs. After several years of tweaking what was already a solid program, Topnotch revamped its curriculum with the avid player in mind. The morning session now runs three hours rather than two, and guests have the option of an additional two-hour session in the afternoon. That extra hour each morning allows a more thorough orientation on the first day and the expanded program provides space to incorporate more strategy and videotape analysis. The overall theme of the academy is "Play to Win," which adopts three components: Technique to Win, Train to Win, and Think to Win. Personal attention remains a focus, so the student:pro ratio never exceeds 4:1 and is often less. "I or my head pro call them the night before to verify their playing level and just to make contact," Kubala told me. A half-hour private lesson is bundled into every three days of workshops. And Kubala and his staff are continually experimenting with ways to make use of their high-tech Dartfish software, a computerized videoanalysis system. Its features include a Telustrator and the ability to superimpose images. Campers have the option of going home with a CD-ROM of their strokes and the critique that went with them.
The spa schedules a 25-minute stretch class each morning on the pro shop deck just before the camps begin, and campers are urged to take advantage. Otherwise the camp itself typically begins with an overview and demonstration of that day's topic—say, volleys, overheads, and doubles strategy. From there campers are divided by level, and although everyone works on the same topic, the on-court work itself differs depending on the skills of that group, with more technical instruction for intermediates and more play simulation and intensity drills for the advanced players. Kubala roves from court to court in order to personally work with all the groups. Campers there for a few days work their way through much of the staff, getting instruction from each in 90-minute increments.
During the busy mid-May to mid-October tennis season, there are also several social round robins and two pro exhibitions. The package also includes morning stretching sessions in the spa, unlimited court time, use of the ball machine, and access to the spa. Tennis teams can either join the regular program or have the staff tailor one to their specific needs. And with 11 USTA league teams of its own, Topnotch can also set up team matches with appropriate levels.
For juniors, Topnotch runs morning clinics from 9 a.m.-noon for those ages 4-18. Those coincide with the adult clinics (the juniors often use the indoor courts), making it easy for parents to attend the adult sessions.
Guests who choose not to sign up for the tennis program can take advantage of a one-hour daily clinic. They can also play in the weekly round robins. Game matching, on the other hand, has not been what it once was, not because staff cares less but because they often don't have the available courts.
Courts & Fees. The main bank of four courts, all Har-Tru, begins adjacent to the inn and cascades down a hillside below a swimming pool and pool café and bar. There are another two outdoor hard courts in the trees behind the inn and an additional four in a barnlike building across the road near the equestrian center. Finally, there is the Head Classic stadium court, also across the road, which was resurrected to host the 2007 Fed Cup tie between the U.S. and Russia. Court Fees: $20/hour but included in tennis-clinic packages.

Your Call

Here's what others have had to say about Topnotch Resort & Spa.

• "This was my seventh tennis weekend at Topnotch with members of my USTA team. Everyone at the resort was especially gracious, the tennis Academy was excellent, giving us great tips as we head to the next level, and lots of fun. The pros are knowledgeable and fun, and the pace and content of the drills were just what we needed. The spa is most relaxing and has all the comforts and more. The condo we stayed in was also just right for our group. It was a warm weekend, so we also enjoyed much quality time at the outdoor pool."—S.G., Int., April 2008

• "We play a lot of tennis there in the summer, and have introduced many friends to the program there. The 3 hour academy is excellent for advanced as well as intermediate players - it's a good mix of instruction and game-situation drills. As bonus, the children can also play/learn tennis during the same 3 hours (our kids started there when the younger one had just turned 5).
  It's a beautiful setting - we love the town of Stowe, and there is so much to do esp. in the summer. The facilities - outdoor pool, spa, fitness area, locker rooms - are luxurious. Dining at Norma's is always a treat.
  During busy season, the ladies' lounge sometimes gets a little messy (clean-up falls behind). The shower in the tennis center is not that great, but if you use the facilities at the spa, that is not a problem.
  Overall, a great resort even if you're not a tennis player; if you are, it's hard to beat."—F.M., Adv., April 2008

• "The best of the best. The court conditions are excellent and the staff were knowledgable and fun."—B.K., Adv. Int., April 2008

• "We vacationed here in March and did a combination skiing/tennis/spa vacation. We played on the indoor courts. The tennis instruction was outstanding. We planned our lessons in advance for the whole family(2 adults and 3 kids)and the instruction was well beyond my expectations. The head pro Milan and the instructors were all very accomodatingfriendly and knowledgable. We would like to return for the Summer programs."—C.M., Adv., April 2008

• "Great teaching pros - very positive - always tuned into our needs & skill levels - we had a great time & really improved our game"—C.C.,  April 2008

• "Vermont is beautiful both in the summer and winter. The tennis at Topnotch is unsurpassed with the greatest instructors you can find."—V.D., Int., April 2008

• "Topnotch resort in stowe vermont offers a fantastic tennis program year round. We are fairly serious European tennis players and were extremely impressed by the standard of teaching at Topnotch. It is definitely a class above anywhere else we have been. We especially recommend the following pros: Milan and Marcus"—A.C., Adv., April 2008

• "Topnotch has a consistently excellent tennis program. My friends, family and I have gone there repeatedly for many years, and the staff and pros are friendly, knowledgeable and fun. I would highly recommend Topnotch. It is also a breath-taking place to visit!"—L.T., Adv., April 2008

• ""—K.R., Int., April 2008

• "I have been back to topnotch several times. The knowledge of the pro's is excellent and very individual specific. By that i mean, even in a group lesson, they pick out things that will help your specific game, not just the group. I have been to the camp and have always had a great ratio of pro's to students. They clearly want to help people improve their game and focus on what is best for you."—J.H., Adv. Int., April 2008

• "I spent a week at this camp/resort in 2005, then I was unable to play due to injury in 2006, and I was back to play again at Topnotch in December 2007. In the same time frame, and to date, I have been to two other tennis camps as well, Evert Tennis at the Boca Resort and Total Tennis in NY. As a 4.0 player of both singles and doubles I found Topnotch to be "Topnotch". The instruction was more focused and intense than at either of the other locations.
  On it's own merits, Topnotch's Tennis Director Milan Kubala has been friendly and accommodating, assisting in game play with locals and assigning the right pro for the job at hand. Both years I hit with Head Pro Shaun Zemanek who truly brings his tour experience into his lessons. He is young, strong and runs his students hard (if they want, and I did!) and is not afraid to really play as he teaches, making the experience fun and educational, nothing beats his "Good shot Mate!".
  After three hours a day five days in a row, having the excellent spa right on the premises was a blessing indeed!
  The only weakness I can think of would be that during the ski season other players can be more difficult to come by as they are all usually on the hill skiing. What could they be thinking when they could be playing tennis? My trip is already booked for 2008... Aside from my local pro, these guys are hard to beat."—E.W., Adv., April 2008

• "Top Notch is a fantastic resort with a wonderful resort that has a great deal to offer families and couples. I had the opportunity to enjoy the tennis center, which is well run and has excellent pros. The staff was professional, organized and made tennis so much fun. I learned a lot, and as I coach I was able to bring back drills and ideas to my team. I hope to have the opportunity to visit again soon."—C.F., Adv., April 2008

Other Recreation

Golf Courses. Topnotch does not a golf course of its own; however it does arrange for guests to play on the 18-hole championships course at the Stowe Country Club.

Spa & Fitness Center. Now expanded to 35,000 square feet, the spa at Topnotch have become an even more central amenity. The first and most obvious feature is a 60-foot indoor exercise pool beneath expansive skylights, whose Jacuzzi with a waterfall provides the benefits of hydromassage for anyone standing beneath it. Otherwise, guests have some 140 treatments to choose from. The most talked about feature is a Jacuzzi with a waterfall: Guests are encouraged to stand beneath it to choose from. There's also a whirlpool, 30 treatment and therapy rooms, an aerobics studio, a beauty salon, a well-equipped fitness center with Cybex equipment, and locker rooms with fireplaces, saunas and steam rooms. Personalized fitness programs, and nutritional and lifestyle assessments are also available.

Horseback Riding. The equestrian center just across the road from the inn offers guided trail rides, instruction in both English and Western riding, a training ring for experienced riders, and pony rides for kids. It's open from mid-May to November. During the winter months, the equestrian center offers sleigh rides.

Biking & Jogging Trails. Across Rte. 108 from the inn, near the indoor tennis courts and equestrian center, is the trailhead for the Stowe Recreation Path. Begun in 1981, this 5.3-mile paved byway parallels Rte. 108 all the way into Stowe, providing bicyclists, joggers, and in-line skaters with their own traffic-free thoroughfare. The winding path crosses the Little River 11 times on the way from Main Street in Stowe to just beyond Topnotch. Along the way it passes century-old trees and affords views of quintessential Vermont village architecture, fields of wildflowers, covered bridges. and Mount Mansfield. And it's free. Bikes and in-line skates can be rented near the indoor complex.

And ... In addition to the indoor spa pool, there is a heated outdoor pool in a partly enclosed courtyard formed by three wings of the inn. And in winter, there is skiing at nearby Mt. Mansfield.

Children's Programs

The resort runs its own "Topnotch Adventurers" program that departs from the usual arts, crafts, and games to introduce children ages 6-15 to the joys of the mountainous outdoors. During the summer and autumn, the all-day sessions take kids sailing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking, sometimes camping out overnight. Babysitting service is available for younger children through the concierge.

Lodging

Lodging at Topnotch consists of 92 inn rooms, 12 of them suites, and 25 one-, two- and three-bedroom townhouses. No two rooms are exactly alike except in their fondness for antiques, well-chosen country furnishings, and shelves of books.

Restaurants

Norma's, a bistro with an open kitchen, focuses on locally grown organic ingredients. It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and includes choices for the spa-conscious on its diverse menu. Its terrace tables have views of Mt. Mansfield. Early risers will find coffee in the livingroom-like lobby, and then in the late afternoon the staff sets out tea service.

See Also

Topnotch belongs to a small family of tennis inns remarkable for the extent of their other dimensions. Among the others in this category are:

• New England Tennis Holidays at The Inn at Essex, Vermont
• The Inn at Manitou, Ontario, Canada
• Rancho Valencia Resort, California

If Topnotch's luxury tennis camp aspect appeals to you, and you don't need all those other dimensions, look at:

• Gardiner's Resort, California
• New England Tennis Holidays at the Inn at Essex, Vermont
• The Palace Hotel, Gstaad, Switzerland
during the summer when Roy Emerson runs camps there

If the dimensions matter but you can forego the tennis clinics, look at:

• The Boulders Resort & Golden Door Spa, Arizona

Travel Essentials

Seasons. The inn is open year-round. The tennis program also operates year-round but attendance reaches its peak during the summer and fall seasons from June through September.

Topnotch has both rooms and suites in the inn and more than two dozen 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom townhouses. Several tennis packages are offered, all of which include a choice of accommodations, breakfast daily, unlimited court time, access to the fitness center and more. The Tennis Academy offers the option of 3 or 5 hours of daily drills.

Topnotch Resort & Spa
4000 Mountain Rd.
Stowe, VT 05672
802-253-8585
Toll-free: 800-451-8686
Fax: 802-253-9263
Web Link: Topnotch Resort & Spa

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Travel Instructions. By Air: The nearest airport is Burlington, VT, roughly an hour's drive away. By Car: Take Exit 10 off I-89 and follow Route 100 North for 10 miles into Stowe. Turn left at the blinking light onto Mountain Road—a.k.a., Route 108. Topnotch is roughly 5 miles farther along on the right.

General Tourist Information. Visit the Stowe Area Association web site or contact them at P.O. Box 1320, Stowe, VT 05672; 802-253-7321 or 800-24-STOWE. Or for general information about travel in Vermont, visit the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing web site or contact them at 6 Baldwin Street, Drawer 33, Montpelier, VT 05633-1301; Phone 800-VERMONT (800-837-6668).

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