The Boston Parents’ Paper July 2002, Kaleel Sakakeeny It’s easy to think of the Berkshires as a single destination – that woodsy place in the western part of the state: “The Berkshires.” Truth is, there are many Berkshires. There’s the rural Northern region, studded with working farms, vast tracts of farmland and lovely stretches of solitary roads that wind past small towns and seem to take the traveler back in time. Then there’s the Berkshires of Canyon Ranch (considered one of the top spas in the country), the sophisticated Jacob’s Pillow Dance Center and Tina Packer’s vibrant Shakespeare Company. Regardless, for a region far removed from the presumed political and cultural center of the state, the Berkshires always seem slightly ahead of the curve as a family friendly destination. Two very family-oriented destinations, Seven Stones (877-786-6317; www.thesevenstones.com) in Great Barrington and Eastover Resort in Lenox (1-800-822-2386; www.eastover.com) nicely reflect the range of styles that characterize the region. The first impression of Eastover is that of wide-open spaces, thousands acres actually, a property surrounded by gentle hills and mountains of the Berkshires, which in fall are simply spectacular. The rolling lawns beg to be played and tumbled on, and after a little acclimation, children do let loose and love the freedom (and safety) of simply running around the land. An Impressive Georgian mansion, the main building dominates the landscape and speaks of elegance and class, wrapped in very casual approach to life. What is unique about Eastover, and this may represent a trend in family vacations, is it programming. The resort caters to families, singles, and couples – but not at the time same time. The theory is that families want to be with families, couples don’t necessarily want to share their time and meals with kids. However, Eastover gives its full attention to families during its family sessions, and there are dozens of them between now and the end of the year. This sprawling property seems to do it all and do it well. There’s a Bison herd wandering around nearby, the basis of a fun and education (often awe-inspiring) Safari Trip that is one of the many creative activities available. On Tuesdays at Eastover, kids can try sailboat races, archery, tennis lessons (for parents and kids) or nature hikes. Evenings feature a children’s movie. On Wednesday, kids enjoy fishing, a hayride, Kids Camp and at night, dancing and a barbecue. Of course there’s also horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and bicycling. The schedule of family events should be framed and hung on the wall. Parents are by no mean neglected. They can practice their tennis game alongside their little one or practice their golf swing at the Driving Range. There’s a well-maintained (and supervised) indoor and outdoor pool, and in a very unusual attraction, Eastover’s lodge has an impressive, life-like Civil War museum with three-dimensional soldiers, a jail, real cannons and walls covered with authentic photographs and documents from that tragic time. Owner Ticki Winsor roams Eastover with a comfortable mix of cheery naturalness and keen eye for quality. The results show. Families return to Eastover again and again, and often for several generations. Prices include meals and activities.
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