Come explore The Mount, Edith Wharton’s historic estate in the Berkshires. This impressive estate is located on a bluff overlooking Laurel Lake in Lenox, Massachusetts. Its pastoral location inspired a decade of prolific writing by the author, along with her vision for the elegant gardens that surround the property. The historic significance and shear beauty of the estate deserves more than just a casual visit. And luckily for us, this magnificent home is just a few miles up the road from our elegant country retreat in the Berkshires.
The Main House
The Main House has the feel of a 17th century English country house. Wharton contemplated each room’s purpose before designing its layout. Although much of the influence in the interior design reflects her love of classic French and Italian architecture, its feel is much fresher and less formal.
The Gardens
You could easily spend a day wandering through the elegant outdoor rooms Wharton created on the property. You’ll no doubt appreciate the thought and care that went into each design. She believed that the natural landscape should dictate the shape, form, and function of the gardens. Thus, she created a kitchen garden, a formal French flower garden, and a serene spot to relax in the shade via the sunken Italian garden. The molded grass steps cut into the slope of a hill are particularly beautiful. This element is rarely seen in gardens in the U.S.
The Stable
Designed with the same care and concern as the main house and gardens, the Stable imitates a Georgian Revival motif. The stable once sheltered Wharton’s team of horses and carriages. Today, it serves as a gathering place for a series of cultural events. Working with local groups, the Stable hosts dramatic readings, lectures, workshops, and more.
The Library
The books that line the shelves of the library speak to Wharton’s vast array of interests. Sharing the limelight with her love of literature, gardening, and travel, you might stumble upon volumes of history, science, and religion. The library served as the foundation of Wharton’s life at The Mount. Here she would formulate thoughts and ideas for her writing projects, as well as entertain guests who shared her interests.
Ghost Tours, Pop-Up Bistros, and More
Although a tour of the main house and gardens draws most visitors, The Mount offers several special events throughout the year. The holiday tours are one of the annual highlights. In the summer months, you’ll find yoga mats spread out on the lawn for early morning yoga sessions. Pop-Up Bistros behind the stable feature seasonal fare from a local catering service on September nights, complete with beer, wine, and specialty cocktails. Ghost and goblin tours feature prominently in the fall. And, storytellers, guided sculpture walks, and birding tours through the woods and wetlands, complete the offerings.
Once you’ve visited the Mount, Edith Wharton’s historic estate in the Berkshires, you’re sure to want to return in every season. Make the Devonfield Inn your “home away from home” each and every time you come to the Berkshires.
