The Wine Chemist
Sep 2023
★★★★★
My stay at Frog Meadow was exceptional and filled me with happiness that this magical sanctuary exists. As gay men we often have to hunt for places specifically for us and even then we can be disappointed. For me, Frog Meadow is very close to perfection.
I booked in mid-September as I had been planning to explore Vermont, specifically gay Vermont destinations/experiences. FM books quickly but I did get a 3 night stay (Sun-Wed) nestled in the quaint yet modern Brook Cottage. Some claim this cabin is sub-par, but I fervently disagree. It is a small stand-alone cottage along a babbling brook. (It’s one of my pics attached.) It is clean, well insulated, with great lighting design inside. I will say, it is important to make sure you turn on the path lights and front door light around sunset so if you’re returning from the main house in the evening after a hot tub soak you wont have to rely on your night vision. One more caveat is that it is surrounded on all sides by windows, this means that in the morning, if the sun is not your friend, you might want to plan accordingly. I thought it works great to make sure you’re up for the breakfast! And one morning, because it was raining, it was so serene and cozy I almost MISSED breakfast! But I digress. There is full electricity and perfect climate control in the cabin that has extremely efficient heater and A/C. Bedding and linens get 5 stars as well. There is no running water/bathroom facility, however, there is a water cooler in the cabin for drinking and a quick hand rinse if needed. You’re in the woods… you know what to do for the rest. Also, you have a bathroom (shared with the Honey Bee cabin) in the main house to keep all of your toiletries. For me it was a non-issue.
Let’s talk experience. Here is my opportunity to share my thoughts on what FM offers to the gay male community. I have found that clothing optional places mean different things to different men. For me, I find that clothing optional changes a setting that might be cliquey or guarded into an open, more empathetic, trusting and sharing environment. That is, once everyone is letting it all hang out, what once might have been perceived as differences now becomes the common aspect we share. All become equal. This allows such openness in communication and connection, shedding the pretenses of the world we live in. Nudity is not specific to sex alone, it is a bridge to connect. The rest is up to the individuals.
The bottom line is that we are all wounded men that are trying to live in a world that we feel edited, censored, and isolated at times. Frog Meadow empowers gay men to feel comfortable with themselves and their interactions with others in our community. For this I give praise to Scott and Dave for building this safe space.
The setting is gorgeous with wonderful hiking trails to spend time with new friends or reflect alone. I traveled solo and was able to spend time with a mix of couples and other singles and always felt comfortable.
As far as the hosts? Scott and Dave live off property now but are always available. I think it’s important to remember that they are running a business and “at work.” They are not on your vacation. They must get supplies, attend to booking reservations, communications with upcoming guests, planning events and managing a large property. They are engaging when they can be and never hover. I was grateful when I was able to have conversations with both (together and individually) but I recognize the amount of work they must attend to even with the help of their staff.
I look forward to my next visit and many more to come! Singles should not avoid this place nor should couples. It a wonderful place to spend time with gay men and embrace our lifestyle. Cheers!