Massachusetts Lodging 2009

LODGING

Best Green-Friendly Stay: TOPIA INN, Adams The beauty and comfort of this solar- and biodiesel-powered B&B is proof positive that reducing the carbon footprint of your travels doesn’t require sacrificing a thing. Ten artist-designed rooms, unique in their exotic motifs, have been built and furnished exclusively with inert and organic materials. Rates: from $135, including full organic vegetarian breakfast. 10 Pleasant St. 888-868-6742, 413-743-9605; topiainn.com

Best Traditional Getaway: LIBERTY HILL INN, Yarmouth Port Built in 1825, this distinctive Greek Revival mansion is the epitome of a classic New England inn, from the wraparound porch with wooden rocking chairs outside to all the tasteful period furnishings inside. Rates: from $110, including full breakfast. 77 Main St. (Route 6A). 800-821-3977, 508-362-3976; libertyhillinn.com

Best Base for Whale-Watching: LAND’S END INN, Provincetown Commanding panoramic views of Cape Cod Bay and the Atlantic Ocean from its hilltop perch, this shingle-style mansion is close enough to the water that from its many decks and lookouts you can spot whales feeding offshore. The stunning vista is complemented by tasteful art and antiques and modern amenities. Open April-New Year’s weekend. Rates: from $185. 22 Commercial St. 800-276-7088, 508-487-0706; landsendinn.com

Best Boutique Venue: HOB KNOB, Edgartown The atmosphere is neither starched nor flowery-formal. Instead, wicker rockers on the wraparound porch and comfy seating in the inn’s parlors invite socializing and hanging out. Larger-than-average rooms come with all the expected high-end amenities, plus thoughtful surprises such as air purifiers and white-noise generators. Rates: from $175, including full organic breakfast. 128 Main St. 800-696-2723, 508-627-9510; hobknob.com

Best Harbor Views: THE VERANDA HOUSE, Nantucket Outside, the namesake porches of this three-story building boast unparalleled views over town and harbor. The inn’s staff will assist you in planning, reserving, or procuring just about anything on the island. Open May to mid-Dec. Rates: from $129, including continental breakfast. 3 Step Lane. 877-228-0695, 508-228-0695; theverandahouse.com

Best Country Retreat: MEPAL MANOR & SPA, New Marlborough [CLOSED] Built to resemble an English country manor, this grand 1907 fieldstone inn offers splendidly luxurious isolation with panoramic views. There are no TVs, phones, or cell-phone coverage, although complimentary WiFi affords a link to the outside world. Neighboring conservation lands lure hikers, and there’s a full-service spa on the grounds. Rates: from $295, including continental breakfast. 100 Stone Manor Drive (Route 57). 413-229-7501; mepalmanor.com

Best Taste of the Indulgent Life: ANNABELLE B&B, Sandwich [CLOSED] Behind the elegant facade of this Georgian-style mansion lies a luxurious B&B dedicated to satisfying you in every way possible. Think spacious rooms (most with whirlpool baths), fine linens, free WiFi inside and out, and in-room spa services (for a fee). Sumptuous gourmet breakfasts will vanquish your self-control. Rates: from $155, including full breakfast. 4 Grove St. 508-833-1419; annabellebedandbreakfast.com

Best Modern Decor: HOTEL INDIGO, Newton Contemporary but still cozy, this smart spot on the periphery of Boston sports Copenhagen-meets-Los Angeles ambience. Also on site: a terrific steakhouse, a sparkling pool, and a soup-to-nuts fitness studio. Call for current rates. 399 Grove St. 877-270-1392, 617-969-5300; newtonboutiquehotel-px.trvlclick.com