Berkshires & Pioneer Valley lodgings welcome your dog friend

From your dog’s point of view, what’s not to love about the Berkshires? Fresh air, hiking trails to explore, mountains to climb with their owners: And, if those owners are smart enough to book one of two dog-friendly rooms at Briarcliff, there’s also a comfortable place from which to launch those Berkshire adventures. Briarcliff, a sensibly priced, contemporary bed and breakfast between the walkable villages of Great Barrington and Stockbridge, sits on six acres of grounds and unspoiled woodland. The trail to hike Monument Mountain starts right across from the inn. And, speaking of what is close, so is your parking space: You and your furry friend only need to walk 10 feet from the car to your door.

Why would you travel to the Berkshires and not bring your canine companion? Think of all those mountain trails to hike, small-town streets to explore and fresh air to revel in? And, luckily, there is a hotel all ready to welcome you and your pet: Hotel on North, a 45-room boutique hotel with spacious rooms that are perfect for both two- and four-footed guests. Is Fido hankering for a doggie treat? The hotel staff has them. Need a crate to comfort Rover while you two humans enjoy a romantic dinner at townie-favorite Eat at North? Ask hotel housekeeping: They have them. You and your dog will have the time of your lives.

There is no reason your dog cannot join you in luxury when you stay at at Blantyre, the grand turn-of-the-20th-century estate nestled in the Berkshires. Dogs under 35 pounds are welcome in the resort’s Carriage House and in the self-contained cottages. With 110 acres of lovely lawns, gardens and meadows, there is plenty of space for human and canine leg-stretching, and miles of hiking trails hug the estate perimeter, providing lots of enjoyment for your dog. As for you, human luxuries include gorgeous loft rooms decorated in fine fabrics and furnishings in the Carriage House, and peaceful cottages with patios or balconies with garden views. Blantyre also features a spa, tennis courts and fine New American-French dining.

If their people friendly hospitality is not enough, the Red Lion Inn welcomes your favorite, well-trained and quiet pet, too. Pets are accepted on a limited basis with prior reservation and a $40 fee per pet, per night. Upon arrival, your dog or cat will receive a welcome treat and you’ll stay together in selected first floor guestrooms and suites. Enjoy the Inn amenities, great food, a fitness room, heated outdoor pool and hot tub, a great big porch with rocking chairs, and nightly entertainment at the Lion’s Den. Head out for long walks and runs, and visit the many parks, trails and open spaces that abound. And be sure to introduce your pet to the Red Lion Inn’s resident lobby cat.