Cold Hollow Cider Mill
Iconic Vermont cidery famous for its traditional apple cider and legendary cider donuts, with a bustling market of local goods.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall foliage & fresh cider
Cold Hollow Cider Mill
Best Time
Peak fall foliage & fresh cider
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Vermont cidery famous for its traditional apple cider and legendary cider donuts, with a bustling market of local goods.
"A must-stop for authentic Vermont flavor, from fresh cider to legendary donuts and local market treasures."
Warm donuts are best! :doughnut:
Ask for warm cider donuts if available; they're a fan favorite!
Try a Dreamee! :ice_cream:
Don't miss the 'Dreamee' - a cider donut ice cream sandwich.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Legendary Cider Donuts
Warm, cinnamon-sugar coated donuts made with fresh apple cider. A true Vermont classic!
Fresh Pressed Apple Cider
Taste the authentic flavor of Vermont apples, pressed using a traditional 1920s rack-and-cloth press.
Dreamees & Cider Slush
Indulge in a 'Dreamee' (cider donut ice cream sandwich) or a refreshing cider slush.
Vermont Market & Gifts
Browse a wide selection of local maple syrup, jams, crafts, and unique Vermont-made products.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss the Legendary Donuts
Beyond Donuts: Explore the Market
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Warm donuts are best! :doughnut:
Ask for warm cider donuts if available; they're a fan favorite!
Try a Dreamee! :ice_cream:
Don't miss the 'Dreamee' - a cider donut ice cream sandwich. +1
Explore the market :shopping_bags:
Discover Vermont maple syrup, jams, and unique gifts beyond the donuts.
Watch the cider press :movie_camera:
See how fresh cider is made using traditional methods.
Tips
from all over the internet
Warm donuts are best! :doughnut:
Ask for warm cider donuts if available; they're a fan favorite!
Try a Dreamee! :ice_cream:
Don't miss the 'Dreamee' - a cider donut ice cream sandwich. +1
Explore the market :shopping_bags:
Discover Vermont maple syrup, jams, and unique gifts beyond the donuts.
Watch the cider press :movie_camera:
See how fresh cider is made using traditional methods.
Cafe for breakfast :coffee:
The cafe is highly recommended for breakfast, especially the Morning Core.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cold Hollow Cider Mill is a beloved Vermont institution, celebrated for its authentic cider-making process and, most notably, its legendary cider donuts. Visitors consistently praise the fresh cider, the delicious treats like 'Dreamees' and cider slush, and the extensive market filled with local Vermont goods. While some find it touristy and prices can be a bit high, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, making it a highly recommended stop for its charm and taste of local tradition.
"The place is busy and obviously a tourist attraction. Please bring your patience!!! The hard cider is delicious and the maple creemee was really good but also really rich and sweet. Cider donuts are flavorful although not what I expected. Be sure to get a taste from the tasting tank in the back of the store. It is fresh and the best you will ever have!!"
Candy T
"Classic Vermont Tourist Stop
Probably one of the most touristy spots in the area (second only to Ben & Jerry’s). When we visited this past weekend, the store was absolutely packed. It was hard to even move without bumping into someone every three seconds. Every local we spoke to warned us it was a tourist trap, but we still wanted to check out the Vermont apple cider experience.
The store had plenty of maple and Vermont goods, but the best part was the tasting room in the back. It’s just a massive steel tank of apple cider, completely self-serve, and you can pour as much as you want. I had a few cups right there, and it was super crisp, fresh, and perfectly chilled straight from the tank. I wasn’t planning to buy anything, but that first sip immediately convinced me to get a couple of cider packs.
At checkout, we also grabbed their “legendary” apple cider donut and the maple creemee donut sandwich. The donut, unfortunately, was really bad. Dry, oddly sweet but somehow not sweet enough. It actually tasted better frozen with the maple creemee than on its own. Honestly, I’ve had better grocery store versions, though maybe dipping it in cider helps."
Jea Kim
"Visited the restaurant and the food and cider was very good. Enjoyed the Cider Mill Vermonter sandwich which was delicious. The hot apple cider was great as well. Stepped across to the cider and gift shop where you can sample fresh pressed cider and view displays of the cider process. Nicely done for a small space. Unfortunately, the cider donuts did not live up to claims and were a disappointment. It was small, dry, and nearly tasteless. The Apple House in Shenandoah, VA puts these cider donuts to shame."
Larry Anderson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cold Hollow Cider Mill is conveniently located on historic Route 100, between Waterbury and Stowe, Vermont. It's a scenic drive, and many visitors find it a must-stop on their way to or from Stowe.
Public transport options are limited in this scenic rural area. It's best to visit by car. Many visitors combine a trip to the mill with a scenic drive through Vermont's picturesque routes.
There is ample parking available at the mill. During peak seasons, especially in the fall, the lot can get busy, but staff usually manage the flow efficiently.
Absolutely! Fall is a prime time to visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill, with the surrounding scenery bursting with color. It's considered a quintessential fall experience in Vermont. +1
Yes, it's frequently mentioned as a must-stop on road trips through Vermont, especially for its iconic cider donuts and local products.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter Cold Hollow Cider Mill. You can freely explore the mill, market, and watch the cider-making process.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit, especially during holidays or off-season.
Watching the cider pressing is free of charge. It's part of the experience of visiting the working cider mill.
Yes, Cold Hollow Cider Mill is known to sell its famous cider donuts year-round, not just in the fall. They are a consistent highlight for visitors.
While there isn't a formal guided tour, you can often observe the cider-making process and explore the mill at your own pace. Some visitors refer to it as a self-guided tour.
🎫 🍎 Onsite Experience
The 'Legendary Cider Donuts' are overwhelmingly the most popular item, often described as warm, cinnamon-sugar coated, and a must-try.
You can also try their 'Dreamees' (cider donut ice cream sandwiches), cider slushies, and visit the cafe for breakfast items like the 'Morning Core' on a cheddar biscuit. +1
The market offers a wide variety of Vermont products, including maple syrup, maple candy, jams, jellies, coffee spreads, local crafts, and souvenirs.
Sampling is often available, allowing you to taste the fresh apple cider before purchasing. It's a great way to find your favorite flavor.
Yes, there is often outdoor seating available, providing a cozy spot to relax and enjoy your treats, especially during pleasant weather.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the rustic charm of the mill, the vibrant colors of the apples, the process of cider pressing, and of course, your delicious donuts and treats. The surrounding Vermont landscape also offers beautiful backdrops.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting. Visiting during the fall foliage season provides stunning natural colors.
Yes, you can generally take photos inside the market area to capture the variety of Vermont products and gifts.
Popular shots include close-ups of the donuts, the cider press in action, scenic views of the mill, and photos of the unique Vermont products in the market.
There are typically no major restrictions on personal photography, but always be mindful of other visitors and staff.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The market offers a fun browsing experience with unique Vermont products, and there's often outdoor seating where families can relax and enjoy their treats. It's a casual, welcoming environment that caters well to younger visitors, making it a memorable part of a family trip to Vermont.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs, grab a delicious snack like the legendary cider donuts or a refreshing cider slush, and pick up some authentic Vermont souvenirs from the market. Many consider it a quintessential New England experience that adds a sweet highlight to any journey.
🍂 Fall Foliage Enthusiasts
Enjoying warm cider donuts amidst the vibrant fall colors surrounding the mill is a classic Vermont experience. The mill itself, with its rustic charm, becomes even more picturesque during this season, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a true taste of fall.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Cider Making at Cold Hollow
Visitors can often witness this time-honored technique in action, offering a fascinating glimpse into how their signature cider is made. The aroma of fresh apples filling the air is a sensory experience that many visitors cherish. The mill uses a variety of apples to create their distinct flavor profile, ensuring a taste that is both classic and refreshing.
This commitment to tradition is a key part of Cold Hollow's identity and appeal. It's not just about the final product; it's about preserving a piece of Vermont's agricultural heritage. The dedication to this old-fashioned method is frequently highlighted by visitors and the owner himself, emphasizing the authenticity of the experience.
Donuts, Dreamees, and Desserts: A Sweet Tooth's Paradise
Beyond the classic donuts, Cold Hollow offers other delightful treats. The 'Dreamee' is a unique creation: a cider donut split open and filled with creamy soft-serve ice cream. This combination has been a local favorite for over two decades and is a must-try for those seeking a decadent dessert.
For those looking to cool down, the cider slush is a popular choice, especially during warmer months. They also offer seasonal specials, like the 'Cocoa Crushee' which combines maple hot chocolate slush with maple creemee and a cider donut.
The cafe also serves breakfast items, with the 'Morning Core' on a cheddar biscuit being a standout recommendation. The Vermont Market: A Treasure Trove of Local Goods
Key items include premium maple syrup in various grades and sizes, artisanal jams and jellies, local honey, coffee spreads, and a selection of baked goods. You'll also find unique Vermont crafts, souvenirs, and specialty food items. It’s a great place to discover local flavors and find gifts for friends and family.
Visitors often express surprise at the sheer variety available, noting that it's more than just a typical tourist shop. While some reviews mention that maple syrup prices can be on the higher end compared to grocery stores, the quality and the experience of browsing these local treasures are highly valued.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit