History of the Four Columns Inn
Since 1969
Established by René and Pierrette Chardain, the Four Columns Inn opened its doors in 1969 as an oasis for sustainability and luxurious healthy living.
Building on that opening mission, our bed & breakfast continues to be the touchpoint of Southern Vermont’s cultural, artistic and culinary scene.
One of the First Farm-to-Table Establishments
The Four Columns Inn first opened as a guest house in 1969, welcoming travelers to experience a top-level lodging and dining which highlighted a very European atmosphere thanks to its French-born chef and owner René Chardain. Its restaurant, the first true farm-to-table in the country, provided a dining experience unlike any other. Ever since, the inn has become a staple in Southern Vermont’s cultural, artistic, and culinary scene.
Famous guests over the years
Famous guests over the years have included John Kenneth Galbraith, Henry Kissinger, Mick Jagger, Michael Douglas, Sting, Paul Newman, Nicole Kidman, Tom Cruise, Ron Howard and Whoopi Goldberg!
Chef René Chardain
The original restaurant managed by Chef René Chardain in 1969 (sold in 1981) was the first true farm-to-table in the United States, before Alice Waters (Chez Panisse) even! The pond was stocked with trout, the garden with vegetables and herbs; chickens and pigs were raised on-site and game birds were sourced locally. The Inn became a top-notch national food destination.
