A 48-Hour Winter Retreat in Verona

Verona, Wisc., just 90 miles from Milwaukee and 150 miles from Chicago, presents an enticing destination for meeting planners seeking a unique blend of serious winter activities and craft experiences. Nestled on the edge of the Driftless Region, this charming town provides an ideal backdrop for a winter retreat, offering both adventure and the comforts of a small-town atmosphere.

Day 1 – Team Building on Ice:

Kick off your weekend retreat by settling into the modern and conveniently located Hyatt Place Madison/Verona. This hotel not only provides proximity to excellent dining options and biking trails, but also offers a free electric vehicle charger and catering to sustainability-conscious attendees.

North and South Seafood & Smokehouse sets the stage for a memorable event with a catering menu that is sure to impress. Consider team-building activities at Elver Park, which features a variety of winter sports options, including ice hockey, sledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing – or take in a Madison Capitols Hockey game for an entertaining team outing.

Day 2 – Energize and Strategize:

Start the day with a team breakfast at Gus’s Diner, known for its dependable offerings and ample portions. Then move to University Ridge Golf Course, which transforms into a winter wonderland for cross-country skiing. The clubhouse provides a casual place to meet, setting the stage for strategic discussions overlooking the picturesque landscape. Those who want to try out the trails can take advantage of affordable ski rentals.

Tyrol Basin ski resort is another great option for a fun and unique meeting space where your team can get some work done and then enjoy tubing, skiing or a warm beverage overlooking the slopes. End your day with a satisfying dinner from Sugar River Pizza Co. and a relaxed networking session at Lake Louie Brewing Company.

Day 3 – Refresh and Reconnect:

For a refreshing start, head to Grace Coffee Co. for a breakfast meeting featuring picture-perfect pastries and five-star entrees. Then take the team to Badger Prairie County Park for a bit of snowshoeing or hiking or warm up with a session of hot yoga at Dragonfly. For the true adventurers, check out Quarry Ridge Mountain Bike Trails, groomed for fat tire biking in winter.

Lunch in the private event room at Hop Haus Brewing Company in Fitchburg is a great place to debrief and reflect on the weekend’s activities. Try their catering options or seasonal daily specials for a great way to wrap up your event.

Wisconsin winters make memorable retreats. For help planning your custom Verona winter retreat, email [email protected]!

Photo by Alain Wong on Unsplash