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Vermont

Improve Your Game: Bridge Lessons in the Green Mountains

Program No. 2304160MEADV-0219
Elevate your bridge game to new heights in the idyllic Green Mountains of Vermont, where you’ll learn about bidding, taking tricks, defensive play and much more!

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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Jun 8 - Jun 13, 2025
Starting at
1,149
Jul 20 - Jul 25, 2025
Starting at
1,149
Sep 21 - Sep 26, 2025
Starting at
1,199
Oct 19 - Oct 24, 2025
Starting at
1,199
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Filling Fast!
Jun 8 - Jun 13, 2025
Starting at
1,359
Jul 20 - Jul 25, 2025
Starting at
1,359
Filling Fast!
Sep 21 - Sep 26, 2025
Starting at
1,429
Oct 19 - Oct 24, 2025
Starting at
1,429
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!

At a Glance

In picturesque Vermont, award-winning, certified instructors teach concepts rather than rules and help you master the game of bridge by playing hands. Each day's sessions include expert presentations on bidding, play of the hand and defense. By program’s end, you will have heightened your bridge skills and tested them by partnering up for a competitive but fun mini-tournament — perhaps with a jug of Vermont maple syrup as a grand prize!
Activity Level
Easy Going
Leisurely walking along groomed trails.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Explore bidding with a modern, no-nonsense approach to Standard American, emphasizing competitive bidding tools.
  • Learn all the secrets to taking tricks on purpose and see how easy it can be to count the cards.
  • Examine defensive play and learn how to read through the back of your partner's cards.

General Notes

Not suitable for beginners. Participants should have a working knowledge of Duplicate bridge and play regularly. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
West Dover
Program Concludes
West Dover
Meals
14 | 5B | 4L | 5D |
Activity Level
In picturesque Vermont, award-winning, certified instructors teach concepts rather than rules and help you master the game of bridge by playing hands. Each day's sessions include expert presentations on bidding, play of the hand and defense. By program’s end, you will have heightened your bridge skills and tested them by partnering up for a competitive but fun mini-tournament — perhaps with a jug of Vermont maple syrup as a grand prize!)
Best of all, you'll...
  • Explore bidding with a modern, no-nonsense approach to Standard American, emphasizing competitive bidding tools.
  • Learn all the secrets to taking tricks on purpose and see how easy it can be to count the cards.
  • Examine defensive play and learn how to read through the back of your partner's cards.
General Notes
Not suitable for beginners. Participants should have a working knowledge of Duplicate bridge and play regularly. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Activity Level
Easy Going
Leisurely walking along groomed trails.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (2 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
14 meals | 5B | 4L | 5D |
4 expert-led lectures
3 expert-led field trips
6 hands-on experiences
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Expand All
Activity Note
Inn check-in available from 2:00 p.m. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 2:00 p.m. After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. We’ll gather at 5:30 p.m. in the main lounge to start getting acquainted.
Dinner:
In the main dining room.
Evening:
You will receive your notebooks and some elective homework to stimulate ideas. Orientation. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. An instructor will be with us daily to lead hands-on instruction and give all lectures related to bridge at the inn. Travel into Wilmington during lunch breaks will be by free public bus unless noted otherwise. Meals will be provided at the inn. It’s time to start discovering why bridge is the most famous game in the world. Once you learn this game, you can go anywhere on earth and immediately find fellow players – language is no barrier! We’ll give you a little overview of what you can expect over the next few days, and how your life will change forever. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Activity Note
Sitting at bridge tables. Minimal walking; possibly getting on/off a local bus.
Breakfast:
In the main dining room.
Morning:
With our instructor, we will tackle our learning in tiny bite-sized pieces, each one providing a foundation for what’s coming. We will learn by playing bridge, not listening to lectures. Each puzzle piece will be followed by sample hands.
Lunch:
A light lunch will be provided in the restaurant dining room. There will be a 2.5-hour break including lunch.
Afternoon:
During our lunch break, we will host a walk or a leisurely trip into the town of Wilmington. We will reconvene at the inn and continue to fine tune what we learned in the morning. We’ll focus on practice rather than absorbing new material. You’ll learn how the best part of bridge is your partner, and how many different ways there are to look at the same hand.
Dinner:
In the main dining room.
Evening:
At leisure. The card room will be available for you to play and enjoy the company of fellow students.
Activity Note
Sitting at bridge tables.
Breakfast:
In the main dining room.
Morning:
We’ll learn that there are no rules in bridge, only different approaches. Each hand is a mystery to be unraveled and explored. We will look at bidding, declarer play, and defense. You will be amazed and entranced by the treats each hand holds. There will be a brief coffee break during this presentation from the instructor.
Lunch:
Light lunch in the restaurant dining room. There will be a 2.5-hour break including lunch.
Afternoon:
You’ll learn how the best part of bridge is your partner, and how many different ways there are to look at the same hand. We will learn to be flexible and enjoy “going with the flow” of the cards. You will come to understand that bridge is an art form, not a science!!
Dinner:
In the main dining room.
Evening:
The card room will be available for you to play and enjoy the company of fellow students. After dinner, a discussion on the local flora and fauna will be led by a trained Vermont biologist. Samples of both animals and artifacts will be brought and discussed. This is an opportunity to draw out both myths and legends of Vermont history of wild animals and domestic life as it has evolved through the ages.
Activity Note
Sitting at bridge tables. Getting on/off a local bus. Walking in Wilmington according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
In the main dining room.
Morning:
You’ll learn that there are no rules in bridge, only different approaches. Each hand is a mystery to be unraveled and explored. We will look at bidding, declarer play, and defense. You will be amazed and entranced by the treats each hand holds.
Lunch:
Light lunch in the restaurant dining room. There will be a 2.5-hour break including lunch.
Afternoon:
During our lunch break, we will host a leisurely trip via local bus into the town of Wilmington, Vermont. Wilmington is a quaint little town rich in history and New England architectural features. Back at the Inn, emphasizing the topic of the morning, we’ll focus on practice rather than absorbing new material. We’ll learn how the best part of bridge is our partner, and how many different ways there are to look at the same hand. We will learn to be flexible and enjoy “going with the flow” of the cards.
Dinner:
In the main dining room.
Evening:
After dinner, we will feature a musical performance by local performers. This in-house show will include melodies we can all sing along to, perhaps request a favorite and participate. The card room will be available for you to play and enjoy the company of fellow students.
Activity Note
Sitting at bridge tables. Possible getting in/out of personal vehicles; possible walking about 1 mile, over 1/2 hour on groomed trail.
Breakfast:
In the main dining room.
Morning:
This morning, we will learn by playing bridge, and give listening to lectures a break. You’ll learn that there are no rules in bridge, only different approaches. Each hand is a mystery to be unraveled and explored. We will look at bidding, declarer play, and defense. You will be amazed and entranced by the treats each hand holds.
Lunch:
Light lunch in the restaurant dining room. There will be a 2.5-hour break including lunch. During this time, we will host a walk or a leisurely trip into town. Dover Valley Trail provides a nice groomed trail for a stroll among the trees; the Group Leader will take those who wish on a 40-minute walk.
Afternoon:
Now you’re ready for prime time! Let’s play in a real game, with Masterpoints for the winners. What are Masterpoints? You’ll find out! This is a great opportunity to see how games are played in clubs around the world. Get ready to take your show on the road in this mini-tournament.
Dinner:
In the main dining room. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. The card room will be available for you to play and enjoy the company of fellow students. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Inn check-out by 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
In the main dining room.
Morning:
We’ll meet for a brief after-breakfast announcement of yesterday’s winners, discussion of bridge resources, and closing remarks and we will be on our way with many new ideas and friends. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
14 Meals
5 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
5 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
  • Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
  • Jun 08, 2025 - Jun 13, 2025
  • Jul 20, 2025 - Jul 25, 2025
  • Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025
  • Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
5 nights
Location: West Dover
The Gray Ghost Inn is a quaint, family owned and operated bed and breakfast in Southern Vermont with a focus on individual service and personal attention. Besides a fun, welcoming environment, we offer a full Vermont breakfast cooked to order along with lunch and dinner. For many of the meals we incorporate farm fresh produce. The Gray Ghost Inn is owned and operated by Carina Hellström and her black Labradors Onyx, Odin, Enzo and Freya. She has owned the Inn for over 20 years. The Inn is charming and rustic, offers a warm feeling of being at home. Carina is not only your host and group leader but your confidant as well to make your stay enjoyable. Melissa and Ruth are your housekeepers.
5 nights
Location: West Dover
The Gray Ghost Inn is a quaint, family owned and operated bed and breakfast in Southern Vermont with a focus on individual service and personal attention. Besides a fun, welcoming environment, we offer a full Vermont breakfast cooked to order along with lunch and dinner. For many of the meals we incorporate farm fresh produce. The Gray Ghost Inn is owned and operated by Carina Hellström and her black Labradors Onyx, Odin, Enzo and Freya. She has owned the Inn for over 20 years. The Inn is charming and rustic, offers a warm feeling of being at home. Carina is not only your host and group leader but your confidant as well to make your stay enjoyable. Melissa and Ruth are your housekeepers.
5 nights
Location: West Dover
The Gray Ghost Inn is a quaint, family owned and operated bed and breakfast in Southern Vermont with a focus on individual service and personal attention. Besides a fun, welcoming environment, we offer a full Vermont breakfast cooked to order along with lunch and dinner. For many of the meals we incorporate farm fresh produce. The Gray Ghost Inn is owned and operated by Carina Hellström and her black Labradors Onyx, Odin, Enzo and Freya. She has owned the Inn for over 20 years. The Inn is charming and rustic, offers a warm feeling of being at home. Carina is not only your host and group leader but your confidant as well to make your stay enjoyable. Melissa and Ruth are your housekeepers.
5 nights
Location: West Dover
The Gray Ghost Inn is a quaint, family owned and operated bed and breakfast in Southern Vermont with a focus on individual service and personal attention. Besides a fun, welcoming environment, we offer a full Vermont breakfast cooked to order along with lunch and dinner. For many of the meals we incorporate farm fresh produce. The Gray Ghost Inn is owned and operated by Carina Hellström and her black Labradors Onyx, Odin, Enzo and Freya. She has owned the Inn for over 20 years. The Inn is charming and rustic, offers a warm feeling of being at home. Carina is not only your host and group leader but your confidant as well to make your stay enjoyable. Melissa and Ruth are your housekeepers.
Participant Reviews
4.86
Based on 15 Reviews
Sort By:
This participant did not give a star rating.
Helen | Waltham, MA
This was a great program, and I think people who had significant bridge experience and classes would benefit best. Accommodations were excellent, and activies were perfect.
— Review left October 16, 2024
Tom – Class of 2024 | Erlanger, KY
Edward is amazing as a Bridge teacher in Vermont.
— Review left October 13, 2024
Sherrill – Class of 2023 | Philadelphia, PA
This was an excellent course for refining your bridge playing ability, learning how to count winners & losers, bid appropriately, and communicate with your partner. Ed Scanlon is an excellent teacher for this course. If you are a beginner, or a "rusty bridge player," be ready for a crash course, find a book on bidding and conventions - and come to learn and love this game.
— Review left October 7, 2024
Susanne | Hampton, NH
This bridge program taught by Edward Scanlon is a perfect opportunity to enhance your bridge game. Staying at the Gray Ghost Inn is a treat within itself. The owners, Cary & Eamon are a delightful young couple and appreciate your business… and the food is d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s!
— Review left July 30, 2024
Regina – Class of 2024 | Marina del Rey, CA
This is a fantastic program for improving your Bridge card playing skills and meeting and socializing with like minded Bridge players. The instructor is very witty, warm , knowledgeable, engaging and knows his subject material well. I feel I improved my Bridge skills tenfold and can’t wait to attend my next Bridge Boot Camp!! Caveat - this is intermediate level material - raw beginners should wait until they have a firm grasp of bridge before signing up.
— Review left June 16, 2024
Sandra – Class of 2023 | Wildwood, MO
Great program with a fantastic instructor. Take this course if you already know how to play bridge and you want to improve your bidding and defense. Instead of teaching new, named conventions, the course focuses on understanding and applying good, basic bridge principles. Highly recommended!
— Review left June 15, 2024
Marilyn – Class of 2024 | Encino, CA
This bridge experience was really phenomenal in every way. The description of the program is accurate and the whole experience was well worth the time spent and cost. The instructor (Ed) was very informative for advancing our bridge knowledge in a fun and humorous way keeping the interest and attention on par at all times. The accommodations, food, hosts, and activities well exceeded all expectations. This is a fabulous program from start to finish. I may repeat it as with bridge there is an inordinate amount to kept learning.
— Review left June 14, 2024
Sarah – Class of 2017 | Bradford, PA
Edward is a top notch teacher.
— Review left October 27, 2023
R. Craig | Minneapolis, MN
My wife and I love to play bridge and this program significantly raised our skill level and enjoyment of the game. Craig Shulstad
— Review left October 21, 2023
Mary – Class of 2020 | Los Alamos, NM
I have about 160 master points and this program was perfect for me! Challenging but not overwhelming!
— Review left October 18, 2023
Kim – Class of 2017 | Dunedin, FL
Edward is a great bridge teacher- grab your partner and head to this beautiful part of Vermont, you will have a fun time while learning some excellent ways to improve your game.
— Review left October 1, 2023
Martine | Schenectady, NY
Good program, great accommodations and great food
— Review left September 29, 2023
Irma | Mahwah, NJ
Really enjoyed this bridge program and am thinking of doing it again in the spring.
— Review left September 26, 2022
Anthony T – Class of 2022 | Harrisburg, PA
This program is excellent in terms of food and instruction. The Instructor was virtually charismatic.
— Review left July 30, 2022
Tim – Class of 2004 | Gwynedd, PA
If you already play Duplicate regularly and want to get better this course will help and you will have a good time.
— Review left June 25, 2022





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