We stayed at Topnotch in 9/2000 and also at Woodstock, which is several hours south, but is near the Killington ski area.
Topnotch is not slopeside, but is a short drive to I believe Mt. Mansfield (or something like that) - we rode the gondola car to the top for the view - no snow that early. Stowe is a great area. I recommend a dinner at Whiskers near Topnotch if you go.
The Trapp Lodge is in beautiful, quiet hill country - very serene, but to me, a little "too serene" for a week's stay!