Vermont

The Green Mountain State

My wife and I waited a lifetime before we went to Vermont, don't know why but just did. What a mistake. It is truly one on the most serenely beautiful places I've ever visited in the world. Rolling hills, mountains, forests, charming small towns, friendly locals and inviting to all. Covered bridges everywhere, old giant red barns, and every roadway seems like a scenic highway. Surprisingly, it doesn't have the most covered bridges in the country, just seems like it. We were fortunate to visit in the peak of leaf season the first week in October. Vermont is considered the to have the most spectacular foliage in New England, I 'm a believer. We picked Woodstock as our home base as it is centrally located. 

Often called the most beautiful small town in the US, we were very happy with our selection. As you would imagine during the peak Fall season it has its share of tourists and it does. That said, it doesn't seem crowded. Do however, get dinner reservations way ahead. We stayed at 506 On the River Inn; it's a nice bed and breakfast with great views and provides a relaxing experience. It has always been one of Vermont's most prosperous towns and it is reflected in how well maintained everything feels. Plenty of shopping, restaurants, strolling and people watching opportunities. One of the most notable restaurants in the area is Simon Pearce.                                                                                                                                                         

Unfortunately, we weren't able to eat there as I couldn't get reservations over a month out. We did visit and they tried to find seats but didn't work. Nice folks and has an impressive glass store attached. Of course, it has a small, covered bridge and river for scenery. Vermont is not necessarily known for its culinary treats. It is better known for its nationally recognized craft beer (try Trapp Family), maple syrup (since Vermont produces more than 50% of the country's supply) and the "creemees," which are a slightly richer (and arguably tastier) take on soft serve ice cream. Located 15 minutes south of Woodstock in Reading, Vermont, Jenne Farm is reputed to be New England's most photographed farm. Although it is easy to miss the Jenne Road turn-off from Route 106 when navigating to this private rural property, this photogenic scene is worth taking your time to find. Photographs of Jenne Farm have appeared on posters, postcards, calendars, and corporate reports, as well as on covers of magazines like Yankee and Vermont Life. 

One of our favorite towns is Middlebury. It is the definition of quaint. With its stately brick and stone buildings along the gently sloping town green and cascading falls of the Otter Creek, Middlebury is a must-see destination. Those with a passion for history and literature will find love Middlebury, where Robert Frost lived and where writers still gather at the Middlebury College Bread Loaf Campus. It has numerous local craft stores with unique finds for the shoppers at heart. We loved just strolling the colorful streets. Be sure to find the small trail / bridge behind the city for a view of the falls. 

The drive from Middlebury to Montpelier is one of the most beautiful in the state. Winding around rivers, up and down mountains, it is simply stunning. Sadly, there were NO areas such as scenic stops for photography. I learned from a travel video, that a pet peeve of folks from Vermont are the number of tourists that stop in the middle of the road. Simple solution for all.....make some "pull off areas!" With 7500 residents, Montpelier is the US's smallest state capital by population. This city's focal point is the monumental 1859 Vermont State House, the state's gold-domed Greek Revival capitol. 

What struck us was the devastation the downtown underwent with the historic flooding of the summer of 23. Whole city blocks with the buildings and businesses halfway under water. More impressive yet was how quickly they coming-back and how the flood brought out the best of everyone from all around. Vermont strong!! People display large handmade stars on houses and businesses across the state symbolizing their determination. Maybe you will get lucky and meet 94-year-old Maxine talking to anyone that will listen about her city. Too funny. I had read that Sarducci's Italian restaurant was the best place to eat in town. Ended up going there for parking and the muscles were great. So much construction limited parking for most out of towners. 

Smugglers Notch near the mountain town of Stowe is a must do, one of the most interesting drives I've ever taken. During the War of 1812, the twisty, windy, cliff-lined, boulder-strewn mountain horse path between Underhill and Stowe was the mainline for supplies going to and coming from Canada. It played a similar role for booze during prohibition. And it was also part of the Underground Railroad. Now, a narrow, snaking road replaces the historic path through Mt. Mansfield State Forest. The rock formations at the top of the Notch with the small road curling around it are really something else. Very, very cool. 

Burlington is the largest city in Vermont and in the famous Northeast Territory. On the shores of Lake Champlain, it is one the State' s must see destinations. At the city's heart is Church Street, a pedestrian mall lined with charming boutiques, superb restaurants, and of course the mandatory Ben & Jerry's. This popular waterfront city also boasts a variety of local breweries. A very popular attraction is the Burlington Bike Path, a paved trail that runs along Lake Champlain and connects beaches, parks and neighborhoods. We took a two-hour lunch excursion on Lake Champlain Shoreline Cruises, The Spirit of Ethan Allen. It is a very high value trip with delicious food and beverage and incredible views of the lake and mountains. Don't do as we did, see Vermont, sooner rather than later. It is beautiful all year long. There is plenty more to see and do than what is in my blog. Explore Vermont, you'll be happy you did.