Friday, October 18, 2019

October Newsletter: Charming towns to visit near Wilmington

October Newsletter: Charming towns to visit near Wilmington
Greetings!
We have had an amazing foliage season in Wilmington & we are getting ready for old man winter who is just around the corner. While foliage is slipping away from us there are still plenty of things to see and do in Southern Vermont.

Hope to see you soon,

Thank you,
Charlie & Megan
Charming towns not far from Wilmington
All of these towns are within one hour from Wilmington, great spots for a day trip!
Shelburne Falls, MA
About a 40 minute drive

S helburne Falls is the business district shared by the towns of Buckland and Shelburne. Once a prime Salmon fishing spot for native Americans, the village gradually emerged more than a century ago as a manufacturing community centered around industry on the Deerfield River. The village experienced a revitalization in the 1980s and 1990s, and unlike many similar communities, evolved and continues to be a vital downtown with a growing reputation as an arts community.
The village resisted the "urban renewal" trend of the 1950s and 1960s, which has left our generation with an historic, turn-of-the-century setting for a unique mix of locally owned businesses.
It's a village where you can buy either a head of iceberg lettuce or a hand-blown glass vase! Shelburne Falls is home to the world-famous Bridge of Flowers, which attracts more than 35,000 visitors a year, as well as the Glacial Potholes, a curiously beautiful rock formation. The Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum celebrates the village's transportation heritage.

Dorset, VT
About a 45 minute drive

Dorset is well known for its mountains, valleys & New England village charm.  Historically Dorset is famous for being the location of Cephas Kent's Inn, where four meetings of the Convention that signed the Dorset Accords led to the independent Vermont Republic and future statehood. Chartered in 1761, Dorset is a vibrant and historic community nestled in the hills of southern Vermont.

This charmer is the first little town on  Route 30  as it rambles toward the Champlain Valley. In the village center, a picture-perfect green unfolds between Church Street’s marble sidewalks. There’s the Dorset Union Store, and 3 Pears Gallery. There’s patio dining at Barrows House or a perfect (second) coffee drink at the lovely Dorset Rising. Not to miss, Flower Brook Pottery (buy a piece or paint your own) and Dorset Players.

Weston, VT
About an hour drive

W eston Vermont is a town located in Windsor County, in the Southern Vermont region of the state. A hidden gem among the Green Mountains of Vermont, Weston is a town for all seasons, interests and ages, and a relaxing, rewarding step back in time. Centered around a village green complete with bandstand, Weston is one of Vermont's most picturesque villages.

During the warmer months visitors come from far and wide to visit the nationally renowned Vermont Country Store, the Weston Priory (a small Benedictine Monastery known world-wide for the singing voices While in Weston, you can dine in any of Weston’s excellent restaurants.

Putney, VT
About a 35 minute drive

Putney is home to the unspoiled spirit of an authentic Vermont village. Just minutes north of Brattleboro with quick access from Exit 4 off I-91, you’ll discover unique farm-to-table dining, browse eclectic shops, enjoy pick-your-own fresh fruits, and explore Putney’s renowned culture of arts and crafts. Spend the night and enjoy an intimate live performance of story telling, music, or film.

Our rural setting with lush rolling hills and classic Vermont vistas is a gateway to many outdoor adventures by foot, bike, or boat. Come experience the quiet, the beauty, and a friendly welcome.

A little more about Wilmington, VT



For first timers to Wilmington, here is some great information about the town.

Find the unusual in shops, eateries, galleries and inns. Nestled in the mountains, Wilmington is a working, vintage village that has evolved from its mill town roots to an engaging and entertaining town center.

At the only stoplight on Route 9 between Brattleboro and Bennington, Wilmington is the nearest Vermont skiing destination for major East Coast cities. Mount Snow, Timber Creek and Prospect Mountain provide both alpine and cross-country skiing. Walk or hike miles miles of woodland trails, and paddle with the Zoar Adventure Center on one of the many lakes where fishing and boating abound.
Summer celebrates the best of farm-to-table culture: fiddleheads, blueberries, wine & harvest, and Farmer’s Day Festivals. The walk-able downtown leads to a dozen eateries.

The acoustically wonderful Memorial Hall hosts performances from puppet shows to folk, rock and jazz, along with community events including lectures, readings and crafts. Check out the Southern Vermont Natural History Museum on Hogback Mountain or the local historical society, and venture into the McGrath or Wright Galleries to see painters at their craft.

Local boutiques round out a selection of gifts, homewares and clothing including specialty stores such as Quaigh Designs, The Vermont Bowl Company and the Norton Quilt House. Bartleby’s bookshelves are stacked with the latest for a rainy-day read – and feature a great selection of children’s books.


Fly-fishing has begun!
Fall fly-fishing has begun & the fish are hungry! Come join us for some fly-fishing this fall.

Input the promo code "fly2019" & receive 15% off this fall!

Monday, September 16, 2019

September Newsletter: Best places to view foliage

September Newsletter: Best places to view foliage
Greetings!
The seasons are changing and Fall is on its way to Wilmington. Cool nights are upon us and the leaves are slowly changing colors. We hope everyone had a great summer, we are ready for a fantastic foliage season in Vermont!

Hope to see you soon,

Thank you,
Charlie & Megan
Foliage viewing spots & hikes
Here are some great locations to see a vast view of foliage, as well as some great hikes with amazing foliage vistas.
Skyline Drive on Mount Equinox
Arlington, VT

There is no better way to enjoy the splendor of the Green Mountain State and the surrounding areas of New England than from the privately owned summit of Mount Equinox and the Skyline Drive! 

At 3,848 feet above sea level, the summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Green, White, Adirondack, Berkshire and Taconic mountain ranges. Several paved parking areas provide spectacular views, but most outstanding is the Skyline Drive itself as you drive along the crest of the mountain on your way to the summit. The Green Mountains, The Valley of Vermont and the White Mountains of New Hampshire may be seen to the east. The Adirondack Mountains of New York provide the backdrop to the west, and the Taconic and Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts to the south. 

At 5.2 miles, the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive is the longest privately owned paved toll road in the U.S. Those who prefer to hike can pick up a trail map at the Toll House. At the top of the mountain is our new Saint Bruno Scenic Viewing Center packed with info about Equinox Mountain and the Carthusian Monks. The private property which is 7,000 acres is owned by the Carthusain monks.


Scenic Chairlift rides @ Mount Snow
Dover, VT

Take a scenic ride on the Bluebird Express to the summit of Mount Snow! 

The Bluebird Express is open select days from June through October and daily during peak fall foliage season. Take in the beautiful surrounding views with highlights including Somerset Reservoir, Mount Monadnock, and sometimes even Mount Washington! Head into The Bullwheel for lunch and brew.


Hogback Mountain
Marlboro, VT

The famous “100-Mile View” from Hogback Mountain in Marlboro is more than just a pretty place. When you stop at this popular scenic overlook on Route 9 (the Molly Stark Byway), you’ll find gorgeous views of forested land and mountains in Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. But if you look a little closer, you’ll find remnants of Vermont’s ski history and meet people who rallied together to protect the land from development.

Formerly a ski area owned by the White family for 40 years, Hogback Mountain closed in 1986. Thanks to the efforts of local residents, the mountain remains a treasure for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The  Hogback Mountain Conservation Association  purchased the property a few years ago and eventually transferred the land to the Town of Marlboro and the property’s conservation easement to the Vermont Land Trust.
Hogback is now open year-round to the public for hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and more.

On the top of Hogback, there are several fun locations to visit:
Hogback Gift Shop
Foliage Hikes
The following are some great locations to go for a hike & view the beautiful foliage!
Haystack Mountain
Wilmington, VT

Haystack Mountain is a 3,445 foot mountain in Wilmington, Vermont, USA. Haystack Mountain, from surrounding areas, is the tallest peak seen by eye. 

Located near Wilmington, the Haystack Mountain Trail has everything from sweeping views across the landscape to beautiful wildflowers in spring. In the summer and fall, the foliage is unreal. Over the course of the hike, you’ll gain about 1,000 feet in elevation. Along the way, beautiful mossy boulders, gargantuan fallen tree trunks, and trickling streams will enchant you.
Mt. Olga in The Molly Stark State Park
Wilmington, VT

Welcome to Molly Stark State Park, named for the famous wife of General John Stark of the Revolutionary War.

The park is located along the Molly Stark Trail Scenic Byway (State Route 9), the main east-west route in Southern Vermont that connects Brattleboro, Wilmington and Bennington.

Mount Olga Trail is a 1.7 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Wilmington, Vermont that features a river and is good for all skill levels. There is a fire tower located at the peak of Mount Olga. This former fire watchmen’s lookout is kept open for recreational viewing of the expansive 360 degree views of the southern Vermont Green Mountains, the Berkshires to the south in Massachusetts, and Mount Monadnock to the east in New Hampshire. The trail is primarily used for hiking and walking and is best used from May until October

Fly-fishing in the fall is epic!
Fly-fishing is fantastic in the fall as the temperature cools down. Check out packages & come stay with us & catch some fish!

Thank you for your continued support

Tuesday, July 16, 2019

July Newsletter: Family friendly activities in & around Wilmington

July Newsletter: Family activities in & around Wilmington
Greetings!
Summer is cruising right along in Wilmington & the weather is beautiful!

Please enjoy our July blog about family friendly activities to do in Wilmington & surrounding areas.

Thank you,
Charlie & Megan
Fun family activities in & around Wilmington
Here are some great family friendly activities to do in Wilmington & surrounding areas!
Southern Vermont Natural History Museum
Marlboro, VT

The Southern Vermont Natural History Museum fosters an interest in nature, the environment and the natural sciences through exhibition and educational activities. The museum displays one of New England's largest collections of native species along with live animal exhibits, ecology, geology and natural history exhibits. With nearby access to over 600 protected acres of hiking trails , the family fun and adventure can continue outside year-round.

Zoar Outdoor
Wilmington, VT

Zoar Outdoor is located directly across the street from The Wilmington Inn. Zoar offer kayak, paddle board & bike rentals from their Wilmington location. Zoar also offers zip lining, rope courses, kayak & whitewater tours from their Charlemont location as well. Great for all ages!

High Country Marine
Wilmington, VT

High Country Marine is located about 1 mile from The Wilmington Inn. The great staff at High Country rents Pontoon boats, Bayliner boats, Jet Skis, canoes & kayaks. They even offer tubes to tow behind their boats for family fun!

North Star Bowling
Wilmington, VT

Great spot in Wilmington to get out of the heat & enjoy some fun activities! North Star has candlepin bowling, arcade, mini golf & great food!
Mount Snow
Dover, VT

Mount Snow is a great local destination for all ages. During the summer, they have scenic chairlift rides, hiking, mountain bike trails & family camps.

Retreat Farm
Brattleboro, VT


Retreat Farm is a historic educational farm and home to a new nonprofit organization. Connect with your family and friends, spend time with farm animals, explore nature, and be inspired by a beautiful, historic setting. Meet goats, sheep, pigs, a giant ox and more! You can visit baby animals, collect eggs, and pick a snack from the garden. Discover the forest playground, splash in the stream, and enjoy time outside. Explore 9 miles of hiking, biking, and skiing trails and the 80+acre Meadows, perfect for paddling and skating in the winter. With concerts, festivals, ballet performances, food and wellness workshops, goat yoga, and their Food Truck Roundup series, there is always something to do, see and experience. 

Berkshire East
Charlemont, MA


Berkshire East is located about 30 minutes from Wilmington & it is a great summer spot to visit! Berkshire East offers multiple summer activities; zip lining canopy tours, aerial adventure courses (adults & Children), Mountain Coast, mountain bike park, Tree House trail & whitewater rafting.

Bromley Mountain
Peru, VT


Looking for a great family summer adventure? Bromley is your family-friendly summer resort! With 23 rides and attractions, Bromley has loads of summer activities for everyone. At a full 2/3 of a mile long; thrills await kids and adults alike on their classic triple track Alpine Slide. The Sun Mountain Flyer, a ZipRider®, zooms at speeds up to 50mph over half a mile with a 700 foot vertical drop! Rated Best Treetop Play in New England by the Boston Globe, Bromley's Aerial Adventure Park boasts 65 elements over 5 courses for the ultimate summer family fun. And there's so much more: mini golf, bungee trampolines, and the Giant Swing, just to name a few.

Summer Packages
Check out our great packages this summer!

Thank you for your continued support