Frost covered grass glistened with morning dew as the sun peaked over the horizon offering first warmth to the crisp, autumn air. Runners outfitted in jackets and hats passed by the
Keene, New Hampshire hotel restaurant, their breath forming puffy white steam clouds against the cobalt sky. I sipped my coffee and secured my favorite
North Face wool cap, preparing for the day ahead.
The Berkshires is one of New England's most enchanted places and has been named one of the world's last great places by the
Nature Conservancy.
Leaf peepers delight in the kaleidoscope of colors, adventurers basque
in the wide-array of outdoor pursuits, and apple pickers are in heaven.
It's a nature lovers paradise that calls the soul.
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| Church in the Berkshires |
Our first stop on this weekend adventure was the
Granville Country Store in Massachusetts.
Established in 1851, this historic time warp is home to the finest
aged cheddar cheese in New England according to local residents. "I
drive 30 miles to pick up a pound of aged cheddar," said one resident
who stopped in while I was there. "It melts in your mouth." I tried some
myself and ordered a pound of sharp cheddar. If you have a passion for
cheese, this is a must stop when passing through the Berkshires.
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| Granville Country Store |
An hour down the road, we stopped at
Toymakers Cafe in Falls Village, Connecticut for hot cider and a homemade lunch. Just off
Route 7 and the
Appalachian Trail,
this is a favorite spot for AT hikers and motorcycle enthusiasts. If
you're into vintage bikes and anything British, this is a great spot to
warm up and fill your belly. Owners Greg and author
Ann Bidou will make you feel right at home.
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| Toymakers Cafe |
Just down the road from Toymakers Cafe is
West Cornwall, Connecticut-an idyllic town with postcard-perfect scenery and New England charm. This village, famous for it's
iconic covered bridge, has been dubbed the greenest town in Connecticut.
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| Covered Bridge in West Cornwall, Connecticut |
Fly-fish the Housatonic River, snowboard
Mohawk Mountain, hike miles of trails or camp in
Housatonic Meadows State Park,
motorcycle ride scenic zig-zags, or hang out with writers, artist, and
classic motor car enthusiasts. It's an outdoor mecca and progressive
paradise that calls those who yearn for a simpler way of life.
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| Fly-fishing the Housatonic River |
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| West Cornwall's Wandering Moose Cafe |
Though a bit of a drive from Washington, D.C.,––7 hours––this weekend get-a-way was a perfect Halloween weekend retreat. I invite you to do the same...
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| Leaving the Berkshires |
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