Why go: After the leaf-peepers have left and before the skiers arrive by the busload, there's a welcome calm in this picturesque mountainous pocket of New England. The towns of Grafton and Newfane are quintessential Vermont, comprising clapboard houses, white church spires, and country inns. Between lung-expanding hikes, shop for fudge and maple syrup at the Newfane Country Store (802-365-7916), nibble cheddar at the Grafton Village Cheese Company, which makes it (802-843-2221), or just sip a hot toddy before a fire and toast the waning days of fall.
How: From New York and points south, take I-91 to Route 121 west to reach Grafton. From Boston, I-90 west gets you to I-91.
Room: At Grafton's handsome Old Tavern, ask for room 6, in the corner (800-843-1801; doubles, $115-$350). Newfane's Four Columns Inn is less historic but slightly plusher (800-787-6633; doubles, $115-$280).
Table: The award-winning restaurant at the Four Columns Inn is hallowed ground for serious foodies. Reserve a table in advance (800-787-6633; entrés, $22-$30).
Wear: Woolens, a down parka, and boots.
Weather: High 40s during the day; nippy at night.
P.S.:The celebrated crafts show in Putney, south of Grafton, is November 29 and 30. |
