The Informed Traveler: VERMONT!

By Carrie McDougall

Vermont has five seasons, (including its unofficial fifth season, “mud season”) and is a perfect destination year-round.

If you are reading Vermont Bride chances are that you are planning your wedding in Vermont. You might already know about Vermont’s hospitality and natural beauty. It offers something for everyone, so there really is no “best time to go.” It will vary depending on your interests, activities or relaxation mode.

While I write in each issue about great faraway places to go for your honeymoon, you might want to consider staying in Vermont to relax and unwind after all your planning and your big day.

Vermont has five seasons, (including its unofficial fifth season, “mud season”) and is a perfect destination year-round. Its quintessential towns, with charming covered bridges, country stores, white church steeples, village greens, rolling hills and mountains, make it very picturesque.

You have all the resources you need to plan your Vermont honeymoon right here in this magazine. There are a variety of accommodations, and the food is eclectic, from homegrown farm fresh food to international and American cuisine. Enjoy award-winning wine, cider, beer and cheese, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, as well as apple, blueberry and strawberry picking, and delectable organic food.

Winter

This time of year is full of fun, festivities, and winter carnivals. Vermont is home to some of the best downhill skiing in the East. There’s also cross country skiing on groomed trails or head out on back country trails for that romantic escape. Enjoy sledding, snowboarding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, ice climbing, ice skating indoors or on outdoor ponds, even experience a dog sled ride or watch the races. If adventure isn’t your thing, you can unwind in comfortable inns and B & Bs and resorts. Cozy up by the fire, luxuriate at day spas, relax with a soothing massage, Jacuzzi or hot tub. Snuggle up under warm blankets, with the sounds of jingle bells on a sleigh ride and end your evening with a romantic fireside dinner, finally retreating to your room with champagne and even a crackling fire beside your bed.

MUD SEASON

Vermont’s fifth season is the transition time between winter and spring when the snow begins to melt and the dirt roads and turn soft, creating deep ruts and making it difficult for cars to maneuver. It is also a time when Vermonters and visitors can get great discounts at many lodgings and spas. The sap is running and maple syrup makers begin the boiling process. As with all Vermont seasons, there are many micro-breweries to try and furniture and cheese makers and antique stores to visit.

SPRING

Spring is a time for new growth as the crocuses, tulips and daffodils peak their heads up. The sap is running and maple sugar on snow is a special treat. Vermont is home to the largest maple syrup and maple candy producers in the world. While there is spring skiing, kayaks and canoes appear and craft shows and farmers’ markets begin. Artisans who have been working indoors all winter show their handmade products.

SUMMER

Summer showcases concerts, music festivals, biking, horseback riding and hiking the Appalachian or Long Trail. Hot air ballooning, hang gliding, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, camping, fishing, golf, tennis, bird watching and camping under starry skies are all great pastimes. There are quilt, garden and car shows. Farmers’ markets are in full swing and great chefs create mouthwatering meals, often with local organic food.

FALL

Vermont is known for its stunning fall foliage, when tree leaves turn orange, red, and yellow. Outdoor activities abound. “Leaf peepers” come from all over the world, and accommodations often are booked over a year in advance. It’s a peaceful time to take long walks, or bike along country roads before heading to the spa or warming up beside the fire with a mug of hot chocolate or a glass of wine.

Also be sure to read Carrie McDougall's "Special places & best times to go! " from the Spring 2011 issue of Vermont Bride Magazine.

Read our library of Vermont love stories online here.

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