With its gorgeous Green Mountains, deep and rolling waterways, dense timberland and other stunning natural features, Vermont stands out as an amazing destination for new residents and visitors alike.
It’s a state celebrated for its Sugar Maple trees (and that resulting delicious syrup – 50% of the nation’s production), as well as four distinct seasons that bring brilliant scenic changes to the landscape throughout the year. The warmer months call hikers, equine enthusiasts and dedicated anglers to the great outdoors, while the winter welcomes snow skiers to some of the world’s best slopes.
Vermont is committed to quality educational offerings at all levels, but especially at the college/university level. Even though predominantly rural, the state has a diverse mix of cultures and options for a variety of lifestyles. And if privacy and serenity in a peaceful setting is what you seek, there might not be a better choice than settling down here in Vermont.
Let’s take a closer look at the appeal of Vermont, particularly in and around the northwestern areas that United Country Real Estate | Mike Jarvis Group serves.
Vermont is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Towns such as Colchester or Burlington here in Chittenden County are surrounded by forests and numerous water features. Grand Isle County on the far northwestern end of the state includes the Lake Champlain Islands (always a popular summertime destination). And really, just about anywhere in Vermont, from the central region ski resorts to the small villages of the south and beyond … there’s ample opportunity for outdoor recreation.
The Green Mountain National Forest includes historical sites, and all kinds of great spots for hiking, biking, camping, fishing and other activities. Farther north of that, Mount Mansfield State Forest (named for Vermont’s highest peak) features four state parks with all the typical amenities. It’s also a hot spot for ski resorts and VAST snowmobile trails.
And even if you exclude the four state parks within the Mansfield forest, there are still dozens of others statewide, with most concentrated in the central and northern regions of Vermont.
If you’re looking to keep things closer to town but still amid plentiful natural beauty, check out the Burlington Greenway with its eight-mile path along the Lake Champlain shoreline. It runs through various smaller parks and neighborhoods, as well as some downtown areas in Burlington. Plus, you can take a seasonal bike ferry that will allow you to ride on the Champlain Islands.
Northwest Vermont’s educational and cultural offerings are as enriching as experiencing the joy of the state’s beauty outdoors. Upholding a long-lasting commitment to learning, Vermont is among the most educated states in the nation.
Located in Colchester, Saint Michael’s College is a liberal arts institution with a picturesque campus, Division II athletics and a Catholic founding. In Burlington, Champlain College provides a cutting-edge education while being immersed in the city’s vibrant cultural scene. It has been named a “Most Innovative School” for several years and has the digital excellence and environmental efforts to back up that claim.
The University of Vermont, also situated in Burlington, is the state’s flagship university. It’s known as a top research school with topics ranging from groundbreaking environmental and sustainability studies, to business, medicine, the arts and more.
Speaking of artistic and cultural endeavors, if that’s where your interest lies, you’ll want to visit Shelburne Museum and its 45 acres of pasture filled with historical buildings, 22 gardens and a 220-foot steamboat. One of the more captivating as well as educational features on the museum’s campus is the Pizzagalli Center for Art and Education. It showcases ever-changing art, music, film, lecture and other programs within an award-winning architectural design.
Vermont’s culinary landscape offers a delightful fusion of flavors and experiences, whether that’s the state’s famed maple syrup, local libations from brewers and vintners, fresh seafood or anything else you may find throughout the state. Let’s take a glimpse at a sample of the Northern Vermont offerings in counties such as Orleans, Chittenden, Franklin and Lamoille.
D&D Sugarwoods Farm in Glover, Vt., invites you to try its selection of Vermont maple syrups, candies and other tasty treats. Shelburne Sugarworks is another must-see for those who love to indulge their sweet tooth. The 170-acre maple farm also offers tours by appointment.
At Shelburne Vineyard, wine aficionados can savor locally crafted wines while enjoying views of the vineyard’s picturesque setting. The business also hosts musical events and game nights. With locations in Burlington and Hinesburg and a welcoming atmosphere, Foam Brewers is the place to be if you’re a craft beer enthusiast. When it comes to liquor, Smuggler’s Notch Distillery stands out as a must-see, with its original 10-acre facility in Jefferson, and three additional tasting rooms across Vermont.
No visit to Vermont is complete without a stroll down the iconic Church Street Market Place in Burlington, a bustling hub of dining, shopping and street performances. Likewise, Shelburne is another town with decent and varied cuisine options. For more of a fine dining experience with a focus on local vendors, Jeff’s Maine Seafood in St. Albans is a solid choice.
Sometimes, the best way to discover your new favorite culinary delight is by attending a community’s regular events and annual festivals. Essex’s Community Day in October is always a fun time, while South Burlington’s Energy Festival brings out food trucks, music, games and even free ice cream … all in the name of sustainable energy education, of course.
Sources:
Vermont.gov
VermontVacation.com
ColchesterVt.gov
HelloBurlingtonVt.com
BurlingtonVt.gov
ShelburneVt.org
EssexVt.org
Education.Vermont.gov
CcRpcVt.org
Stacker.com
Fpr.Vermont.gov
StateParks.com
Nps.gov
NationalForests.org
En.Wikipedia.org