‘Tis almost the season for going indoors to enjoy the outdoors.
But until El Niño parks his wintry ass on the nearest Doppler radar for the duration, we’ve got ourselves an unseasonably warm November.
So before the holiday hoopla ensues — and before you have to break out the snowshoes to get there — here are three stones-throw fall retreats complete with leaf peeping, gourmet eats and at least one hideaway built into the cabin of a fully restored helicopter.
Litchfield, Connecticut
A hike to the top of Mount Tom yields 360-degree views of the surrounding area. Just two-and-a-half hours out of Manhattan, the lookout point boasts views of Long Island City and Manhattan on a clear day. Bring your ‘nocs. A short jaunt up the road, you’ll find Winvian Farms, a 113-acre resort with 18 one-of-a-kind cottages on the premises. As in: you can stay in a redesigned treehouse. Or a music conservatory. Or a freakin’ fully restored 1968 Sikorsky Sea King Pelican HH3F helicopter. Go for the view, stay for the eats. Winvian boasts a renowned farm-to-table restaurant, one of the region’s best wine cellars and daytime itineraries that include biking, kayaking and hot air ballooning.
North Adams, Massachusetts
Ninety miles of the historic Appalachian Trail traverse Massachusetts. Whether you’re in it for the long haul (in which case, we appreciate your commitment to the site) or a robust day hike, you’ll be cruising under cascading waters and through picturesque hardwood forests. After a day in the woods (biking, fishing and canoeing are also popular), hit North Adams for a little culture. Charming and artsy, it’s chock-full of galleries, including the highly distinguished MASS MoCA. Inspired by the museum itself, The Porches Inn is the 47-room cool casual hideaway a city gent needs. Just enough contemporary convenience. Just enough nothing at all. For satiation, saunter over to Public or Gramercy Bistro, both local-focused and inventive.
Canandaigua, New York
If it’s enjoying the foliage you want, this is where you’ll get it. The region is networked by some 23 plus trails covering woods, wetlands and plains — many running along the abandoned North Central Railroad line. Afterward, head over to the attic of Table on Ten in Bloomsfield for some rest. Cozy and quaint, the restaurant/inn offers in-house massages on the weekends and a not-to-be missed Friday pizza night. Swing by The Shire for top-notch swill, The Holloway House for a fine dining plate and Ommegang Brewery for some fresh suds.
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