Brattleboro is 105 miles NW of Boston and 148 miles SE of Burlington.
The southern Green Mountains are New England writ large. If you've developed a notion in your head of what New England looks like but haven't been there, this may be the place you're thinking of, with its small villages in valleys flanked by steep and leafy hillsides, white clapboard inns, and diners where the men all wear gimme caps and stop talking when you walk in the door.
The hills and valleys around the bustling town of Brattleboro in Vermont's southeast corner contain some of the state's best-hidden treasures. Driving along the main valley floors -- on roads along the West or Connecticut rivers, or on Route 100 -- tends to be fast and only moderately interesting. To really soak up the region's flavor, turn off the main roads and wander up and over rolling ridges into the narrow folds in the mountains that hide peaceful villages. If it looks as though the landscape hasn't changed all that much in the past 2 centuries, well, you're right. It really hasn't.
This region is well known for its pristine and historic villages. You can't help but stumble across them as you explore, and no matter how many other people have found them before you, there's nearly always a sense that these are your own private discoveries. A good strategy is to stop for a spell in Brattleboro to stock up on supplies or sample some local food or music. Then set off for the southern Green Mountains, settle into a remote inn, and continue exploring by foot or bike. In winter, you can even plumb the snowy hills by cross-country ski or snowshoe.
Looking for More Information?--The best source of information on the region is a new state visitor center (tel. 802/254-4593) right off I-91 in Guilford, south of Brattleboro; you can only reach it by traveling north on I-91, not south. This beautiful building, inspired by Vermont's barns, is filled with maps, brochures, and videos on activities in the region. Helpful staff dole out up-to-the-minute information, make reservations, and otherwise guide you. The vending machines and spotless bathrooms here are a boon to families.
