A southern Vermont gem, Manchester Village is home to a burgeoning creative community, and makes a wonderful base for those looking to explore the region’s beautiful landscapes. Just 40 minutes from Rutland, this area is great for a trip with friends and family or as a couple. Accommodation options include everything from traditional inns to swish contemporary hotels, with the best places to stay in Manchester Village scattered between the town and the surrounding hills.
Amble through Manchester Village to visit artists’ studios, galleries, independent boutiques, farmers’ markets and fresh, farm-to-table eateries. Fill your bags with Vermont-made cheese, maple syrup, pottery or jewellery before picking a perch to feast on delectable fresh produce. There’s a top-notch selection of local craft beer and spirits to try, too! Heritage highlights include Hildene, once home to the Lincoln family, as well as the Museum of the Creative Process and the Elizabeth de C. Wilson Museum. Don’t miss the chance to see a theatrical performance in the evening, or to catch the Manchester Music Festival if you visit during the summer.
Outdoorsy explorers can spend their days fly fishing and kayaking on the Battenkill and Mettawee Rivers or hiking and horse riding in the Green Mountains. Lye Brook Falls and tricky Prospect Rock are popular hiking routes, whilst Hapgood Pond is a fun choice for a relaxing walk and a pond swim or boat trip. Come in the winter for great skiing and snow-shoeing at nearby Bromley Mountain, Stratton Mountain or Killington Mountain. There are some great golf courses in the area, too, including at one of the best places to stay in Manchester Village!
