Classic Walks in Vermont

Day 1: Arrive in Burlington

After arriving in Burlington, take a local taxi to the beautiful Essex Culinary Resort & Spa (approx. 20mins). Once you've settled in, take advantage of the in-house spa or even one of their popular cooking classes. Enjoy your evening meal at one of the hotels two restaurants - The Tavern, a local take on pub fare or The Junction, a luxurious yet laid-back restaurant.
Overnight The Essex Culinary Resort & Spa, Burlington (breakfast included).

Day 2: Transfer from Burlington to Waterbury & Short Riverside Walk 3KM

Enjoy a leisurely morning or explore some of Burlington before transferring to your next accommodation in Waterbury (approx. 30mins). Take a gentle riverside walk which loops through the historic village of Waterbury, enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. There are several restaurants and taverns just a short walk from your accommodation to choose from for your evening meal.
Overnight Old Stagecoach Inn, Waterbury (breakfast included).

Day 3: Entering the Mad Valley 13KM

Begin with a short transfer to the starting point of your walk where you'll walk from the lovely hills of South Duxbury, along farm roads and seldom-used trails. Descend into Fayston through forest and open hillsides where you'll see evidence of maple-sugaring and pass a swimming pond - a great place to stop for lunch. Continue along hilly country roads before reaching the peaceful Yellow Farmhouse Inn on the outskirts of Waitsfield.
Overnight Yellow Farmhouse Inn, Waitsfield (breakfast included).

Day 4: Valley Views & Green Mountains 9KM

Leave your inn and head directly for the historic village of Waitsfield where you'll find an abundance of shops, a local food tasting store, a classic Vermont covered bridge, a brewery, and riverside park if you want to stop for a swim. As you leave the village walking up the side of the valley, you'll be rewarded with excellent views of the Green Mountains. Make your way back down to the valley floor and proceed to Hyde Away Inn.
Overnight Hyde Away Inn, Mad River Valley (breakfast included).

Day 5: Over the Brook & Through the Woods 9KM

Start your walk with a gradual ascent into the wooded hills separating the towns of Waitsfield and Warren after crossing a wooden footbridge over the Mill Brook. You'll journey along quiet, shaded paths that are home to a variety of birds and other wildlife. After emerging from the forest, it's a short road walk in the shadow of the mountains before arriving at your next inn where you'll spend two nights.
Overnight West Hill House, Warren (breakfast included).

Day 6: Lincoln Gap to Warren via Mt. Abraham 12KM

A short transfer will take you up the Lincoln Gap where you'll hike a section of Vermont's famous long trail which stretches nearly 300 miles from Massachusetts to Canada. Pre-dating the Appalachian Trail, this is one of the oldest long-distance hiking trails in the US, and one of the most challenging. Some sections require scrambling over exposed granite where you'll emerge above the treeline and reach the summit of Mt. Abraham, offering 360 views as far as New Hampshire's White Mountains and the expansive Lake Champlain. Descend via Mt. Lincoln and the top of Sugarbush ski resort before returning to your accommodation. Please note, this walk is challenging, and therefore optional - it may also be difficult to complete in bad weather. You may choose to relax in the comfort of your accommodation or enjoy exploring the village.
Overnight West Hill House, Warren (breakfast included).

Day 7: Depart for home

After a lovely breakfast at your inn, you'll be transferred back to Burlington airport for your flight home or to enjoy extra nights in this lovely city.