June 2007 Archives

The northwest corner of Connecticut is the setting for Litchfield County and the foothills of the Berkshires, often called the Litchfield Hills. The county spreads outward from the villages of Salisbury and Canaan, south through Kent to New Milford, east to Barkhamstead and southeast to the village of Litchfield and on to Torrington and Watertown. This scenic area contains a treasure trove of things to do and places to visit. There are marvelous restaurants, historic sites, wineries, covered bridges, parks and lakes and many other things to see. While the area is very popular in the summer and fall, there is so much to do and see here that any time is a good time to visit.

This old time theme park nestled in the Mount Washington Valley of New Hampshire has remained a summer destination for generations of families. Parents and grandparents return to introduce their children to the park they knew and loved as kids. On their return, they are often pleasantly surprised to find fun new additions such as the Polar Coaster as well as all their old favorites like Cinderella's Castle and The Antique Automobile Ride.

The town of New Milford lies near the southwest corner of Litchfield County, not far from the New York state line. New Milford is about 15 miles north of Danbury, along routes 7 and 202 where the two roads divide. Route 7 follows the Housatonic River north to Kent and on up into Massachusetts and Vermont. Route 202 heads northeast through the village of Litchfield, into Torrington and on to Hartford.

Back along Rt. 202 heading south and you will come next to the idyllic little village of New Preston. Just off the highway, where CT 45 meets US 202, this town has been transformed in recent years from a utilitarian country village to a collection of boutiques, galleries and fine restaurants. There are a number of small art and antique galleries here as well as some excellent places to eat. Heading out of town along CT 45 you come immediately to Lake Waramaug. This glacial lake is the scene of a state park, rowing races, a winery and several more fine inns and restaurants.

As you drive down US 202 from the village of Litchfield, or up from New Milford, turn south on State highway 47 to take you to the villages of Washington Depot and Washington. These small towns are full of things to see and do year round and make a great place to spend a day or weekend. Nestled in the hills and river valley, these small towns give you a feel for life in this part of the country as it has been for hundreds of years. While having all the amenities of life in the 21st century, you are far enough off the main highways that it can feel as if you have traveled back in time. Step into the Gunn Memorial Library and actually get a feel for what it was like here 150 years ago.