From the ocean to the mountains, New England features some
truly spectacular scenic drives. While we always recommend getting out
to walk to truly enjoy the details of our region -- and get good
exercise -- sometimes there's nothing like a nice, relaxing ride where
one can enjoy a wide screen rolling view of the glory of scenic New
England travel. Here are a few can't-miss scenic drives that best represent New
England travel:
Route 169 from Woodstock to
Canterbury, Connecticut
Route 169 in Woodstock
With nearly 200 pre-1855 homes along with farms, historic
churches and classic Connecticut village green centers, Route 169 is
one of New England's true hidden gem scenic rides. The gentle rolling
hills, historic landmarks and roll-down-the-windows-and-feel-good
breeze of this scenic byway make Route 169 one of the most beautiful
bucolic drives in New England
Acadia National Park Loop, Acadia
National Park, Maine
Beyond scenic Acadia
National Park. Credit: NPS / Kristi Rugg
Perhaps the ultimate can't-miss scenic drive in New England, this 27-mile loop offers truly spectacular Atlantic Ocean
views. Driving the loop is breathtaking enough with its incredible
sunsets, amazing Maine rocky coast and the mix of ocean and mountains,
but we strongly suggest getting out of the car to climb Gorham
Mountain, you get an incredible view of the glacial blue Atlantic Ocean
and Thunder Hole, with its waves creating a sonic boom. Sand Beach,
just under 300 yards long, may be short in distance, but endless in
beauty -- so untouched and so small and intimate is this wonder of
nature that it makes you wish that you could bring this environment
home. Also noteworthy is the view of fjords along Sergeant's
Drive in Northeast Harbor (pictured above).
Route 6A Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Scenic Sandwich Harbor
right off Route 6A
The salt-air, tree-lined Route 6A hugging the ocean with
its captain's homes, fine New England restaurants and charming bed and
breakfasts bring us back to the Cape Cod we remember -- not the
commercial laden strips that threaten this beloved New England vacation
destination. Scenic Route 6A, also known as the Old King's Highway,
stretches 34 miles through endless scenes of salt marshes, harbors and
seemingly endless open land in esteemed New England communities like
Bourne, Sandwich, Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis, Brewster and Orleans.
You're sure "to fall in love with Old Cape Cod" in this 34-mile stretch
of travel heaven. It is, simply, one of the best coastal scenic drives in New England.
Lake Winnipesaukee scenic drive, New
Hampshire
Meredith with Lake Winnipesaukee providing breathtaking scenery no matter what time of the year
If you're in the mood to see some of New England most
charming towns and villages, along with one of eastern United States,
most stunning lakes, then the Lake Winnipesaukee drive will leave you
breathless. Small, unassuming communities like Meredith, Center Harbor,
Moltonborough, and Wolfeboro all have a scenic lake presence and plenty
to do in the form of swimming, shopping, dining, lodging and, of
course, picture taking. There are many great roads trips in the area,
but recommended is Route 3 to Meredith, Route 25 to Moutlenborough and
Routes 117 and 109 to Wolfeboro.
Ocean Drive, Newport, Rhode Island
Ocean Drive in Newport
The scenic mansions along Bellevue Avenue is what Newport,
R.I., is best known for, but around the corner is a short loop called
Ocean Drive, which affords some commanding coastal views. The whole 10-mile drive is breathtaking with many stopping for the spectacular views at Brenton Point State Park where Narragansett Bay meets with the Atlantic Ocean. Beside the views, Brenton Point State Park is also a great place for picnics, walking, bird watching and fishing. Ultimately, Ocean Drive is truly one of those "you just had to be there" destinations -- the written word cannot fully describe the instantly memorable panoramic scenic coastal glory.
Jeffersonville to Stowe, Vermont
Stowe, Vt., in the
summer (Photo source; GoStowe.com)
Jeffersonville could very well be the ultimate New England town with beautiful old colonial homes, antique shops, art galleries, and general stores. Jeffersonville has a great feel to it, something that has to be experienced. Over a rugged, scenic notch where the weather can change in a heartbeat during any season is the popular and appealing village of Stowe. Stowe with great little shops, superb and diverse dining choices, state-of-the art ski facilities and some of the best lodging in New England. What matters most, however, is that despite all the development, Stowe still feels like a small, relaxed village. With that in mind, there's no better time to visit Stowe than in the fall when the leaves in this picturesque village turn brilliant colors.
Kancamagus Highway.
Photo courtesy of Ellen Edersheim/White Mountains Attractions
This 34-mile highway in the heart of the White
Mountains, is best known for some of New England's most spectacular
fall foliage. It's very impressive the rest of the year, too, with
wonderful forest and mountains views. The Kancamagus Scenic Byway spans
from Lincoln to Conway -- two attraction-filled, scenic regions in the
White Mountains.
Mohawk Trail, Route 2, Mid to Western
Massachusetts
Idyllic Williamstown, in
the heart of the Berkshires
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Eric
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