Caledonia County Fair 2009

Lyndonville, VT

The town of Lyndonville, Vermont is celebrating 162 years of Caledonia County Fair at the Mountain View Park this year. There will be plenty of games, food, fun, and best of all… the demolition derby! The 1st place winner for being the last car standing will walk away with $600. There will be plenty more exhibits such as antique demos, floral hall and craft exhibits, cattle/sheep/poultry/aquarium exhibits, a maple display, Alpaca demonstrations, Children’s Freedom Train, and of course King of Silly . There’s surely no county fair without the rides and this year Dreamland Amusements is proud to present exciting attractions for all ages for the last 8 years in a row. For more information visit their website . About a half an hour down the road lies the Rabbit Hill Inn which was recently ranked in the top 100 hotels in the world by Travel & Leisure. With a handsome score of 91.9 and ranked #1 in the U.S. for all aspects such as environment, ambiance, hospitality, service and accommodations. Featured in previous blogs is their Pink Slip Getaway Package that will help those unemployed take some vacation time, too.

“We’re very proud to be placed in such good company with the most distinctive hotels, resorts and inns in the world,” said Leslie Mulcahy, co-owner of the Rabbit Hill Inn. “Knowing that chateaus, safari clubs and island resorts were included on the list, it’s quite a humbling notion to be ranked among the best in the world. We’re delighted that our guests and Travel & Leisure readers shared their insight into our highlights to secure us a place on this list,” finished Mulcahy.

May 23 & 24, 2009

Back in September, the Vermont Crafts Council organizes directions and maps to all the sites of the Vermont craftspeople whom work in studios located in or close to their residences. Throughout the Winter, they continue accepting applications of sites and develop directions. Around the first week of April, it all comes together to make The Open Studio Weekend, named one of the Top Ten Summer Events in a Vermont Chamber of Commerce competition in 1997. On this event, you will be able to see for yourself the production of many finished works of art, the atmosphere of their workplace, and even talk with the artist them self all in the place of the artists’ workplace. You’ll see the swatches that have not been chosen for the quilt or the work that is experimental or not serious enough for the gallery. As you can see on the map below, it will be almost impossible to run out of places to visit on this exciting weekend. Thinking about attending both days of the Open Studio Weekend? The Distinctive Inns of New England can help you find the right place to stay in Vermont to make your weekend just a bit better with luxurious accommodations.

Going from idea to reality: Placing studios on the map.

View one of America’s top ten most beautiful state parks in the heart of New Hampshire, the Flume Gorge at Franconia Notch State Park. The 200-year-old Flume is a natural granite gorge extending 800 feet at the base of Mount Liberty Walk with granite walls rising to 90 feet. Walk through the stunning, moss-covered granite walls, to the cascading waterfalls, into historic covered bridges, past glacial boulders and much more. It will open for visitors on May 9th from 10am – 5pm until the end of October depending on weather conditions. Entrance fee is Adults $12.00; Children (6-11) $8.00 and 5 & under is free.

 Click here to watch a video about The Flume Gorge. 

About 30 minutes up Route 93, the Rabbit Hill Inn is offering the Pink Slip Getaway Giveaway for a limited time to make your vacation weekend as relaxing as can be. Leslie and Brian Mulcahy realize that downsized workers today finally have time to travel but may not have the resources. In response to that, the Rabbit Hill Inn will give away six getaways to unemployed workers; one each month from April through July and again in November and December. If you or a spouse has been unemployed for more than six months, Rabbit Hill Inn wants to hear the story and will award the deserving couple with a rejuvenating two night getaway, including everything from beautiful accommodations to a candlelight dinner. Simply send a letter or email by June 1, 2009 explaining your story in one page or less:

Rabbit Hill Inn Getaway Giveaway
P.O. Box 55
Lower Waterford Road, VT  05848
or send an email to info@rabbithillinn.com

For more details visit the Rabbit Hill Inn website and enjoy your stay!

Vermont’s Rabbit Hill Inn is going to be a prize on “The Wheel”! How cool is that? Watch Wheel of Fortune on Tuesday, March 24th to see if someone wins a 6-night getaway to this luxurious Four Diamond Inn. Although the show has already been taped, it’s a big secret whether or not someone has won the prize. Wheel  of Fortune airs in 28 countries to some 44 million viewers. We think this is great exposure for the Northeast Kingdom, the real Vermont! Through BedandBreakfast.com, who covers airfare and rental car, Rabbit Hill was selected as the quintessential New England getaway for quiet romance, elegant and sophisticated dining, great outdoor activities, and nature’s peace. We are thrilled and we hope you’ll watch!

For more information about the Rabbit Hill Inn refer to previous blogs or visit their website.

This year the Rabbit Hill Inn is offering more fun-filled getaways than ever. With any season packages, you’re bound to find the perfect vacation for you and your spouse or friend. Below are a brief on each package. For more information visit The Rabbit Hill Inn website or call 802-748-5168.

SNOWMOBILE PACKAGE

The Alpine Adventure Company will guide you through the breathtaking terrain of Francaonia Notch State Park. All equipment and guidance is available for you to enjoy your adventure stress-free. A two-night package includes food, friendly service, a warm and cozy atmosphere and guided snowmobile tours. Rates start as low as $699 for couples so make your reservation now!

WILD TRUCK SAFARI

What’s better than an extreme off-road drive in a 6-wheel drive Swiss army Pinzgauer vehicle? Alpine Adventure Company takes you through a thrilling ride in the wild trails of Barron Mountain in New England. Great music, gorgeous landscapes, and extreme fun. What more could you ask for? Oh, yeah… food. On this two-night safari package comes….

delectable food and service and, of course, the Mud Puddle cocktails at Snooty Fox Pub. Check out this video to see what’s in for your next Wild Truck Safari vacation.

ZIP LINE ADVENTURE PACKAGE

Here’s the one place where you can make an impossible wish come true. That is to fly. Alpine Adventure Company makes this possible on their Zip Line Tour. Soar like a bird through forest, mountains, and valleys. Afterward, wind down at the Rabbit Hill Inn for some fine dining in front a fireplace. Don’t believe you can really fly? Check out the video and see the truth.

BIKING IN THE KINGDOM PACKAGE

Nothing beats mountain biking in the Kingdom Trails. And what are the Kingdom Trails? Well, Boston Glob claimed them to be “Vermont’s trails to Greatness”. Also, Int’l Mountain Biking Association noted that Kingdom Trails is “once of 32 EPIC rides in the country”. And don’t worry if you’re inexperienced or don’t have all the equipment. It’s all here for you to just enjoy the ride. Along with this perfect weekend getaway package, is awesome food and a comfortable guest room or suite of your choice.

MOUNTAIN TOP PICNIC PACKAGE

Grab your picnic, your loved one, and enjoy the scenic ride on the Tramway to the top of Cannon Mountain. Find the perfect picnic lunch spot to capture the best view of the White Mountains during lunch. Once you reach the Basin, take a romantic walk through the beautiful waterfalls at every corner. The Rabbit Hill Inn will provide the rest of your accomadations for a glorious and romantic weekend package.

For more information e-mail info@rabbithillinn.com

To make reservations contact 1-800-76-BUNNY (Be sure to indicate which package you’re interested in)

Enjoy your vacation package with the Rabbit Hill Inn!

Here are some previous blogs about the Rabbit Hill Inn.

Food lovers may remember Chef Secich from several acclaimed establishments, including The Inn at Erlowest on Lake George (earning four stars from the Times Union,) The Alpenhof Lodge, in Jackson Hole, WY (noted by critics as creating the best dining experience in all of Jackson Hole), The Oval Room in DC (receiving frequent raves in the Washington Post) and most recently, Charlie Trotters in Chicago.

His impressive culinary journey began as a young gold-medal winning student at Johnson & Wales Culinary. He then spent several years with renowned chefs domestically and abroad, including ACF Master Chef Hartmut Handke, Patrick O’Connell of the famed 5 Star Inn at Little Washington, and Chef Craig Shelton of the Mobil Four Star, AAA Four Diamond, Relais Gourmand Ryland Inn in Whitehouse, NJ. In France, he studied at Restaurant Pierre Gagnaire, with Guy Martin at Le Grand Vefour, and with Raymond Blanc at La Manior Aux Quat’ Saisons.

After a one year sabbatical, Secich excitedly returns to the culinary stage. He now finds himself “at home” in the internationally acclaimed, AAA Four Diamond Rabbit Hill Inn, in Vermont.

Inspired by his uncompromising commitment to the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from the best local farms, he brings a heightened dimension of fine creative cuisine to Rabbit Hill Inn. Although there are strong French influences, his cooking style is without boundaries -beyond a label or description. Secich masterfully blends classical and new age techniques, unlimited imagination and artistry, topped with amazing attention to detail. The results are extraordinary.To see his exciting offerings, be sure to bookmark a link to his frequently changing menu. Also check out his “Inn Good Taste” Cooking Class Getaways!

His philosophy is “when you cook with love and passion, everything is cooked to the brink of perfection. One can taste the passion.” Expect to meet him while you are there and enjoy the conversation. His passion is contagious! Above all, his dedicated focus is on always exceeding guest expectations and proudly bringing joy to all that find their way to Rabbit Hill’s table.

Click here to learn more about the Rabbit Hill Inn or browse The Rabbit Hill Inn category for other updates.

Thanksgiving at Billings Farm & Museum
Woodstock, VT

Come celebrate Thanksgiving and Billings Farm & Museum’s 25th Anniversary. Grab everybody in the family for a Wagon Ride pulled by the Percheron teams through the farm. It’s running every Saturday and Sunday in November from 10am-4pm. In the last week of November you can learn about the Thanksgiving traditions in the Victorian Parlor during the holiday weekend. Just to top off the spirit, feast to a wonderful 19th century Thanksgiving meal prepared by costumed guides.

Thanksgiving at The Hartness House
Springfield, VT

Need a break from the Thanksgiving frenzy? The Hartness House is providing the perfect package for you to still enjoy Thanksgiving with a little less stress. It includes a welcome wine reception, two nights stay, two breakfasts, and a wonderful Thanksgiving feast at the Governor’s Room Restaurant. Executive Chef Michael Hofford will offer more Thanksgiving options than you ever thought of. Prices start as low as $349 for two people.

Thanksgiving at The Four Chimneys Restaurant
Bennington, VT

Where can you get all the great Thanksgiving food with no washing dishes? The Four Chimneys Restaurant is definietly the answer. If people like Elizabeth Taylor, Norman Rockwell, and Walt Disney dined here, then you know it’s the place to talk about this holiday. Some of the food you’ll find here this year are:

• STARTERS
• Butternut Squash Ravioli
• Vermont Ham & Cheddar Fritters
• Sweet Potato Bisque
• Beef and Harvest Vegetable Soup
• The Inn Salad

• ENTREES
• Traditional Turkey Dinner
• Cider Glazed Atlantic Salmon
• Black Angus Filet Mignon
• Long Bone Pork Chopp
• Tangene of Fall Roasted Vegetables

• DESSERTS
• Pumpkin Pie
• Vermont Maple Cheesecake
• Apple Crumb Gallette
• Chocolate Gateau
• Rich Brownie Sundae

• DRINKS
• Full cocktail bar available

There is no way a true New Englander can visit Vermont without exploring the place that makes cold and delicious joy in a cup or cone. That’s right… Ben & Jerry’s. Now you can witness first hand where all the magic happens on the Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour. Start with a “moovie” about the success of Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, watch the live action of the ice cream making process, and lastly try ice cream and check out cool stuff at the gift shop. Tours start and end every half hour and reservations are recommended for parties of 10 or more. This summer Ben & Jerry’s Factory hosted a free outdoor movie festival every saturday night. As the nights are getting colder, the last showing will be August 23rd with Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.

Ben & Jerry’s Factory – 1281 Waterbury/Stowe Road (Route 100) – Waterbury, VT – (802) 882-1240

2. Vermont Teddy Bear Company

Hop on a 30 minute Vermont Teddy Bear Factory Tour and see firsthand how those fuzzy and cute little bears are made. Throughout the year, between their location in Newport and this Shelburne Factory they will make 430,000 bears. On the tour, you’ll understand how they do it and learn their tricks and tips. The Hungry Bear Cafe serves up breakfast, lunch, and snacks and in the summer days ice cream is there to cool you off. Check out the store at the factory or online and get some great ideas for birthday and christmas presents. You can customize any bear to whatever your recipient likes and stitch their name in the bear too! All bears are sent as a Bear-Gram which comes with gourmet caramels, a friendly colorful note written by you, and a fun box with air holes to ensure the bear gets nice fresh air.

Factory – 6655 Shelburne Rd – St. George, VT – (802) 985-3001

3. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center at the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

This recently renamed and rebuilt aquatic center muse their name and teach Ecology, Culture, History, and Oppurtunity at the Lake Champlain Basin. Witness the daily ECHO encounter as they do live animal feedings, demos, and entertainment. Stroll through the museum along with at least 60 species of fish, amphibians, and reptiles. Get the whole family together on a hands-on experience as you star in, edit, and take home a DVD of your own show on the Be A Watershed Weather Reporter. At the end of the day relax to panoramic view of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains on the upper deck. Or have an interesting dinner at the Think! Cafe and learn the connections thro

ugh how we eat and it’s effect on the environment. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center is open year around (except certain holidays) from 10am-5pm at a reasonable price.

1 College Street – Burlington, VT 05401 – 1-877-ECHOFUN

4. Cabot Creamery of Vermont

With more than 10 national awards for the best cheese you know you’ll have to keep Cabot in your fridge. Stop by one of their three locations to be your own taste tester in Waterbury/Stowe, Quechee, or the little village of Cabot) or all three if you want! The Cabot Quechee Store is their newest location with plenty of free sampling and products and is located in a town with many more attractions such as a vintage mini-railway and antique stores. So test for yourself the skillful work of Marcel Gravel, the Master Cabot Cheddar Maker. Visit their website for the daily recipe on how to use their state of the art cheddar cheese.

Cabot Quechee Store – 5573 Woodstock Road – Quechee, VT 05059 – (802)295-1180

Cabot Annex Store – 2657 Waterbury/Stowe Road – Waterbury Center, VT 05677 – (802)244-6334

4. Cold Hollow Cider Mill

The McIntosh apples that come from Cold Hollow Cider Mill are so delicious that it’s worth leaving the McIntoshs at the best supermarket behind. Come to the factory any time of year and watch as apple cider is made old fashioned style with a rack and cloth press. Best of all, take the tour at no cost but with one requirement to arrive on an empty stomach because you must try every sample. In the summer, see real bees and how they make that delicious honey… behind a glass wall, of course. Gourmet Magazine claims that their legendary cider doughnuts are one of the four best in the country. In addition to all these sweets, Cold Hollow Cider Mill sell jellies, mustards, applesauce, fudge and from the bakery made every day are apple pies, pumpkin rolls, maple cream cheese pockets, apple-cheddar squares and much more.

3600 Waterbury-Stowe Rd, Waterbury Center, VT -(802) 244-8771‎

420 Center Rd, Montpelier, VT – (802) 244-8771‎

5. Umiak Outdoor Outfitters

Umiak is Vermont’s ultimate paddle sports shop with full service retail including 85 top brands, boat demos, and rental canoes and kayaks. Provided by well known and respected paddlers are paddling and safety instruction course, river trips, lakeside rentals, kids programs and more. In the winter, rent some TUBBS snowshoes and journey on your own or follow with a group for adventure ending with a fire, food and drinks. Highlighted on the website are a few Snowshoe Tours one being The Ben & Jerry’s Snowshoe and Ice Cream Too! Catch a telemark ski clinics at the Stowe Mountain Resort and try a demo if you’re thinking of taking up the sport. Umiak carry telemark skis made by K2, Atomic and Karhu, Garmont, Scarpa, Black Diamond, G3 and Rottefella.

Coast of Lake Champlain Location – 60 Institute Rd - Burlington, VT – (802) 865-6777‎

Other Location – 849 S Main St - Stowe, VT – (802) 253-2317‎

7. Lake Champlain Chocolates

Check out how Lake Champlain Chocolates makes their secrets and sample as many as you like. Tours start every hour, on the hour, daily. Every Saturday, a few blocks away at the Church Street location, watch hand-whipped Copper Kettle Fudge made and try some of their 12 different kinds of fudge. What person doesn’t like chocolate? So search around the website for some great holiday gifts from White Chocolate Ghosts to Autumn Chocolate Truffles to Organic Chocolate Squares. Bulk sized gifts work great for the big chocolate lover families and look around at the different event favors you can do with Lake Champlain Chocolates.

Factory Store & Café – 750 Pine Street – Burlington, VT 05401 – (802)864-1807

Chocolatier & Café – 63 Church Street – Burlington, VT 05401 – (802)862-5185

Route 100 has developed the name “Enticement Alley” since the congregation of popular attractions. Together Ben & Jerry’s, Cabot Cheese, Green Mountain Coffee, Mesa Pottery, Zeimke’s Glass Blowing, Cold Hollw Cider Mill, the exciting town of Stowe, and much charm make this ten-mile sector of highway a hot spot.