Mountainous Vermont is a blend of wide-open spaces, rugged hills, sprawling farms and thick green forests, which cover some 75% of the state. It’s these landscapes that set the scene for a full range of year-round adventures, from summer hikes and self-drives to superb skiing in winter.

Vermont’s great outdoors

Indeed, for many, Vermont’s main attraction is its spectacular countryside, whose made-for-all-seasons attracts everyone from winter sports enthusiasts to summer adventurers. The vast waters of Lake Champlain, one of 800 lakes and ponds dotted throughout the state, provide a beautiful backdrop for sun-filled days spent kayaking, swimming and fishing, while renowned ski resorts such as Killington, Stowe and Stratton provide plenty of fun when the weather turns cold.

Fall in Vermont

In the Fall, Vermont's display of leaf colours is spectacular. Endless swathes of forest are transformed from brilliant greens to deep reds, dazzling oranges and shimmering golds. It’s a photographer’s dream, and creates a simply stunning backdrop for all of that countryside exploration. However, the season is relatively short – September to October – and unsurprisingly popular, so you’ll need to book well in advance to secure the best accommodation. 

Character accommodation

With such an emphasis on countryside living, it’s perhaps no surprise that throughout Vermont are a scattering of distinctive inns and hotels, some host to world-class restaurants and even the odd luxury spa. Our favourite? The superb Woodstock Inn & Resort, with its farm-to-fork dining full-service spa, offers easy access to one of Vermont’s best ski resorts as well as a wide network of hiking and cycling trails.