The southwestern corner of Vermont, known as The Shires of Vermont, is defined by the Taconic Mountains on the west and the Green Mountains on the east. This region has the distinction of having two shire towns, or county seats, in Bennington and Manchester.
The Manchester-Bennington region offers a sampling of everything that makes Vermont special - picturesque small towns with village greens, whitewashed steeples, quaint bed & breakfasts, cows at pasture alongside wonderful old hay barns, a multitude of farms providing fresh produce to local restaurants, and picturesque covered bridges. Visit Manchester and choose from historic inns to modern boutique hotels to family-friendly motels. Explore history at Hildene (the Lincoln Family home), shop Manchester Designer Outlets or unique Vermont shops, or enjoy hiking or biking on nearby trails, fishing the Battenkill, or skiing at nearby Stratton or Bromley. For the golfer, choose from a number of different courses offering variety in terrain and challenge.
Or head to Bennington, the other shire town in the region, and take in the panoramic view from the top of the Bennington Battle Monument, the tallest man-made structure in Vermont. Visit the Bennington Museum to see Grandma Moses' fascinating artwork. Home to both Bennington College and Southern Vermont College, Bennington exudes small-town charm with its quaint shops, restaurants, and lodging choices.
Travel through the Shires on the three specially designated scenic byways in the region. You can head north along the Shires of Vermont Byway which begins at Vermont’s southern border and follows Route 7 and 7A to Manchester. Head out of Manchester along Route 30, the Stone Valley Byway, to explore multiple state parks perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor pursuits. Or travel the Molly Start Byway between Brattleboro and Bennington along Vermont Route 9 near the southern border of the state. The Shires of Vermont are easily accessible from New York and New England, making the area a popular, year-round tourist destination. The Shires of Vermont. "So Vermont. So near."
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Vermont Events in January
TOUR: WINTER MERRIMENT IN THE SHIRES
11/25/19 - 2/23/20
If you are not well-acquainted with the Manchester/Dorset area, this tour is for you! Designed for those having only a couple of days to spend and who want to see the best-kept secrets. Along the way, you will learn interesting stories and history. Many stops. Opportunity to sample and purchase local products. Advance Reservations necessary. Email bckrddisc@aol.com or call 802-362-4997.
I Am More Photography Exhibition
1/11/20 - 3/15/20
The I Am More: Facing Stigma photography exhibition, created and sponsored by the Yellow Tulip Project, features black and white portraits of people who are dealing with mental health challenges personally or through the experiences of family or friends. The individuals–musicians, artists, nature lovers, parents, and more–are dedicated to challenging assumptions and stigma around mental illness and what mental illness “looks like.”
The FortySeven Main Street Artists demonstrate the inspirational power of abstract self expression in paint. Renowned photographer Gisela Gamper documents her personal journey of love and mourning. Bennington College Visiting Professor Terry Boddie takes a complex approach to the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade. Nationally recognized photographer Carl Austin Hyatt shows portraits made from two decades of travels in the Andes of Peru. In mixed media portraits, students from area schools present themselves as they want to be seen.
Community Mindfulness Clinics
1/27/20 - 5/11/20
Nourish yourself all winter with FREE community mindfulness: walking, seated, standing, and supine meditations for deep relaxation! No experience necessary. Ages 15+ welcome!
2nd & 4th Mondays
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