Boston and the New England Coast

Your adventure through New England begins in the epicentre of the region: Boston. One of the oldest cities in the union, Boston is a storied city, a blend of old and new whose granite buildings now give way to new eateries and boutique stores. The best way to get to the heart of this city is by taking the Freedom Trail, a route that stops at the museums, churches, and historic markers that tell the story of the American revolutionary period.

From Boston, you’ll head north, reaching Kennebunkport in Maine. With just 3,500 inhabitants, this quaint town defines the pastoral northeast: idyllic cafés line Main Street, the harbour just around the corner. Boat trips to Vaughn and Folly Islands—not to mention the historic Goat Island—are more than possible in this tranquil town.

US Highway 1 takes you to your next location further north to the town of Bar Harbour, sitting peacefully on the eastern side of Mount Desert Island. This blissful town is at the foot of the great Acadia National Park. Put your hiking boots on and prepare to experience of the best parks in the country: trails here lead deep into the forest, and are home to more than 37 species of mammals.

More than 1,180 miles of hiking trails swerve through mountains and valleys of the Atlantic topography at the White Mountain National Forest, home also to moose, coyotes, lynxes, and, if you’re lucky, black bears. The peaks of Mount Washington and Mount Pierce also await to be conquered. Whichever trail you choose, make sure to bring your nature gear.

Your journey through New England takes you through one of the smallest states in the union: Vermont. The sparsely populated Vermont consists mainly of raging rivers, rolling hills as well as enchanting maple forests, and your stay in Vergennes is the perfect spot to begin exploring the Green Mountain State. Take a boat trip on Lake Champlain and breathe the clear air of the maple forests.

Your journey south continues into Massachusetts, from the Berkshire Hills to Stockbridge. The northeast shines between Williamstown and Pittsfield. To the east, Mount Greylock rises majestically at the foot of forests and wildflower meadows. You'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the wonderfully diverse natural world as you travel.

Strong breezes and salty air emerge as you arrive in Newport, a historic town on the coast of Rhode Island, less than 60 miles from Boston. Walking by The Breakers, built by Cornelius Vanderbilt in 1895, is like a portal back in time—follow it with a walk on Cliff Walk, which, at around 4 miles long, gives you a perfect snapshot of the city’s stately mansions.

Your final destination is one of the East Coast’s gems: Cape Cod. A paradise for outdoor activities, Cape Cod is ideal for walks on the beach, taking in the sun, and enjoying the Atlantic breeze. Hidden places like Wellfleet and Orleans are home to a diverse art scene that gives coastal villages a docile yet inspiring atmosphere. Beautiful boat trips to islands such as Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket Island are also recommended.