Unscathed by Floods, The Shires of Southwestern Vermont Offer a Resilient, Enchanting Escape This Fall
In July of 2023, catastrophic flash floods affected several areas throughout Vermont leaving many communities in crisis. As regions recover and rebuild from what impact the weather had on their lives, it’s up to Vermont’s safe havens largely unaffected by the floods to provide visitors with the charming, magical experiences the scenic state is known for. The uniquely enchanting Southwestern Vermont region is conveniently located just a few short hours from many of the major Northeastern cities, so getting on your way doesn’t translate into a full day of road tripping and creates a pathway into a world of Vermont magic just waiting to be explored.
A picturesque New England region nestled in the Southwesternmost corner of Vermont, the geographic designation may be Bennington County but in recent years residents and visitors alike have come to affectionately call this area, The Shires of Southwestern Vermont.
The Shires abound with authentic Vermont experiences, the region united by a rich history, an undying spirit for adventure, nationally-recognized brands, and a passion for the state’s natural beauty. Towns of Bennington and Manchester represent the North and South Shire, a true year-round destination welcoming to people of all cultures and backgrounds, while the cozy hamlets along the historic Shires of Vermont Byway (Route 7a) include Pownal, Arlington, Dorset, Peru and Rupert beckon for getting lost (but in a good way). Making a visit to The Shires during fall foliage prime time is as if you were to tear pages from a storybook, every detail of the experience emblematic of what it feels like to take a long-awaited breath of fresh air and truly relax…