Country Roads

A hectic fall had us craving a change of scenery, so we recently headed for a quick getaway to Litchfield County, Connecticut. Since it’s in our own backyard we’re a bit biased, but the area is arguably one of the most quaint and picturesque, lit up with a dazzling display of foliage every autumn. Here’s how we spent a perfect 24 hours layered up in Dudley for a country escape.

Stay. Since we’re within driving distance, we could have made a daytrip of it. But since we wanted to linger just a little, we stayed (very safely) at the stunning Washington, Connecticut retreat, The Mayflower Inn.

Soak up nature. A morning hike at the Steep Rock Preserve, with its old train tunnel and beautiful flowing streams, was the perfect setting to fit in some steps.

Snack. We found a cozy spot for afternoon lunch + coffee at Marty’s Café.

Unwind. Late afternoon, we scheduled a much-warranted spa treatment at the Mayflower Inn spa.

Paddle. The sun went down to a canoe ride around the Mayflower’s pond—so serene!

Raise a toast. Early evening cocktails at the Mayflower’s outdoor fire pits were cozy and creative.

Dine in style. We put on our Dudley best to end the day with dinner at the Mayflower’s Garden Room, where NYC chef April Bloomfield is the new (and uber talented) chef-in-residence.

Streamline your outdoorsy look with Lauren's favorites for your next adventure!