Litchfield, with its historic homes clustered around an oval-shaped green, has the appealing air of a place where time has stood still. Well-preserved Georgian buildings hark back to an era when the town marked a key stagecoach stop between Hartford and Albany, N.Y., and the surrounding countryside brims with potential adventures for curious travellers. Accommodation options include self-catering spots closer to town, as well as a gorgeous farm with superb cottages, catering to a ranges of tastes and budgets. This area remains popular as a weekend escape for city dwellers, and the best places to stay in Litchfield promise you the same opportunity to rest and recharge in this charming corner of Connecticut.
For a taste of days gone by, visit Topsmead State Forest — once the summer retreat of Edith Morton Chase, whose Tudor-style house still stands — or Tapping Reeve’s one-room schoolhouse. This simple spot was the site of the English-speaking world’s first law school, which opened in 1784.
If you’re keen to immerse yourself in the great outdoors, White Memorial Conservation Center offers 35 miles of hiking and cycling trails, as well as boating, canoeing and kayaking on Bantam Lake and River. Mount Tom State Park is a superb choice for a swim and a picnic, following a climb to the top of Mount Tom (1325 ft) for panoramic views. Finally, head to the Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy to see whooper swans, eider ducks, blue-winged geese, emperor geese, teal and grey-crowned crane, amongst others. A birdwatcher’s paradise!
Back in Litchfield, you’ll find a wonderful array of ice cream parlours, eateries and little shops. Pick a perch on the green and watch the world go by before retreating to one of the best places to stay in Litchfield.
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Litchfield (Connecticut)
Boutique stay in Litchfield, Connecticut, mixing a restored historic house with a mid-century mews. Interiors shift from stained glass and fireplaces to grasscloth and Bauhaus-inspired design. There's a spa, indoor pool, yoga and seasonal dining on-site. Easy base for exploring the Litchfield Hills.
Litchfield (Connecticut)
1775 farmhouse resting in 113 acres of activity filled countryside. The unique, intimate cottages have private sitting rooms, fireplaces, bathtubs and rain showers. Seed to plate restaurant offers a seasonal menu and brilliant bar. Visit the spa or head into the wilderness for family exploring.
