Probably you know of Berkshire as the perfect destination for nature lovers. Its myriad hiking trails, spring flowers and autumn hues have always enchanted visitors. It can also be a perfect weekend cultural getaway for you, with its dozen museums, theater companies, music festivals and historic homes.
The Appalachian trail also begins from Berkshires, Massachusetts
Berkshire County stretches from the border of Connecticut on the south to the edge of Vermont on the north, and many of the area’s attractions are seasonal, so it would be best to plan ahead of time. Sana Siwolop gives us a few tips.
Rockwell Studio
Fun time for kids: The region is full of many options for adventure activities for kids. Kayaking the Housatonic River, biking the 11-mile-long Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, jazz funk dance party at Mass MoCA, the area’s contemporary arts center. www.massmoca.org, events at the wonderfully restored Mahaiwe Theater (www.mahaiwe.org), Mountain Adventure Park where many fun rides will be open only in March.
Since that 3,491-foot-tall Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts, will be closed to cars until the spring of 2009 because of major construction in the area the only way to enjoy it is by hiking. Hikers can enjoy the 70 miles of trails in the area around the mountain.
The National Shrine Of The Divine Mercy
Cultural attractions:
• Hancock Shaker Village is a carefully restored 20-building village that depicts Shaker life on 1,200 acres of farm and woodland. It helps to give you a hand’s on experience of village life one or two centuries before our times through vibrant programs, tours and exhibitions.
• For a way out animal encounter, visit Richard Cleaver and his seven toothy but endearing llamas at Hawkmeadow Farm, a five-minute drive from downtown Lee.
• Museums with hiking trails are a Berkshires specialty. The Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute on South Street in Williams town has 140 acres for wandering and picnicking and offers a trail map at the information desk.
Autumn hues in Berkshire
Well if you go this information will make your trip easier.
Where to eat good and inexpensive food: Baba Louie’s in downtown Great Barrington 286 Main Street, Salmon Run Fish House, in downtown Lee, 78 Main Street, Dakota Steakhouse on Route 7 in Pittsfield, 1035 South Street.
Hancock Shaker Village
Where to lodge: The Comfort Inn & Suites hotel on Route 7,249 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington , The Cranwell Resort, Spa & Golf Club on Route 20 in Lenox, 55 Lee Road, Porches Inn, 231 River Street,
Source: The New York Times
