Many studios will have live demonstrations with their art and crafts for sale.

Hand made tiles, ceramics, fabrics and even cheese makers will be represented this year at the Putney Craft Tour as well.  Plus you can experience all this while driving casually through the beautiful country side of southern Vermont, along side rolling rivers and stream, through the green mountains.  It’s a great way to pick up some locally crafted gifts for the holidays while taking some time for yourself.

So if you are “turkeyed out” after Thanksgiving and have dropped after your Black Friday shopping, come rest with us here at our Vermont B&B and take a few days and reconnect before you head back to work on Monday.  And be sure to pick up the Putney Craft Tour Map, which we will of course have available for our guests.

The Putney Craft Tour is held Thanksgiving weekend each year, but the participating studios change annually. Be sure to check www.PutneyCrafts.com for the most recent listings.

Originally called the Wantastiquet Golf Club, this Brattleboro golf club was founded in 1889 as a six hole course and today is rated one of America’s Top Golf Courses by Zagat. Rudyard Kipling, Author Conan Doyle, Francis Ouimet and Tom MacNamara were among some of the many golf enthusiasts to frequent the 100 year old golf course. After changing hands from the Brattleboro Retreat in 1914, the grand opening of the official Brattleboro Country Club kicked off its new 9 hole course with a Japanese lawn party and trap shooting. Today, there are 18 holes of golf equipped with a challenging spread of par 3’s to par 5’s.

Today, Brattleboro Country Club offers both members and guests the option to book tee times online. Play 9 holes of golf in the morning, grab lunch at the Fairway Tavern, then venture downtown to explore the shops and Brattleboro culture. If it’s 18 holes of golf in southern Vermont you’re looking for, book in advance and finish your day on the deck with an afternoon snack, such as Brattleboro’s best seafood hor d’oeuvres or a cheese platter paired with a local Vermont beer (of course!).

Even on a rainy day, the Brattleboro Country Club’s Fairway Tavern has a covered porch, easy parking and a view, especially during fall foliage . When fall foliage is over and the snow begins to fall, the green turns into groomed trails for snow shoeingand cross country skiing. For more information about a golfing in southern Vermont or golf lessons, visit the Brattleboro Country Club website or call them directly at the Golf Shop 802-257-7380 or the Clubhouse 802-254-9864.  And if you’re looking for a place to stay, we’d be happy to put a golf package together for you!

In addition to the basics, Sam’s Outdoor Store also carries what we like to call “survival gear”.  This isn’t just outdoor gear.  And who doesn’t need gear, right? Sam’s carries everything you need for outdoor adventures to hikingthe Green Mountains (and getting lost for a month) or climb Mount Everest. Thinking of living off the land as many enjoy doing here in Vermont? Sam’s carries fishing poles and Vermont fishinglicenses; anything guns and ammo; -40 degree sleeping bags; the strongest tick and mosquito repellent on the market; tents; anything fire; raincoats; and…. need we say more? Sounds like a manly shopping paradise all in one store.

On one occasion, “John”, a staff member here in the Brattleboro store, spent over 40 minutes seeking out a jacket for a customer to find they didn’t make the specific style they were looking for. The next day John called them directly to say they found an almost identical match. John went above and beyond and for that, we like to keep it local.

Shopping in Brattleboro isn’t just for the girls and even appeals to kids with their free popcorn.  As a side note, Sam’s has some of the best popcorn in Brattleboro (although the Latchis is a close second).  Popcorn and Patagonia fit perfect together at Sam’s. Check out Sam’s Outdoor Store in downtown Brattleboro just a short walk from our inn and check out their website for deals and steals!

First, of course, if you’re staying at our B&B, a fine gourmet breakfast and a hot cup of Mocha Joes coffee gets you started every day, not just on the rainy ones.  Amy loves to tailor her menu to the weather, preparing the perfect breakfast for the day ahead.

After breakfast, head over to Grafton Cheese,  just 1/2 mile from 40 Putney Road B&B.   Over there you’ll find artisan cheeses, fine wine, local flair, a gift shop and, of course, samples of their award winning cheeses. Next, get your umbrellas (which of course we have available for you to use) and venture downtown. Catch the latest opening at the Brattleboro Museum and Art Center and see historical exhibits and a variety of contemporary art. Stop for a cup of tea in downtown Brattleboro and get a crash course on knitting at Knit or Dye (yes, it’s even fun for the guys!) The Latchis Theater sits across the street where shows begin at 2pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Not only does the Latchis Theater have great popcorn, the 1938 historic Art Deco building was deemed a “town within a town” housing a pub, hotel, retail space and 4 theaters.

Looking for your own umbrella? Shopping in Brattleboro starts at Sam’s Outdoor store. Downtown Brattleboro storefronts are filled with unique decor shops, vintage and contemporary clothing and wouldn’t be complete without Mocha Joes coffee shop located at Main and Elliot. If it’s a cold beverage you’re after, McNeill’s and Kipling’s both sit on the edge of the downtown providing libations, specifically for those who enjoy a craft brew or two. Although many places serve lunch in Brattleboro, the dinner choices are abundant for a town of 12,000. Sit down for a brick oven pizza at Fireworks and go for dessert at Peter Haven’s.

Galleries, food and shopping in Brattleboro not your ideal idea on a rainy day? Book stores are scattered throughout downtown, all with their own flavor and unique niche. Whether it’s a coffee shop, under a pavilion overlooking the town or just lounging on the enclosed sun porch at 40 Putney Road B&B, there is a great way to spend a rainy day in Brattleboro for everyone.

With Halloween approaching, check out this quick video we made to showcase some of the spooky side of Brattleboro.  This video takes you on a quick tour of the  Retreat Cemetery and Retreat Tower as well as Madam Cherie’s “Castle”.  Each of these sites has a “haunted” history and several sources mention ghost sightings.   Best of all, each of these places are a short walk from our Brattleboro Vermont Inn.   Check out each of our individual posts for details (some are still coming, so be sure to keep an eye on our site or follow us on Twitter to get the updates) about the locations, and enjoy this quick look at the haunted side of Brattleboro – if you dare…

That’s why I was so intrigued when a friend of mine who works in downtown Brattleboro told me I have to check out Cafe a la Cart, a brand new “upscale street cart” on Elliot Street right next door to one of our other favorites, Peter Havens.

I stopped by the bright white cart (which is more like a trailer, complete with a grill, prep station and lunch counter) last week and was immediately drawn to the colorful menu propped up against it. It soon became clear why this curbside chow stop was branded “upscale”. While the menu consisted of basic items like burgers, quesadillas, hot dogs and sausage, peppers and onions, the ingredients and preparation were anything but typical.

I went for the “Vermont Farm Burger,” made with all-natural, Vermont-raised beef. Instead of a roll, it’s served on a Portuguese muffin, a crisp and slightly sweet bun. For extra zing, chef/owner Zach Corbin-Teich adds homemade pickles that he cures himself. A fixins bar on the lunch counter is complete with the standard mustard and ketchup, plus a variety of hot sauces, relish and fresh chopped onions.

For the veg-heads, Zach, who has served as chef at several upscale Vermont restaurants over the years, includes a veggie burger on the menu. There is also an “Egg McZach” breakfast sandwich served all day.

Wherever possible, Cafe a la Cart uses fresh local ingredients, all homemade.  As innkeepers, we really appreciate that.  We do the same for our breakfasts and really try to support others who support the local farms and farmers.  The carts daily specials are always listed on a separate chalkboard (when I visited, homemade potato salad and chocolate cookies were waiting). The only drink on the menu, beside bottled water, is fresh-squeezed lemonade, squeezed to order before your eyes (soooo good). Newbies to the Cart may not notice, but there is a shaded picnic table hidden just behind it. Have a seat and relax while you eat, watching the world go by on Elliot St.

You might expect to pay upscale prices at an upscale cart, but nothing on the menu is more than $6. It’s a cash-only establishment, and Zach keeps the windows open from 11 – 5 every day but Sunday and Monday.

So if you’re thinking of coming up to visit Brattleboro this summer, make sure you stop by Cafe a la Cart.  Just a short stroll from our Brattleboro inn and the perfect spot for a casual but delicious lunch.

Now the good people of the Brattleboro Country Club have helped us to sweeten the pot for our fellow golfers.  They are offering our guests $20 off of greens fees and 10% off of food and beverage at their Fairway Tavern.

The Brattleboro Country Club has been member owned and operated since 1914 and is less than 5 minutes from our Brattleboro Vermont Inn.  With our $20 discount you can play 18 holes for just $25! How can you beat that?

If you are traveling, they have clubs to rent available and of course carts are available for those not looking to take on the somewhat hilly course on foot.  There is even a small grass range if you would like to warm up or just hit a bucket.

But wait, as the legendary Billy Mays would say, that’s not all…  They are even offering preferred tee times for our guests!

So if you are heading to Vermont this summer and enjoy playing a round – stay with us at Forty Putney Road Bed and Breakfast and take advantage of our great deals over at the Brattleboro Country Club.    As for us, we have an 1:10 tee time this afternoon (squeezing in 9 holes before check in time!) so we have to run – thanks for reading InnBrattleboro.com – the best information about Southern Vermont!

While there are a variety of approaches to the summit, we have found our personal favorite to be the White Arrow Trail. Hiking the White Arrow Trail takes about two hours from the parking area up to the summit and about an hour and fifteen minutes down. We would say that this hike is moderately difficult, the park states that there is an average 27% grade. There are some sections that are steep and rocky. We would not suggest hiking this trail in the wet weather as there are sections that become streams in the rain. On an average day most of the trail is dry and clear, with about 3/4 of the hike in the wooded section and about 1/4 above the treeline.

To reach the start of the White Arrow approach, park in the lot off the Old Toll Road – on NH Route 124.   After paying your $4 park admission (can you believe that they maintain these parks for $4?) head up the old toll road trail.  This trail will take you to the intersection of the White Arrow Trail, which is located at the Old Halfway House.   Don’t worry – all of the trails are well marked and your $4 includes a map of the mountain.

The trail makes several turns, with a variety of other trail options splitting off here and there.  White Arrow is the most direct route to the summit however.

For most of the hike you will find yourself under a tree canopy (bring bug spray).  But after about an hour you will be able to see the summit.  While it looks very close, this is where the hiking gets somewhat more challenging, incorporating some large stretches of relatively smooth rock face.  Take your time, be sure to look around and chose the best path up the rocks, sometimes the easiest path is not the most obvious.   This is also a great time to take a gander at the forest below – there are several great points to take a break on the rocks and enjoy the amazing views and cool breezes.

The view at the top is amazing – although it is likely to be “crowded”.  There are several approaches to the summit and so regardless of how busy your trail was (White Arrow tends to be moderately busy – especially on weekends) the summit is guaranteed to be bustling with other hikers.

On the descent – which is markedly easier – you still must be careful of your footing and ease your way down the same rock surfaces carefully.

Mount Monadnock is in Monadnock State Park in New Hampshire.  The White Arrow Trail (Old Toll Road) starts about 30 miles from our Vermont Inn.  Travel Route 9 into Hampshire – to 101 to 124 to a town called Jaffrey.  Its a scenic drive that will take about 40 minutes.

The Park is open 7 days and hiking is popular year round.  Off season hikers should check in at the base (located off of Dublin Road – a bit further down 124).

There is a great (and funny) list of Monadnock FAQ’s on the GCC site that should be able to help with any other questions.

Also, you can check out this step by step guide assembled by one of our guests!

Hiking Mount Monadnock is certain to be an experience you remember.  There is a reason that it is one of the most hiked mountains in the world and if you are in the Brattleboro area, why not explore it for yourself.   Of course, we hope that you will stay with us at our beautiful Vermont Inn which makes a great base camp for this and many other activities in New England.  To read about some of our other favorites, be sure to subscribe to our blog!

The trail system is open year round and is more than 9 miles long.  The Retreat Trails cover over 400 acres of forest and agricultural land and include some interesting sites, like the Harris Hill Ski Jump, Grafton Cheese Country Store, the old Cemetery and the Retreat Tower.

There is a nice map of the trail system available at several information kiosks along the system, the map is also online here and we have printed copies of the map at the Inn for you as well.

The trails range from flat and easy, to somewhat steep and rocky.  None are really more than “moderate” in difficulty and most can be trekked year round.  We have taken some great winter hikes in the snow up these trails, sliding down the steeper parts in our snow pants.

For those staying with us at our Brattleboro B&B, you can access the trails from our back yard (these trails connect to the shorter Hogle Wildlife Sanctuary Trail).  For others, there are 5 public access points to the trail system – outlined here.

Update: The retreat trail maps seem to be moving all of the time, and the links are occasionally broken.  So we have included the retreat trail map below for your permanent reference.  Click on the image for a full size version of the map that you can print to carry with you when you are hiking the trails.

1. Great downtown – stroll through our active downtown with all of its big city amenities
2. Live theater – 3 Theaters for live performances downtown (Hooker Dunham Theater, Latchis Theater, New England Youth Theater)
3. Caffeine – 3 Independent Coffee Shops (Mocha Joe’s, Coffee Country & Cafe Lotus)
4. Food – 30+ Restaurants to choose from
5. Pizza – 8 Pizza Shops (what can I say we like pizza around here)
6. Sushi – 3 restaurants to get great Sushi
7. Brattleboro Museum and Art Center
8. Martinis – on the deck at Alici’s Bistro in the summer
9. Vermont Jazz Center
10. Galleries – Gallery in the Woods, Artisan Design, Gallery 215, Artist Loft Gallery…just to name a few
11. Architecture – Beautiful historic architecture
12. Beer – McNeil’s Brewery in the historic fire house
13. More beer – 40 Tap Handles at Flat Street Pub
14. Cheap beer – $2.75 Draft Beer on the Fridays on the roof top deck at the Riverview Cafe in the summer
15. Movies – Check out the Art Deco Latchis Movie Theater
16. Only a 2 hour drive from Boston, MA
17. Only a 3 hour drive from New York City, NY
18. Only a 5 hour drive from Philadelphia, PA
19. The Vermonter - Amtrak service from Washington D.C., Philadelphia and NYC to Brattleboro Vermont!
20. Small town – only 12,000 residents
21. How Tom at Peter Haven\’s Restaurant met me once and remembered my name 2 years later
22. Countless Boutiques – Beadnicks, Altiplano, Blue Moose, Knit or Dye, Distinctive Decor…just to name a few
23. So many books – 5 Book stores downtown (Baskets Paperbacks, Book Cellar, Brattleboro Books, Everyone’s Books, & Mystery on Main)
24. Community Appreciation Day – free lunch served by the Brattleboro Savings and Loan
25. Brattleboro Food Coop – local and fresh food!
26. The Hospital – yes, best experience I ever had at a hospital (kind, courteous and only waited 5 minutes to be seen)
27. Our Local Butcher Shop – North End Butchers
28. Gallery Walk – 1st Friday of every month – over 40 galleries, shops and restaurants displaying local art
29. Local newspaper daily – all the news I need in the Brattleboro Reformer
30. Drive in Movies -  Northfield drive-in theater
31. Wantastiquet – great hike with an odd name
32. Chesterfield Gorge
33. The Retreat Trails – hike them right from our backyard
34. Mount Monadock - sure it’s not in Brattleboro, but it’s close and awesome
35. Picking Berries – love Dutton Farm
36. Road Biking along the West River
37. Strolling of the Heifers (ever seen cows strolling down main street before, well see it here)
38. Spofford Lake
39. Mountain Biking
40. Tubing down the West River
41. Swimming holes on the West River
42. Kayaking on the Connecticut River
43. Hogle Wildlife Sanctuary
44. Canoeing in the Retreat Meadows
45. The Treasured Tree Tour – including our enormous Japanese Maple Tree – you have to see it to believe it!
46. Golfing at the Brattleboro Country Club
47. Hogback Mountain Scenic Overlook
48. Fishing
49. Fall Foliage
50. Corn Mazes – including the Gaines Farms’ giant cow
51. It’s haunted… The Spooky Side of Brattleboro (Madame Sharri\’s Castle and the Retreat Tower)
52. Shelburne Falls – Pot Holes and Bridge of Flowers
53. Picking Apples  – love Scott Farm
54. Cider – Donuts & Fresh Apple Cider from Green Mountain Orchards
55. Snow
56. Ski Jumping – Harris Hill Ski Jump
57. Ice Fishing on the Retreat Meadows (I love watching them from our 2nd Floor Sun Porch, like a Norman Rockwell painting)
58. Snow Shoeing
59. Cross Country Skiing at the Brattleboro Country Club
60. Down Hill Skiing at Mount Snow (just a short 20 minute drive)
61. Diversity
62. The Circus is always in town at the Nimble Arts Circus School
63. School for International Training
64. Protests – who doesn’t dig a good peaceful protest
65. The smelly hippies
66. Bartering – check out Boomerang, Turn it Up, and other shops
67. Vermont Fresh Network – restaurants, growers and producers working together
68. Free Wi-Fi – not just at our inn, but throughout downtown!
69. A Bush and Cheney free zone
70. First Home Depot in the US to close – citing local competition-Brown & Roberts Hardware rules!
71. Supporting local businesses
72. Keeping Walmart out
73. Sustainability – Check out the store called Save the Corporations From Themselves
74. Easy to be Gluten Free
75. Easy to be a Vegetarian
76. Easy to be a Vegan
77. Cheese – Grafton Cheese Company (watch them make cheese, visit their country store or pet the animals at the farm)
78. Weddings – in the apple orchards at Scott Farm
79. Sugaring – see them make the Maple Syrup at Harlow’s Sugar House
80. Candy – Tom and Sally\’s Handmade Chocolates (unfortunately they have moved, but check out the Vermont Shop for some great local candy)
81. The Brattleboro area Farmer\’s Market (year round)
82. Thai food – Anon’s Thia food at the Farmer’s Market and Thai Bamboo – both rock
83. The Awesome 80′s hour on WTSA 96.7 FM (while I iron the sheets)
84. Walking our dog and feeding the ducks in the Retreat Meadow (one for them, one for her)
85. 175 years of history at the Brattleboro Retreat
86. Antiquing on Route 30
87. Irish Sessions on Wednesday nights at JD McCliment’s Pub in nearby Putney
88. Live music at the Weathervane
89. Summer Concerts in the Park
90. Brattstock – local music festival in August
91. Renew Building Supply – plenty of reclaimed parts for your (and our) old house
92. Sam’s Outdoor Outfitters  – the biggest little store you have ever seen!
93. Chelsea Royal Diner – try their ice cream
94. Wine – great local shops (Windham Wines) and producers (Honora)
95. Basketville
96. Our Downtown Waterfall – how many towns have one of those!
97. Fish Market
98. Festivals (Keene Pumpkin Festival, Marlboro Music Festival, Yellow Barn Music Festival, Dummerston Apple Festival, Newfane Heritage Festival, Brattleboro Literary Festival…just to name a few)
99. Newfane Flea Market
100. Covered bridges
101. And of course, Forty Putney Road Bed and Breakfast!

Did we miss anything?  What are your favorite Brattleboro things?  Please share your favorites in the comments!