If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, New London County in Connecticut offers some hidden gems that are perfect for a peaceful retreat. I’ve explored this charming region and discovered ten secluded towns that are rich in natural beauty, history, and tranquility.
From quiet countryside settings to untouched coastal forests, these towns provide the ideal backdrop for anyone seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature. Join me as I count down these serene locales, each offering its own unique allure and a chance to unwind away from crowded tourist spots.
10. Lisbon: A Tranquil Community Surrounded by Nature
Lisbon is a small town with a population of around 4,000 residents. I love how its quiet neighborhoods are nestled among rolling hills and lush woodlands, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and bird-watching. The town doesn’t rely heavily on industry, which helps maintain its peaceful atmosphere.
Instead, small local businesses and family-owned farms are the backbone of the community. What makes Lisbon secluded is its minimal commercial development and the abundance of natural landscapes that surround it, making it feel like a world away from the nearby cities.
Where is Lisbon?
Located in the northeastern part of New London County, Lisbon sits comfortably between Norwich and Griswold. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by its distance from major highways and urban centers, giving it a serene, off-the-beaten-path vibe.
You can get to Lisbon by taking Route 169 or Route 138, winding through picturesque scenery that sets the tone for a relaxing visit. I find that the journey itself is part of the charm, as you leave behind the congestion and enter a landscape dominated by nature.
9. Griswold: Escape to Quiet Countryside Living
With a population of approximately 12,000, Griswold offers a delightful mix of forested areas and farmland. The town is known for Pachaug State Forest, which is the largest in Connecticut and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts like me who enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping.
While there are some small industries, such as local manufacturing and agriculture, Griswold maintains a laid-back lifestyle. Its seclusion stems from the vast natural spaces and the rural character that pervades the area, providing a peaceful environment away from crowded locales.
Where is Griswold?
Griswold is situated in the northern part of New London County, bordering Voluntown and Lisbon. The town’s secluded feel is due in part to its sizable tracts of undeveloped land and limited major roadways passing through.
Access is typically via I-395, but once you exit the highway, you’ll find yourself immersed in quiet country roads. I appreciate how the town’s location makes it easily accessible yet still manages to preserve its tranquil ambiance.
8. Lebanon: Historic Charm in a Secluded Setting
Lebanon, home to about 7,500 people, is steeped in history and boasts one of the largest historic town greens in the country. I enjoy strolling around the green, where you can visit historical landmarks like the Jonathan Trumbull House and the War Office.
Agriculture is a significant part of Lebanon’s economy, with numerous farms dotting the landscape. The town’s seclusion is characterized by its expansive rural surroundings and the preservation of its historical sites, offering a quiet retreat that’s rich in heritage.
Where is Lebanon?
Located northwest of Norwich, Lebanon sits in the heart of Connecticut’s countryside. Its seclusion is amplified by the extensive farmland and lack of urban development in the area.
You can reach Lebanon via Route 207 or Route 289, traveling through scenic byways that enhance the sense of escape. I find that the town’s remote setting, coupled with its historical significance, provides a unique and tranquil experience for visitors and residents alike.
7. Sprague: Peaceful Settings Along the Shetucket River
Sprague is a small town with a population nearing 3,000, offering quiet riverfront areas along the Shetucket River. Outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and walking along the water are popular here.
The town has a history rooted in textiles, but today, it focuses on preserving its natural resources and community-centered living. Sprague’s seclusion is enhanced by its rural landscapes and the serene river settings that I find perfect for unwinding.
Where is Sprague?
Located in southeastern Connecticut, Sprague is bordered by Franklin and Lisbon. Its secluded nature is due to the limited access roads and the presence of vast forested areas.
You can reach Sprague via Route 97, which meanders through wooded regions and small communities. I appreciate how the journey to Sprague feels like a gentle transition from busy life to a peaceful haven.
6. Salem: Hidden Gems in the Heart of Nature
Salem, with a population of about 4,200, is a town where forests and small lakes create a picturesque landscape. I particularly enjoy Gardner Lake State Park, a hidden gem for picnicking, boating, and swimming.
The town doesn’t have significant industries, which helps maintain its quiet charm. Salem’s secluded neighborhoods are tucked away among the trees, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts seeking solitude.
Where is Salem?
Nestled between Colchester and East Lyme, Salem sits in the southeastern part of Connecticut. Its seclusion comes from the dense woodlands and absence of major commercial development.
Accessing Salem typically involves taking Route 85 or Route 82, roads that wind through scenic countryside. I find that the lack of heavy traffic and commercial noise contributes greatly to the town’s tranquil atmosphere.
5. Bozrah: A Small Town with Ample Open Space
Bozrah is a quaint town with a population just over 2,500. The town is characterized by its low housing density and extensive natural areas, providing plenty of room for privacy and relaxation.
Activities like hiking in the Maples Farm Park or visiting local vineyards are some of my favorites here. Bozrah doesn’t have significant industries, which helps preserve its peaceful environment. The seclusion is part of everyday life, with spacious properties and quiet streets defining the town’s character.
Where is Bozrah?
Situated west of Norwich, Bozrah is accessible via Route 2 and Route 163. Its secluded nature is due to the town’s strategic distance from busy highways and urban centers.
The surrounding open spaces and rural roads contribute to the feeling of remoteness. I enjoy the simplicity of getting there, as the drive offers calming views that set the stage for a peaceful visit.
4. Franklin: Quiet Living Amidst Farmlands
Franklin, home to around 1,900 residents, is a town where agriculture plays a significant role. The expansive farmlands and large lot sizes provide a genuine away-from-it-all feeling.
I appreciate visiting local farms and farmers’ markets, which are central to the community. There is minimal industrial activity, allowing the town to maintain its serene and rural atmosphere. Franklin’s seclusion is evident in its sparse population and the wide-open spaces that surround it.
Where is Franklin?
Located north of Norwich, Franklin can be reached via Route 32. The town’s seclusion is heightened by its vast agricultural lands and limited commercial development.
As you drive into Franklin, the transition from urban to rural becomes apparent, with fields stretching as far as the eye can see. I find the journey calming, as the peaceful countryside leads you into the heart of this tranquil community.
3. North Stonington: Serenity Among Rolling Hills
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North Stonington, with a population of approximately 5,300, offers rolling hills and rural landscapes that are a sight to behold. The town is known for its spacious properties and quiet roads, making it a peaceful place to live or visit.
I enjoy exploring the wineries and hiking trails that dot the area. While tourism plays a minor role due to nearby attractions like Mystic, North Stonington itself remains largely untouched. Its seclusion is preserved by strict zoning laws and a commitment to maintaining its rural character.
Where is North Stonington?
Situated in the southeastern corner of Connecticut, North Stonington borders Rhode Island. The town’s secluded feel is due in part to its location away from major highways and urban sprawl.
You can access it via Route 2 or Route 184, roads that offer scenic drives through the countryside. I find that the town’s position on the state border adds to its unique charm and sense of being tucked away.
2. Voluntown: Retreat into Connecticut’s Forested Countryside
Voluntown is a small community of about 2,600 people, known for its vast areas of undeveloped land. Pachaug State Forest extends into Voluntown, offering endless outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and camping, which I thoroughly enjoy.
The town lacks significant industry and commercial development, enhancing its tranquility. Voluntown’s secluded nature is perfect for those looking to retreat into the forested countryside and disconnect from the fast pace of modern life.
Where is Voluntown?
Located in the eastern part of New London County, Voluntown borders Rhode Island. Its seclusion is bolstered by the extensive woodlands and the minimal traffic through the area.
Getting there involves taking Route 138 or Route 49, both of which weave through beautiful natural settings. I find that the journey into Voluntown feels like stepping back in time, where nature reigns supreme.
1. Lyme: A Haven of Undisturbed Coastal Forests
Lyme is a small town with a population of just over 2,400. What captivates me about Lyme is its expansive woodlands and proximity to the Connecticut River, offering activities like hiking in the Nehantic State Forest and kayaking along the river.
There is little to no industrial presence, preserving the town’s natural beauty and quiet ambiance. Lyme’s seclusion comes from its low population density and the vast protected lands that surround it, making it an ideal haven for those seeking peace.
Where is Lyme?
Situated in the southwestern part of New London County, Lyme lies along the eastern bank of the Connecticut River. The town’s secluded charm is enhanced by the lack of major roads and its distance from bustling urban centers.
You can reach Lyme via Route 156, a scenic route that hugs the river and offers stunning views. I appreciate how the town feels tucked away amidst coastal forests, providing a serene and undisturbed environment.
