Nestled within the verdant landscapes of the Green Mountains lie some of Vermont’s most secluded and charming towns. These hidden gems offer tranquility, natural beauty, and a glimpse into the state’s rich heritage. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, outdoor adventures, or a taste of small-town life, these ten towns provide the perfect escape from the bustle of city life. Join us as we countdown the most secluded towns in the Green Mountains, each with its unique allure and undiscovered treasures.
10. Hancock: A Peaceful Gateway to Wilderness
With a population of just over 300 residents, Hancock is a small town that embodies serenity. It’s the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to the Long Trail and the Green Mountain National Forest. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing in the White River, or simply soaking in the tranquil surroundings. The town’s industries are modest, focused on local services and supporting the outdoor tourism that passes through. What makes Hancock truly secluded is its untouched landscapes and the sparse population that allows for a quiet, intimate connection with nature.
Where is Hancock?
Hancock is located in central Vermont, along Route 100, one of the state’s most scenic byways. Its seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding Green Mountain National Forest, which envelops the town with dense forests and mountain vistas. The town is off the beaten path, with limited public transportation options, making it a peaceful haven away from the more frequented tourist spots. Travelers can reach Hancock by car, enjoying a leisurely drive through the picturesque countryside that truly showcases Vermont’s natural beauty.
9. Peru: Alpine Charm with a Quiet Allure
Peru is a quaint village with approximately 375 inhabitants, exuding a quiet charm that’s hard to resist. It’s home to the Bromley Mountain Ski Resort, offering winter sports enthusiasts a delightful playground. In the warmer months, Hapgood Pond Recreation Area provides opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and hiking. While tourism related to the ski resort plays a role, Peru remains largely untouched, preserving its serene atmosphere. The town’s seclusion comes from its location nestled among the mountains, offering unobstructed views and a peaceful environment.
Where is Peru?
Situated in Bennington County, southwestern Vermont, Peru is tucked away in the Green Mountains. Its remote location, away from major highways, contributes to its secluded nature. The town is accessible via winding country roads that weave through forests and hills, enhancing the feeling of escape from urban life. Visitors can reach Peru by car, and the journey itself is a scenic adventure through some of Vermont’s most beautiful landscapes, reaffirming Peru’s status as a hidden alpine gem.
8. Readsboro: A Riverside Haven in the Hills
Readsboro, with a population of about 750 people, is a small town that offers a riverside retreat amidst rolling hills. The Deerfield River runs through it, providing a picturesque backdrop and opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Local industries include small-scale manufacturing and artisans who contribute to the town’s unique character. Readsboro’s tight-knit community and lack of commercialization make it a secluded spot where one can unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of rural life.
Where is Readsboro?
Located in southern Vermont’s Bennington County, Readsboro sits near the Massachusetts border. Its seclusion is due in part to its location away from major tourist routes, nestled in the Green Mountain National Forest. The town is accessible via Route 100 and several secondary roads, making it feel hidden away amidst the hills. This out-of-the-way location ensures that Readsboro remains a peaceful haven, where visitors can appreciate the unspoiled natural surroundings and warm community spirit.
7. Granville: Serenity Along the Moss Glen Falls
Home to around 300 residents, Granville is a tranquil town famous for the enchanting Moss Glen Falls. Nature lovers can explore the falls and enjoy the serene walking trails that wind through the forests. There are no major industries here; the town’s economy is modest, with a focus on local crafts and small businesses. Granville’s seclusion is amplified by its unspoiled landscapes and the absence of bustling commercial centers, making it a perfect spot for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
Where is Granville?
Granville is situated in Addison County, central Vermont, along the scenic Route 100. The town’s location on the edge of the Green Mountains contributes to its secluded feel. The winding roads and mountainous terrain make it somewhat hidden from the more traveled areas. Accessible primarily by car, visitors often find the journey itself part of the allure, with the drive offering stunning views of Vermont’s countryside and reinforcing Granville’s serene and secluded atmosphere.
6. Wardsboro: Unspoiled Beauty Off the Beaten Path
Wardsboro, with a population of approximately 900 people, is a town that prides itself on its unspoiled natural beauty. It’s known for the Wardsboro Brook and its lush forests, offering opportunities for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. The town celebrates local traditions, including the annual Gilfeather Turnip Festival, highlighting its agricultural heritage. Wardsboro’s lack of commercialization and its location away from main tourist trails make it a secluded spot where visitors can immerse themselves in the simplicity of rural life.
Where is Wardsboro?
Located in Windham County, southern Vermont, Wardsboro is nestled between the Green Mountains and the Stratton Mountain area. Its seclusion is due to its position off major highways, accessible via Route 100 and local roads. The town’s location ensures minimal traffic and a quiet environment. Visitors typically reach Wardsboro by car, enjoying the idyllic scenery along the way, which showcases the town’s commitment to preserving its natural surroundings and peaceful way of life.
5. Landgrove: A Whisper of Old Vermont
Landgrove is one of Vermont’s smallest towns, with a population of just over 150 residents. This tiny village is a snapshot of old Vermont, featuring historic inns, like the Landgrove Inn, and classic New England architecture. There are no significant industries; instead, the town thrives on small-scale tourism and agriculture. Landgrove’s untouched landscapes and the absence of modern development make it exceptionally secluded, offering a retreat into a simpler, bygone era.
Where is Landgrove?
Situated in Bennington County, near the southern edge of the Green Mountains, Landgrove is tucked away from major routes, accessible primarily via local roads. Its remote location, surrounded by forests and mountains, enhances its secluded feel. The town is off the beaten path, and reaching it often involves a scenic drive through winding country roads. This seclusion is a significant part of Landgrove’s charm, providing visitors with an authentic and peaceful Vermont experience.
4. Montgomery: Gateway to the Jay Peak Wilderness
Montgomery, with a population of about 1,200, is known for its rustic charm and proximity to the Jay Peak wilderness. The town is famous for its seven covered bridges, more than any other town in Vermont, adding to its historic appeal. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore hiking trails, indulge in winter sports at Jay Peak Resort, or enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the area. Small businesses and tourism related to outdoor activities are the main industries. Montgomery’s seclusion stems from its deep roots in nature and a community that values preservation over development.
Where is Montgomery?
Located in Franklin County, northern Vermont, Montgomery borders the Green Mountains and is close to the Canadian border. Its position away from major cities and highways places it in a quiet corner of the state. Accessible via Route 118, the journey to Montgomery offers scenic views of mountains and forests. The town’s remote location ensures it remains a peaceful gateway to wilderness, attracting those who appreciate solitude and natural beauty.
3. Rochester: The Heartbeat of the Green Mountains
Rochester is a small town with around 1,100 residents, situated in the heart of the Green Mountains. The charming village green serves as a focal point, surrounded by local shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Outdoor activities are abundant, with easy access to hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. The local economy revolves around small businesses and tourism, with an emphasis on outdoor recreation. Rochester’s seclusion is due to its central location within the mountains, offering a peaceful environment away from larger towns.
Where is Rochester?
Found in Windsor County, central Vermont, Rochester lies along Route 100, yet retains a secluded feel due to the surrounding mountainous terrain. The town is nestled in a valley, shielded by the peaks of the Green Mountains. Accessibility is primarily by car, and while it’s on a main route, the area remains uncrowded and serene. The drive to Rochester is picturesque, reinforcing the sense that you’ve discovered a hidden gem in the heart of Vermont’s natural beauty.
2. Weston: A Cultural Gem Nestled in the Mountains
Weston is home to approximately 600 residents and is renowned for its vibrant arts scene and classic Vermont charm. The town boasts the famous Weston Playhouse Theatre Company, attracting visitors with high-quality performances. The iconic Vermont Country Store offers a nostalgic shopping experience. While tourism plays a role, Weston has managed to maintain its quiet ambiance, with industries centered around the arts and local crafts. Its secluded nature is characterized by its small size, cultural richness, and scenic surroundings.
Where is Weston?
Located in Windsor County, southern Vermont, Weston is nestled among the Green Mountains, away from major highways. Accessible via Route 100 and Route 155, the town’s seclusion is part of its appeal. The surrounding landscape of rolling hills and forests provides a peaceful backdrop. Visitors often find that reaching Weston involves a journey through picturesque rural roads, adding to the sense of escape and discovery that defines this cultural gem.
1. Grafton: A Timeless Village Hidden Among Rolling Hills
Grafton, with a population of around 650, is a village that feels untouched by time. Its streets are lined with well-preserved 19th-century buildings and quaint covered bridges, embodying the quintessential Vermont village. Visitors can explore local museums, art galleries, and the Grafton Village Cheese Company. There are no major industries; instead, the town thrives on small businesses, tourism, and a commitment to preserving its historic charm. Grafton’s seclusion is enhanced by its dedication to maintaining a peaceful, authentic atmosphere, free from the hustle of modern life.
Where is Grafton?
Situated in Windham County, southeastern Vermont, Grafton is tucked away among rolling hills and lush landscapes. Away from major thoroughfares, the town is accessible via Route 121 and local roads. Its remote location contributes to its timeless feel, as the modern world seems to fade upon arrival. The journey to Grafton, often through scenic country roads, adds to the experience of stepping back into a more tranquil, bygone era, making it a perfect finale to our countdown of secluded Green Mountain towns.
