There’s something special about finding yourself in a place where the world slows down, where the air is crisp, and life feels just a little simpler. Western Vermont is home to some of the most tucked-away towns, rich in history, natural beauty, and a quiet charm that makes them feel like hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
I’ve spent time wandering through these peaceful corners, and I want to share ten of the most secluded spots that offer a perfect escape from the rush of everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a weekend retreat or just daydreaming about small-town tranquility, these places might just steal your heart.
10. Rupert: Rural Serenity Near the New York Border
With a population of just over 700, Rupert offers a peaceful rural environment that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. I love strolling through its vast open spaces, where large lots and natural landscapes dominate the scenery.
There’s a simplicity to life here; activities often revolve around exploring the outdoors, whether it’s hiking the trails or enjoying a quiet afternoon of birdwatching. Agriculture remains a staple, with local farms contributing to the community’s economy and charm.
What makes Rupert truly secluded is its expansive areas of undeveloped land, providing residents with plenty of privacy and a deep connection to nature. It’s a place where you can genuinely escape and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Vermont’s countryside.
Where is Rupert?
Nestled near the border of New York, Rupert is tucked away in the southwestern corner of Vermont. Its location, far from major highways and urban centers, enhances its seclusion and appeal for those seeking tranquility.
To get there, I usually take the scenic route along the smaller state roads, which wind through picturesque valleys and rolling hills. The town’s remoteness adds to its charm, making it a hidden gem for anyone looking to find peace amidst Vermont’s natural splendor.
9. Mount Tabor: Quiet Woods and Open Spaces
Mount Tabor, home to around 250 residents, is a haven for those who cherish solitude and the great outdoors. The town is characterized by vast tracts of undeveloped land and a landscape dominated by forests and open spaces.
I often find myself lost in thought while wandering its quiet woods or gazing out over the expansive fields. Recreational opportunities abound, from hiking and horseback riding to simply enjoying the serenity of nature.
There’s little in the way of commercial industry here, which helps maintain its untouched atmosphere. Mount Tabor’s minimal residential development means neighbors are few and far between, offering an ideal setting for anyone yearning for peace and privacy.
Where is Mount Tabor?
Located in the heart of the Green Mountains, Mount Tabor sits comfortably away from Vermont’s busier locales. It’s nestled along Route 7, but even this main road doesn’t detract from the town’s secluded feel.
Getting there involves a drive through some of the state’s most beautiful landscapes, which I find is a pleasure in itself. The town’s position amidst the mountains and forests contributes to its sense of isolation, making it a perfect spot for a quiet retreat.
8. Winhall: Forested Retreat Near Stratton Mountain
Winhall, with a population of approximately 800, is a forested retreat that offers a perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility to outdoor activities. I appreciate how the dense woodlands and spacious properties provide ample privacy for residents.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy nearby Stratton Mountain for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. There’s also plenty of fishing and kayaking opportunities in the local rivers and lakes.
Winhall doesn’t have a bustling commercial center, which helps maintain its tranquil atmosphere. Its setting, enveloped by natural beauty and set away from commercial zones, makes it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle amidst Vermont’s wilderness.
Where is Winhall?
Situated in southern Vermont, Winhall is conveniently close to some of the state’s prominent ski resorts yet retains a sense of seclusion. It’s located near Route 30 and Route 11, but the town itself is tucked away among the trees.
I usually access Winhall via these routes, enjoying the scenic drive through the mountains. The town’s dense forests and lack of urban development amplify its secluded feel, making it a quiet haven despite its proximity to recreational hotspots.
7. Hancock: Gateway to the Green Mountain Wilderness
Hancock is a small town with around 320 residents, offering a remote setting at the edge of the Green Mountain National Forest. I find its extensive forests and low population make it an ideal spot for immersing oneself in nature’s solitude.
Outdoor activities here are abundant, including hiking the Long Trail, fishing in the White River, and exploring the wilderness. There’s a limited presence of commerce, focusing mainly on small businesses and services that cater to locals and visitors passing through.
Hancock’s seclusion is due in part to its vast natural surroundings and the sense of being enveloped by the wilderness, providing a true escape from the outside world.
Where is Hancock?
Located along Route 100 in central Vermont, Hancock sits comfortably away from major cities and highways. The town is nestled at the base of the Green Mountains, which contributes to its remote ambiance.
When I visit, I enjoy the journey through winding roads that showcase Vermont’s scenic beauty. Access to Hancock is primarily via these smaller roads, enhancing its secluded nature. The enveloping forests and mountainous terrain make it a perfect gateway to Vermont’s wilderness.
6. Peru: A Secluded Village Above the Clouds
Peru is a quaint village with a population hovering around 400, perched high in the Green Mountains. I adore its high-elevation setting, which often feels like living above the clouds.
The town offers seclusion among the mountains, with natural surroundings that provide a tranquil backdrop to everyday life. Activities here include hiking in the summer and skiing at Bromley Mountain in the winter.
There’s a tight-knit community, but the spread-out residences ensure plenty of privacy. What makes Peru particularly secluded is its small size and the fact that it’s far from bustling areas, making it a perfect escape for those who value peace and solitude.
Where is Peru?
Nestled in southern Vermont, Peru is accessible via Route 11 but remains off the beaten path. The town’s elevation and surrounding mountains contribute to its secluded feel.
I often take the scenic drive up the mountain roads to reach Peru, enjoying the stunning vistas along the way. Its location away from major urban centers and surrounded by natural beauty makes it a hidden gem for those seeking a quiet mountain retreat.
5. Sunderland: Peaceful Valleys and Rolling Hills
Sunderland, with a population of about 1,000, is characterized by its quiet valleys and rolling hills. I appreciate the low housing density here, which offers residents a serene lifestyle amidst expansive landscapes.
Outdoor activities include hiking in the Green Mountain National Forest and fishing in the nearby Batten Kill River.
There isn’t much in the way of industry, which helps maintain its peaceful atmosphere. Sunderland’s distance from urban centers and the spread-out nature of its homes provide a sense of seclusion that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Sunderland?
Located in Bennington County, Sunderland sits along Route 7A, but it’s easy to overlook amidst Vermont’s vast countryside. The town’s position between the Taconic and Green Mountain ranges adds to its secluded vibe.
When I travel there, the journey through peaceful valleys and past serene farms always feels like stepping into a quieter world. Sunderland’s relative remoteness and natural surroundings make it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the noise of city life.
4. Sandgate: Hidden in the Taconic Mountains
Home to around 400 residents, Sandgate is tucked away in the Taconic Mountains, offering a secluded charm that’s hard to match. I find the vast undeveloped areas and minimal traffic create an atmosphere of tranquility that’s perfect for unwinding.
The town is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and simply enjoying the peace and quiet.
There’s little commercial activity, preserving the town’s untouched feel. Sandgate’s location and the surrounding mountains provide a natural barrier from the outside world, making it a haven for solitude seekers.
Where is Sandgate?
Sandgate is situated in southwestern Vermont, near the New York border. The town is accessible via local roads that meander through the mountains, enhancing its sense of isolation.
I usually take these roads when visiting, appreciating the scenic beauty that accompanies the journey. The lack of major highways and the rugged terrain contribute to Sandgate’s secluded nature, making it a perfect retreat for those wanting to disconnect.
3. Goshen: Tranquil Living Amidst Vermont’s Lakes
Goshen, with a population of about 160, offers a truly secluded living experience amidst Vermont’s beautiful lakes and forests. I enjoy the large lot sizes and the proximity to serene bodies of water like Silver Lake and Sugar Hill Reservoir.
The town is surrounded by forests that act as natural privacy barriers, providing residents with a peaceful and intimate connection to nature. Activities here include fishing, kayaking, and exploring the numerous hiking trails.
There’s minimal industry, which helps maintain the tranquility of the area. Goshen’s remote location and sprawling natural landscapes make it an ideal spot for anyone looking to live quietly among Vermont’s picturesque scenery.
Where is Goshen?
Nestled in Addison County, Goshen is located east of Lake Dunmore and is surrounded by the Green Mountain National Forest. Getting there involves traveling along Route 73, which adds to the feeling of retreating into the wilderness.
I find that the journey itself is part of the charm, with the roads winding through dense forests and past clear lakes. Goshen’s seclusion is enhanced by its limited accessibility and the surrounding natural features, making it a peaceful hideaway.
2. Granville: Serenity Along Moss Glen Falls
Granville is a small town of approximately 300 residents, known for its pristine natural beauty and the famous Moss Glen Falls. I love visiting the falls, one of Vermont’s hidden gems, which offers a serene spot for reflection and appreciation of nature’s wonders.
The town’s remote location and sparse population make it a peaceful retreat where I can truly unwind. Outdoor activities include hiking, photography, and exploring the scenic Route 100.
There’s little industrial presence, preserving the town’s tranquil ambiance. Granville’s combination of natural attractions and seclusion makes it an attractive destination for those seeking peace and quiet.
Where is Granville?
Located along Route 100 in Addison County, Granville is nestled between the Green Mountains and the Northfield Range. The town’s position away from major highways and urban centers adds to its secluded feel.
When I drive there, I revel in the scenic beauty of the route, which winds through some of Vermont’s most stunning landscapes. Granville’s limited accessibility and the enveloping natural environment contribute to its sense of isolation, making it a perfect spot for a tranquil getaway.
1. Ripton: A Woodland Haven in the Green Mountains
Ripton, with a population of around 600, is a small town nestled within the Green Mountain National Forest. I find its low population density and abundance of undeveloped land offer the ultimate seclusion.
The town is a haven for nature lovers like me, with opportunities for hiking, skiing at the nearby Middlebury College Snow Bowl, and exploring the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail.
There’s a strong sense of community, but homes are spread out, providing plenty of personal space. The main industries are centered around education and conservation, with the Bread Loaf Campus of Middlebury College located here. Ripton’s seclusion comes from its deep immersion in the forest and the limited development, making it a perfect woodland retreat.
Where is Ripton?
Situated in Addison County, Ripton lies east of Middlebury and is accessible via Route 125. The town’s location within the heart of the Green Mountains enhances its secluded atmosphere.
I often take the scenic drive through the mountains to reach Ripton, enjoying the lush greenery along the way. The town’s remote setting, surrounded by the national forest, makes it feel like a world apart, offering a peaceful escape from the stresses of everyday life.
