If you’re looking to escape into the heart of Vermont’s countryside, these 15 secluded towns offer the perfect blend of peace, charm, and natural beauty. From lakeside retreats like Barnard to historic gems like Plymouth, each town invites you to experience Vermont’s unspoiled landscapes and slower pace of life. Whether you’re drawn to the Green Mountains or the quiet shores of Lake Champlain, these towns provide unique activities and scenic surroundings that make them ideal for both relocation and a tranquil vacation. With quaint downtowns, welcoming communities, and rich histories, these hidden gems embody the best of Vermont’s rustic charm. Discover the Vermont you’ve always imagined, where simplicity and beauty reign.
15. Montgomery
Montgomery, Vermont, is a charming, secluded town located near the Canadian border in northern Vermont, accessible via Route 118, about 12 miles west of Jay Peak. With a population of around 1,200, Montgomery offers a quiet, small-town atmosphere surrounded by lush forests and mountains. The area is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing at nearby Jay Peak Resort, which is popular year-round. Main industries in Montgomery include tourism, small local businesses, and agriculture, with local inns and shops catering to visitors who come for the natural beauty. The town’s historic covered bridges and scenic roads add to its peaceful charm, making Montgomery an appealing spot for those looking to escape into Vermont’s unspoiled landscape.
14. Craftsbury
Craftsbury, Vermont, a small town nestled in the Northeast Kingdom, is known for its remote charm and can be reached via Route 14, about 20 miles north of Hardwick. With a population of around 1,200, Craftsbury is surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and pristine lakes, offering a serene escape into Vermont’s countryside. The town is popular for outdoor activities like cross-country skiing, rowing, and hiking, with Craftsbury Outdoor Center serving as a year-round hub for sports enthusiasts. Main industries include agriculture, small-scale tourism, and education, as the town is home to Sterling College, a unique environmental-focused college. Craftsbury’s historic charm and active community, paired with its quiet, secluded surroundings, make it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those looking to slow down. The town’s peaceful landscapes and close-knit feel embody the rustic appeal of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom.
13. Greensboro
Greensboro, Vermont, a quaint town in the Northeast Kingdom, offers a secluded and scenic retreat in northern Vermont, accessible via Route 16, about 10 miles northeast of Hardwick. With a population of around 700, Greensboro is surrounded by forests, hills, and the serene Caspian Lake, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for those seeking a rural lifestyle. The town offers activities like swimming, fishing, and kayaking on Caspian Lake, along with hiking trails that showcase the beauty of Vermont’s countryside. Main industries in Greensboro include tourism, agriculture, and small artisanal businesses, with local favorites like the renowned Hill Farmstead Brewery attracting visitors from all over. Greensboro’s picturesque village center, local art galleries, and historic buildings add to its charm, making it a hidden gem in the Northeast Kingdom. The town’s unspoiled natural surroundings and close-knit community provide a relaxing escape into Vermont’s rural landscapes.
12. Chelsea
Chelsea, Vermont, a secluded town located in the heart of the state, sits in a picturesque valley along Route 110, about 30 miles northwest of White River Junction. With a population of around 1,200, Chelsea offers a tranquil, small-town experience surrounded by rolling hills, farmland, and forests. The town’s central green and historic red-brick courthouse add to its quaint charm, while nearby trails provide opportunities for hiking and outdoor exploration. Main industries here include agriculture, small local businesses, and artisan crafts, with a strong tradition of farming and a few shops that serve the community. Chelsea’s remote location and limited development keep it quiet and peaceful, a perfect destination for those who appreciate rural beauty. The town’s charming center and natural setting make Chelsea a relaxing, scenic retreat in Vermont’s countryside.
11. Grafton
Grafton, Vermont, a charming and historic town in southern Vermont, is nestled in a secluded valley off Route 121, about 15 miles west of Bellows Falls. With a population of around 600, Grafton feels like a step back in time, with well-preserved 19th-century buildings, quiet streets, and a welcoming village green. Known for its scenic beauty, the town offers activities like hiking, biking, and exploring local shops and galleries, along with the popular Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center for year-round recreation. Tourism, artisanal businesses, and local cheesemaking are primary industries, with Grafton Village Cheese Company being a beloved staple. The town’s small population and remote location lend it a peaceful, untouched charm, perfect for those seeking a slower pace. Grafton’s historic architecture and vibrant arts scene make it a quintessential Vermont destination for nature and history lovers alike.
10. Rochester
Rochester, Vermont, a secluded town in the Green Mountains, is located along scenic Route 100, about 20 miles north of Killington. With a population of around 1,100, Rochester offers a peaceful and picturesque setting surrounded by lush forests, rivers, and mountains. The town provides easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and fishing, with the Green Mountain National Forest offering miles of trails and breathtaking views. Main industries include tourism, small local businesses, and artisanal crafts, with a charming main street lined with galleries, cafes, and shops. Rochester’s remote location and natural beauty create a quiet, unhurried atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a break from urban life. The town’s classic New England architecture and vibrant arts community make it a delightful escape into Vermont’s mountain scenery.
9. Westmore
Westmore, Vermont, a tiny and secluded town in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, is nestled near the shores of Lake Willoughby and can be reached via Route 5A, about 25 miles north of St. Johnsbury. With a population of around 300, Westmore is known for its striking natural beauty, particularly Lake Willoughby, often called the “Lake Lucerne of America” for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs. Popular activities include hiking the trails in Willoughby State Forest, kayaking on the lake, and exploring nearby mountain vistas. The town’s main industries revolve around tourism and small-scale local services, with seasonal visitors drawn to its pristine landscapes and peaceful setting. Westmore’s remote location and small community create a quiet, undisturbed atmosphere that feels worlds away from bustling towns. The town’s access to scenic landscapes and serene lakefront charm make it a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and those seeking solitude in Vermont.
8. Danville
Danville, Vermont, a quiet town located in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, sits along U.S. Route 2, about 10 miles west of St. Johnsbury. With a population of around 2,200, Danville is known for its charming village green, historic buildings, and picturesque countryside. The town offers activities like hiking on the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, exploring local farms, and visiting art galleries and antique shops. Agriculture and small-scale tourism are central to the town’s economy, with local businesses supporting both residents and seasonal visitors. Danville’s rural setting and tranquil atmosphere give it a secluded, small-town feel that draws those looking for a peaceful retreat. The town’s blend of historic charm, scenic landscapes, and close-knit community make it a quintessential Vermont getaway.
7. Peacham
Peacham, Vermont, a picturesque and secluded town in the Northeast Kingdom, is accessible via Route 2, about 15 miles south of St. Johnsbury. With a population of around 700, Peacham is known for its scenic beauty, rolling hills, and some of the most photographed landscapes in Vermont. The town offers a peaceful setting for hiking, cross-country skiing, and exploring the historic village center, which includes classic white-clapboard homes and a charming church overlooking the valley. Agriculture and small-scale tourism are primary industries, with local farms, maple sugaring, and seasonal events drawing visitors to its rustic charm. Peacham’s remote location and limited development give it an untouched, timeless quality, ideal for those seeking a tranquil escape. The town’s postcard-worthy views and warm community make Peacham a hidden gem for anyone looking to experience Vermont’s countryside.
6. Newfane
Newfane, Vermont, a charming town nestled in the hills of southern Vermont, is located along Route 30, about 12 miles northwest of Brattleboro. With a population of around 1,700, Newfane is known for its historic village center, featuring beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century buildings, including the iconic white-clapboard courthouse and church. The town offers activities such as exploring art galleries, antique shops, and nearby hiking trails in the lush forests that surround the area. Tourism, local crafts, and small businesses form the core of Newfane’s economy, with visitors drawn to its classic New England architecture and scenic beauty. Newfane’s rural setting and timeless charm provide a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for those looking to escape modern bustle. The town’s blend of history, natural beauty, and artistic spirit makes it a quintessential Vermont destination.
5. Strafford
Strafford, Vermont, a quaint and secluded town in the Upper Valley region, is accessible via Route 132, about 25 miles northwest of White River Junction. With a population of around 1,000, Strafford is known for its historic charm, particularly the iconic Strafford Town House, a beautiful white-clapboard meetinghouse overlooking the village green. Visitors can enjoy exploring the scenic countryside, hiking local trails, and experiencing the town’s vibrant art community and seasonal events. The primary industries include small-scale agriculture, local crafts, and tourism, with a focus on preserving the town’s history and natural landscapes. Strafford’s rural location and limited development give it a peaceful, timeless quality that draws those seeking a quieter way of life. The town’s blend of history, classic architecture, and surrounding green hills make Strafford an idyllic Vermont retreat.
4. Weston
Weston, Vermont, a small and charming town in southern Vermont, is situated along Route 100, about 12 miles north of Londonderry. With a population of around 600, Weston is known for its well-preserved historic village, including the renowned Weston Playhouse and the beloved Vermont Country Store, both of which draw visitors year-round. The town offers activities such as exploring art galleries, antique shops, and nearby hiking trails, as well as enjoying live theater at the playhouse. Tourism, arts, and small local businesses are the main industries, with many visitors coming to experience Weston’s classic New England ambiance. Weston’s secluded, rural setting gives it a peaceful, inviting atmosphere that makes it a perfect getaway. The town’s historic charm, arts culture, and scenic surroundings make Weston a quintessential Vermont destination.
3. Isle La Motte
Isle La Motte, Vermont, a secluded island town in Lake Champlain, sits at the northernmost end of the lake and is accessible by bridge via Route 129, about 40 miles north of Burlington. With a small population of around 500, this quiet island offers scenic beauty and a relaxed pace, surrounded by the tranquil waters of Lake Champlain. Isle La Motte is known for its outdoor activities, including fishing, kayaking, and cycling, along with historical sites like the Isle La Motte Lighthouse and the Chazy Fossil Reef, one of the world’s oldest coral reefs. The town’s main industries include tourism and small-scale agriculture, with local farms and seasonal rental properties serving visitors drawn to its peaceful lakeside atmosphere. Isle La Motte’s isolation, natural beauty, and waterfront charm make it a unique retreat for those seeking serenity and a close connection to nature. The town’s remote island setting and welcoming community provide an ideal escape into Vermont’s picturesque lakeside landscapes.
2. Barnard
Barnard, Vermont, a charming and secluded town in central Vermont, is located along Route 12, about 10 miles north of Woodstock. With a population of around 1,000, Barnard offers a quiet, picturesque setting centered around Silver Lake, a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking. The town’s activities include exploring local trails, visiting Barnard General Store, and enjoying cultural events at nearby artist residencies. Tourism, local crafts, and small-scale agriculture are the main industries, with a close-knit community that takes pride in preserving Barnard’s rural charm. Barnard’s remote location, surrounded by forested hills and the lake, gives it a peaceful, timeless feel that attracts those looking for tranquility. The town’s natural beauty, lakeside access, and welcoming spirit make it an ideal escape for those seeking Vermont’s unspoiled countryside.
1. Plymouth
Plymouth, Vermont, a historic and secluded town nestled in the Green Mountains, is accessible via Route 100A, about halfway between Woodstock and Ludlow. With a population of around 600, Plymouth offers a quiet, scenic environment and is known as the birthplace of President Calvin Coolidge, whose homestead is now a preserved historic site. Visitors to Plymouth can enjoy exploring the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, hiking local trails, and experiencing the surrounding Green Mountain National Forest. The town’s main industries include tourism, small-scale farming, and artisanal crafts, with a focus on preserving its historic charm and natural landscapes. Plymouth’s rural setting and mountainous surroundings create a peaceful and timeless atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat. The town’s combination of history, natural beauty, and secluded charm makes it a unique Vermont destination for those looking to step back in time.
Have you ever thought about Craftsbury? It’s such a peaceful spot with stunning landscapes and a rich agricultural vibe. Vershire is also a gem for gorgeous views and a tight-knit community!