Burlington © Stephen Gillian
Why? With its picturesque setting on the shore of Lake
Champlain, a holiday in Burlington is just the ideal destination
for a relaxing getaway. Travel to Burlington for gentle strolls
along the waterfront, browsing galleries and markets, dining in
style or watching the world go by from a pavement café. A
Burlington holiday also caters for the more active with all sorts
of activities like hiking, fishing and cycling available in the
scenic Champlain Valley area.
When? Travel to Burlington any time of year, except perhaps
in the extreme cold of mid-winter. Early in the year skiing and
ice-climbing are on offer in the Champlain Valley, but in spring,
summer and autumn the blue lake and green mountains make a stunning
setting for a Burlington holiday.
Who for? A Burlington holiday is ideal for families keen to
escape the stress of the daily round, or couples seeking a romantic
break. It is also a popular spot for outdoors enthusiasts.
More Info: Consult our Burlington travel guide for all the
information required to plan a holiday in Burlington, and to
discover how to spend your leisure when you get there.
Overview
Situated in Chittenden County, Burlington is Vermont's biggest
city and is a lively, yet laid back place with plenty to see and
do. Ideally located on Lake Champlain's eastern shore between the
Adirondack and Green Mountains, the city boasts galleries, museums,
historic architecture, top-class shopping and a host of outdoor
activities.
Originally one of the leading ports in the country with
steamboat traffic on the lake boosting the local economy, the city
was also the site of an important military hospital and army post
during the War of 1812. Burlington continues to be voted one of the
top cities to live in the USA and has a friendly, college-town
atmosphere, which draws an estimated four million visitors a
year.
Attractions in the city range from visits to the historic home
of military leader and philosopher Ethan Allen to the ever popular
Church Street Marketplace, cruises on Lake Champlain, and a visit
to the Lake Champlain Chocolate factory for a free sample. An
excellent way to make the most of the city's beautiful views is to
hire a bicycle and follow the Waterfront Bike Path, a 7.6-mile
(12km) route that runs from Oakledge Park at the southern end of
town to the northern end at the beautiful Winooski River.
