Road Tripping with Auberge Resorts in New England
If you’re like us, being quarantined in 2020 has been a mixed bag of emotions. With a slew of travel restrictions, limited hotel options, quiet airports and cruise ships in dry dock, the options for those wishing to get out and explore have become extremely limited.
But on the other side, quarantine life has reconnected us to some of the things we’ve lost in the digital age. In many ways, we seem to be connecting back to a simpler time, when priorities for most were time well-spent with our family, an honest day’s work, and a home-cooked meal. Our neighborhoods, patios and porches have once again become the center of our worlds. We may not be traveling “the world” but we are getting out and exploring what’s available to us in our immediate surroundings, the joys and wonders to be found here in our own backyards. In that sense, America in 2020 looks just a little bit like America in the early 1950’s.
And what was more iconic in the early 1950’s than the great American road trip? Like today, the 50’s were a time of change and even uncertainty…but also optimism. The national highway system was coming together and elements like Route 66 called to all. Cars, trains, buses and campers were an opportunity for families to explore a newly opened up world beyond the edges of their town, city and state. Icons followed suit. Kerouac went On The Road. Steinbeck Traveled With Charlie In America. Airstreams became our new symbol of freedom, our home-on-the-go, and roadside diners became our universal kitchens uniting us with other like-minded explorers of our amazing country.
These days, safety and security are at the forefront of every conversation and even those avid adventure-seekers wishing to get back on the road are looking for elements to which they can control. In that sense, a road trip is a great first step to resuming travel. So, with the spirit of the 50’s in mind, hop in your car with us, and let’s take a great American road trip.
We’re partnering with Auberge Resorts Collection to bring you three great itineraries in the coming weeks. The luxury brand’s tagline says it all: “Unforgettable Experiences in Storied Destinations.” First on our list is an iconic New England adventure. These hotels are all unique and waiting for you to come discover all the little things that make America, our cities, our roads and these properties so amazing. Stay tuned in the coming weeks for more drivable destinations.
Let’s hit the road!
Classic New England:
Connecticut + Rhode Island + Maine
Mayflower Inn & Spa: Washington, Connecticut
Located in the picturesque town of Washington, Connecticut, Mayflower Inn & Spa is an exquisite country retreat, nestled in 58 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and woodland. Just two hours’ drive from New York City, it is renowned as one of northeast America’s most distinguished luxury hideaways. Memories are made easily when you stay at this boutique hotel in Litchfield County, a portal to a simpler time, where the definitive measure of the good life is in soul-stirring moments rooted in the idyllic countryside. (Reopening June 20, 2020)
Highlights not to miss!
Enjoy a culinary tour of the Connecticut countryside as you sample cheese and wines from local dairy farms and wineries.
Wind your way along the Connecticut Antiques Trail to browse tiny shops with creaking floorboards stocked with 1700s Americana, mid-century modern pieces and vintage collectibles from every era.
Explore Mayflower Pond in a two person canoe, followed by a picnic on the lawn complete with hand-crafted cocktails or expertly paired wine.
From there, travel East along Route 84 as you meander ever closer to the Atlantic Ocean, passing through historic New England towns like New London, Stonington, Weekapaug and Narragansett. Making your way to one of Newport’s best-kept secrets: The Vanderbilt.
The Vanderbilt: Newport, Rhode Island
Originally built in 1909 by Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt, a scion of the Vanderbilt family, the property is a vintage Newport mansion meticulously restored to its former glory, just minutes from the charming waterfront. Come for elegant fireplaces and museum-quality artwork in the lobby entrance, Christy’s Gallery and Snooker Room—along with pampering worthy of any railway baron. In the summer, enjoy exquisite dining on the Garden Terrace and evening drinks along the popular rooftop bar with sweeping views of Newport Harbor. (Reopening June 26, 2020)
Highlights not to miss!
Experience the Cliff Walk, a 3.5 mile journey along the shoreline offering breathtaking ocean and mansion views from a different perspective.
Stroll along lively Thames Street, lined on both sides with shopping, bars, restaurants and historic homes.
Take to the seas on a historic America’s Cup winner, including the Weatherley and Intrepid!
After Newport, it’s time to head North towards Boston. For the direct route, I95 is your bet, but for a quieter and more scenic adventure, it’s best to head slightly West first toward Providence, wind your way a little slower back East towards Worcester, Lowell and Portsmouth, ultimately landing in iconic Kennebunkport, Maine at the timeless White Barn Inn.
White Barn Inn: Kennebunkport, Maine
Located in the beautiful coastal town of Kennebunkport, White Barn Inn has been a beloved local landmark for over 150 years, synonymous with warm New England hospitality, rustic charm, and uncompromising attention to detail. Just a 90 minutes’ drive north of Boston, this inviting property is renowned as one of the country’s most distinctive getaways. At the White Barn Restaurant, award-winning dining and expertly choreographed service unfold. (Reopening June 28, 2020)
Highlights not to miss!
Walk through the Franciscan Monastery directly across the street from the White Barn Inn. Located on 60+ acres of parcel, these beautiful grounds and walking paths are open to the public, providing access to the riverfront in a truly peaceful, even spiritual, setting.
Join Captain Steve on a two to three hour private trip through the coast of Kennebunk and lobster grounds, and a one-of-a-kind lobstering experience!
Bike to Gooch’s Beach. Enjoy the beach with an exclusive White Barn Beach set up.
Get in touch with your Cadence Travel Advisor to enjoy the following perks during your stay!
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Continental breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom
$100 USD Resort/hotel credit, to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
3rd night free
Plus, a private kitchen tour at White Barn Inn!
Click here for information on the health and service practices at Auberge Hotels
