Links, Lunch & Lingering

Rise and shine to play at Lyman Orchards Golf Club in Middlefield. Billing itself as “public golf with a private club feeling,” the facility offers two courses: one designed by Robert Trent Jones that had been used as a qualifying site for the Travelers Championship of the PGA Tour; a second designed by Gary Player. Lyman Orchards Golf Academy offers special programs for beginners, juniors, women and advanced golfers. Why not beef up your skills while you’re at it?

Enjoy lunch at the nearby Lyman Orchards Apple Barrel market. The country farm store sells takeout sandwiches, fruit and vegetables, and Hi-Top Apple Pie, named "Best in Connecticut" by Connecticut Magazine. Find a picnic table outside by the duck pond and relish the view….and some pie.

Take a country drive from Middlefield (Route 157) to Route 66. Though it’s not the official Mother Road (which originates in Chicago), it’s home to mom-and-pop-owned shops and restaurants and lush scenery.

After a scenic, 30-minute drive up route 66, you’ll discover a multi-dealer antique complex filled with charming surprises. The Shops at Marlborough Barn feature new and vintage home décor and design shops, consignment furniture, food, gifts and more in a picturesque collection of buildings and barns. Need a break? Get a bite at Sadler’s Ordinary Restaurant & Bakery, just up the road.