River Valley Romance

Begin by getting on Rte. 156 northbound off I-95’s exit 70 and heading up to Hamburg Cove in Lyme, one of Connecticut’s most naturally beautiful spots. If on the way you’d like a quiet view of the Connecticut River, take a short side trip down Ely’s Ferry Road – there’s a very small public access point at the end of it. Once past Hamburg Cove, continue north to Devil’s Hopyard State Park, so named because of potholes found on rocks there. There’s hiking in the park and some very good waterfalls.

Come back down to Rte. 82 and head west so you can cross the river via the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry (seasonal). The crossing here goes back to 1769; today’s version costs only $5 per vehicle and offers a unique, if brief, view of the river and surrounding hills. Proceed east on Rte. 434 to Rte. 82 and head west so you can cross the river via the famous swing bridge at East Haddam.

On the west side of the river, get on Rte. 154 and head south. Chester has one of Connecticut’s most charming town centers. Spend some time browsing through the shops, galleries and bo.utiques there, then get to your dinner table at The Village Bistro on Main Street, offering New American Cuisine with a touch of European flair

Keep the romantic vibe alive with an overnight at the cozy Old Lyme Inn in Old Lyme. The inn’s nine rooms are individual in design and very comfortable.

Next morning, following your country breakfast at the Bee & Thistle, you can walk or drive up to the Florence Griswold Museum, known as one of the great homes of American Impressionism. Originally the home/boarding house of arts patron Florence Griswold, who invited painters to spend time there, the museum has evolved into a delightful showcase for all sorts of art, with lovely grounds as well.