Towns In Grand Isle County:
Welcome to Grand Isle County, Vermont—where the air is crisp, the views are breathtaking, and the natural landscape outweighs man-made infrastructure. If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of city life and ready to embrace a slower pace surrounded by nature’s finest, you’ve stumbled upon the hidden gem of the Green Mountain State, just East of NY and South of Quebec, Canada.
Rise and Shine in Grand Isle:
In Grand Isle County, mornings are not just a time to hit snooze on your alarm. They are a symphony of birdsong, a gentle breeze, and the smell of fresh maple syrup wafting through the air. Forget about rush hour traffic—here, the only traffic jam you’ll encounter is a turtle crossing the road. Nestled within the easy reach of Vermont’s bustling business hub and vibrant college town Burlington, your daily commute transforms into a tranquil journey. It’s not just a commute; it’s a scenic voyage.
The Zen of Zoning Out:
In this corner of Vermont, we’ve mastered the art of slowing down without feeling like life is passing you by. Whether you choose to spend your day fishing on Lake Champlain, hiking the scenic trails, or simply kicking back on the sandy beaches of Alburg Dunes State Park, soaking up the fresh lake air with a good book and an occasional dip. Grand Isle State Park invites you to savor every moment of outdoor adventuring. You’re encouraged to rent kayaks or bikes and explore the islands while paddling or peddling around the grandiose lake.
Wander over to Breakaway Farm for exceptional trail riding, welcoming all experience levels and group discounts. They also offer event space, camps for more dedicated riders, and horse drawn carriages for special events.
Farms, Feasts, and Foodie Dreams:
Let’s talk about food. Grand Isle County is a culinary delight waiting to be explored. With an abundance of farms, you can indulge in farm-to-table experiences that will make your taste buds sing. From artisanal cheeses to fresh produce, every meal is a celebration of local flavors. And yes, maple syrup is practically its own food group here. As a matter of fact, you can find it locally at Crescent Bay Farm – sold at Farmers Markets and Snow Farm Vineyard. Home to frolicking farm animals, Crescent Bay Farm sells llama wool and fiber, as well as grass-fed pork and chicken. Experience the magic of the countryside at their bed and breakfast, and check out their farm fresh products and tasting room half a mile down the road at their winery. Stroll the trails, visit the beach, and marvel at the rolling hills filled with grape vines and gardens as far as the eye can see.
Blue Paddle Bistro in South Hero is a favorite among the locals and out-of-states alike! They won best restaurant outside Chittenden County (our largest and most populated county) in 2023, as well as best chef in the state – Phoebe Bright. If you dine here, you know you’re getting exquisite delicacies!
Four Seasons of Fun:
Grand Isle County is not a one-trick pony—it’s a four-season wonderland. In winter, embrace the snow-covered landscapes with some cross-country skiing or ice fishing on frozen Lake Champlain. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and the return of migratory birds, as well as fertile soils for gardening. Summer is all about lakeside picnics and lazy afternoons floating across the water. Autumn transforms the county into a riot of colors that could rival any artist’s palette. Anytime is a beautiful time to bike the country roads over the extraordinary Causeway path on Lake Champlain to VT’s largest city Burlington, with breweries and nightlife, with a small town charm.
Community Spirit:
One thing you’ll quickly notice is the tight-knit community that calls Grand Isle home. It’s not just a place to live; it’s a place to belong. From local fairs and farmers markets to community potlucks and concerts at Snow Farm, there’s always something happening, and everyone is invited. The sense of camaraderie here is so strong that even the deer wave as you drive by (okay, maybe not, but they’re a friendly bunch).
Speaking of community, the small town vibe is alive and thriving. The revived shop Hero’s Welcome has been lovingly restored as close to its original integrity as the new owners could achieve. The building was constructed in 1899 and run by the same family for 90 years – the Tudhope’s. When hard times fell, the shop was closed, and in 1993, the renovation began, and now you can find thousands of items, from clothing to books to locally crafted trinkets and unique gifts. There’s something for everyone here! In addition to the store, there’s an outdoor haven to explore. They “roll out a big summer dock less than a hundred feet from the store, and welcome lake travelers from all points of the compass. You can get here by car, bike, horse, ferry, seaplane, kayak, canoe, water skis and even ice skates!”
Pack Your Bags (and Your Sense of Adventure):
Ready to trade the chaos for the calm? Grand Isle County is calling your name. Pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and get ready for a lifestyle that’s as refreshing as a dip in Lake Champlain. Come for the scenery, stay for the stories, and leave with a heart full of memories. Grand Isle County: Where every day feels like a vacation, and the only thing faster than time is the changing of the seasons.
