Brew England: Beaches, Bluffs and Beer

8 DAYS/ 7 NIGHTS

Day 1
Boston

Check-in to hotel and this evening mingle with other group members at a meet and greet reception hosted by our guide, a beer aficionado and destination specialist. We’ll be given an introduction to our 8-day exploration of New England. From the historic streets of Boston, to the breathtaking beauty of Maine’s rocky coastline and the awe-inspiring mountains of New Hampshire and Vermont, and we’ll taste the holy grails of craft beer in each region.

Day 2
Boston—Portsmouth—Ogunquit 

This morning we’ll take an orientation tour of Boston’s historic Freedom Trail, architecturally significant Back Bay, and bustling waterfront. Boston continues to be an important centre of commerce, technology and the arts for both the region and the country.

We then head north to Portsmouth, a port city with cobblestoned streets, a downtown filled with charming shops and restaurants, significant examples of Colonial, Georgian, and Federal style houses, and brewers who continue New England’s rich beer-making history. And, like a true New Englander, the beers brewed here are approachable, dependable and impervious to trends. After a tour and tastings we’ll continue along the coast to Ogunquit, a popular beach resort whose name means “beautiful place by the sea”.

Upon arrival, we’ll gather for tastings of some of the most unique and flavorful craft beers in the region.

Day 3
Ogunquit—Portland—Ogunquit 

We’ll start the day with a walk on the Marginal Way, a mile-long, paved foot path along the rocky coast with picture-perfect views worthy of any photography book.

Upon reaching Perkins Cove, board a lobster boat for a one-hour cruise to see traps hauled and lobsters caught by authentic Maine lobstermen. The tour guide will provide a detailed explanation of the lobster fishery and the many scenic points of interest along the way.

This afternoon we’ll travel to Portland, where historical homes and maritime museums chronicle the emergence of the area from a trading and fishing settlement into one of the nation’s most active seaports. It’s also been ranked #1 craft beer city in the world by Matador Network. With a population of 200,000, this old port city with a young vibe is home to 19 craft brewing companies and an additional 15 craft brew pubs. We’ll visit ones that interpret historic styles with unique twists.

After a stop in Kennebunkport, we’ll return to Ogunquit.

Day 4
Ogunquit—Jackson 

This morning we’ll travel through the lakes region and into the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

A ride on the Cog Railway takes us to the summit of Mt. Washington, the eastern seaboard’s tallest peak . The Cog is the world’s first mountain-climbing railway and a National Historic Engineering Landmark. On a clear day, the view extends all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.

Spend time in North Conway for shopping at its famous tax-free outlets or relax at one of its local pubs.

Day 5
Jackson—Stowe 

Today we drive along the Kancamagus Highway, a 55 km long two-lane road, considered one of the most scenic drives in the region. It has been designated a National Scenic Byway by the US Department of Transportation.

Cross over the border into Vermont, regularly ranked near the top of the list as having the most number of breweries per capita in the country. We’ll taste our way to Stowe, a charming resort town at the base of Mt. Mansfield.

Day 6
Stowe—Northern Vermont—Stowe 

The choice of activity is yours this morning. You can enjoy a guided, relaxed hike through the through serene woodlands with spectacular views of Mount Mansfield and Smugglers Notch keeping the camera at the ready to capture pictures of wildlife and beautiful scenery. Or see firsthand what makes Vermont such a special place by cycling the amazing remote back roads, and low traffic paved roads,

After an included lunch we’ll follow Vermont’s IPA Highway to some of the state’s most sought-after breweries renowned for their India Pale Ale (IPA) and in between there’s lots of scenery and quintessential New England places to stop.

Day 7
Stowe—Woodstock—Boston 

We’ll make a short stop in Woodstock, named “the prettiest small town in America” by Yankee Magazine, while en route to Boston.

Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Grand-daddy of the craft brew movement in America—the Boston Beer Co, makers of Sam Adams. While some may argue it’s no longer a craft brewery, the tour and tastings of some of their more unique brews are worth the visit.

Day 8
Boston

This morning the choice is yours once again. You may board a half-day whale-watching cruise. Naturalists narrate as you cruise to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds, and more. Or visit the John F. Kennedy Library & Museum, the repository of personal and political memorabilia of our 35th President. Exhibits include the presidential campaign of 1960 and New Frontier, the Oval Office, the life of First Lady Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy; and photographs and momentos from the Kennedy family .

After return to port late afternoon, transfer to your hotel or Boston’s airport.