A -day tour of the Blackstone River Valley
Blackstone Valley Ramble - $835.00
Highlights:
> 5 nights accomodations in charming B&B's
> Ride through farmland, picturesque village greens and mill villages
> Enjoy an evening cruise on a canal boat
> 5 abundant breakfasts and 1 gourmet packed lunch
> Complete lobster dinner and farm-stay dinner included
> Visit historic sites such as Slater Mill, a restored working farm museum and an 18th century Meeting House
> Meet local artists and shop in their studios
> Swim in pristine lakes
> Take an optional hike along a restored canal towpath
> Luggage transfers
> 5 nights accomodations in charming B&B's
> Ride through farmland, picturesque village greens and mill villages
> Enjoy an evening cruise on a canal boat
> 5 abundant breakfasts and 1 gourmet packed lunch
> Complete lobster dinner and farm-stay dinner included
> Visit historic sites such as Slater Mill, a restored working farm museum and an 18th century Meeting House
> Meet local artists and shop in their studios
> Swim in pristine lakes
> Take an optional hike along a restored canal towpath
> Luggage transfers
Day 1: The Blackstone Valley!
After your orientation meeting, enjoy a short warm-up ride to historic Slater Mill. Relax on your private authentic British Canal Boat built in England for use on the Blackstone River. You will be docked in Central Falls RI and this afternoon will include a cruise on the river. A catered lobster dinner will be delivered on board, including a Maine lobster, fresh New England clams and mussels, corn-on-the-cob, potatoes, and, of course, the all-important lobster bib.
Day 2: Northern Rhode Island bike paths
After breakfast on the canal boat, you will cycle from Pawtucket to Woonsocket using an award winning network of bike paths. Visit the Diamond Hill Winery and the Museum of Work and Culture. Shop in Woonsocket's Riverfront Galleries for creations from local artists, set in the middle of a unique urban mix of restored mill buildings and natural beauty. Tonight's stay is at the 1875 Victorian Pillsbury House B&B. A short walk away is a local dining favorite specializing in the Blackstone Valley's traditional "Chicken Family Style" dinner, as well as a Thai restaurant with a Jazz and Blues club.
Day 3: Mill villages of northern Rhode Island
On your route today from Woonsocket to Pascoag you will see diverse Industrial Revolution era mill villages. A dramatic and untamed part of the Blackstone River can be easily reached at the Blackstone Gorge State Park. Spring Lake Beach (nice sandy beach to swim during the summer months!) is a relaxing and fun side trip - young and old marvel at the restored arcade games, most using nickels and dimes. Spend the evening at Grace Note Horse Farm Inn, nestled next to 4,000 acres of protected forestland. Virginia, the Inn's owner, will be preparing your dinner to be enjoyed in her restored home.
Day 4: Rural beauty of Sutton and Douglas
Cycling today will take you through sections of the Douglas State Forest, which includes beautiful Wallum Lake. Continue on to East Douglas where fields met factories and country met commerce in the valley. In Sutton, Whittier Farm encompasses 500 acreas and the 5th generation welcomes you to their property. A preservation group owns Waters Farm and they have added many reconstructed buildings; the view from the farm over Lake Manchaug is one of our favorites in the valley. You will overnight at the lovely country setting of the 1720 Putnam House.
Day 5: A taste of Sutton
After breakfast, cycle through the well-preserved villages of Sutton and Grafton. Visit a renowned folk art gallery that produces chalkware Santas and see behind the scenes during a studio tour. An 80-year old family orchard and a chocolate confectioner will offer you temptations and the energy to make it to your night's stay at the Captain John Slocumb House. Take advantage of their pool before strolling to dinner on your own in a typical New England tavern.
Day 6: Grafton Common
Before saying goodbye, rise and shine for an early spin to Willard House Clock museum and if you choose, stay for lunch on the picturesque Grafton common.