Many believe Vermont has the best small towns and villages in the country. This is no land of suburban sprawl or homogenization but one of interesting urban spaces, pedestrian-friendly downtowns with restaurants and shops still owned and operated by locals. Mostly rural, Vermont is a state of dairy farms and back country roads, of antique stores and charming bed and breakfast inns. It’s a place to go maple sugaring in spring or skiing at Stowe or Sugar Bush in winter. From rolling hills to shady valleys, Vermont’s relaxed pace of life is irresistible. For more information go to: www.travel-vermont.com.

Covering a quarter of the state of New Hampshire, the White Mountains are the most rugged range in all New England. The most famous peak, Mount Washington, is one of a group called the Presidential Range. The highest mountain in the Northeast, it attracts hikers, climbers, skiers and photographers in abundance. An elaborate hut system crosses rivers, runs through hardwood forests and down deep valleys. Groomed Nordic trails run in every direction. Moose, weasel, red fox and bobcats roam the ranges throughout the year. For more information go to: www.visitwhitemountains.com.