Last weekend we took off to the Connecticut side of the Long Island sound to scout out the area and get a much needed break from the hustle, bustle and heat of New York. This spot is accessible by train and upon getting off, you immediately feel as if time has stopped. Full of fresh air, fantastic views and hospital people, if you're looking to escape the crazed city life, this could be your chance at the perfect getaway. Since we had such a great local retreat, we'd like to share our weekend itinerary with what to do, where to eat and of course our favorite shops from along the way!
First stop was a charming little town located at the Southeastern end of New Haven County called Madison. Before we hit the beach, we popped into the whimsical shop, Lily Juliet, which is quickly becoming the destination for unique items from gifts to home, entertaining, wedding or "just for me" merchandise. Besides introducing new designers whose products tell a story, many of what's sold in the store is designed by Lily Juliet exclusively for the store. If you explore further, you'll find a quaint cottage behind the shop called Lily Juliet Too that is hosting yoga workshops, designer trunk shows, art openings, you name it! We were lucky enough to get a personal tour from one of the co-owners, Joanie Horton, who took us around to show us more of the magic of the area.
Known for Connecticut's largest shoreline park, Hammonasset, is a two mile stretch offering it all! Whether you're feeling active with saltwater fishing, camping, hiking, and boating or more relaxing activities like going for a cool swim, having a quiet picnic, taking a stroll along the boardwalk or simply soaking up some sun with a good book, this may just quickly become your new favorite beach escape.
From here we continued to Branford to grab a healthy and extremely delicious bite to eat. Handcrafted daily from scratch by the dynamic Chef duo, Ami and Mark Shadle, the elegant and relaxed, G-Zen offers entirely plant-based cuisines consisting of vegan/vegetarian and raw foods. The menu even includes a strong selection of wines, beers and sakes that are organic, vegan and biodynamic. Decorated with a communal take on dining, this eco-conscious, zen inspired business, brings freshness to the local eating scene and it's not just in the food. The restaurant values a lifestyle that takes a responsible approach towards one's health and they are dedicated to nourishing both the body and soul.
Nestled further down Main Street, Lovet is another really cool shop to check out that designs and produces its own clothing and accessories, as well as features a plethora of other designers. Owned by a former model, Lovet's style is classic with a twist, and offers merchandise that not only makes you feel good but want to wear time and time again.
Home to the Linden Point House, Stony Creek was our next and final stop for the day. This beachfront property has a breathtaking view of the Thimble Islands and is a marvelous place to stay overnight that neighbors both Branford and Madison. In addition to the unforgettable landscapes, this luscious estate is a haven for relaxation with hammocks, a gazebo, and an array of aged trees adding to the ambience.
Before you leave the village of Stony Creek, you can't miss the standalone shop, Taken For Granite. This peaceful sanctuary sells an array of treasures, antiques, and gifts, some new, some old, but all filled with a special piece of history.
On Sunday morning, we had to visit the town of Chester for its infamous farmer's market. The Chester Sunday Market is not only a weekly festivity, but a community driven celebration that focuses on the locally-produced and regionally-made, right here in Connecticut. Located at the center of the market is the Chester Sunday Market tent full of volunteers who are there to answer any questions, give advice or just offer a friendly hello. Additionally, the event highlights musicians and chefs from the area as well as different neighborhood businesses.
As our weekend drew to a close, we couldn't resist stopping at one last spot, Dina Varano. This gallery of curated jewelry and artisan crafted gifts has been an inspirational destination for visitors for more than 20 years. Many of Dina's pieces reflect the beauty of nature at its finest, much of it drawn from local Connecticut scenery and the surrounding New England. It's the perfect place to end your weekend with a special keepsake that will forever remind you of the peace and magic across the sound.
Know of any other great getaways in the area? Please feel free to share! And no matter what you do or where you go, make sure to have a Happy Fourth Everyone!
One more thing...please check out the banner on the side of this blog for more information on FIT's Sustainable Fashion & Beauty Symposium.
photo via Lily Juliet
First stop was a charming little town located at the Southeastern end of New Haven County called Madison. Before we hit the beach, we popped into the whimsical shop, Lily Juliet, which is quickly becoming the destination for unique items from gifts to home, entertaining, wedding or "just for me" merchandise. Besides introducing new designers whose products tell a story, many of what's sold in the store is designed by Lily Juliet exclusively for the store. If you explore further, you'll find a quaint cottage behind the shop called Lily Juliet Too that is hosting yoga workshops, designer trunk shows, art openings, you name it! We were lucky enough to get a personal tour from one of the co-owners, Joanie Horton, who took us around to show us more of the magic of the area.
photo via cultureandtourism.com
photo via G-Zen
From here we continued to Branford to grab a healthy and extremely delicious bite to eat. Handcrafted daily from scratch by the dynamic Chef duo, Ami and Mark Shadle, the elegant and relaxed, G-Zen offers entirely plant-based cuisines consisting of vegan/vegetarian and raw foods. The menu even includes a strong selection of wines, beers and sakes that are organic, vegan and biodynamic. Decorated with a communal take on dining, this eco-conscious, zen inspired business, brings freshness to the local eating scene and it's not just in the food. The restaurant values a lifestyle that takes a responsible approach towards one's health and they are dedicated to nourishing both the body and soul.
photo via The Lovet Shop
Nestled further down Main Street, Lovet is another really cool shop to check out that designs and produces its own clothing and accessories, as well as features a plethora of other designers. Owned by a former model, Lovet's style is classic with a twist, and offers merchandise that not only makes you feel good but want to wear time and time again.
photo via Linden Point House
Home to the Linden Point House, Stony Creek was our next and final stop for the day. This beachfront property has a breathtaking view of the Thimble Islands and is a marvelous place to stay overnight that neighbors both Branford and Madison. In addition to the unforgettable landscapes, this luscious estate is a haven for relaxation with hammocks, a gazebo, and an array of aged trees adding to the ambience.
photo via Taken For Granite
Before you leave the village of Stony Creek, you can't miss the standalone shop, Taken For Granite. This peaceful sanctuary sells an array of treasures, antiques, and gifts, some new, some old, but all filled with a special piece of history.
photo via Chester Sunday Market
On Sunday morning, we had to visit the town of Chester for its infamous farmer's market. The Chester Sunday Market is not only a weekly festivity, but a community driven celebration that focuses on the locally-produced and regionally-made, right here in Connecticut. Located at the center of the market is the Chester Sunday Market tent full of volunteers who are there to answer any questions, give advice or just offer a friendly hello. Additionally, the event highlights musicians and chefs from the area as well as different neighborhood businesses.
photo via Dina Varano
As our weekend drew to a close, we couldn't resist stopping at one last spot, Dina Varano. This gallery of curated jewelry and artisan crafted gifts has been an inspirational destination for visitors for more than 20 years. Many of Dina's pieces reflect the beauty of nature at its finest, much of it drawn from local Connecticut scenery and the surrounding New England. It's the perfect place to end your weekend with a special keepsake that will forever remind you of the peace and magic across the sound.
Know of any other great getaways in the area? Please feel free to share! And no matter what you do or where you go, make sure to have a Happy Fourth Everyone!
One more thing...please check out the banner on the side of this blog for more information on FIT's Sustainable Fashion & Beauty Symposium.
Love this ... A lovely get-away indeed!
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