There’s no better place to enjoy vibrant fall foliage than in Litchfield, Connecticut. Described as the last classic New England village, Litchfield boasts the white church steeple, village green, rolling hills and some of the finest, albeit expensive, dining in Connecticut. Just a short two-hour drive from Bergen County, this bucolic community is a wonderful weekend retreat and any visit there should include a stay at the Tollgate Hill Inn. 

Nestled on 10 acres, the Tollgate Hill Inn has 21 rooms and suites in three distinct buildings. The recently renovated Captain William Bull Tavern is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and has been welcoming visitors since 1745, while the four connecting rooms in The Schoolhouse can easily accommodate traveling families. The charming Captain William Bull House, on the other hand, was built in the same colonial fashion but contains more modern amenities. Well-behaved pets are even welcome, and complimentary upgrades from standard to deluxe accommodations are available weekdays when the foliage peak season is over.

While you’re in the area, there’s plenty to do. The most comprehensive list of attractions, activities and seasonal events can be found at www.litchfieldhills.com, and here are a few suggestions from the innkeeper Alicia:

• Relaxing drives along scenic Route 7 and Route 63
• Tastings at nearby vineyards that include award-winning wines from Connecticut Valley Winery, Hopkins Vineyard and Miranda Vineyard
• Hiking through area state parks such as Kent Falls with its 200-foot waterfall
• Antiquing in Woodbury and surrounding towns
• Lime Rock Park, host to racing events from Karting to NASCAR
• The famous covered bridge in Cornwall

Tollgate Hill Inn, Litchfield, CT
www.tollgatehill.com; 860-567-1233
Note:  The restaurant is closed at the moment for renovations.