How to Enjoy the Quiet Corner of Connecticut

The Quiet Corner is rural and remote.

Connecticut's Quiet Corner, the sparsely populated northeastern quadrant of the Constitution State, is a place to go to really get away from it all. Blanketed by rolling farmland and thick forests and dotted with lakes and charming villages, this is an area of sublime natural beauty and great tranquility.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Take a low-key antiquing expedition in some of the tiny towns such as Pomfret and Putnam. While in Pomfret, consider a stop at the Vanilla Bean Café, a compelling country eatery with surprising sophisticated fare.

2. Spend an afternoon in charming Woodstock, a town of about 7,000. The main attraction here is historic Roseland Cottage, an architectural treasure and intriguing historical museum with its original 1846 furnishings.

3. Stop by the town of Coventry and savor its history and nature. Of particular interest is Wangumbaug Lake, aka Coventry Lake, perfect for picnicking and swimming in warm weather and occasional skating and ice-fishing when Jack Frost comes to call. The Nathan Hale Homestead is also worthwhile, but you'll need to call for an appointment during the off-season.

4. UConn have a nice time in Storrs at the main campus for the University of Connecticut, where bibliophiles will love the enormous Babbidge Library. The university also showcases some top-notch intercollegiate athletics, especially its basketball squads.

5. For a unique and memorable dining experience, make reservations in advance at the Golden Lamb Buttery in Brooklyn, CT. Weather permitting, your evening will kick off with a hayride around a pristine estate, followed by an amazing meal-accompanied by live music-in a gorgeous renovated barn; entrée options include succulent roast duckling and medallions of Chateaubriand.

6. Tucked into the utmost reaches of the Northeast quadrant, is Thompson, situated smack on the Massachusetts and Rhode Island borders. Highlights of the small town include picturesque Quaddick State Park and the popular Thompson International Speedway, a NASCAR track that is probably the least-quiet attraction you'll find in the Quiet Corner.

Tips & Warnings

• Check weather and road conditions before driving through the region in winter.