A day in the countryside - Litchfield, CT

I often find myself dreaming of faraway places... But in all my wanderlust, I sometimes lose sight of how much wonder exists just a few minutes, or a few hours, from home.

This past winter was consumed by hockey. Our weekends were ruled by schedules, by gear, by cold rinks and latte-fueled mornings. So when PLB gently asked what spring sport we might sign the kids up for, I froze. I knew one thing for sure: I couldn’t commit to anything with weekend obligations. I wanted to breathe. To be unhurried. To explore.

So we did.

We’ve been to Litchfield a handful of times, it’s close to PLB’s old boarding school stomping ground and I think I’m ready to share a little itinerary that works for humans of all sizes and energy levels. The magic of this loop is that everything is about 15 minutes apart, so you can mix and match to suit your mood or needs.

Little Pond Boardwalk
Just over a mile of elevated wooden walkway, nestled in the wetlands. After a good spring rain, part of the path was underwater. We took off our shoes and walked barefoot through the shallows, mud squishing, kids squealing, the air thick with birdsong. We call this place Woodcock Pocket, after the beloved Toot & Puddle books by Holly Hobbie, where two best-friend pigs live in a cozy forest nook. That’s exactly what it feels like.

Downtown Litchfield
Postcard-perfect New England. Stroll the town green, pick up sandwiches for a picnic on a bench, or sit down for something heartier. The homes are so charming you’ll want to knock on doors just to see the kitchens. And if you’re feeling indulgent, R. Derwin Clothiers might just have that one beautiful thing you've been quietly searching for.

White Flower Farm
Part nursery, part daydream. You can pick up a plant, of course, but it’s also worth a slow wander through the grounds, especially if you're looking for a little garden inspiration. My kids love choosing seed packets, so we brought some home to plant. There’s a weeping beech tree on the property that is genuinely breathtaking. You’ll know it when you see it.

Arethusa Farm
Ice cream with a backstory. This dairy was rescued by two Manolo Blahnik executives who decided to trade heels for sweet cream, and thank goodness they did. Their ice cream is divine. You’ll spot their farm buildings as you drive through town, each one handsomely kept.

Whether you're just a short drive away or planning a visit from farther afield, I hope this little Litchfield loop finds its way onto your list. It’s a reminder that wonder doesn’t always require a plane ticket, sometimes, it’s just waiting down the road, with muddy toes, melting ice cream, and a weeping beech tree.

Enjoy the day. Let it be slow. Let it be good.