What better way to say a bittersweet goodby to summer than with the planning of a fall getaway! Part of the appeal of Block Island lies in the fact that is is far less discovered and written about than nearby Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. I didn't find lots of chic hotels and coffee shops scattered throughout the island. Most of all I noticed at this destination, visitors seemed to really unplug. People weren't crossing the streets sending out updates and reading their twitter feeds. Wifi wasn't a big concern. And I LOVED it!
The simplicity takes hold and once you step off the ferry, you immediately start to unwind. Although I know it must be beautiful during all the seasons, with summer coming to and end, it's a great spot for an autumn retreat. Pull up a seat on one of the many porches of the Victorian inns filled with vintage flavor and take in the views of the Atlantic while having some refreshments.
STAY:There is a large selection of B&B's, houses {many can be found on VRBO}, and inns to choose from.
Do: There is great hiking for all levels throughout the Island. Just remember to bring some sturdy footwear, and when you go down, you 'gotta come back up; your glutes will be feeling it! The Clayhead trail is an eight mile coastal hike that will give you a great overview of the cliffs and bluffs. Rodman's Hollow, considered to be the birthplace of conservation on block Island, is a 230 acre nature lover's paradise that features much of the islands natural beauty. My favorite-and will be for anyone who likes to collect rocks like I do, was the Mohegan Bluffs. Here there were hundreds of carefully balanced cairns as far as the eye could see. The beaches are all beautiful-just take your pick.
North Light Fibers is an animal farm and weaving studio producing it's own handcrafted yarns, finished goods and felted pieces. They also offer classes.
I was fascinated to get so up close and personal with the ostrich and llamas. They were curious creatures, each with their own personality and interesting faces.
Shopping is aplenty, but I was there to enjoy the outdoors, so didn't spend much time indulging. Two of my favorite spots were the Lightburne Cottage Gallery. I thought I recognized the owner and indeed we did know each other in a past life of trade shows. The Lazy Fish caught my eye as well with many of their recycled treasures and fabulous jewelry made from plastic the designer finds on beaches.
EAT: Wake up and head to Aldo's Bakery, a family run business serving a breakfast buffet and Italian pastries. Something more simple can be found at Ernie's and Three Sisters has great sandwiches for a picnic lunch.
The Oar is a fun spot with outdoor deck where hundreds of colorful painted paddles hang from the ceiling. With a full sushi bar and unusual cocktails, it's a good spot to take in the scenery. Dead Eye Dicks is known for the signature swordfish on the menu and is quite popular. Make sure to request an outside table if the weather's good-you Come for the food and stay for the view.
For a Farm to Table experience, head to the Spring House Hotel. The hotel's garden serves as a source for most of the vegetable dishes on the menu, featuring heirloom tomatoes, squash blossoms, herbs, berries and varietal potatoes. Following a sustainable philosophy and a belief that organic is the healthiest way to cook, the restaurant cooperates with Farm Fresh Rhode Island. Regional dishes sourced from local suppliers is the focus of the menu. The atmosphere reflects the wonderful Victorian style of the hotel.
If you're on island on the weekend, be sure to stop by the farmer's market. Along with the artists and craftspeople exhibiting their work, you'll find some scones to load up on, local jams and jellies and honey that will remind you of your visit from the scent down to the last fragrant drop.
Every night during my stay, there was an amazing sunset. Be sure to plan to finish your day in a spot where you can savor every minute of it. Take a deep breath, close your eyes and record the memory that will bring you back to The Block every time you think of it.
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