This enchanting village is 'fall's colour capital' and it's a road trip away from Ottawa

It looks like it belongs in a storybook.

A person standing by a village. Right: A village surrounded by fall foliage.

A small town known as "fall's colour capital."

Lead Writer, Travel

In just a few weeks, crisp weather, colourful leaves and pumpkin spice lattes will be in full swing.

It's never too early to start planning some fall getaways and this enchanting small town near Ottawa is the place to be during the autumn season.

Located a road trip away from the city, the village is known for its stunning fall foliage and belongs in a storybook.

You can spend your getaway exploring the quaint streets, wandering along tree-lined trails, visiting cideries and more.

Here's what to know about this charming autumn destination.

Stowe is a whimsical small town located in Vermont, about a 4 hour drive from Ottawa.

According to the website, the village is known as "fall's colour capital" and you can see some incredible shades of red, orange and gold.

The small town was named among the "22 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the United States" by Travel and Leisure and typically transforms with colour from early-September through mid-October.

The peak time for leaf-peeping varies each year, but often happens around the last week of September and first two weeks of October, according to the Stowe website.

There are over 45 hikes around Stowe where you can experience the autumn foliage. For a leisurely walk, you can explore the Stowe Recreation Path, which boasts river and mountain views and takes you to a charming covered bridge.

You can also experience the colours from above with the Gondola Skyride at Stowe Mountain Resort, which takes you soaring over the Stowe Valley.

Scenic drives are another way to enjoy the foliage and the "famous" Smugglers’ Notch is worth checking out.

You don't want to miss out on a fresh cider donut and fresh pressed apple cider from the cozy Cold Hollow Cider Mill. A stroll down the charming main street is also worth adding to your plans.

If you're dreaming of some fall fun, this gorgeous small town near Ottawa is a must-visit.

Stowe, Vermont

Address: Stowe, Vermont

Stowe website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

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  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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