Already united by a common sense of place known as The Shires of Vermont, history, and culture, this beautiful region between the Taconic Range and the Green Mountains also possesses abundant recreational resources, a proud agricultural heritage, and a robust entrepreneurial spirit. A wide range of culinary, lodging, and shopping experiences await curious travelers along our highways, byways, and country roads, and on our mountainsides and busy Main Streets.

Surrounded by mountains and enriched by the many waterways, including the Battenkill and Walloomsac, Bennington and Manchester have preserved what most of America has sacrificed: a thriving community center with a rich history, stunning architecture, locally owned shops, and small-town hospitality.

Did You Know?

• In the summer of 2017, Manchester hosted its first annual iTVFest, a film festival for TV executives, producers, and agents. The region also hosted a taping of an episode of “The Bachelor.”
• In 1856, Charles F. Orvis opened a store dedicated to fly-fishing and related accessories, now known as the Orvis company, which is the oldest operating mail order business in America.
• The snowboard was invented in 1977 by Jake Burton Carpenter in his Manchester garage.

For more information on the Stay to Stay Mountain Biking Weekends:

Announcing Stay to Stay Mountain Biking Weekends