Wine Down In Upstate

Having arrived at your New York airport, head north-east following the shoreline of Long Island Sound. About a one-and-a-half-hour drive will take you to the coastal town of New Haven, Connecticut, home to Yale University.

Leave New Haven and drive through the Connecticut River Valley to the New England village of Woodstock, on the banks of the Ottauquechee River. It typifies the region, with its architecture, beautiful scenery and warm Vermont hospitality.

Wind through the Green Mountain’s Champlain route heading for the village of Lake Placid. We recommend a stop at Ausable Chasm, the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks, where hiking and raft riding offer opportunities to explore. Hotel: High Peaks Resort

Nestled in New York State’s Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid has hosted two winter Olympic Games. You’ll have time to ride the scenic railroad, hike the area’s mountains and lakes or shop on the charming Main Street.

A hub for thoroughbred horse racing, you should take time to visit the Saratoga Race Course and the museum. Saratoga Spa State Park boasts naturally carbonated mineral springs, where you have the chance to bathe in the rejuvenating waters.

Journey west across upstate New York, heading for Niagara Falls. You may wish to break your journey in Syracuse, the state’s 5th largest city set on the shores of lakes Onondaga and Ontario.

Your full day will allow ample time to discover Niagara’s majestic waterfalls. Board the Maid of the Mist cruise, take a thrilling walk for a close-up view of Bridal Veil Falls or experience Niagara from across the Canadian border.

Today is spent travelling through the delightful Finger Lakes region. Renowned for its lush, rolling hills, scenic gorges and ubiquitous waterfalls, you’ll also probably wish to find time to visit one of over 200 wineries.

Today is a chance to soak up the beautiful mountainous region of the Catskills. It is the birthplace of fly-fishing, and showcases rushing streams, myriad hiking trails, wonderful restaurants and wineries stretching as far as the Hudson Valley. Hotel: Beaverkill Valley Inn

It’s time to head back south to New York for your return flight or onward journey. If you are flying today, remember to leave plenty of time for traffic as you approach the Big Apple.