Champlain Islands Itinerary
The Champlain Islands Road Trip is an excellent journey that takes you from Fair Haven to Alburgh, a total distance of 177km. The best time of the year to drive this route is during the summer months, when you can experience the beautiful landscapes along the way. The route passes through Shoreham and Burlington, and you'll find plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy along the way. The excellent road conditions make this road trip suitable for every driver, and you can manage it with a moderate budget. You should plan to spend at least two days on this incredible journey, as you'll be sure to create lasting memories and have an unforgettable experience.
2
number of days
177 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Fair Haven
Distance 177 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
53.1 kWh
Airports
ALB
[detailsContainer]
Fair Haven is the perfect starting point for the Champlain Islands Road Trip. This picturesque town, located in the beautiful state of Vermont, is the perfect place to kick off an unforgettable journey. From here, visitors can explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country.
The top attraction in Fair Haven is the Lake Champlain Bridge. This bridge spans the lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Other highlights include the Fair Haven Beach State Park, which offers a variety of activities including swimming, fishing, and boating. Visitors should also make sure to explore the town's historic downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Burlington International Airport (BTV). Car rentals are available at the airport for those who wish to explore the area on their own.
From Fair Haven, visitors can easily drive to some of the most beautiful places in Vermont. Those looking for a more adventurous journey can explore the nearby Adirondack Mountains, while those seeking a more relaxing getaway can take a scenic drive along the shores of Lake Champlain. No matter what type of experience you are looking for, Fair Haven is the perfect starting point for the Champlain Islands Road Trip.
1
Fair Haven
- Shoreham
Distance 36 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
10.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an exciting journey from Fair Haven to Shoreham, a distance of 22 miles that can be covered in less than 1 hour.
Start your journey in Fair Haven, a charming town located in the heart of Vermont. Visit its historic buildings, take a stroll in its picturesque streets and admire its breathtaking views of Lake Champlain.
On your way to Shoreham, you can take a break in the town of Orwell, a rural community with a friendly atmosphere. Here you can visit the Orwell Historical Society and the Orwell Free Library.
When you arrive in Shoreham, you can explore its beautiful landscapes and visit the Stone House Museum, a historic building that dates back to the 18th century.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
We hope you have an amazing time on this stage of your road trip!
Shoreham - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
2
Shoreham
- Addison
Distance 21 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: fast
6.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Shoreham-Addison road trip stage! This 13mi journey will take you less than an hour and will be an amazing experience.
In Shoreham, make sure to visit the historical Shoreham Village Church, founded in 1762, and the Long Point State Park, with its sandy beach, stunning views, and many recreational activities.
In Addison, don’t miss the Addison County Historical Society and Museum, where you can learn about the region’s history and culture, and the Sand Bar State Park, with its beautiful beach and many trails.
This stage is part of a larger journey, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your ride!
Addison - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikipedia
❯
❮
3
Addison
- Burlington
Distance 45 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: modest
11.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Addison to Burlington? This 28mi journey will take you less than an hour, and you'll be able to take in the beautiful sights of the scenic road.
Once you get to Addison, make sure to check out the Addison Circle Park. It's a great place to take a break and enjoy the views of the lake. From there, you can also explore the nearby Addison Conference Center and the Addison Trail.
When you reach Burlington, you'll find plenty of attractions to explore. The Burlington Historical Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the area. You can also visit the Burlington Public Library and the Burlington Aquatic Center.
Make sure to take in all the sights and sounds of the road trip from Addison to Burlington. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Burlington - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
4
Burlington
- South Hero
Distance 32 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
9.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Burlington to South Hero road trip stage! This 20 mile drive will take you less than an hour so you can enjoy the amazing views of the Vermont countryside. As you drive along, you’ll be able to take in the beauty of the rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling lakes.
Once you reach South Hero, be sure to check out Grand Isle State Park and the Grand Isle Lake House. These two locations offer a variety of activities, such as swimming, fishing, and kayaking. You’ll also find some great restaurants and shops in town.
Back in Burlington, you’ll want to explore the Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian-only shopping district with a variety of unique stores and restaurants. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the waterfront, where you can take in views of the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain.
This is just one of the stages of your larger tour, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for more interesting sights along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
South Hero - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
5
South Hero
- Alburgh
Distance 43 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: fast
12.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from South Hero to Alburgh! This 27mi drive will take you fewer than 1 hours and you will be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Vermont countryside. Start your journey in South Hero and take a look at the breathtaking views of Lake Champlain. Then, head to Alburgh, where you can explore the historic sites and the breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains.
On your way, make sure to stop at the Grand Isle State Park, where you can enjoy some outdoor activities such as fishing and swimming. For a more relaxed experience, take a stroll along the Grand Isle State Park Beach. You can also visit the Alburgh Dunes State Park, where you can find a variety of wildlife and stunning views of Lake Champlain.
If you're looking for some interesting places to visit, head to the Alburgh Community Hall, where you can experience the rich culture and history of the town. You can also explore the historic sites of the village, including the Alburgh Town Hall and the Alburgh Town Hall Museum.
As you drive through this scenic route, don't forget to take in the breathtaking views of the Adirondack Mountains and the beautiful Lake Champlain. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey and have a safe trip!
Alburgh - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - en.wikipedia.org
❯
❮
Alburgh
[detailsContainer]
Alburgh is a small town in the state of Vermont, United States. It is the perfect ending point for the Champlain Islands Road Trip. This scenic route takes travelers through the charming small towns of the Islands and the picturesque views of Lake Champlain.
Alburgh is a great place to relax and explore. From the Alburgh Dunes State Park, one can take a stroll along the beach and take in the fresh air of the lake. The park also has a picnic area, a boat launch and a beach for swimming. For those looking for a more active experience, a nearby golf course is also available.
The town also has a few local attractions worth visiting. The Alburgh Historical Society is a great place to learn about the history of the town, and the Alburgh Library is a great place to find a book or two. There are also a few art galleries and a general store with a variety of local products.
If you're looking to explore the area further, the closest international airport is Burlington International Airport (BTV). From there, you can easily rent a car and continue your road trip.
Alburgh is a great place to end your Champlain Islands Road Trip. With its stunning views, relaxing atmosphere and local attractions, it's the perfect place to unwind and explore the area before heading back home.
Champlain Islands at a glance
-
Start:
Fair Haven
-
End:
Alburgh
-
Distance:
177 km
-
Stay:
2 days
-
Getting there:
Albany International Airport (ALB)
-
When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the captivating Champlain Islands Road Trip, stretching a scenic 177 kilometers (approximately 110 miles) from Fair Haven to Alburgh, Vermont. This journey offers a stunning display of Vermont's natural beauty, including the lush landscapes of the Lake Champlain archipelago. Ideal for a leisurely exploration, the route can be comfortably savored over a two-day period, making it perfect for a weekend getaway.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
As you traverse from the rolling hills of Fair Haven to the tranquil waters of Alburgh, you'll encounter charming towns and vibrant cities. Burlington, the largest city in Vermont, is a cultural hub where visitors can stroll along the historic Church Street Marketplace, enjoy panoramic lake views at Waterfront Park, and engage with interactive exhibits at the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. In contrast, the pastoral serenity of Shoreham offers a glimpse into Vermont's agricultural heritage with opportunities to visit local farms and orchards, where you can taste the region's fresh produce.
Best Time to Go:
The Road Trip shines brightest in the summer when the islands' beauty is in full bloom and the climate is pleasantly warm. This season also coincides with numerous local festivals and outdoor events, enhancing the travel experience with vibrant cultural encounters.
Potential Risks:
While generally safe, travelers should be mindful of potential risks associated with rural driving, such as wildlife crossings, and remain vigilant for summer storms that can suddenly arise, potentially impacting visibility and Road conditions.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
A moderate budget is typically sufficient for this journey, with various accommodations to suit all preferences, including charming B and scenic campgrounds. The Champlain Islands are celebrated for their local viticulture, so consider visiting some of the delightful wineries. The region's apple orchards offer a taste of Vermont's prized produce, while the abundant trails and waterways invite you to indulge in activities like cycling, kayaking, and fishing.
A good choice for:
The Champlain Islands Road Trip is an exemplary route that blends the allure of untouched landscapes with a rich array of recreational and cultural offerings. Whether you're seeking tranquility or adventure, this Road Trip promises an array of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. Did you know that Lake Champlain is home to over 300 shipwrecks, some of which date back to the 1700s? Diving enthusiasts can explore these underwater time capsules, adding a historical adventure to their Road Trip. Additionally, the Lake Champlain Islands are important nesting grounds for a variety of bird species, making the region a haven for birdwatchers.
-
