To me, the perfect destination detour is something that’s just off the beaten path, and not too far away from civilization. And, if there’s wine involved — even better! That’s why one of my favorite fall destinations is Nashoba Valley Winery in Bolton, MA. Even though it’s only an hour outside of Boston, it’s away from the hustle and bustle of the city and a nice escape for the day!
I originally went to Nashoba Valley Winery last year with the intention to go apple picking. I spent four years away at college, and apple picking in New England was an autumn activity I really missed! I researched a few orchards that were within reasonable driving distance, and set off for a nice girls’ day out with my mother and grandmother. (Although apple picking was the main item on the agenda, the promise of a vineyard was definitely a deciding factor!) It was a gorgeous day, and we had a great time picking apples, drinking wine, and soaking in the gorgeous landscape.
Nashoba is truly one of those places that has a lot to offer for the entire family. Younger children will love the apple orchards, which are within walking distance and have a lot of different varieties (no long walks or train rides needed like some of the bigger farms!). There was also a snack shack selling amazing apple donuts with warm, homemade caramel sauce drizzled over them — yum!
Of course, the vineyard is a huge feature for the adults. Tours of the facilities are only $10, which includes 6 tastings and a Nashoba wine glass — not a bad deal! After the tour, you can use your wine glass for more tastings at the wine bar, or you can buy a bottle and some snacks at the shop and enjoy it on the lawn overlooking the beautiful scenery. Besides wine, there are also beer and different spirits made onsite, so the “I don’t drink wine” excuse can’t be used. People bring picnic lunches, and spend the day there — lots of people brought their kids and dogs for a day outside!
The on-site restaurant is supposed to be absolutely phenomenal, but I haven’t tried it out yet. The menu is seasonal, and many of the ingredients are locally grown. It has great reviews, but reservations are strongly recommended, and some days it’s simply not open — perhaps one day I’ll get lucky!
Apple picking season is about to wrap up, and their pick-your-own season has ended, but that doesn’t mean Nashoba Valley Winery doesn’t have anything to offer. It’s a perfect destination detour for an autumn day trip! Enjoy!
