"A prime slice of New England coastline, Newport serves up colonial splendour, striking seascapes, and some of the freshest seafood around. One of America’s most historic cities, drop in on the oldest library in the country, visit an incredible fortress city, and wander beside spectacular summer houses. With wild beaches, wineries, breweries and festivals for every season, Newport has lost none of its enticing allure. The fresh, ocean air of Newport was much sought after during the Gilded Age, as the rich and powerful made their mark, building grand and stately mansions overlooking the waves. These magnificent houses - and landscaped gardens - add whitewash grandeur to the beautiful stretch of coastline.
Take the 3.5-mile coastal walk, out across rugged cliffs with birds calling out, and wildflowers dotting the path. Be warned that the walk does become a little more difficult as it progresses. Stroll the coast, and sit to watch surfers catching Atlantic rollers, or take the twists and turns of Newport's incredible ocean drive, to soak in the wonderful views by roa".
Gardens and Vineyards
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We had a 30 minute drive to Blithewold a 33-acre summer estate with grand views of Narragansett Bay. The property features a 45-room mansion filled with family heirlooms, a collection providing complete evidence of one family's way of life between 1810 and 1976. An exceptional collection of rare and unusual plants, specimen trees, an accessible greenhouse, and whimsical stonework project are all part of a character that is romantic, fresh and inspiring.
Then a tour of the house, followed by champagne, a salad and sumptious dulces. followed by free time in the Blithewold Mansion Gardens & Arboretum .. Then on to Newport Vineyards for a tasting
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The wine tasting was forgetable - a "slick" tourist trap, with mediocre, high priced wines
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