Seven Days: Vermont's Independent Voice

A Mighty Heart

Vermont’s islands may not be a tropical escape, but their picturesque, rural setting offers lots to explore this summer. Likewise, the first-ever Heart of the Islands Bike Tour gives two-wheelers plenty to pedal for. Held during the annual Champlain Islands Open Farm & Studio Tour, the 10-, 24- or 35-mile loops schedule stops at area farms, vineyards, cafés and more. Cyclists hop on their banana seats and spin their wheels to Hackett’s Orchard for kids’ activities, Allenholm Farm for a sheep shearing, Wally’s Place Bagel & Deli for a free bagel, and more. “It doesn’t get much better” than biking the islands, opines organizer Chris Howell of Vermont Farm Tours. We beg to differ — a free massage, roadside assistance and tour of Snow Farm Vineyard make it just that much sweeter.