There’s an city legend surrounding the 5 School Consortium that every college — Amherst, Smith, Mount Holyoke, and Hampshire Faculties, in addition to the College of Massachusetts at Amherst — impressed one of many 5 characters in Scooby-Doo. And although the parable has been debunked, there’s some reality behind it: Every establishment is exclusive, however in some ways, they’re higher collectively. That’s additionally true of the Pioneer Valley, the bucolic hall of Western Massachusetts through which the colleges reside. Every sleepy hamlet, secluded watering gap, and buzzy small city is fantastic alone in its personal proper, however higher as part of the bunch. And simply as college students have the flexibility to crisscross the 5 campuses, taking lessons at every, residents and guests can spend the day hopping between the valley’s artwork collectives, breweries, music venues, and pure landmarks, consuming nicely on a regular basis.
All through autumn, woodsmoke and the scent of sizzling cider doughnuts draw passersby to the quite a few pumpkin patches and apple orchards lining backroads. The Connecticut River snaking by means of the valley’s heart is a fisherman’s paradise through the summer season months, as are the rail trails and bike paths that observe its curves. Come spring, hikers and picnicking households flock to Mount Tom with provisions from native markets. And all through New England’s chilly winters, skiers hit the Berkshires’ slopes, earlier than huddling over sizzling toddies and bowls of chowder.
This map highlights the mainstay eating places, farm shops, and native haunts that make up the Pioneer Valley’s robust culinary scene, from Springfield to Shelburne Falls. The neighborhood is tight-knit, with dependable standby eating places and inventive newcomers all supporting native dairies, cattle ranches, and produce farms. Just like the Consortium, these companies are stronger collectively — and greatest skilled en masse. Take a tip from the scholars: Include a wholesome urge for food and make the most of all that the valley has to supply.
Nat Belkov, Eater’s design director, oversees visible inventive for our nationwide and native protection. Additionally a proud Smithie, Nat will at all times have a smooth spot for Northampton, the banks of the Connecticut River, and each one of many spots named on this information.
