The drive off the cape this morning is melancholy. Though the weather is sunny and gorgeous, the winds are too gusty for the ferry to Nantucket, as planned. We make the decision to visit historic Salem and overnight in the beautiful Rockport area before leaving Massachusetts.
Our travel time takes somewhat longer than we had anticipated, so it is later in the afternoon for our arrival into Salem than is optimal, but we make the best of our limited time, just the same. A very helpful ranger in the National Park Visitor Center arms us with a map of the Heritage Trail, pointing out some highlights for our tour. It is perfect walking weather, if a bit brisk at points along the water. There is so much more than Witch Trials that happened here and we take in the various architecture in the historic area dotting the coastline. The Friendship, a three-masted sailing vessel, presents a magnificent centerpiece along the harbor. Too late for an on board tour, but impressive anyway.
The House of the Seven Gables is equally appealing from an outside view, in remarkable shape and bordering the same waterway. The trail consists of approximately a mile path along the harbor, winding through various architectural delights. It's a splendid walk. As we come upon the oldest hotel, The Hawthorne, we veer inside for a quick peek. A very accommodating front desk clerk gives a great suggestion for a late lunch, across the street at the Old Spot. Pub style fare presents two of the best sandwiches we've ever eaten in a comfy cozy room. Very nice. We savor a couple of brew, giving our feet a respite, before heading on.
As the day fades, we take the very pretty drive into Rockport, which provides the absolute prettiest harbor we've encountered thus far. This place is the epitome of New England quaintness and, arriving as the sun sets, paints an extraordinary picture! The little village is ours to roam at this late hour and we stroll the artsy streets with wonder at each turn. It's perfect! We find wonderful lodging at the Rockport Inn and Suites, less than a mile from the waterfront and settle in.
One more beautiful spot in Mass - we really love this state!
Oh, too bad. Nantucket another time!
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