You can County your blessings
YOU might not have heard of Dutchess County or the Hudson Valley but you'll certainly have heard of nearby New York City.
Located only 72 miles north of The Big Apple, Dutchess County is a relaxing contrast to the bustling city. The region was selected as one of the Top 20 Places in the World to Visit by National Geographic Traveler and is home to some exciting attractions.
Dutchess is a foodie paradise brimming with a variety of cuisines and their Craft Beverage Trail allows you to tour and taste at award-winning wineries, distilleries and breweries.
A top stop is The Culinary Institute of America offering studentguided tours and fine-dining. Many farms allow you to pick your own, sample and shop their markets.
Dutchess also has its fair share of family-friendly activities like the Dutchess County Fair, vintage airshows at Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome and SplashDown Beach Waterpark.
You are always surrounded by stunning scenic beauty in the Hudson Valley and a must-see is Walkway Over the Hudson, the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge.
There's also plenty for history buffs – from Dutch Colonial and Gilded Age to Hyde Park, the birthplace of America's only four-term president, Franklin D Roosevelt.
This is where FDR hosted Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth and King George VI. Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt are also laid to rest here.
Steps away is the FDR Presidential Library and Museum, America's first, and the only one used by a sitting president. Nearby is the cottage setting of Val-Kill, the only National Historic Site dedicated to a first lady.
Dutchess County is primarily served by New York Stewart International Airport, which is also a major airport hub for New York City. Norwegian Airlines run a flight from Edinburgh.
If you're doubling-up a stay in the Hudson Valley with NYC, it is so easy to hop on a train from Grand Central. Call Barrhead Travel's Worldwide team on 0141 222 2223.