Sky Meadow Retreat

After lunch, it was time to take the long drive to the retreat. The drive was pleasant we saw a lot of the Vermont countryside, quite different from the city of Burlington. I wish I had time to stop for photography, but we had a schedule to keep.

It was a quick stop as we had to turn around and head home. I was also anxious to leave as quickly as possible because Greensboro is so remote that obtaining a strong cellular signal for the GPS was challenging the whole drive. I wanted to go before it got dark. After signing some paperwork, we said hugged our daughter and headed back.

Lake Champlain Waterfront

We had only one day in Burlington, so I did some location scouting online and decided to explore the Lake Champlain Waterfront.

I wanted to use the trip as a photographic opportunity. I also knew my time was limited to the mid-morning to early afternoon. We had only one day in Burlington, so I scouted locations online. After breakfast at Athens Diner, we explored the views at the Lake Champlain Waterfront. The waterfront offers a picturesque setting that blends the charm of a bustling city with the tranquillity of a large lake.

The lakefront was warm, humid and unpleasant. As we strolled along the waterfront, we were greeted by expansive views of Lake Champlain, with its sparkling blue waters stretching into the distance. Bhavana was excited to see the sailboats and the rowing crew gracefully gliding across the lake.

The waterfront was lush green spaces and parkland. Some visitors used the days for relaxation and picnicking. Some were basking in the sun. Some bikers enjoyed leisurely bike rides along the waterfront bike path.

Lake Champlain Waterfront Park | Sunday 17 July, 2016 | Nikon D5100 | AF-S Nikkor 35 mm f/1.8

The Lake Champlain waterfront is a hub of entertainment and cultural events. We saw the remnants of what appeared to be a local beer festival from the previous day. Local vendors had set up their stalls, offering food, beverages, and handcrafted goods.

The nearby dock was bustling with boats and yachts. I suspect some of these belong to people living across the lake in New York.

Lake Champlain Waterfront Park | Sunday 17 July, 2016 | Nikon D5100 | AF-S Nikkor 35 mm f/1.8

We had lunch at Splash At the Boathouse, a restaurant on the Lake Champlain Waterfront with open-air dining and a view of Lake Champlain. The restaurant is housed in a boathouse, which adds to its appeal. Despite the warm weather, we chose to sit on the outdoor patio, which has views of Lake Champlain.

Splash At the Boathouse
Splash At the Boathouse | Sunday 17 July, 2016 | Apple iPhone 6 | iPhone 6 back camera 4.15mm f/2.2

While the weather wasn't ideal, the Lake Champlain Waterfront still provided scenic views and a lively atmosphere with its parkland, recreational activities, and cultural happenings. It was a worthwhile stop during our limited time in Burlington. Kiran was developing an aversion to the camera os we took one last photo before heading off to the retreat.

Lake Champlain Waterfront Park | Sunday 17 July, 2016 | Nikon D5100 | AF-S Nikkor 35 mm f/1.8

Athens Diner

The morning after we arrived in the Burlington area, Shaan and I were up early, and we searched Google Maps for the walkable options - McDonald's, Burger King or the Athens Diner. Shaan was strongly in favour of the diner.

The morning after we arrived in the Burlington area, Shaan and I were up early, searching Google Maps for nearby dining options. McDonald's, Burger King, and the Athens Diner were within walking distance, and Shaan insisted on trying the diner. We had ample time before Kiran's drop-off at the Sky Meadow Retreat, so we explored the area while Kiran and Bhavna slept in.

After a 30-minute walk around the hotel, we worked up an appetite and headed to the Athens Diner across the street. The diner had received positive reviews on Four Square and Yelp, and its retro mom-and-pop style added to its charm. Although similar to Greek diners in New Jersey, the Athens Diner in Colchester stood out as a real diner car that had been relocated from New York.

Athens Diner | Sunday 17 July, 2016 | Apple iPhone 6 | iPhone 6 back camera 4.15mm f/2.2

The menu featured our favourite breakfast classics and Greek-inspired options like gyros. The friendly staff promptly took our order, serving Shaan chocolate milk and providing me with the delicious diner coffee we all love. Our breakfast of eggs, bacon, and pancakes was satisfying and flavorful.

While the Athens Diner had a more laid-back atmosphere than the bustling and vibrant diners in Princeton, New Jersey, it left a positive impression overall. If we ever visit Burlington again, the Athens Diner will definitely be on my shortlist for breakfast.