Massachusetts may not be the largest state on the map, but one thing is certain: if you live on the coast, venturing into the wild and woolly lands of central and western Massachusetts might feel like an expedition into the unknown. If you happen to live in these areas, you know how beautiful and charming the communities there can be.
A perfect example of one such sleepy, untouched gem is the town of Montague. Tucked into the hills of Franklin County, Montague is a quiet community that should be famous for two things: its absolutely gorgeous scenery, and the incredible Montague Bookmill.
The little town of Montague is a hidden jewel of Western Mass. With just under 8,500 people, it offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and quirky attractions.
Flickr/Paul Geffen The town of Montague is composed of five villages: Montague Center, Montague City, Lake Pleasant, Millers Falls, and Turners Falls. They each have something amazing to offer.
First of all, you can’t ignore the area’s astounding scenic beauty.
Flickr/DC
The pastoral, rolling countryside makes driving through Montague a feast for the eyes in any season.
Flickr/MOTT
There’s seriously almost no bad place to take a stroll.
Flickr/mg stanton
The view from the French King Bridge in the Montague village of Millers Falls is one of the most breathtaking in the state.
Flickr/cerebros1: trying to get back in after a long time
Of course, admiring nature isn’t the only thing to do in Montague. Craft beer lovers should stop by Element Brewing for a delicious pint.
Yelp/Glenn V
Stop by the Great Falls Discovery Center to learn about the natural and cultural history of the area.
Flickr/ It’s housed in a complex of old mill buildings, and admission is free. The sweeping lawns around the center are perfect for a picnic or snowball fight.
The town’s May Day celebration is a time-honored tradition. Together with the town of Shutesbury, the ancient and merry celebration of springtime makes for an amazing spectacle. Visitors are welcome, and it’s always a good idea to join in the fun.
liquidcrash/Flickr
The famous Montague Bookmill is housed in an 1834 grist mill, and perched over a series of waterfalls. It just may be the most charming, beautiful bookstore in the country.
Yelp/Amy H.
The store’s motto is “Books you don’t need in a place you can’t find,” and is known to have “40,000 books and one waterfall.” Comedian John Hodgeman is known to frequent the Bookmill.
Yelp/Aleyda G.
The Sawmill River runs by the Book Mill, and its flowing waters create beautiful cascades during the rainy season.
Flickr/MOTT
Wherever you end up exploring in Montague and its villages, you’re sure to end up somewhere wonderful.
Flickr/Allan Doyle
Have you been to Montague before? What other Massachusetts towns do you think don’t get they attention they deserve?
Flickr/Paul Geffen
The town of Montague is composed of five villages: Montague Center, Montague City, Lake Pleasant, Millers Falls, and Turners Falls. They each have something amazing to offer.
Flickr/DC
Flickr/MOTT
Flickr/mg stanton
Flickr/cerebros1: trying to get back in after a long time
Yelp/Glenn V
Flickr/
It’s housed in a complex of old mill buildings, and admission is free. The sweeping lawns around the center are perfect for a picnic or snowball fight.
liquidcrash/Flickr
Yelp/Amy H.
Yelp/Aleyda G.
Flickr/Allan Doyle
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