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World video travel guide
News • United States • 2011-06-17
FARMLAND, VINEYARDS AND NAUTICAL TREASURES ON LONG ISLAND’S NORTH FORK
Take a Relaxing Journey on Long Island’s “Other” Fork
HAUPPAUGE, NY-- The North Fork of Long Island may be far more laid back than its tonier counterpart the South Fork, which includes the world-famous Hamptons. But it is certainly endowed with enough charm of its own to entice visitors into a relaxing getaway.
The “forks” of Long Island are thus named because the east end of the Island splits into two tines, like the shape of a sideways ‘V.’ Each fork has its own unique personality.
Riverhead is the perfect place to start on a scenic journey along the rural “wine and farm country” on the North Fork of Long Island. Before you proceed into the relaxing atmosphere of the North Fork, you may want to visit some of the attractions in Riverhead, such as the Tanger Outlet Center for some real bargains; Splish Splash, the top-rated water amusement park in the tri-state area; Atlantis Marine World, a world-class aquarium.
Located at the end of Long Island Expressway, the slower paced country road Rte. 25 can be picked up in Riverhead as it runs one-lane each direction through miles of manicured farmland, vineyards, charming villages and nautical treasures.
As you head east along Rte. 25, along your journey you can stop for in-season fresh fruit, fresh goat cheese, homemade pies and, a Long Island specialty, “roasted corn.”
When the corn stalks are high, take a mind-twisting walk through a “cornfield maze” in season at some of the areas tourist-friendly farms, such as Harbes Farm in Mattituck.
Driving along, you’ll drink in the lush “wine country” scenery, rolling hills, old barns and farmhouses, passing two dozen vineyards where you’re welcome to come in and sample the latest vintages. Take a detour north on Horton Rd. to enjoy the spectacular waterfront vista from Southold’s Horton’s Point lighthouse, perched high atop the bluffs of the sparkling Long Island Sound. History is alive on the North Fork. Visit the c.1765 Hallockville homestead to observe Long Island farm tradition and life from the period, or the c.1649 Old House in Cutchogue, the state’s oldest house.
History buffs will also appreciate the Southold Historical Society Museum, the Southold Indian Museum or the Railroad Museum in Greenport.
Continue on to Greenport, a seaside village and home port to The Bounty, the schooner used in the film, “Mutiny on the Bounty,” and more recently, in the “Pirates of the Caribbean II,” with Johnny Depp. The Bounty travels a lot, so check website schedule to make sure she’s in-port.
In Greenport, dine on the “catch of the day” at a seaside restaurant, and visit the East End Maritime Museum, before enjoying a sunset “tall ship” adventure aboard one of the many schooner ships in port. Take a spin on the colorful waterside carousel before spending the evening at an historic B&B. Spend the following day at the spectacular Orient Point State park beach at the end of the North Fork or exploring the variety at Long Island’s many vineyards.
The North Fork of Long Island is called “Wine Country,” and is considered to be the “Napa Valley” of the east.
Over the past three decades, Long Island’s wine industry has blossomed from one small vineyard to nearly 3,000 acres of lush, green vines. Today, the region celebrates its thirtieth anniversary with nearly 30 wineries that produce world-class, sophisticated vintages and in January 2003, it became the first known U.S. wine appellation to receive Federal service mark protection for its name “Long Island Wine Country”.
The abundance of wineries, with their sprawling fields, inviting tasting rooms, distinctive vintages and special events that range from concerts to hayrides to poetry readings, has turned the island’s East End into a popular destination for tourists.
The increase in interest is the result of several factors, including improved consistency in the quality of Long Island’s wines as evidenced by numerous awards, several new owners who have invested substantially in the region’s development and promotion, and a stepped-up regional marketing effort that has made the area more and more attractive to both long-term vacationers and day-trippers.
The burgeoning tourism industry has had a welcome secondary effect: preserving the East End’s appealing rural character. Long Island’s award-winning wines are produced amidst historic fishing villages, pristine beaches, rolling farmlands, charming inns and restaurants, making a tour of the East End vineyards and wineries a unique and unforgettable experience.
Other popular area activities include day trips by ferry to Shelter Island, kayaking on one of many rivers or in the sea; hiking through nature trails, relaxing on the beach and visiting lighthouses and museums.
Lodging options on the North and South forks of Long Island range from idyllic bed and breakfasts to grand resorts or chic hotels.
The North Fork stands in contrast to the South Fork and the Hamptons “scene,” known for its nightlife, celebrity-watching, high end dining and overnight accommodations. The North Fork, about an hour from New York City, provides a welcome respite from the bustle of everyday life.
The Long Island Convention & Visitors Bureau and Sports Commission (LICVB&SC) was established in 1979 as the official tourism promotion agency for the destination’s travel and tourism industry. Based on Long Island in Hauppauge, NY, the LICVB&SC contributes to the economic development and quality of life on Long Island by promoting the region as a world-class destination for tourism, meetings and conventions, trade shows, sporting events, and related activities. For more information about Long Island, please contact the Long Island Convention & Visitors Bureau and Sports Commission by calling 1-877-386-6654 or visit www.discoverlongisland.com.
