For Those Drawn to the Lives and Landscapes of Great Thinkers
This day is for those who carry stories close to their hearts, who find comfort in books and quiet woods, and who know the magic of gathering with kindred spirits. Together, we’ll walk through the very rooms where Louisa May Alcott wrote Little Women, breathe the air that stirred Thoreau’s solitude at Walden Pond, and visit the Old Manse, where Emerson wrote Nature and the Hawthornes etched their love into glass. We’ll share moments of calm and connection among gardens, pages, and river paths.
In the golden hush of October, when the trees turn and the light softens, this journey becomes even more tender—a season made for reflection, for walking slowly, for holding books and conversations close.
It’s a gentle invitation to slow down, look around, and remember why we love to read, to write, and to be.
Itinerary
8:00 AM – Depart from the Commuter Lot, Route 9, Deep River, CT
Our journey begins with quiet hearts and warm drinks, setting a reflective tone for the day ahead. Feel free to bring a passage to share or simply savor the calm start to the morning. (full details below)
10:45 AM – Private Tour of Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House
Step into the very rooms where Little Women was brought to life. Our private guided tour will explore the Alcott family’s home, followed by tranquil moments in the fall garden—a perfect space to connect with literary history.
12:15 PM – Lunch at Merchant’s Row, Concord’s Colonial Inn
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of Concord’s most storied landmarks. This is a time to relax, connect, and soak in the charm of a location steeped in history and literary inspiration.
2:00 PM – Visit to The Old Manse
Follow where your curiosity leads:
– Take a guided tour of the historic home where Emerson penned Nature and Sophia Hawthorne etched poetry into the windowpanes.
– Or stroll the serene grounds planted by Thoreau and walk to the iconic North Bridge nearby.
3:30 PM – Forest Bathing Walk at Walden Pond
Take a peaceful, contemplative walk along the 1.7-mile loop of Walden Pond. This slow, unhurried journey offers the perfect opportunity to reflect, journal, or simply connect with the serene beauty of nature. Along the way, pause for moments of introspection and tranquility. Carry a stone as you circle the lake and leave it at the site of Thoreau's iconic cabin, honoring his legacy. It’s a truly meditative experience that invites a deeper connection with both nature and history.
4:30 PM - Closing Circle at Walden Pond
Before we leave, we’ll gather in quiet circle near the water’s edge to mark the end of our shared journey. A closing quote or blessing will be offered aloud—something simple, spacious, and true. This moment is a gentle invitation to pause, to breathe, and to carry the spirit of the day forward with intention.
5:00 PM – Depart for Deep River, CT
As we settle into the ride home, let the quiet glow of the day’s experiences linger, warming your heart and mind.
Trip Details
This exclusive experience is open to just eleven women.
All-Inclusive Package: $240.00
Once you’ve purchased your ticket, you’ll receive a detailed email with all the information you’ll need for the day.
Enjoy a Seamless Journey With:
Round-trip transportation from Deep River in a comfortable private vehicle
Literary Listening: Soft audio selections on the morning drive—readings from Alcott or Thoreau, or quiet instrumental music inspired by New England woods
A Quiet Invitation: Reflective prompts for the journey, such as “What stories have shaped your seasons?”
Welcome basket at each seat with warm tea, a seasonal baked treat, and a thoughtful gift
Complimentary tea and nourishing snacks throughout the day
A literary-themed keepsake bundle, filled with gentle treasures to carry the spirit of the experience
Nature Tokens: A small stone offered before our Walden walk, to be carried as you circle the pond and left at Thoreau’s cabin site in quiet offering
Shared Silence or Storytelling: On our return drive, you’re welcome to journal quietly or share a single moment that stayed with you
Warm herbal tea served as we make our way home
A private guided tour of the Orchard House, where Louisa May Alcott brought Little Women to life
Lunch is not included in the package; you will be responsible for your individual meal cost at the restaurant. To keep our day flowing smoothly and preserve the shared experience, we ask that everyone joins us for lunch at Merchant’s Row. This gathering is part of the heart of our time together—an opportunity to connect, reflect, and rest in community. Thank you for honoring this shared rhythm.
Recommendations
To ensure a comfortable trip, we suggest bringing water, your favorite snacks, and dressing in warm, layered clothing for flexibility.
Important Details
Keep in mind that the commuter lot and van do not have restroom facilities. The drive is approximately two hours each way.