I once assumed The Berkshires were reserved for those that “summered” in New England. Um for the record, my family did not and we still don’t. In a nutshell, Massachusetts just didn’t seem like a desirable location for a destination wedding, honeymoon, romantic jaunt or even a quick girlfriend’s getaway like the Caribbean, Charleston or Las Vegas. Honestly, I think I was intimidated by the exclusive reputation of the area.

Fast forward to earlier this year when Black Bridal Bliss was invited to spend a weekend in The Berkshires. My perception of this historic western Massachusetts town has pleasantly evolved. Just under a two hour drive from midtown Manhattan — making it an ideal minimoon destination for NYC couples — it is an inviting escape from the hustle and bustle of city life (wild turkeys were spotted on the highway!) filled with lush greenery, rolling hills and friendly locals. Here are the Black Bridal Bliss top five reasons to visit The Berkshires:

1) The quaint Cranwell Spa & Golf Resort hosted Black Bridal Bliss for our Berkshires stay. This luxury property offered dozens of welcoming amenities such as a relaxing spa (my hot stone massage rocked), a huge fitness center complete with indoor and outdoor pools, a sprawling golf course, multiple convenient dining options on premises, spacious suites and an attentive staff. Annnnnd…the Cranwell hosts weddings, too! During my extensive tour of the property, I was able to witness how easily large or intimate nuptials could be accommodated for a memorable affair. Learn more about weddings at the Cranwell here.

2) The Berkshires is really pretty. Period. It is an ideal locale to go hiking, biking, fishing, take nature walks and the like. Plus there are lots of artsy events such as annual music and film festivals. Learn more about those here.

3) The Berkshires is home to cultural attractions like the Norman Rockwell Museum, The Mount: Edith Wharton’s Home and the MASS MoCA.

4) This area is more affordable than most realize. Sure there are those wealthy families who spend their summers and weekends in the Berkshires and have for several generations but that doesn’t mean us working and middle-class folks can’t get in on the fun. Since The Berkshires is most known for jaw-dropping fall foliage, prices reflect a higher demand during the autumn months. However there are equally pristine surroundings to marvel at in the spring, summer and even winter while reaping the financial benefits of lower prices.

5) I refused to visit New England and not eat a lobster roll and I’m happy to report I thoroughly enjoyed a tasty one at the Salmon Run Fish House. It is a casual, unpretentious restaurant and the prices are very approachable. Another fave with a more modern vibe includes Alta Restaurant & Wine Bar.

Bonus: This area surprisingly offers excellent discount shopping at the Lee Premium Outlets. Be sure to check out BCBG, Brooks Brothers and Michael Kors for awesome deals and remember to pick up a coupon book from your hotel’s front desk and/or the outlet’s information booth for even more savings!

Get more fun travel reccos from Triple B here! And for more pics from our Berkshire stay, search under the #TripleBDoesTheBerkshires on Instagram.

Would you consider hosting your wedding in The Berkshires?