Article & Photos by Jacqueline Bennett newsandviewsjb

A vista reminiscent of Old World Italy can be found in Connecticut standing atop the vast acreage of Belltown Hills Orchards in South Glastonbury. Begun in the early 1900’s by Louis Preli, an Italian immigrant, it is now a third generation family business spanning some 150 acres. The beautiful valley of fruit trees include the popular pick-your-own apple orchards, as well as, strawberries, peaches and the Perelli Vineyards.  There is also a Farm Market and Bakery.

The ride through winding back roads to reach Belltown Hill Orchards is well worth it and this time of year the autumn foliage is a bonus. Once there, the view is simply gorgeous! A respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

It is safe to say everyone leaves the Farm Market & Bakery with a treat in their hands and a smile on their faces. Pumpkin whoppie pies are a yummy seasonal offering and just one of the many enticing pastries, fresh baked fruit pies, cookies and muffins and more that are available. Add fresh brewed coffee to that list. Inside, in one corner of the market is Grandma’s Pantry stocked with farm fresh preserves, dried fruits, syrups, dressings, blueberry and cherry juices. The homemade apple sauces are said to be  made with Belltown’s “premium” apples and berries using no artificial ingredients. A concession stand is open on Saturdays and Sundays, August through October.

A Farm History of Belltown reads, “Times have changed, but over the past 100 years at Belltown Hill Orchards one thing has remained the same, a family passionate and striving to grow quality fruit. The family farm is a fading pastime, but we are happy to live on one and provide our community with the freshest, most delicious fruits around.”

Pumpkin whoopie pie.

Belltown Hill Orchards on 483 Matson Hill Road is opened daily June -October 31, 9am-6pm Monday through Friday, 8am-6pm Saturday and Sunday. November 1st- December 1st, 9am-5pm daily. Thanksgiving Eve 9am-7pm, Christmas Eve 9am-2pm, New Year’s Eve 9am-2pm. January 1st – 31st, 10am-4pm, Friday through Sunday. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

For more information visit http://www.belltownorchards.com or call 860- 633-2789

Belltown is a must visit among South Glastonbury’s cornucopia of farm stands.                                                                                                                                                    

Here are scenes from a few others to consider stopping by.