Newport CliffWalk

Newport is a seaside city on Aquidneck Island in Newport county, Rhode Island. Though I have been here many times, this was my first visit to Newport during spring. I am always in awe when I see the two majestic bridges enroute to Newport: the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge and the Claiborne Pell/Newport Bridge.

The Cliff Walk of Newport is world famous as a trail that combines the natural beauty of the Newport shoreline and the architectural history of Newport’s famed Gilded Age. It is unique as it is the only national recreational trail set within a National Historic District.

The Cliff Walk is 3.5 miles one way. It starts from the western end of Easton’s or First Beach at Memorial Blvd. and runs south and ends at Bellevue Avenue at the east end of Bailey’s Beach. South of Ruggles Avenue it becomes progressively more challenging, and becomes an undefined trail over jagged rocks and boulders. There are 16 trail markers that describe points of interest along the walk. The trail provides gorgeous ocean views on one side with the spectacular mansions on the other. The so called “Newport Mansions” are well known for their enormous facades and lavish interiors.

In the late 19th century, america’s wealthiest residents reveled in Newport’s natural coastal beauty, and built their summer “cottages” there. Over time many of Newport’s most fascinating mansions have been preserved and protected by The Preservation Society of Newport County, and opened to the public.

But the bonus during this spring trip was the spectacular, breathtaking views of fields of daffodils all along the coast and in the majestic mansion gardens. The stunning daffodil blooms “fluttering and dancing in the breeze” heralding spring reminded me of none other than William Wordsworth. The yelIow blooms against the blue ocean was a treat to the eyes and I have never seen anything like this before! I would strongly recommend a spring visit to Newport!