Head to delightful Salem County

A 3 day tour of New Jersey
from our Northeastern issue,
Spring 2012.

	Photo: wikimedia.org/smallbones
	The Old Salem County Courthouse, built in 1735, is the second oldest continuously active courthouse in the United States.

Golf and wine — in many ways the characteristics of these delights take on a similar flavor in Salem County. Both are distinctly rural and refreshingly unpretentious. Now, mix in a picturesque trek along the Salem River and you have a sense of how enjoyable Salem’s simple pleasures truly are. 

Day One

Start the weekend on Friday evening at the Enoteca at Auburn Road Vineyard and Winery. 

Every Friday, Auburn Road hosts caterers, chefs and special guests from throughout the area who create their favorite comfort food for you to enjoy. Experience a great meal, awesome wine, cool live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Before leaving, be sure to pick up a bottle or two to share with your friends — and to stock your home cellar. Reservations are recommended, and special wine-tasting weekends are offered throughout the year.

Day Two

On Saturday, enjoy a day of play at one of the county’s four public courses: Centerton Country Club, Running Deer Golf Club, Town and Country Golf Links and Wild Oaks Country Club. Abundant trees, rolling landscapes, water hazards and well-manicured playing conditions create a memorable golf outing. Your group will find a variety of amenities including full-service pro shops offering equipment rental and apparel, custom club fitting, club repair, driving ranges, putting and chipping greens and clubhouse facilities. 

At the end of the day, choose from a variety of dining options from casual to more upscale in one of the area’s dozen townships. The diversity of menus and settings ensures everyone will find something to please their palates.  If in Salem, be sure to check out the stately Old Salem County Courthouse. Built in 1735, it’s the second oldest continuously active courthouse in the United States.

Day Three

Spend the day paddling along the 30-mile-long Salem River, running through the Supawna Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, the Mannington Meadows and the Salem River Wildlife Management Area. It covers more than a third of Salem County, and it is one of the largest tributaries to the Delaware River. Along with a few historic 18th-century farmhouses, keep your eye out for falcons, osprey and maybe even a bald eagle along the way. 

A good spot to put in and take out is the public boat ramp on Sinnicksons Landing Road in Elsinboro. From there, you can cruise through the Supawna National Wildlife Refuge all the way to the Delaware River and back via numerous routes. Because this portion of the river is tidal, check a tide table when planning your trip. Also, the tidal flow here is noteworthy, so this stretch is best for experienced paddlers.

Salem County Department of Tourism
(877) 658-6871
(856) 935-7510
www.visitsalemcountynj.com

Offer your New Jersey itineraries to the editor.
Mail: 2465 112th Ave.
Holland, MI 49424
Fax: (616) 393-0085
Phone: 1-800-767-3489 between 8am - 5pm, EST.