Grand Isle County

Grand Isle County is an administrative region in northwestern Vermont that encompasses a peninsula and several islands within Lake Champlain. The area consists primarily of three main islands and numerous smaller ones, featuring rural villages, farmland, and natural waterfront areas.

Fort Sainte-Anne was established in 1666 on Isle La Motte and marked the first European settlement in what would become Vermont. This early French presence shaped the region's development and cultural roots for generations to come.

French colonial influence shaped the region's identity, visible in place names and the stories of early residents. Visitors notice this heritage reflected in how the community has developed and what remains from that era.

The area is best accessed by car or boat, with bridges and ferries connecting the islands. Visitors will find three state parks offering boat launches, camping areas, and trails for exploring the waterfront and surrounding land.

The Hyde Log Cabin on South Hero Island, built in 1783, ranks among the oldest surviving log structures in the United States. This building offers visitors a tangible connection to pioneer-era construction methods and daily life in the region.

GPS coordinates: 44.70674,-73.30426

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:29