A Winter Like No Other along Alabama's Coastal Connection

Published on Dec 21, 2009 in Getaways: Escaping the Cold and Goodyear’s Top 50 Scenic, Comfortable Drives

Sick of freezing temperatures and icy roads? This winter season, escape from the cold and take a trip on Alabama’s Coastal Connection! Soak up the sunshine, stroll through beautiful gardens, or enjoy an invigorating hike as you take the perfect southern winter getaway.

No matter what the season, the Bellingrath Gardens and Home, on the byway's western end near Bayou La Batre, is always in bloom. During the winter season, see poinsettias, tulips, and camellias, as well as other flowering plants, or come back for azaleas in the spring, roses in the summer, and chrysanthemums in the fall. You’ll also love the Magic Christmas in Lights event held each December. Get into the Christmas spirit by exploring illuminated displays throughout the 65-acre estate or attending nightly choral concerts.

Want to try some fresh, southern seafood? Take the byway to the “Seafood Capital of Alabama,” Bayou La Batre Harbor, about 10 miles southeast of Grand Bay. Watch the fish and shrimp boats sail into the busy harbor, where the fishers can unload their nets just steps away from the processing facilities. A quaint, traditional fishing village, Bayou La Batre takes you back to a simpler time.

A great place to bask in the snowless warmth of an Alabama winter is Dauphin Island, about 18 miles southeast along the byway from Bayou La Batre. Bring your bathing suit and towel and soak up the sun and sand of the beach for a day. Or, head east along Bienville Boulevard to see beautiful birds at the Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary. More than 345 species of birds visit the sanctuary each year. Another great place to see wildlife on your winter getaway is the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, about 16 miles and a ferry ride east from Dauphin Island. Named as one of the ten Alabama's Natural Wonders by the Alabama Environmental Council, this refuge provides habitat for creatures such as the red fox, coyote, armadillo, and more than 370 species of birds.

Continue your warm winter adventures and visit Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores, a few miles further east from Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Containing more than 6,500 acres of spectacular scenery, this haven of nature includes two-and-a-half miles of beach and plenty of trails, lakes, and pavilions to accommodate a family picnic or an invigorating hike. Bring your sleeping bag and your golf bag, for Gulf State Park offers both primitive and modern camping and an 18-hole golf course!

In the mood for more fun in the sun? Head past the northern end of Weeks Bay at the mouth of the Fish River to find the Eastern Shore Trail, a 32-mile, multi-purpose wonderland of recreation. Running along the communities of Spanish Fort, Daphne, Fairhope, and Point Clear, the trail offers an up-close experience of Alabama's great outdoors. Go for a leisurely stroll, or jump on a bike and take a ride through this gorgeous display of wilderness.

So, put away the snow boots and sleds and make this winter season one to remember. Escape the cold and take a trip on Alabama’s Coastal Connection for a warm winter getaway full of adventures and fun in the sun!

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