Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Vermont Gateways region lies the enchanting Lake Fairlee, a serene 462-acre body of water that beckons the creation of timeless memories. This natural lake, born from the damming of a tributary of the Ompompanoosuc River in 1939, holds a rich history within its depths. Notably, Lake Fairlee stands as the second water body to carry the Fairlee moniker, with its nearby counterpart, Lake Morey, originally bearing the name Fairlee Pond. This historical overlap can often puzzle those unfamiliar with the intricate tapestry of the region’s past. Both lakes, once integral parts of the town of Fairlee, now stand as distinct entities—Lake Morey, a stone’s throw away from the bustling Fairlee business district, and Lake Fairlee, nestled five miles southwest, quietly embraced by nature’s embrace. A ridge of hills serves as a silent guardian between the two, marking the division that carved Fairlee into separate realms, each with unique allure. West Fairlee, Post Mills, and Thetford, residing as independent entities, inherited the tranquil beauty of Lake Fairlee, weaving tales of serenity and charm. A beloved Vermont gem, Lake Fairlee is home to many water sports that excite locals and tourists alike. It’s a haven for sailing, wakeboarding, water skiing, tubing, canoeing, and kayaking. While personal watercraft finds itself unwelcome within its tranquil waters, the lake thrives with energy and vitality, pulsating with the joy of those who revel in its embrace. Summer cottages and year-round abodes stud its shoreline, interspersed with swathes of untouched woodlands that whisper tales of times gone by. Many corners of Lake Fairlee find themselves cradled by summer camps, harking back to a tradition dating to the early 1900s, where joy and laughter still resonate through time. A haven for angling enthusiasts, Lake Fairlee boasts diverse fish species, from rainbow trout to largemouth bass, each whispering tales of the lake’s bounty. The town of Thetford, nestled along the southeastern shore, offers a gateway to the lake’s majesty, hosting a boat launch that welcomes residents into embracing its azure waters. The state’s Fish and Game Department extends a welcoming hand with a public boat launch on the lake’s northeastern shore, standing as a beacon for those seeking solace in fishing. Like enchanted tendrils of nature, Middle Brook and Blood Brook weave a tapestry of allure for fly fishermen, beckoning them to explore the depths of Lake Fairlee with bated breath. The guardianship of Lake Fairlee falls into the able hands of the Lake Fairlee Association, a stalwart organization dedicated to preserving its pristine waters and safeguarding against invasive intruders. Through collaborative efforts with local towns, this organization orchestrates annual festivities, coordinates clean-up initiatives, and ensures that cottage owners remain informed about prevailing issues, regulations, and expectations. The town of Thetford is a nurturing beacon, offering a recreational haven with swimming, tennis, picnic grounds, and a child’s play area. This sanctuary beckons West Fairlee and Post Mills residents to partake in its tranquility for a nominal fee. Embark on an adventure around Lake Fairlee, where the embrace of nature invites explorers to traverse its verdant realms on foot or by cycle. For those who heed the call of nature, the West Fairlee Wildlife Management Area, the Fairlee Town Forest, and the Thetford Town Forest weave a tapestry of wonder with their restricted access to mountain riding and wildlife observation. The Podunk Wildlife Management Area, located six miles west of Lake Fairlee, is a shining oasis of hiking trails and fishing ponds, a sanctuary for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Glistening snow blankets the landscape in winter, offering a canvas for snowmobile trails, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing adventures that paint the world in shades of serene white. Once a beacon that shone brightly upon the ancient days, Lake Fairlee stands as a testament to the passage of time, cradling within its embrace echoes of forgotten tales and cherished memories. The legacy of Thomas Henry Chubb, heralding back to 1869, weaves a tale of fine fishing rods and a blossoming industry that flourished beneath the azure skies of Post Mills. The Commodore House, a beacon of hospitality erected by Chubb’s father, stands as a testament to a bygone era where summer visitors reveled in the beauty of Thetford’s panoramic vistas and gentle climate. The murmurs of summers past echo through the halls of the three camps nestled by the lake, a reminder of days spent in carefree abandon and joyous laughter that still lingers on the gentle breeze. Vacation rentals, nestled within the bosom of Lake Fairlee, offer a sanctuary for weary travelers seeking solace in the lap of nature. From self-catering cottages to quaint bed-and-breakfasts, the region envelops visitors in the warmth of its embrace, offering a respite from the clamor of daily life. Real estate opportunities, sporadically scattered along the lakefront, beckon those who seek to make Lake Fairlee their permanent abode, a haven of tranquility within reach of bustling Rutland and Montpelier. Take time to de-stress and enjoy the classic allure of a lake vacation in Vermont. Lake Fairlee is waiting for you, offering peace and beauty as well as the opportunity to explore its many mysteries.