The Berkshire Hills region encompasses some of Massachusetts's most extreme topography. Many of the mansions built more than a century ago by wealthy families from New York and Boston as 'summer cottages' have become fine inns or museums, or have had their grounds converted to outdoor venues for performing-arts groups such as the Boston Symphony Orchestra. This seasonal cornucopia of live music, dance and theatre has turned the region into the summer culture capital of New England. Autumn's palette of brightly coloured foliage transforms the landscape again, while winter's snow-covered peaks lure skiers from all the large cities within a couple of hours' driving distance. The Pioneer Valley, just two hours away from Boston, can be reached through wooded countryside. It features the full range of New England life, including the recreation of a 19th-century New England town at Sturbridge Village and secluded country inns warmed by massive fireplaces. This is the essential guide to the best places to stay, visit, shop and eat.