ORANGE COUNTY, N.Y. (March 24, 2025) – Orange County, N.Y., has captured international attention with a feature in National Geographic Traveller UK, highlighting the region’s rich agricultural heritage, exceptional culinary scene, and scenic beauty. Reporter Clare Vooght experienced the red-carpet treatment during her visit, beginning with an overnight stay at the historic Orange Inn Boutique Hotel before stopping at Orange County Distillery at Brown Barn Farms in New Hampton and Warwick Chocolate Company in downtown Warwick. Her experiences are detailed in the four-page article, “A Taste of Hudson Valley,” which showcases the region’s farm-to-table flavors and artisanal craftsmanship.
This prestigious feature puts Orange County in front of a global audience, reinforcing its reputation as a must-visit destination—just an hour from New York City.
London-based journalist Vooght visited the region last October as part of an I Love New York collaboration among Orange and four other Hudson Valley counties. She was welcomed by regional tourism leaders and experienced firsthand the rich agricultural and culinary traditions that define the area.
Clare’s stay at the historic Orange Inn set the pace for her journey through OCNY. She then headed to Brown Barn Farms, where she toured the fields of the Black Dirt region—home to some of the most fertile soil on the planet—aboard a farm UTV with John Glebocki, co-owner of the Orange County Distillery. Several county officials joined the excursion, underscoring the region’s commitment to showcasing its agricultural roots. There, Vooght indulged in farm-fresh specialties such as smoked duck and cheddar quesadillas, prepared by Culinary Chef Anthony Acevedo (Catering by Anthony Mario LLC) describing the innovative flavors in vivid detail.
Next, Vooght visited the Warwick Chocolate Company, where owner Victor Gelman shared his story of transitioning from chocolate wholesaler to artisan chocolatier. His creativity shines in confections such as the Apple Pie truffle and a cabernet franc-infused dark chocolate ganache, which Vooght described as having a “subtle, dry tanginess.”
Her article also celebrated two of Orange County’s most beloved specialties—apple cider doughnuts and craft beer—reinforcing the region’s reputation as a top-tier destination for food lovers.
Being featured in such a prestigious publication puts Orange County in front of a global audience, offering new opportunities to attract international visitors, support local businesses, and strengthen the county’s presence as a premier travel destination.
“It’s wonderful to see Orange County receive this well-deserved international recognition in National Geographic Traveller UK,” said Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus. “Our region has long been known for its agricultural heritage, vibrant culinary scene, breathtaking scenery and so many other amazing features. This article not only highlights our rich traditions but also showcases the hard work and passion of our local farmers, artisans, and chefs. Our County offers visitors an authentic and unforgettable experience, and this recognition solidifies Orange County as a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the very best of the Hudson Valley.”
“We’re thrilled to see Orange County showcased on an international platform in National Geographic Traveller UK,” said Amanda Dana, Director of Orange County Tourism & Film. “It’s always exciting to see our region through the eyes of a travel writer, and we’re so glad Ms. Vooght had such a great experience exploring the black dirt region, Brown Barn Farms and the Warwick Chocolate Company. We get to enjoy these incredible places year-round, but this feature truly captures what makes Orange County so special—just an hour from NYC. We hope it inspires even more people to visit and experience everything we have to offer.”
With this global recognition, Orange County, NY, continues to shine as a destination where rich heritage, outstanding food, and breathtaking landscapes come together to create unforgettable experiences.
About Orange County Tourism & Film
Orange County Tourism & Film, based in Goshen, N.Y., is the county’s tourism and film production headquarters and a participant in the I LOVE NY program. A comprehensive listing of area attractions, lodging, events and film resources can be found at www.pickocny.com. Additionally, a fun, free, 60-page travel guide is available for digital download at pickocny.com/travel-guide/.
