<p>Williams seems to fulfill everything on your wish list: Beautiful mountain setting, excellent biology and other sciences, widespread participation in sports and outdoorsy activities, access to nature, emphasis on the arts (studio art, museums, theater, music), multiple music venues and performance venues even for non-majors. Committed, multi-faceted and energetic student body.</p>
<p>Others on your list that are most similar in personality to Williams: Middlebury, Amherst, Bowdoin. I’d also add Hamilton and consider Smith.</p>