New Hampshire is a state that beckons to those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its picturesque landscapes, quaint towns, and rich history, it offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. In this article, I'll take you on a journey through seven of the best towns in New Hampshire, each with its unique charm and allure. These towns are not just destinations; they are experiences that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired. So, pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the beauty of New Hampshire!
Jaffrey: A Hiker's Paradise
Jaffrey, nestled at the base of Mount Monadnock, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The mountain itself is a challenge worth taking on, with its four-mile round trip offering breathtaking views of Massachusetts on a clear day. But for those seeking a more relaxed morning, Thorndike Pond provides a serene setting for a paddle. And when the sun sets, the rebuilt Park Theatre comes alive with world cinema and live music, offering a perfect end to a day of exploration. The Benjamin Prescott Inn, with its mountain views and hammocks, is the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure.
New London: A College Town with a Cultural Twist
New London, located in the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee region, is a charming college town with a vibrant cultural scene. The New London Barn Playhouse, the oldest continuously operating summer theater in the state, brings musicals and comedies to life from June to September. And for those seeking a more relaxed morning, Pleasant Lake offers a peaceful setting for swimming and paddling. The John Hay Estate at The Fells, with its formal gardens and shoreline woodland trails, is a must-visit for nature lovers. And for those who prefer to stay close to the action, the New London Inn, with its rooms above its restaurant, is within easy walking distance of the Barn Playhouse.
Enfield: A Shaker Village in the Heart of Nature
Enfield, located on the western shore of Mascoma Lake, is home to the Enfield Shaker Museum, a preserved village built by a celibate religious community in the 1790s. The Great Stone Dwelling, the largest Shaker dwelling house ever raised, stands as a testament to the community's ingenuity. Guided tours through the workrooms and meeting rooms offer a glimpse into the Shaker way of life. And for those seeking a more adventurous morning, trails lead to Mount Assurance, offering long views over the lake and the old fields below. Mascoma Lake itself is a haven for anglers, with trout and bass waiting to be caught in the warm months.
Holderness: A Nature Lover's Paradise
Holderness, located between Squam Lake and Little Squam Lake, is a nature lover's paradise. The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center offers a wooded exhibit trail past rescued black bears, bobcats, and raptors, open from May to November. And for those seeking a more adventurous morning, a Squam Lake Cruise offers a 90-minute narrated tour, pointing out film locations and watching for bald eagles and loons. The Inn on Golden Pond, with its private beach on Little Squam and free kayaks, is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.
Tamworth: A Theater Town with a Rich History
Tamworth, located near the southern gateway to the White Mountains, is a town rich in history and culture. The Barnstormers Theatre, founded by Francis Cleveland, a son of President Grover Cleveland, has been running a professional summer season since 1931. And for those seeking a more relaxed morning, Chocorua Lake offers a peaceful setting for a canoe ride, with the reflection of Mount Chocorua on the water. White Lake State Park, with its swimming beach backed by old pitch pines, is another must-visit for nature lovers.
Bethlehem: A Gilded Age Resort Town with a Modern Twist
Bethlehem, located on a high ridge in the western White Mountains, is a former Gilded Age resort town that has reinvented itself around art, film, food, and mountain air. The Colonial Theatre, open since 1915, is among the oldest continuously operating movie houses in the country, screening independent and world films between live concerts from May to October. Main Street is lined with galleries, the WREN craft marketplace, and Rek-lis Brewing, offering a perfect afternoon pint. And for those seeking a more adventurous morning, The Rocks Estate, with its walking trails, working Christmas tree farm, and maple sugaring tours in spring, is a must-visit.
Whitefield: A Resort Town with a Theater and a Spa
Whitefield, located just north of Bethlehem, is a resort town with a rich cultural scene. The Mountain View Grand Resort and Spa, with its full Tower Spa, nine-hole golf course, and wide porches with a straight line of sight to the Presidential Range, is a haven for relaxation. And for those seeking a more adventurous morning, the Weathervane Theatre offers summer repertory, alternating musicals, comedies, and dramas through July and August. During slower hours, the Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge features a flat rail trail to Cherry Pond, a birding spot with the Presidentials laid out behind the water. Forest Lake State Park, with its sand beach, is another must-visit for those seeking a more active morning.
In conclusion, New Hampshire offers a wealth of opportunities for those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're a hiker, a nature lover, a theater enthusiast, or a foodie, these seven towns have something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the beauty of New Hampshire! Personally, I think that these towns offer a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, and I can't wait to return and explore more of what this wonderful state has to offer.
