Planning the perfect vacation (or staycation) to the Lakes Region starts with a top-notch accommodation.
Do you want to connect with nature on a family camping trip? Experience the charm of a cozy bed-and-breakfast? Indulge in a high-end resort getaway? Or, perhaps you’re looking for a Fido-friendly accommodation where your furry friend can tag along. Whichever your preference, the good news is: the Lakes Region boasts a wide selection of accommodations to suit every traveler. Here are just a few of the spots we recommend for a superior stay, from inns and hotels to cabins and campsites.
1. CAMPING AND RVING
With so many lakeside camping grounds, the Lakes Region is a popular destination for camping and RV trips. After finding the perfect spot to pitch your tent, gather the family to cook up a hearty meal on your camp stove, sit around a roaring campfire, and enjoy front-row access to serene lake views. Or, park your RV and spend time roaming the grounds before retiring to your familiar surroundings.
At Gunstock Mountain Resort’s campground in Gilford, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy unrivaled proximity to Lake Winnipesaukee. The property has 250 campsites and two rustic cabins available to rent, plus everything you could need for an unforgettable camping trip — bathhouses with free hot showers, a heated swimming pool, a dog park, fishing equipment, and more.
Or, opt to fish and swim your days away at Long Island Bridge Campground in Moultonborough. Situated on a private, sandy beach, the campsite was first established in 1966 and has been hosting travelers during camping season (mid-May through mid-October) ever since. There are numerous recreational amenities available, from horseshoe pits to canoe and kayaking rentals.
2. INNS AND B&BS
For a true home-away-from-home and a helping of classic New England charm on your Lakes Region trip, choose from one of the area’s many country inns or quaint bed-and-breakfasts. While each of these accommodations has its own distinct character, they all prioritize one thing: first-rate hospitality.
The Inn on Golden Pond is an excellent choice for a high-end B&B, boasting plenty of family and dog-friendly amenities and cooked-to-order breakfasts. And yes, the Inn’s Squam Lake setting was the film site for “On Golden Pond” — when you see the mountain vistas and clear blue waters for yourself, you’ll see why the serene scene inspired the filmmakers.
Whatever the season, Bridgewater’s Newfound Lake Inn is an ideal year-round vacation spot. The historic property has welcomed travelers since 1840, and now greets guests with a full veranda overlooking Newfound Lake. On a warm-weather day, tuck into a delicious meal with a side of lake views at Sal’s Birch Bar & Roof Deck.
3. CABINS, COTTAGES, CONDOS, AND MOTELS
Seeking a home base that truly feels like home? The Lakes Region offers many casual stays that don’t skimp on comfort. Whether you need a fully-equipped kitchen for a family getaway or want to unwind by the water in a hammock, you’re sure to find the perfect cozy abode.
In Gilford, you’ll find Ames Farms Inn: home to 17 lakeside cottages, 14 apartments, four rooms, and two cottages along a quarter-mile of sandy lakefront. Bring the whole family and take advantage of the open fields and private swimming areas. As far as dining goes, breakfast at the Ames Farm Restaurant is a must (think: blueberry pancakes with real maple syrup).
Lakeview Inn, nestled in the heart of Weirs Beach, offers a collection of recently updated cottages just steps away from the beach. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, guests can enjoy the sparkling on-site pool, spacious suites, and cozy common areas.
4. hotels and resorts
Family-owned. Boutique. Luxury. Budget-friendly. Whichever type of hotel or resort you’re looking for, the Lakes Region has you covered! And after all, it’s hard to beat the amenities of a hotel or resort, allowing you to fully enjoy your vacation and come back to a comfortable, convenient home base.
In Laconia, the family-owned Naswa Resort’s waterfront rooms in colorful cottages look out onto Lake Winnipesaukee from a large slice of sandy beach. Fuel up for the day with breakfast from the Blue Bistro, or grab a hearty lunch or dinner at NazBar & Grill, situated by the water’s edge.
Seeking a wellness-focused stay? Lake Opechee Inn boasts a full-service day spa for a bit of pampering on your getaway — plus cozy seating areas with gas fireplaces, balconies looking out onto the lake, and a dining room where you can enjoy a country continental breakfast.
5. vacation home rentals
Planning a longer-term vacation? With endless opportunities for recreation and so much to explore, the Lakes Region lends itself perfectly to a multi-week or month-long getaway — whether you’re looking for a winter skiing home base or planning an annual summer reunion with the whole family. Luckily, there are numerous vacation rental companies that can help you find the perfect rental spot.
At the Lake Vacation Rentals has a selection of more than 100 quality, water-access vacation homes, from luxury waterfront homes to rustic cottages and beach-access properties. Plus, the team of local specialists is available to help with anything that comes up before, during, and after your stay.
Break Away Rentals provides short-term, extended stay, and long-term rental options in the Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Winnisquam areas. You can even rent a property year-round to really get to know the area and experience all this stunning slice of New Hampshire has to offer!
To discover more accommodations around the Lakes Region, check out our comprehensive guide to the best cabins, cottages, campsites, hotels, and other stays in our area.