In January, I flew all the way to Boston from Montreal. A few hours later, with my friends Eve & Gabrielle, we were all set for an amazing road trip through the powdery routes of New Hampshire — also known as the Granite State.
We then drove north to New Hampshire and here is where we stayed, where we ate and what activities we did! New Hampshire has attractions to entertain you all year round but I believe it’s best to visit during winter, that way you’ll have access to all the ski resorts which are amongst the best in the United States.
Where to stay in New Hampshire?
When it comes to lodging, there are quite a lot of options in the Granite State. Whether you’re looking for a traditional New England inn, or perhaps a more modern accommodation, New Hampshire has it all.
Here are a few options where I stayed on my last trip to this area.
1785 Inn in North Conway
Nestled right in the middle of the White Mountains of New Hampshire, this classic country inn is the perfect setup to relax with your loved ones after a full day of skiing in the many ski resorts around. The typical Yankee hospitality will you make you feel right at home. I really loved having breakfast in the dining room that has an impressive scenic view on the White Mountains. For more information, check the 1785 Inn.
If you plan on staying in Portsmouth and want the traditional experience, take a look at Martin Hill Inn. From there, you’ll be a 10-minute walk away from the bustling and hip downtown of Portsmouth. All of the rooms are unique and very, very cute! Check out Martin Hill Inn in Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Located in the northern part of New Hampshire — in Lincoln — the Mountain Club on Loon is the perfect plan if you plan on bringing your entire family or a couple of friends on your trip. While it’s more on the modern side, it’s quite amazing to look at the ski slopes from your room balcony. I really liked the outdoor heated pool as well as the sauna inside!
Where to eat in New Hampshire?
According to the locals and what I read online, New Hampshire has grown into a foodie destination in the past few years. In fact, Portsmouth is now a destination for all the gourmet people out there on the East Coast. Loving food like I do, I was very excited to discover the food scene of this area and I wasn’t disappointed at all!
River House in Portsmouth, New Hampshire
First stop of your foodie journey in New Hampshire has to be River House, right at the center of Portsmouth. Perfect place to enjoy a nice lunch with a view on the Old Harbour. I got the seafood chowder along with the River House lobster roll which were both very delectable.
The East Coast of the United States — especially the New England part — is well known for its amazing seafood. Row 34 originated in Boston, Massachussets and was so popular that they had to open a second hip and sleek location. They opened in Portsmouth and it has been a huge success since the opening according to the manager we talked to.
On the menu at Row 34
The menu at Row 34 is quite simple, yet very appetizing. The first part of the menu consists of the raw bar selection which include the popular Island Creek oyster as well as the Row 34 variety, both from the Duxbury Oyster Company. You’ll also find smoked fishes and ceviche too.
When you’re done with your oyster order, check the dinner menu which is as scrumptious as the raw bar menu! P.S.: The clam chowder is to die for!
This is definitely the kind of place you’re looking for if you’re a modern traveler — the type of place you would find in a larger city, with the undeniable charm of the small American town.
At the Tamworth Lyceum, you can eat, have a coffee, enjoy a lecture or even a music show! The space also serve as a gift shop where you’ll find carefully curated items that embrace the outdoorsy vibes.
I highly recommend having one of their amazing sandwiches or if you’re there on weekend, enjoy a nice breakfast!
If you want to experience a dinner in an elegant country inn after a long day on the slopes, check out The Wentworth Inn. They offer a unique farm to table dining experience right in Jackson, New Hampshire.
Most people will know New Hampshire for the all year round very popular Mount Washington. New Hampshire is also home to plenty of activities as diverse as visiting ice castles, shopping at the outlets & going up a snowy mountain. The Kancagamus Scenic Highway is also highly recommended and worth the detour!
Mount Washington Snowcoach
From Mount Washington Auto Road website: Powered by a 4-track, all-wheel-powered drive-train, the 12-passenger (we typically seat only 7-9 persons) Mt. Washington SnowCoach transports guests (weather permitting) up to treeline on Mt. Washington (at approximately 4,200 feet) into a sub-arctic world for a truly unforgettable adventure.
Merci pour ces très belles et excellentes photos.