New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is one of the most stunningly beautiful places in the United States. It’s also easily accessible, as it’s less than two hours from Boston, Massachusetts, an hour from the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, and within a day’s drive for millions of Americans. Central New Hampshire is a great place to live. In this special place where the lakes meet the mountains, there are enough rest, relaxation, and recreation opportunities to fulfill a lifetime. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For example, nothing refreshes the soul like the peace of nature, and New Hampshire is the second most forested state in the nation. Over 87% of the state’s land is covered by lush, dynamic forest, including more than 3/4 million acres of National Forest. The annual explosion of breathtaking Fall colors—red, orange, yellow, green, golden, brown, even purple—is legendary, among the finest on Earth!
Towering above the New Hampshire forests are majestic, often snow-capped mountains. The picturesque White Mountains cover about 25% of the state of New Hampshire, which boasts 182 peaks over 3,000 feet, including the famed 6,288-foot Mount Washington, the highest mountain in the Northeastern United States.
There are over 4,000 miles of hiking trails throughout the state and 32 downhill and cross-country ski areas to explore. New Hampshirites swap their skis for golf clubs during the warmer months. There are over 115 golf courses statewide to tee off at.
Then, there’s the water that links mountains and forests to the ocean. The Granite State hosts 13 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline, an astonishing 40,000 miles of rivers and streams, and 1,300 lakes and ponds, including the “Tahoe of the East,” Lake Winnipesaukee… which brings us to the Lakes Region.
With 72 square miles of surface area and 288 miles of shoreline, Lake Winnipesaukee is New Hampshire’s largest and most famous lake. This jewel of the Lakes Region is surrounded by forested mountains and hosts more than 250 islands. It takes hours to drive the mostly country lanes that encircle the “Big Lake” alone, but “Lakes Region” is plural for a reason. The region is home to 273 lakes, ponds, and rivers. Each water body is unique and offers a distinct personality, perks, property, and price points. Squam Lake, Lake Winnisquam, Newfound Lake, Lake Opechee, Merrymeeting Lake, Ossipee Lake, Lake Wentworth, and so many other sparkling lakes dot our countryside.
The Lakes Region offers activity choices as abundant and varied as the nature that abounds in the area. There’s plenty to do, both on and off the water. You can enjoy everything from fine dining and spectacular snowboarding, cross-country, and downhill skiing at Gunstock Mountain Resort to your choice of 20 area golf courses and shopping at more than 53 factory outlet stores.
Each town and city has its own character and vibe. Laconia, “The City on the Lakes,” includes frontage on Winnipesaukee, Winnisquam, and Opechee, and the picturesque Winnipesaukee River runs alongside its downtown area. The famous Motorcycle Week thunders through Weirs Beach June 8th – 16th, and the Weirs becomes a hub for family entertainment, boaters, and beachgoers during the summer season. With its popular town docks and lakeside setting, Wolfeboro traces its history back to 1759 and is “the oldest summer resort town in America.” With its quaint village, inns, and waterfront park, Meredith was recognized by Reader’s Digest as “The Most Charming Town in New Hampshire.” Settled in 1777, Gilford hosts Gunstock Mountain Resort and the largest town beach on Lake Winnipesaukee. Gilford Village has preserved its historical charm.
The Lakes Region has so many beautiful towns and villages to explore. Quaint New England farms with mountains and lake vistas, all types of eateries, and shopping to enjoy.
Experience hunting, fishing, boating, swimming, and sailing like never before. Or thrill to the thunder and excitement of racing at nearby New Hampshire Motor Speedway, which hosts the NASCAR Cup Series, Loudon Classic, Safe Kids 301, and numerous other events.
You will also find world-famous musicians performing in concerts at the 9,000-seat Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion! Recognized as Northern New England’s premier summer concert venue, the Pavilion is situated off the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee in Gilford, New Hampshire, and was one of USA Today’s 10 Best Concert Venues Across the USA.
From food festivals, arts & crafts fairs, block parties, pond hockey tournaments, fishing derby, charity events, antique car & boat shows, country fairs, regattas, marathons, and world champion sled dog races, there’s something for everyone.
The Lakes Region’s location is ideal for second-home buyers, year-round residents, and retirees who want to invest in an area that has it all.
Visitors from around the world have been drawn to visit New Hampshire and the Lakes Region, and some of us are blessed to call this special place home. If your dream is to live here, reach out: we’d like to help you find your dream home!
This article was written by Frank Roche. Frank is president of Roche Realty Group in Meredith, NH, and can be reached at (603) 279-7046. Please feel free to visit www.rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.
