Kimball Castle and Lake Winnipesaukee: Tichnor Brothers, Publisher, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsNestled against the southeastern edge of the White Mountains in New Hampshire is the Lakes Region, with its star, the beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee. Covering 72 miles and dotted with over 250 islands, the glacial lake has been a popular destination for New Englanders and beyond for ages.
The charming town of Wolfeboro, on the eastern shore, claims to be the oldest summer resort in America, due to the last colonial governor of New Hampshire, John Wentworth, building a summer home here in 1763. Whether that qualifies or not, it certainly has been a destination for summer travelers for as long as anyone can remember, including such famous people as Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco, Kurt Vonnegut, and any number of Hollywood stars and other people of renown. It’s no wonder, along with its primo position on Winnipesaukee, the town encompasses the whole of Lake Wentworth, along with a smattering of other smaller lakes and ponds.
Wolfeboro, however, is not the only picturesque town. Meredith is no slouch, though on the busier western side of the lake. And speaking of lakes, who hasn’t heard of Squam Lake, made famous by the movie On Golden Pond. Yes, it’s that serene, wild loons calling and bald eagles soaring overhead. Then there’s Newfound lake, separated from the Winni area by Route 93. One of the deepest lakes in New Hampshire, it’s also touted as one of the most pristine, fed by eight springs.
Want more? No problem – there are over 250 other lakes and ponds to choose from in this region alone. So get out your swimming, boating, paddling gear. Bring your cross-country skis and ice fishing gear. Want a different perspective of the water? Take a hike up Rattlesnake Mountain or one of the other peaks, or check out Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough. Or hit Gunstock Mountain Resort for zip line or lift views in summer and downhill skiing in the winter.
And last, spend a day or two at Weirs Beach on the western side of Winni. This is the fun center with its long boardwalk, the amazing Funspot amusement center and drive-in theater. Take a cruise around the lake on the M/S Mount Washington or take a ride along the western shore on the Winnipesaukee scenic railroad.
It’s popular here in the Lakes Region and now you see why.
