We started in Manchester, NH
First stop, Manchester. We took a Spirit Airlines seasonal direct flight from Tampa, FL to Manchester, NH. As soon as we landed we headed over to The Currier Museum, where we went on a 2-hour tour of the two Frank Lloyd Wright houses in the area. Less than two blocks away from each other these two houses offered a little bit of history and education at the beginning of our trip.
After the tour, we drove over to a spot recommended to us called Cotton. It was so good, and their martini list was unmatched. We stayed one night at the Residence Inn Manchester in the city center.
WHAT WE HAD:
- Bellini Martini
- Espresso Martini (add pistachio)
- Watermelon Basil (as a martini)
- Pomegranate Blueberry Martini
- Grilled Atlantic Salmon
- Vermont Creamery’s Baked Goat Cheese
To the Lakes Region: Lake Winnipesaukee
Hands down the best leg of our trip, Daniel and I fell in love with the property at Mill Falls. Nestled on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, we could not have asked for a better place to enjoy a few nights on the lake. We sat by the fire, made smores, relaxed in the indoor/outdoor hot tub, and went on many walks.
We stayed specifically at Church Landing at Mill Falls, in a waterfront cottage. These rooms are so spacious, you could easily fit in 4, and it comes equipt with a fireplace, jacuzzi tub and large balcony overlooking the lake.
Another great feature of this property is they have plenty to do right on-site, I definitely recommend having a game night in the game room, checking out the lobby happy hour, and sitting by the fire with a cocktail. The activity center has a variety of excursions including lawn games, kayaking, and yoga.
WHERE WE ATE:
Getting Into Nature
There are a number of hikes surrounding the lake and in the lakes region, you can go on a guided one or venture off on your own. We decided our second morning to wake up early, drive 20 minutes north to hike Brook Walk @ Castle In The Clouds conservation area, where we saw a number of beautiful waterfalls and rapid. Brook Walk is an easy hike for all ages. Getting outdoors and some movement in was just what we needed before driving back south to check out a small local pancake house called Heritage Farms. During maple season, you can catch them harvesting the maple, on the off-season, you can take a look around at the workshop, pet Pippin and Pierre (goats), and have a wonderful homemade fresh breakfast with pancakes the size of your head!
New England: Just Like the Movies
Portsmouth, NH is picturesque. We stayed at The Wentworth By The Sea, a stunning hotel overlooking the Piscataqua River. This hotel is a great place to stay for a luxurious romantic getaway, it is quaint with gardens surrounding it and a connecting Marina if you’re looking to go on a cruise. We took a drive a few minutes north to New Castle Beach where we took a walk taking in the scenic view of the Portsmouth Harbour Lighthouse, depending on the season, you can see seals in this area.
There is a charming little town just around the bend from the Wentworth where you can check out the local shops, sip on delicious cocktails, and grab something to eat. I highly recommend Oysters and a bottle of Chardonnay.
WHERE WE ATE:
Day Trip to Newburyport, Massachusetts
Two-day trips I recommend from this area are into Maine for some lobster, and Newburyport– a quaint town about 1 hour away. It is a very charming and a great visit if you like to wine and dine.
WHERE WE ATE:
