Fodor's Expert Review Bear Mountain Inn + Barn

Aside Bear Pond in South Waterford, this 1800s 25-acre homestead inn features country chic decor with plaid accents and handsome baths (some with tub and shower); most accommodations—nine guest rooms and family-friendly suites, plus the snuggly cottage and post-and-beam apartment—have lake views and a fireplace (or wood stove). Thoughtful touches and amenities abound, from the recreation room, fire pits, and fireplaces (indoors and out) to plates and silverware in the dining room for guest use and courtesy snacks and drinks (nonalcoholic). A romantic retreat for two, Sugar Maple Cottage has a kitchen, wood-burning fireplace, private patio, and fire pit. It’s one of three accommodations, including the apartment (sleeps up to 8), that isn’t in the farmhouse. Breakfast is served in the spacious dining room, which is centered by a stone fireplace. Another fireplace warms the welcoming parlor. A snowmobile trail connects to the property, and come winter the recreation room becomes the Winter Pub on weekends (11–5); enjoy drinks and comfort foods inside or outdoors at the fire pits or patio fireplace.