Our family of 4 want to break from extended family obligations this Christmas and spend an intimate holiday in NE. Daughters are ages 11 and 21.

REQUIREMENTS:

-Not too far from Cental NJ
- LOTS of charm and ambience...both in the lodging choice and the town
-Proximity to downhill skiing(one day's worth)
- Not excessively expensive
-Outdoor heated pool would be nice(11 year old has never done this!)
-21 year old loves to horseback ride

I know this sounds daunting, but any and all suggestions are appreciated!

Currently, am considering
-Farm by the River in North Conway, NH
-Wilburton Inn in Manchester, Vt
-The Old Tavern at Grafton,VT

Thanks in advance eveyone!

You might consider The Nestlenook in Jackson NH, Luxury Mtn. Getaways also in Jackson, these are condo rentals and the association has an indoor and outdoor pool, the New England Inn in Intervale (get a cottage), or rent one of the many units in No. Conway, Glen, Bartlett, or Jackson NH from VRBO.

Have a great trip!

According to the owner on their website, Nestlenook is closed.

I don't think the Old Tavern at Grafton is likely to appeal much to your kids. It is a beautiful spot but very quiet

You'll love Bretton Woods, NH We did this one year and it was a magical Christmas, my grown children still talk about it.

It's like being in a Christmas movie yourself.

You'll find carolers roaming through the hotel lobby, where roasted chestnuts and hot cider are served. If you're traveling with kids, Santa's elves will come to the room, read them The Night Before Christmas and tuck them into bed. Christmas movies are shown throughout the week. There's an outdoor family race and a healthy Christmas cooking demonstration.

Mount Washington Resort at Bretton Woods
173 Mt Washington Hotel Rd
Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, 03575
(603) 278-1000
mountwashingtonresort.com


This is also a wonderful area for Christmas activities.
http://www.christmasfarminn.com/

The Franconia Inn (Franconia, NH) is splendidly located with amazing views. They do have a riding stable as well.

The Mountain View Grand (Whitefield, NH) is also highly recommend. Within is a fantastic spa (appointments before leaving home recommended).

The Beal House Inn (Littleton, NH) is an in-town inn on a lovely main street with a terrific bookstore, and other fine shops, and more amazing dining opportunities than you'll have time to visit. The restaurant within is top notch. The inn has transitioned through several owners in recent years and the current owner knows what he's doing. Another favorite dining spot is Bailiwick's at Thayer's Inn, also on Main Street.

We've stayed at the Mount Washington many times and really enjoy that place.

Not so far a drive for you would be the Red Lion in Stockbridge. Or, Lenox is also a beautiful New England Village with plenty of charming country inns.

Keep in mind that you may have to consider winter driving conditions. Main highways and roads are generally not a concern, unless you're traveling during heavy snowfall. In winter, we try to select places with lots to do within or very nearby in case of unfavorable weather.