7 Best Hotels in Lakes Region, New Hampshire

An air of yesteryear refinement suffuses Adair, a three-story Georgian Revival home that attorney Frank Hogan built as a wedding present for his daughter in 1927—her hats adorn the place, as do books and old photos from the era. This is a refined, well-run country inn, with walking and snowshoeing paths that wind through 200 acres of gardens designed by Olmsted Brothers, and rooms furnished with period antiques and reproductions—many have fireplaces; a great basement lounge has a 1929 billiards table and a big flat-screen TV, which often shows movies from the inn's large collection. The exceptional restaurant is open to the public and serves well-crafted seasonal American fare.

The hospitable innkeepers at this comfortable and informal B&B a short distance from Squam Lake make every possible effort to accommodate their guests—many of whom are repeat clients—from providing them with hiking trail maps to using rhubarb grown on property to make the jam served during the delicious country breakfasts. The spacious rooms have hardwood floors, braided rugs, desks, comfortable reading chairs, and country-quilt bedspreads and curtains.

This gracious red Victorian farmhouse, built as a summer getaway for the Pillsbury family of baking fame, has a peaceful setting on Lake Winnisquam and is a good general base for the western side of Lake Winnipesaukee. The inn contains nine impeccably decorated guest rooms and an abundance of inviting common spaces, including a 60-foot-long veranda and a gazebo by the water's edge—a pleasant place to lounge and listen for loons.

This striking yellow 1813 Federal mansion just a short walk from Wolfeboro's downtown lakefront ranks among New Hampshire's most luxurious small inns, offering 10 smartly and individually appointed rooms that blend a classic look with modern flourishes. Features include high-end bath amenities, strong soundproofing, individual climate control, heated-tile bathrooms, and flat-screen smart TVs; some rooms have gas stoves or fireplaces.

Graceful Victorian furnishings fill this peaceful farmhouse inn a short stroll from Squam Lake, each of its 10 rooms richly outfitted with comfortable beds, organic toiletries, and soft bathrobes. Rates include a full country breakfast and daily tea with afternoon desserts. The Inn Kitchen + Bar serves delicious modern American comfort fare, from buttermilk-fried chicken to lamb burgers and pan-seared salmon, Wednesday through Sunday. Private boat tours on the lake can be arranged.

Squam Lake is just a short drive from this romantic inn that comprises a beautifully restored 1890s Queen Anne–style Victorian and, next door, a handsome 1920s carriage house. Expect the best in B&B comforts: plush beds, flat-screen TVs, complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres, and excellent service. All but one of the 12 rooms have fireplaces, and the six suites have double-whirlpool tubs.

A name like this is a lot to live up to, but the Manor generally succeeds: it's one of the region's most atmospheric inns, situated on a slight rise overlooking Squam Lake, with 15 acres of lawns, towering pines, and hardwood trees; the grand Van Horn Dining Room for refined contemporary fare; and a small but well-outfitted spa. The rooms, most with wood-burning fireplaces and more than half with double whirlpool tubs, have a British country theme, and canopy beds, vintage blanket chests, and tartan fabrics fill the sumptuous bedchambers. Drinks in the endearing Isaac Bistro & Pub is a memorable way to finish the evening.