4 Best Hotels in Holderness, Lakes Region

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.

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.