
Renowned for its plethora of lakes and ponds, New Hampshire’s Lakes Region boasts a lifestyle of unparalleled quality. The state hosts a staggering 273 bodies of water, with Lake Winnipesaukee standing out as the largest among them.
Over the years, the Lakes Region in central New Hampshire has solidified its reputation as an exceptional destination for acquiring lakefront properties, witnessing a steady surge in popularity.
Encompassing a array of charming towns such as Alexandria, Alton, Andover, Ashland, Barnstead, Belmont, Bridgewater, Bristol, Center Harbor, Danbury, Effingham, Franklin, Freedom, Gilford, Gilmanton, Hebron, Hill, Holderness, Laconia, Meredith, Moultonborough, New Hampton, Northfield, Ossipee, Sanbornton, Sandwich, Tamworth, Tilton, Tuftonboro, and Wolfeboro, the Lakes Region offers not only a retreat-like atmosphere but also easy access to major cities like Manchester, New Hampshire, Boston, Massachusetts, and others across New England and the Northeast United States.
This accessibility has contributed to its sustained success in the real estate market, with consistent home sales volume year after year. Explore further details about real estate in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region below.
For those eager to explore this enchanting area, we present an exclusive bus tour of the Lakes Region in New Hampshire by Comfort Express Inc.
Alternatively, delve into the wonders of the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, featuring an array of water bodies, including but not limited to Lake Winnipesaukee, Squam Lake (encompassing Little Squam Lake and Big Squam Lake), Hawkins Pond, Lake Wicwas, Lake Winona, Lake Pemigewasset, Lake Waukewan, Newfound Lake, Northwood Lake, Lake Winnisquam, Silver Lake, Hill Pond, Province Lake, Belleau Lake, Duncan Lake, Pine River Pond, Lake Ossipee, Lake Wentworth, Crescent Lake, and Mirror Lake.
Experience the Pinnacle of Lakeside Living Indulging in the allure of Lake Winnipesaukee and the Lakes Region in New Hampshire unveils a distinctive lifestyle enriched with abundant amenities.
Explore further to discover the unparalleled offerings of this captivating region.
Enchanting Towns
Nestled just below New Hampshire’s White Mountains, Lake Winnipesaukee reigns as the largest lake in the state, offering a sprawling canvas for lakeside living.
Circumnavigating the lake unfolds a scenic 70-mile journey, guiding you through various towns, each with its unique charm:
- Alton, positioned at the southern tip of Lake Winnipesaukee, claims the title of the largest town in the Lakes Region. It boasts expansive areas and a captivating New Hampshire atmosphere.
- Gilford, gracing the southwest shores, is home to the Belknap Mountains, Gunstock Mountain Resort, and the renowned Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion at Meadowbrook, creating a haven for both nature enthusiasts and concertgoers alike.
- Laconia, situated on the western fringes, stands as the bustling epicenter and commercial hub of Lake Winnipesaukee. Paugus Bay surrounds Laconia, with Weirs Beach, the largest public beach, attracting crowds during the annual Bike Week. Laconia also embraces the eastern shores of Lake Winnisquam, offering diverse waterfront and non-waterfront recreational opportunities.
- Meredith, adorning the northwest shores, captivates with its scenic Meredith Bay, adorned with private residences and stunning lake views. The town center hosts a myriad of amenities, and Meredith is renowned for its hiking and camping options at Meredith Woods Camping Area and Meredith Hill.
- Center Harbor, a quaint town on the northern lakefront, boasts a serene stretch of Lake Winnipesaukee waterfront. It is notably linked to Squam Lake to the north, known for the Proctor Preserve and its protected lands.
- Moultonborough, cherished for its exceptional quality of life and charming downtown, rests on the north shore of Lake Winnipesaukee. Home to attractions like the Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough offers a gateway to the White Mountains and various outdoor pursuits.
- Tuftonboro, on the eastern shores, impresses with its vast expanse and abundant water frontage, including 19-mile bay. Boaters and water enthusiasts find solace in Tuftonboro, with easy access to Ossipee Lake and other nearby water bodies.
- Wolfeboro, on the southeast shore, proudly holds the title of the “Oldest Summer Resort in America.” Its proximity to Manchester and Boston makes it an ideal destination, and the town’s tight-knit community thrives amidst picturesque lakes such as Crescent Lake and Lake Wentworth. Wolfeboro offers a blend of tranquility and vibrant activity, with attractions like Wolfeboro Falls, Cate Park, and the New Hampshire Boat Museum. For those seeking Lake Winnipesaukee real estate that feels like a retreat without sacrificing convenience, Wolfeboro proves to be an idyllic choice.
Diverse Lakes and Towns in the Winnipesaukee Region
Beyond the charming towns along Lake Winnipesaukee, the region boasts a plethora of islands, numbering at least 264, each with its own unique charm. Notable ones include Rattlesnake Island, Governor’s Island, Bear Island, and Cow Island, contributing to the rich tapestry of this picturesque locale.
Expanding the scope, the Lakes Region encompasses various towns not directly situated on Lake Winnipesaukee but graced by the presence of other enchanting lakes and water bodies.
Squam Lake, Lake Wicwas, Lake Winona, Lake Pemigewasset, Lake Waukewan, Newfound Lake, Northwood Lake, Lake Winnisquam, Silver Lake, Province Lake, Belleau Lake, and Duncan Lake form a constellation of water wonders.
While some towns, like Holderness, exude scenic charm on Squam Lake, others such as Alexandria, Bristol, Bridgewater, and Hebron find their allure on the shores of Newfound Lake. Andover, New Hampshire, showcases Bradley Lake and Highland Lake among its natural treasures. Sandwich, nestled by Squam Lake, and Tilton, overlooking Lake Winnisquam, stand as appealing alternatives – Sandwich in the northern Lakes Region and Tilton in the south.
In essence, whether your preference leans toward a town or a lakeside retreat, the Winnipesaukee Region offers an array of options, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every desire amidst the beauty of lakes, ponds, bays, and inlets.
Will the Great Lakes Region Serve as an Oasis for a Parched America?
Year-Round Delights in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region
Recreation
Embracing real estate in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region opens the door to a year-round playground, catering to diverse interests from families to retirees. Winter unveils a snowy wonderland with abundant ski areas for downhill and cross-country skiing enthusiasts. The season invites activities like snowshoeing, sledding, and the beloved pastime of ice fishing on the numerous lakes scattered throughout the Lakes Region.
Schools
The Lakes Region prides itself on excellent educational institutions, with Moultonborough and Meredith standing out prominently. Moultonborough offers a stellar school system, from elementary to high school at Moultonborough Academy, making it an attractive choice for those seeking year-round residency.
The community fosters family-friendly environments, boasts exceptional sports and recreation programs, and ensures a high level of safety. Similarly, Meredith’s schools, within the Inter-Lakes School District, earn high ratings, featuring a K-12 education with a student-teacher ratio of 11 to 1. Other Lake Winnipesaukee towns also offer top-notch school systems, with the Inter-Lakes School District serving Meredith, Center Harbor, Ashland, and Sandwich.
Dining and More
Lake Winnipesaukee and its surrounding towns host an array of delightful restaurants, catering to various palates. From fine dining options like O’ Steaks and Seafood, Fratello’s, and Hector’s in Laconia to lakeside experiences accessible by boat in Alton Bay, Center Harbor, Gilford, Meredith Bay, Tuftonboro, and Wolfeboro Bay, the culinary scene is rich and diverse. Dining with a scenic backdrop is a treat, with choices such as the MS Mount Washington Dinner Cruise at Weirs Beach.
Noteworthy establishments include The Lyon’s Den and Ellacoya Barn & Grille in Gilford, Lakehouse Grille and Lago Trattoria in Meredith, Woodshed in Moultonborough, Kevin’s Cafe and The Canoe in Center Harbor, and The Inn On Main and Mise En Place in Wolfeboro. Beyond Lake Winnipesaukee, The Inn on Newfound Lake in Bristol beckons for a culinary exploration.
With an abundance of activities and attractions, coupled with compelling reasons to invest in Lake Winnipesaukee or the broader Lakes Region, satisfaction is assured.
Explore the charms of Lake Winnipesaukee, Newfound Lake, and Squam Lake, peruse the various lakes and towns, or connect with Nicole Watkins to uncover the perfect lakeside haven for your unique preferences.