Sunapee , New Hampshire
Adventure can be found in every crevice around Lake Sunapee . BY KERRI TALLMAN
W hile lake winnipesaukee is for the summer , Lake Sunapee is all about the fall and winter seasons . Months before we ’ ll pack the cars with skis and snowboards , we strap on our waterproof boots for a weekend trip full of outdoor adventure , small-town vibes and breathtaking vistas .
FRIDAY AFTERNOON : After a smooth ride skirting the busy Boston city traffic , we check into the Lodge Boutique Hotel by Sunapee Stays ( sunapeestays . com / the-lodge ). This eleven-suite hotel is the perfect combination of an Airbnb and a laid-back hotel in the mountains . Each room is decorated to complement the stunning views . Simple wood tones and vaulted ceilings warm up the space with modern appliances ( including a full kitchen if you plan on extending your stay or cooking in ). Suites are available in studio , one-bedroom and two-bedroom formats depending on the size of your party and preference . Regardless , enjoy lounging in the rocking chairs on the semi-private front porches or balconies with dividers between each
suite , which make it feel like your own little cabin in the woods . While we ’ re reminded by our surroundings to connect with nature and disconnect from the luxuries of the world , we aren ’ t fooled : Each suite comes with a heated toilet and built-in bidet with more features than you can comprehend .
We lodge in the Blodgetts suite , which can sleep up to four people with the help of the pull-out couch . Because of its open floor plan , it feels more like a studio apartment than a hotel . For those traveling with little ones or others who are up for the challenge , the game room and movie room are located in the building next door . For rainy fall days when hiking plans are canceled , this is a go-to spot to stay entertained without going too far . In the early fall days , the heated pool is still open to all with stunning views of the mountains and access to fire pits for s ’ mores .
FRIDAY EVENING : After settling in and a quick change into nicer clothes , we head down to Sunapee Harbor where dinner plans await .
56 RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY l SEPTEMBER 2023