Hotel at Glance: Mountain Edge Resort & Spa

Mountain Edge Resort & Spa’s timber and field stone exterior echoes the woods and mountains of its New Hampshire surroundings. This rustic theme continues inside, where granite, fur, and fieldstone define furnishings crafted by local artisans. While guests can spend their days canoeing and hiking, they’ll hardly be roughing it with amenities such as a full-service spa and indoor sauna.

For those interested in a membership at the spa, click here.

• When you’re hungry: Chefs at The Mountain Spirits Tavern cook an array of seasonal meals, from meatloaf and veal piccata.
• Watch the sunset from the tavern’s back deck.
• Saltwater pools: Swim here and it’ll feel like you’re in the ocean—it’s also easier on the hair, skin, and eyes.
• Indulge yourself at the onsite spa, and receive 30% off individual spa services with advanced reservation. The spa offers everything from facials and mud wraps to massages and mani-pedis.
• Area attractions include The Fort at No. 4, an open-air museum with historical re-enactments, as well as Mount Sunapee’s Adventure Park, which offers activities such as a canopy zipline tour, a bike park with trails and bike rentals, mini golf, and disc golf.

Newbury, New Hampshire: Quiet Hamlet Amid Mountains and Lakes

Rolling hills and thickets of untouched forest mark the landscape around Newbury, a tiny town about an hour north of Manchester. The centerpiece of the area is arguably Mount Sunapee, one of the tallest peaks in the state. Hiking trails crisscross the terrain at Mount Sunapee State Park, leading to a picturesque lakefront popular for kayaking and fishing. In winter, you can hit the slopes at Mount Sunapee Resort, which features 11 lifts and dozens of trails good for both beginning and advanced skiers.

The Fells Historic Estate & Gardens once served as a summer retreat for John Milton Hay, the secretary of state and chief party planner under Presidents McKinley and Roosevelt. It spans 84 acres of manicured grounds and woodland trails on the other side of Lake Sunapee. Sign up for a guided walking tour of the 22-room Colonial Revival home, or stop in for one of its featured exhibits, such as an open-air painting demonstration.

Historical buildings, family-owned cafés, and farm stands line the Main Street of New London, located about 20 minutes north of Newbury by car, making it a worthwhile day trip. New London is also home to the New London Historical Society, whose historical village recreates the rhythms of life in the 19th century.

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