Excitement and relaxation meet in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. The name alone evokes images of blissful, lazy summer days on the water.
There are 273 lakes and ponds in the region. Winnesquam, Newfound, and Squam are all popular, but the largest is Lake Winnipesaukee — 72 square miles, 28 miles long and 13 miles wide, with numerous islands. The largest of these are Long Island (1,186 acres), Bear Island (780 acres), Cow Island (522 acres), and Governor's Island (504 acres). Winnipesaukee is the sixth largest natural lake within U.S. borders.
Eight towns border the lake: Alton, Center Harbor, Gilford, Laconia, Meredith, Moultonborough, Tuftonboro, and Wolfeboro. Wolfeboro claims the title of the nation's first summer resort and remains a popular vacation destination. Meredith, Laconia, Weirs Beach, and Gilford draw crowds throughout the season as well.
Water is a big part of the fun — swimming, fishing, waterparks, cruise ships, boat tours, and nature centers. In winter there's ice fishing, ice sailing, cross-country and downhill skiing, and snowmobiling.
To really get to know the region, venture beyond the lakeshore. Sandwich is where the state's crafts organization was born. Wakefield has an impressive historic district. Melvin Village is a favorite for antique hunters. Plymouth is home to the Silver Cultural Arts Center.