With its claim as the first summer resort created in the US, one visit to the quaint New Hampshire town of Wolfeboro makes it clear why this town has long been a popular holiday spot. Settled along the quieter eastern shore of the hugely popular Lake Winnipesaukee, this well-preserved 19th century village of 3,000 makes an ideal base for enjoying the watery activities of the lake as well as the surrounding mountains.
Lake Winnipesaukee is one of the main attractions in New Hampshire, and Wolfeboro serves as its genteel host. Running right off the shores of the lake, the impeccably maintained downtown district is lined with beautiful 19th century homes, many of which have been converted into shops, cafés and other businesses. Unlike the rowdier western shores of the lake, Wolfeboro deliberately tries to keep the atmosphere upscale.
You can easily walk the entire town, but a stop at the Wolfeboro Chamber of Commerce, housed in the old Victorian train depot, will help you get your bearings. There are walking trails which begin right from town, but most of the outdoor focus is on the lake. Boat tours and rental shops are easy to find and can quickly set you up with whatever you desire to explore this magnificent lake.
Highlights
Russell Chase Bridge-Falls Path: just behind the train station is a great walking trail that runs along the former railroad bed next to Back Bay and on to a nice little group of waterfalls.
Boat tours: on Lake Winnipesaukee are ideal ways to see Wolfeboro from a unique perspective. Cruises on either restored old steamships or shiny new vessels depart during the warm months from the docks behind Main street.
Wentworth State Beach: this beach, five miles east of town, is a quiet place where you can go swimming or have a picnic without the inevitable crowds that pack the town’s beach areas.
Abenaki Tower: drive seven miles north of town to Abenaki Tower, where those who can manage the easy climb to the lookout will be rewarded with panoramic views of the lake, Wolfeboro and the Belknap Mountains.
Kayaking: a great way to experience the lake is to rent a kayak and quietly propel yourself around this intriguing body of water. From Wolfeboro Bay, it’s an easy paddle to the cluster of tiny islets south of town, where miles of unpopulated shoreline can be accessed.