When the mercury drops and the leaves turn jewel-toned or the landscape is blanketed in a layer (or three) of snow, we pull out our warmer clothes and winter gear and start the search for snug vacation spots. At the top of our list is New Hampshire’s White Mountains region, where you can enjoy a number of activities like hiking, skiing, ziplining, and leaf-peeping on foot or via aerial tramway—then head to your lodging spot to kick back and sip an aperitif as the sun sets. The coziest White Mountains inns and hotels are conveniently near some of our favorite cool-weather attractions.

Snowvillage Inn | Eaton Center, New Hampshire

Come for the remote location along the forested slopes of Foss Mountain, for the views of Mount Washington, or for the snow globe-like charm. No matter your reason for staying at the Snowvillage Inn, you’ll enjoy all the warmth of a 1916 country house combined with modern amenities like on-site dining, gathering spaces with books and games, and in-room gas fireplaces. The inn is a short drive to North Conway’s retail and ski areas.

Get Your FREE Guide to Autumn in New England!

The Beal House | Littleton, New Hampshire

A five-minute walk from the heart of Littleton’s historic downtown lies the Beal House. This Georgian Colonial, which dates back to the late 1700s, has just four suites and three standard rooms. All are individually decorated in a vintage minimalist style with four-poster beds, lush linens, and fireplaces. The Beal House is co-owned by Chef Adam Alderin, who serves elevated tavern fare in the on-premise restaurant.

The Glen House | Gorham, New Hampshire

For a nature-immersed stay surrounded by 800,000 acres of national forest at the base of Mount Washington, check in to the Glen House. Its 68 rooms are inspired by Shaker design, with soothing color palettes, clean-lined furniture, and cozy textiles. The hotel has ADA-accessible and pet-friendly rooms, some with private decks or balconies. Use the online concierge form to log dietary preferences, housekeeping requests, and reasons for travel (such as an anniversary) before you arrive.

Launchpoint Lodge | Lincoln, New Hampshire

Located in a 1902 colonial home, Launchpoint Lodge is a recently renovated boutique hotel with six private suites. These cozy nests are tranquil and relaxed with neutral color palettes and layered textures. Share stories with fellow travelers in the common areas, including a coffee lounge stocked around the clock with drinks and treats, a toasty sitting room with a fireplace and board games, and a sunroom for admiring the scenic landscape.

The Inn at Thorn Hill | Jackson, New Hampshire

A boutique, adults-only property, the Inn at Thorn Hill is a splurge but worth it for a serene, romantic experience. Choose from beautifully appointed rooms, suites, or cottages with views of the valley at the base of the White Mountains. Or book the six-bedroom Carriage House for a private group stay. The hotel has an on-premise fine-dining restaurant, spa, lounge with a rotating menu of signature cocktails, and evening in-room tea service.

Sugar Hill Inn | Sugar Hill, New Hampshire

Sugar Hill Inn has all the charm—and the quirks—of a 1700s New England farmhouse, plus a dash of Hollywood lore: It’s where Bette Davis holed up in 1939 while her home was being built nearby. The inn’s inviting rooms and cottages have pillow-piled beds, whirlpool tubs, and private porches. Couples can opt for romantic in-room deliveries like chocolate and flowers, Champagne and truffles, wine, and cheese platters.

Mill Falls at the Lake | Meredith, New Hampshire

Although Mill Falls boasts a large hotel on Lake Winnipesaukee, just south of the White Mountains region, opt for a more intimate stay in one of two year-round, residential-style Private Lakeside Cottages. The Hearthstone Suite is a generous king room with a gas fireplace, wet bar, window seat, and screened porch. On the top floor, the Overlook Suite has gorgeous lake views, two bedrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen. Staying in one of the suites grants you access to all resort amenities including spa services, winter gear rentals, and guided trail walks.

Robin Catalano

Best Cozy White Mountains Inns and Hotels