New Hampshire Lodging 2009

LODGING

Best New Old Inn:
WOODBOUND INN & RESORT, Rindge
Aylmer and Cindy Given purchased this property in 2008 and immediately upgraded the interior of the circa-1893 main building to provide some unexpected urban flair at this classic New England inn. The main floor has been redesigned with a stately lobby, a sleek bar, and a full restaurant (Aylmer’s Grille). Rates: from $139, including full breakfast, or $129 without. 247 Woodbound Road. 800-688-7770, 603-532-8341; woodbound.com

Best Tchotchke Getaway:
NASWA RESORT, Laconia
If you like being in the middle of it all, then this is the place for you. Bright pastel buildings–efficiency motel units, rental cottages, a restaurant, and a gift shop–belie the down-home interiors and sensibility that keep this waterside getaway humming. Even better: two jam-packed gift shops on site where cool T-shirts, magnets, and other collectibles rule the day. Rates: from $79. 1086 Weirs Blvd. 603-366-4341; naswa.com

Best Down-Home B&B:
KINSMAN LODGE, Franconia
Enjoy the homemade breakfasts, proximity to outdoor recreation hot spots, and stunning mountain views–but what you’ll remember is the homey atmosphere and warm reception from owners Chet and Sue Thompson, who take the time to get to know each guest. Rates: from $95, including full breakfast. 2165 Easton Road (Route 116). 866-546-7626, 603-823-5686; kinsmanlodge.com

Best In-Town Lodging: Kearsarge Inn, North Conway This mountain town’s first boutique hotel is cozy and quiet, yet close to the bustle of Main Street, where small shops and restaurants abound. Rates: from $59. 42 Seavey St. 800-637-0087, 603-356-8700; kearsargeinn.com

Best Away-From-It-All Lodging:
HIGHLAND LAKE INN, East Andover
Situated halfway between I-93 and I-89, the village of East Andover is blessedly forgotten–and it’s here that you’ll find this historic farmhouse on a country lane. Walking and biking trails and a chance to unwind. Rates: from $160, including full breakfast. 32 Maple St. 603-735-6426; highlandlakeinn.com

Best New Taste of Luxury Living: RIVERSIDE HOTEL, West Chesterfield The Luxury Suite anchors the top-floor corner of this new three-story hotel. There’s a bedroom, bathroom with hot tub, living room, full kitchen, and a private wraparound balcony overlooking the Connecticut River. Modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and wireless Internet are included, too. Rates: Luxury Suite $599, including coupon for full breakfast at adjoining restaurant; other guestrooms from $189, including continental breakfast. 20 Riverside Drive. 877-256-7050, 603-256-4200; nhriversidehotel.com