They were, perhaps, the most unlikely oasis of opulence and luxury in a land of rugged mountains, thick forests and views so stunning they inspired the adventurous to leave the city and explore this untamed wilderness more than 150 years ago.
Tales of the beauty of the region, combined with the advent of the railroads that were pushing further north, created a demand for lodging that would cater to guests who were used to fine living. These were the rich and famous of the day and they did not just spend a few days here - they came, with trunks by the dozens and their personal help, to stay for the entire summer.
It gave rise to the era of the grand hotels in northern New Hampshire and at one time there were virtually hundreds of them dotting the landscape. These were not simple structures - they were grand in every sense of the word and they could be found from the 6,288-foot summit of Mount Washington to the craggy Franconia, Crawford and Dixville Notches.
The times, and the fortunes, eventually changed and one by one, these grand hotels disappeared, usually claimed by fire, until there were three.
The Balsams. The Mountain View. The Mount Washington.
These are the Grand Dames of New Hampshire Grand, carrying on a tradition of gracious mountain hospitality in a land that remains ruggedly beautiful.
From golfing to fly fishing, hiking to horseback riding to just sitting on a sweeping veranda counting the mountain peaks, these lovely hotels offer an adventure for every inclination.
And you can still dress up for dinner. For a complete list of lodging properties please click here.
When it comes to accolades for this Certified Best of New Hampshire Grand, the list goes on and on. The Omni Mount Washington was noted the "Best Restaurant for Wine" in Wine Spectator (2007), the "Award of Excellence" by the Distinguished Restaurants of North America (2007-2009) and was noted again in Wine Spectator for "Award of Excellence" (2008-2009).
Formal breakfast and dinner are served in an elegant setting with sweeping views of Mount Washington. The innovative menu changes nightly but remains true to the traditional New England culinary approach.
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Set on 1,700 acres with sweeping views of the great peaks. Mountain View Grand is the only resort or hotel in New Hampshire to earn AAA Four Diamond awards in both Lodging and Dining.
Pools, health center, historic golf course, and tennis. Stables provide carriage/sleigh rides while Mountain View Farm has sheep, goats, miniature donkeys and more.
Complimentary children’s programs. Open campfire and in-house movie theater. XC skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, skating, snowmobiling, and dog sled adventures. Free shuttle to Cannon Mountain.
Great views high in award-winning Tower Spa, infinity-edge Sok tub and side-by-side massages.
Multiple dining venues include gourmet Main Dining Room and wine cellar to casual meals in the Tavern or spectacular views on seasonal hotel Veranda and at the Club House.
EPA’s 100% Green Power Purchaser recognition includes new wind turbine. Member: Historic Hotels of America.
Every element of the Balsams Grand Resort embraces a picturesque elegance. From the shores of Lake Gloriette to the sparkle of the fine china, this resort promises a Grand experience.
The dining options at the Balsams are simply grand. Savor a glass of wine and Club House Caprice with fresh mozzarella, basil, tomato and grilled Tuscan bread atop the Donald Ross designed golf course at the Panorama Grille. Later in the evening, enjoy the elegant atmosphere of the main dining room with featured entrees like the Poached Atlantic Swordfish Filet with sun dried tomato couscous and passion fruit beurre blanc.
