Welcome to the Lakes Region of NH!

It came as no surprise that in March of 2007, New Hampshire was named the “Most livable state in the nation” for the 5th year in a row. The Lakes Region is an area of exceptional natural beauty coupled with a vigorous and growing economy. The centerpiece of the area includes the 72 square miles of Lake Winnipesaukee, surrounded by mountains, with 182 miles of shoreline and 274 islands. It takes approximately several hours to drive the mostly country lanes that encircle the “Big Lake.” In addition to Lake Winnipesaukee there are 273 lakes, ponds and rivers to enjoy in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. Enjoy Spectacular skiing (both cross country and downhill), fifteen golf courses, more then 60 factory outlet stores, hunting, fishing, boating, swimming, sailing, plus the thunder and excitement of NASCAR at the NH International Speedway.

You will also find outdoor concerts at Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion & the NH Music Festival, fall foliage, and many other vacation and seasonal activities (all less than two hours from Boston). Take advantage of the numerous hiking trails scattered throughout the region, including the Northeast’s highest peak, Mt. Washington, at 6,288 feet. The sheer beauty of the region is enough to draw you here, but there is more to the Lake’s Region. Some of the finest family attractions in New England are here. There’s a great selection of lodging, dining and tax-free shopping, a wealth of sports, outdoor recreation, major concerts and special events… they are all here… along with the warm hospitality, that’s been the Lakes Region’s trademark.

Lake Winnipesaukee is one of the three largest natural fresh water lakes in the continental U.S. which lies entirely within the borders of one state. Lake Winnipesaukee, NH’s largest lake, has an area of 72 square miles and a shoreline length of 283 miles, and is dotted with 274 islands. The lake has a maximum depth of 180’ with a volume of 625 billion gallons of water, and is surrounded by the foothills of four mountain ranges: the White Mountains, the Sandwich, Ossipee, and Belknap Ranges. Other major lakes include Big Squam, Little Squam, Winnisquam Waukewan, Opechee, Newfound, Ossipee, Wentworth, Wickwas and Winona.
Gunstock, Waterville Valley, Loon Mtn., Cannon Mtn., Attitash, Bretton Woods, Cranmore and Ragged Mtn. ski areas offer unlimited skiing enjoyment.

The Lakes Region has a growing and diverse regional economy and is one of the fastest growing areas in the state. It has evolved into a very desirable location to raise children. New Hampshire was rated the best place in the Nation to raise children by the National Kids Count Survey. Additionally FBI statistics rate New Hampshire as the fourth safest state in the country.
Much of the market area is conveniently located off Interstate 93, making the area perfect for vacationers, second home buyers or year-round residents. The region is easily accessed by air, with the continuing expansion of Laconia Municipal Airport – which can accommodate private aircrafts and corporate jets, not to mention Air Force II. The airport is fully equipped with a state-of-the-art instrument landing system.  The Lakes Region is less than a one hour drive to the Manchester Airport.

LRGHealthcare is the center of the areas health care system. Recognized as NH’s Healthcare Business of the Decade, it offers a 140+ bed general hospital with more then 30 medical specialties and a level III trauma center. The Hospital acts as a referral center for outlying small hospitals. The Lakes Region lifestyle has attracted a high caliber of medical professionals. Lakes Region General Hospital employs approximately 1150 active staff members. It is interesting to note that New Hampshire has been ranked the #1 state in the Nation for “Healthy Living.”

Our Lakes Region public schools offer a wide range of academic curriculum and athletic programs. It is interesting to note that NH students have consistently placed #1 in the country in high S.A.T. scores. The Lakes Region also offers five private secondary schools including the New Hampton School, The Holderness School, Tilton Preparatory School, Brewster Academy and Proctor Academy. Post secondary facilities include Plymouth State University, the NH community Technical College, The University of New Hampshire in Durham and Southern New Hampshire University. Dartmouth College, Colby Sawyer College and Franklin Pierce Law School are all an hour’s drive from central NH.