The resort’s 400-acre property is home to one of the Granite State’s finest golf courses. Two of its holes—11 and 18¬—were named as two of New Hampshire’s Great 18 by WMUR-TV 9 and for good reason. The 11th, a Par-3 that plays 183 yards from the back tees features a two-tiered green surrounded by bunkers. The hole looks deceivingly long and players are instructed to trust their instincts. The homeward 18th is a short Par-4, playing only 352 yards from back tees. Two bunkers and a small stream protect the small green and the hole can be summed up by the old moniker “Fairways and Greens.” Straight off the tees and the hole plays easy. Go slightly left or right and you may find yourself placing a snowman on the scorecard to wrap up your round.

But to discover what makes Atkinson Resort & Country Club so special one must look past the impressive golf course and observe the amenities the resort has to offer. As for amenities related to the game of golf, there are plenty. The property boasts one of the best practice facilities in all of New England with a 15,000 square feet of grass tees, 12,000 square feet of putting greens, multiple bunkers and a 65-yard short-game practice hole. The on-site Willowcreek Golf Academy, a 10,000-square-foot state-of-the-art golf training facility is dedicated to the advancement of golfers of all skill levels.

Created with the goal of educating and teaching golfers of all skill levels, the academy’s professionals focus their attention on all aspects of a player’s game, from equipment and driving the ball, to short game and even mental approach. The four-season golf training facility used by the academy boasts a heated driving range, synthetic putting surfaces, indoor/outdoor teaching studios and swing analysis software programs.

Looking for more golfing fun during the winter months in New England? Merrill’s Tavern, located on the resort property, has four virtual golf simulators boasting more than 25 courses to choose from. Now that is the perfect way to keep your skills sharp in the offseason!

Another world-class golf-related amenity is the resort’s new nine-hole Par-3 course. Perfect for both experienced players who want to focus on their short game and those just learning how to play, the course is a family-friendly track complete with lush fairways and rolling greens. Golf leagues, clinics and tournaments for groups of all sizes are available for booking throughout the season, but call soon as slots fill up quickly.

In addition to the courses, practice facilities and golf academy, Atkinson Resort & Country Club is home to the luxurious and comfortable Fieldstone Suites. Featuring 16 oversized guest rooms, the suites provide guests with premium features such as a whirlpool tub in every room, access to the state-of-the-art fitness equipment and stunning views from every room.

The resort also boasts three distinct eateries. Before you hit the links, swing by the Cartside Café, which features the convenience and prompt service of a local breakfast diner, with breathtaking views of fairways and the 18th hole. In addition to lighter fare such as bagels and muffins, the café features hearty plates including pancakes, French toast and omelets. Serving both lunch and dinner, the Stagecoach Grille is known for its traditional favorites, including premium cuts of steak, fresh seafood and chicken, and delicious homemade dessert. Finally, there is the aforementioned Merrill’s Tavern, the perfect place to kick back and enjoy delicious pub food and beverages. The comfortable atmosphere is a great place to take in a sporting event on one of its nine widescreen TVs, or partake in a game of darts. The tavern also has three billiards tables that can be rented by the half- or full-hour. Last call on Fridays and Saturdays is 11:45 p.m.

Looking for the perfect place to host a corporate event or wedding? Atkinson Resort & Country Club boasts 75,000-square-feet of banquet facilities open to the public. The lavish facilities are able to accommodate both large and small groups and staff at the Legacy Ballroom & Conference Center will be able to meet the needs of you and your guests—from organizing food and lodging to keeping guests busy with indoor and outdoor activities suitable for both golfers and non-golfers.

Although Atkinson Resort & Country Club hosts many visitors traveling from outside the region, the resort also offers extensive amenities to local residents who frequent the facilities on a regular basis. Golf enthusiasts who become part of the Inner Club gain access to added benefits that are second to none. Reduced rates, seven-day advanced tee-time booking (public has access to five-day bookings) discounted merchandise at the renowned pro shop, and onsite club and bag storage are just some of the benefits. Those considering Inner Club membership should also note that many current members enjoy the 18-hole course for the mere fact that it never gets stale, always playing differently and allows for the use of the all the clubs in the bag.

No matter if you live in the region or are planning a getaway to the Granite State, add Atkinson Resort & Country Club to your list of must-visits as there is something for everyone on this 400-acre swath of paradise.  For more info, www.atkinsonresort.com

Crumpin-Fox Club was conceived in 1969, but delays in development pushed the opening of the back nine holes, which were built before the front nine, to 1977. That same year, the clubhouse was erected, but it wasn’t until 1987 when William A. Sandri of Bernardston purchased the site and began development of the rest of the course. Under the direction of architect Roger Rulewich, the front nine holes were built along with extensive renovations to the existing back nine holes, the driving range and the irrigation system. Bent grass fairways were planted and the course opened to golfers in June 1990.

Sandri, who since purchasing Crumpin-Fox Club has acquired two more courses, has become synonymous with award winning golf. Additionally, he is the CEO of all the Sandri Companies (with holdings in the fuel, gasoline and lubes industry) and still finds the time to give to the community generously as a philanthropist of the highest degree. His dedication to the Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) Association goes back to the late 1970s and his annual BBBS charity golf tournament, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2006, has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars. To mark his generosity, Sandri was awarded the inaugural Leadership in Philanthropy Award by the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America in 2007.

Crumpin-Fox Club’s name is derived from the Bernardston-based Crump Soda Company that was sold in 1853 to Eli Fox; thus becoming the Crump & Fox Soda Company. Course management, led by Head PGA Professional Michael Zaranek, has stayed true to the founding mission and continues to provide an enjoyable and challenging golf experience and promote the values of the game of golf.

Playing just over 7,000 yards from the back tees, Crumpin-Fox is a Par-72 course featuring a plethora of challenges for golfers of all skill levels. Filled with hole after hole of beautiful scenery and wonderfully manicured grounds, the course features two holes in particular that are worth mentioning in greater detail—the 8th and the 14th.

Ranked as the number-one handicapped hole, No. 8 is a Par-5 behemoth, playing 592 yards from the back tees. From an elevated tee box, the golfer will surly be overwhelmed by the expansive fairway flanked the entire distance on the left by a lake, making long and straight off the tee a necessity. Once on the fairway, the golfer has the option of laying up and leaving a mid- to long-iron to the green, or clubbing up and leaving a short iron to the green. Getting to the green in two is nearly impossible, unless your name is John Daly. The third shot plays over the lake to a green that seems to offer a new pin placement every day of the year. Get out of here with par and consider yourself lucky.

The 14th, another Par-5 featuring a green protected by water, ranks as the fifth toughest hole on the course. Playing 527 yards from the back tees, the hole’s modest length should not provoke thoughts of an easy birdie. The hole features a large bunker to the left of the landing area and a brook to the right, requiring a strong tee shot to make reaching the green in two a possibility. Once on the putting surface, the player must contend with a tiered surface and a pin placement that is oftentimes to the left rear of the green, bringing both a pond and a large rear bunker into play.

In addition to the 18-hole main course, Crumpin-Fox Club is home to the new Fox Short Course, designed specifically for young players. Featuring two sets of tees, one for 4 to 7 year olds and the other for 8 to 12 year olds, the course has holes ranging from under 100 yards to just over 300 yards and is the ideal track for introducing children to the game.

When it comes to food and beverage, Crumpin-Fox is second to none, and course management has found a way to combine their exceptional dining options with rounds of golf. Featuring Golf & Dinner, Golf & Banquet, and Golf & BBQ packages, there is definitely something for everyone, regardless if you are playing solo or part of a large group. Additionally, Crumpin-Fox offers a stay and play arrangement with The Fox Inn. The arrangement starts with the aforementioned Golf & Dinner Package and includes a night at the inn for a reasonable price.

Further illustrating the club’s incredible dining reputation are two fantastic eateries—Zeke’s Grill and Bella Notte II. Zeke’s, located in the Crumpin-Fox Clubhouse, was rated one of the Five Best 19th Holes in America by Men’s Fitness in 1997. Boasting a comprehensive menu featuring some of the region’s best pub food, Zeke’s also has an assortment of beers, wine, scotches and even cigars, to choose from.

The family owned and operated Bella Notte II is an elegant Italian restaurant perched above the course, and provides unforgettable views of the Pioneer Valley below. The restaurant is the perfect setting for weddings, corporate events and family celebrations. For more information, call 413.648.9107.

Although a public course, Crumpin-Fox Club offers a few different membership packages, including corporate, individual, family and junior categories. An exceptional instructional program is available to members and guests, featuring teaching professionals ready to work with all levels of golfers, from beginners to PGA professionals, young children to retirees. The course also has a Junior Golf program and the renowned Fox University, a two-day golf school designed to teach men and women the intricacies of the game.

Finally, Crumpin-Fox Club is home to a highly ranked golf shop, featuring a complete inventory of the finest men’s and women’s apparel, the latest equipment and a full spectrum of accessories. Their professionals offer services such as complimentary club fitting, demo programs and trunk shows, and if your item is not in stock they will special order it for you. The Crumpin-Fox Golf Shop, along with 1994 PGA National Merchandiser of the Year Award winner Ron Beck, has been recognized as one of the Top 100 golf shops in America by Golf World magazine.

Crumpin-Fox Club is just one-third of the Sandri family of courses, with Fox Hollow Golf Club in New Port Richey, Florida and Fox Hopyard Golf Club in East Haddam, Connecticut rounding out the group. For more information on any of these courses, visit golfthefox.com. This comprehensive site provides details on everything from stay and play packages to rates to instructional courses. Tee times can also be made via the site and Crumpin-Fox Club allows for tee times to be scheduled up to 30 days in advance online.

Those familiar with Dunegrass are always willing to sing its praises and leading that charge is Colin Wormwood, the club’s first-ever member. Wormwood’s love affair with the course commenced approximately 12 years ago. After teeing off for the firs time, he immediately became awestruck with the pine tree-lined fairways and elevation changes that shape the 6,900-yard Par-72 course. “It’s just a beautiful course, you have to play it,’’ says Wormwood.  He’s not alone in those sentiments. The Boston Globe has gushed, “If you are a traveling golfer, Dunegrass is a must destination.” And, just as impressive, the course has garnered four stars in Zagat’s Golf Guide.

Dunegrass opened in 1998 and Wormwood keeps coming back for more. The 68-year-old still plays the Dan Maples-designed course four to five times a week during the season. The challenge never leaves; nor does his love for the game. “Every game’s a challenge if you’re not hitting down the middle,’’ he explains.

The owner of Dunegrass, Domenic Pugliares, does not just manage the course. He literally eats, drinks and sleeps it, residing in one of the many properties that are interspersed throughout the 300-acre swath. Under his stewardship, the club’s membership has exploded from around 25 to more than 250, which is not surprising given the fact the course is widely known for having some of the best and fastest greens in the state.

Pugliares is quick to comment: “We have no parallel holes on this golf course. Each hole is like your own little oasis.’’

Take the third hole for instance, which runs about 424 yards from the back tees. A 20-yard ravine—an environmentally designated safe zone—cuts in front of the green meaning that golfers who come up short must take a penalty stroke. Adding insult to injury, the green is more than 9000 square feet in area and on an upward slope, leading golfers to three- and even four-putt.

No. 13, a Par-3 and a personal favorite of Wormwood’s, features a downward slope and an excruciatingly tough green. “You’re up on a hill hitting down. From the whites it’s about 170 yards,’’ he says. “It is one of the toughest greens I’ve ever played in my life.”

Strategies diverge on the Par-5 15th. Players must drive the ball over a hazard to a very narrow landing area. More conservative players will hit less club and lay up before the traps. Longer hitters will go for broke and try to fly right over them. “Depends on how you’re feeling,” says Pugliares. “You have the potential to get home in two, but there’s lots of trouble.”

No. 17, a Par-3 180-yard hole, is one of the most majestic holes on the course. The tee box is a peninsula, surrounded by water on three sides. “Your first shot is almost all carry,” says Pugliares. “You miss it either way and you’re not going to make anything less than a six.”

Dunegrass Country Club’s peak weekend rate is  $75. Weekdays, golfers can get a round in for as little as $49. Rates include a cart and are very reasonable considering the quality of this track.

The course’s restaurant¬—Fairways—includes a fairly priced menu featuring exquisite pasta, seafood and steak entrees. Lunch and dinner are served daily and breakfast is served on Sundays. The restaurant has a full bar and six large televisions that often show the best golf or sporting events available. It’s a great place for golfers to end their day at and enjoy an economical and filling dinner in a great atmosphere. A popular special is the dinner for two and a bottle of wine for $39.

Dunegrass, nestled in Old Orchard Beach, is located less than 100 miles from Boston. Call 207- 934-4513 or visit dunegrass.com for more information and tee times.

Playing a little over 6,800 yards from the back tees, the Par-72 course has a rating of 72.8 and a slope of 127.  This very well-maintained course has received a boatload of accolades from major golf publications, including consistently being ranked by Golf Magazine as one of the best golf resorts in America and the best public play in New Hampshire by Golf Digest.

The beauty of the Panorama Course strikes golfers right from the first tee, which is more than 2,600 feet above sea level. On a clear day, golfers can see Quebec’s Hereford Mountain rising in the north almost on the 49th Parallel, the point exactly halfway between the North Pole and the equator. To the west is Mount Monadnock and to the south is Mount Washington. The valley below this picturesque setting features the Mohawk River.

But the beauty multiplies exponentially as golfers make their way around the course. In fact, it’s the 9th, not the 1st, that’s the most photographed hole. A long, uphill Par-4, the hole features a green perched atop a dome abutting a man-made lake, one of three such lakes on the resort’s 8,000-acre property. And it doesn’t’ stop there as the 5th and the homeward 18th are also worth noting. No. 5, a Par-3, is equally challenging as it is beautiful and features a significant carry over a mountain lake. Making this hole even more of a challenge is the green, which seems to feature a Sunday pin placement regardless of the day of the week. No. 18 is also extremely challenging. In addition to its consistently tough pin placement, oftentimes located in such a way that golfers can only see the very top of the pin, the hole features a very steep approach shot that can easily result in a big score on the card if not enough club is used.

But we wouldn’t be Birdie G if we didn’t mention one final hole, what we consider the best hole on just about every course we play—the 19th. It is without hesitation that we say this may in fact be the most picturesque experience you will ever have on a golf course. Providing views all the way into Vermont, Maine and Canada from its deck, The Panorama Grille not only offers heavenly views, but also heavenly food and beverages making it one of the best places on earth to unwind after a long day on the links. Featuring items ranging from juicy burgers and delicious sandwiches to fresh lobster rolls and crisp salads, there is something for everyone on the menu.

The Panorama course includes locker rooms, a driving range and a putting green, and a comprehensive golf learning center is located at the resort’s executive nine-hole Coashaukee course. Additional highlights include lessons for golfers of all skill levels, and the resort has recently entered into a relationship with Golf & Ski Warehouse to provide visitors with access to top of the line equipment for renting or purchase.

Although often considered by many to be out of their price range, The BALSAMS offers one of the Granite State’s most incredible packages for avid golfers. Called the American Plan, for just $249, golfers enjoy unlimited greens fees (play 36 holes and you’ve almost made your money back given the fact greens fees at Panorama are $80/round); breakfast, lunch and dinner at one of the many renowned resort eateries; accommodations; and unlimited use of all resort facilities, including access to their award-winning tennis courts.

For non-golfers and children, the resort offers countless activities, including Camp Wind Whistle, a day-camp for children, as well as hiking, biking, horseback riding, a heated pool, kayaking, tennis, daily and nightly entertainment, guest speakers and more. The resort also boasts a salon and day spa and access to trained child care.

Additionally, The BALSAMS is home to some of the country’s greatest cuisine. Perfect for any special occasion—from birthdays and anniversaries to family reunions and weddings¬—the resort’s acclaimed chefs use only the freshest ingredients, oftentimes from local farmers. They also have a wine cellar continually recognized by Wine Spectator that features more than 4,000 bottles of wine from 310 different labels. The famous dining room is open for breakfast and dinner year-round and a buffet luncheon is served during the summer season and on holidays. Dinner is served table d’ hôte style, meaning the gracious staff serves a complete meal with courses as specified on the menu, which changes daily.

With all this focus on culinary excellence, it should come as no surprise that The BALSAMS is home to a renowned culinary program after they adopted the National Apprenticeship Training Program for Cooks and Pastry Cooks (SM) creating The BALSAMS Culinary Apprenticeship Program. The brainchild of then-Director of Food Service Chef Phil Learned, the program launched in 1978 with a goal of providing “a reliable culinary staff operating with a high degree of professionalism.” Since its launch, many of the graduates have remained at the resort, while others have gone on to successful careers in some of the nation’s most prestigious resorts, hotels and restaurants.

Finally, we wouldn’t be doing our jobs if we left out one of the major facts about The BALSAMS that truly makes it an American institution. Every four years, the resort becomes the focal point of the country when it serves as the place where local residents (about 30 of them) cast the first votes in the presidential election—at midnight of Election Day. Now that is what we call being steeped in history!

For more information on everything the BALSAMS has to offer for you and your family, visit www.thebalsams.com

In the winter months, the fine-dining establishment becomes the optimal place to relax after a long day on the slopes or snowshoeing through the surrounding forest. Come summertime the restaurant serves as an ideal 19th hole as well as an exceptional setting for a variety of functions, including weddings and corporate outings. The Sunset Room can accommodate between 50 and 75 people depending on the time of year and the seasonal Tented Pavilion (summer and fall) can accommodate up to 150 guests.

Visitors trekking to the region in the winter who are looking to get off the resort and explore everything New Hampshire has to offer will not be disappointed. White Mountain National Forest and the Pemigewasset River Valley abut the resort and provide endless trails for hiking, biking and snowmobiling—to name just a few activities. In fact, adventurous snowmobilers can actually ride all the way to the Canadian border. Of course, the terrain is challenging and the distance is long so only the most experienced riders would attempt such a feat at their own risk.

For summer adventurers who may think New Hampshire is just a winter playground, think again. The region provides a plethora of attractions and exciting activities, including zip lines through the forest, boating on Squam Lake (of On Golden Pond movie fame) and gondola rides up nearby Loon Mountain.

With all this region and resort has to offer, it should come as no surprise that many people have decided to make Owl’s Nest Resort & Golf Club their second (and in some cases, first) home. Providing four-season living, the resort’s unique village-style makeup has an abode suitable for every family, regardless of size. From condos and townhomes to free-standing single family residences, the resort has structures with as many as three and four bedrooms.

There are several amenities only available to residents and their guests, including an activities center, lap pool and weight room, and access to the local swimming holes and beaches. The resort’s real estate office is open seven days a week and there is a model home available for tours. Interested buyers should call Tom Mullen at 603-726-3076 ext. 219 to set up a tour or for more information.

So what are you waiting for? With world-class golf in the summer and snow and ice sports in the winter, there is something for everyone in this outdoorsman’s paradise. To begin planning your trip to Owl’s Nest Resort & Golf Club, visit owlsnestgolf.com

Tucked into the Upper Connecticut River Valley, the course is located about two hours north of Boston, 90 minutes south of Burlington, VT and three hours south of Montreal. Steeped in Ivy League history, the course is Dartmouth College’s oldest recreational facility and newspaper accounts admired the course as early as 1899. The college, the smallest of the Ivy League institutions, predates the American Revolution, but despite the course’s historical past, the club is not a museum and local players describe it as a rigorous, challenging Par-71 that has something for everybody.

The course gives players from near and far the opportunity to enjoy a round of golf on the same grounds that a Puritan minister founded the school with the mission of training Native Americans as missionaries in the 18th century. Local golf pros are on hand to teach players of all levels the intricacies of the game and the club hosts several summer tournaments and youth programs.

Thanks to an alumnus, additional land was purchased by the school in the early 1900s, allowing the then 9-hole course to expand around the east side of the Vale of Tempe, now known as “The Gully.” The course grew again in 1922 to 18 holes. Orrin Smith, who worked for course design leg- ends Donald Ross and Willie Park Jr., designed the new layout. The course and the game of golf became so popular that the club was consistently overcrowded, prompting the construction of a new, 9-hole course on the east side of Lyme Road. Those additional holes were designed by Dartmouth alumnus Ralph Barton.

Four of those nine holes are still in use today and are now part of one of the most comprehensive practice areas in the region. The practice area includes a driving range, a short game practice area with greens and bunkers, and a wedge green that is as long as a football field. The area is open to students, range pass holders, and club members.

With only minor modifications made to the original 18 holes over a 70-year period, it became evident in the 1990s that a significant renovation was needed to adapt the course for the “modern” game. In 1995, things started to change, and for the better. Thanks to the goodwill of another alum, Robert Keller, class of 1935, the course was modernized. That year, Keller donated a computerized irrigation system, but his generosity didn’t stop there. In 2000, he donated a significant monetary gift and a major facelift of the course commenced. Ron Prichard, a golf architect known for his restoration of Donald Ross courses, spearheaded the renovations, installing four new holes and new tees and greens. The result? The course now plays longer, safer and better, but still maintains its century-old bucolic charm.

For a better look at playing the course we start on the second hole where those who favor the right side of the fairway are rewarded. This 418-yard Par-4 has an elevated green that is slightly tiered and slopes back-to-front. Go too long or left and you’re in trouble.

At 307 yards, the 3rd hole is short on length for a Par-4, but what it lacks in yardage is made up for in nuance. Watch out for the large swale that dominates the middle of the green, to say nothing of the large false front.

No. 8 plays right into the “grip it and rip it,” player’s wheelhouse. You can play the hole as either a Par-4 or a Par-5. Either way, the fairway is the widest on the course. Strong angles to the green are plentiful and beware of the pond about 80 yards from the green.

The much ballyhooed Par-4 13th is loaded with challenge. From the tee box, beware of a hazard hugging the right side of the fairway. To the left, a large hill looms. Typically, that knoll does not produce friendly bounces. Favor the left side of the green, as a tree towers over a yawning maw of bunkers to the right. Hit the tree and you’re next shot will most likely be from the sand. It should come as no surprise that the local experts advise golfers to favor the left side of the green, which has a spine that runs diagonally.

No. 15 is a long Par-5. You’ll need a solid second shot to clear a right fairway bunker. You should be happy if you two-putt this long and narrow green.

The Par-4 16th is a 412-yard dogleg left. Think accuracy before distance on this hole, as being on the fairway far outweighs yardage from the green. In fact, many big hitters have hit through the fairway. Hug the right-half of the fairway and you’ll have a decent sightline to the green, which, while sizable, is on top of a precarious hillock.

For most, the final hole, a Par-5 that stretches about 471 yards from the back tees, is easily reachable in three. It is key, however, to refrain from trying to hook it around the bend as the pillars of pine are more than happy to swallow up overly aggressive shots.

Hanover Country Club includes a fully-stocked pro shop, which is open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Equipment is available for purchase by several leading golf manufactures, including Ping, Cobra, Titleist, Callaway and TaylorMade. Depending on time of day and season, rates range from $20 to $65. For more information, visit dartmouth.edu/~hccweb/

First off, to know New Hampshire is to drive New Hampshire. Quiet scenic byways are punctuated by quaint, understated covered bridges. There are dozens of the structures in the state. The aged red wood of the spans extends over the winding mountain brooks and offering a glimpse into bygone era. The Mount Orne Covered Bridge, which was built in the 19th century, is on the national register of historic places and stretches over the Connecticut River in Lancaster. Motorists can also check out the River Road Bridge that spans Perry Stream in Pittsburg. In Stewartstown, meanwhile, there’s a demarcation marker near where Rte. 145 and Clarksville Road meet. The significance of the marker? The 45th Parallel. That marks the exact halfway point between the equator and the North Pole.
In some reaches of the region, the fresh mountain air is tinged with wisps of maple-tinted smoke that drift out of sugar shacks in the spring time. Be sure to check out Bisson’s Sugar House, a maple syrup staple in Berlin since 1953. It’s open from mid March to mid April. The maple taffy syrup, the operation’s forte, however, is sold year round.  On Brown Road in Groverton, the Graymist Farm is a working dairy that offers another snapshot of what, in many swaths of the Northeast, is a life gone by. Buy some raw milk drawn from the 60 or so Holsteins on the property. Call ahead for a farm tour.

Those looking for a more rugged take of the land are in luck, as the numerous state parks over a plethora of options for the outdoorsman.  The Northern Forest Canoe Trail runs concurrently with the Native American canoe routes from Old Forge, NY to Ft. Kent, ME. Paddle a day or longer on the 72-mile New Hampshire section. Paddle from North Stratford to Groverton on the Connecticut, from West Milan to Groverton  along the Upper Ammonoosuc, or from Lake Umbagog to Pontook Dam on the Androscoggin River. On June 26, the 4th Annual Paddlefest winds along part of that trail from Stratford to Guild Hall, Vermont. The event includes an optional poker run. This year’s theme is “Vegas on the Connecticut.” Canoe and kayak rentals are available. Entry fee is $10 per person before June 6 and $12 after.
Dixville Notch State Park, on Route 26, is a 126-acre scenic utopia typified by a gushing gorge and two mountain brook waterfalls with trails leading to Table Rock and the nearby mountainside.  The Table Rock is a granite outcrop that hangs more than 2,500 feet over the Dixville Notch gorge. No railings, so this hike is not for the vertigo-prone. In Pittsburg, Mount Magalloway offers sweeping panoramas of Canada, Maine and Vermont from the summit. The views from atop the fire tower are nothing less than breathtaking. There are two trails leading to the top: Bobcat and Coot. Coot is the more challenging of the two. Lake Francis State Park hugs its 2,000-acre namesake, a favorite of hunters and anglers alike. If you’re a canoeing enthusiast, feel free to explore the upper reaches of the Connecticut River. Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, located at Pinkham Notch in Gorham offers mountain biking and kayaking all summer long.

Tuckerman Ravine, meanwhile, makes intense and challenging spring skiing a reality in the Granite State. From late March through May, ambitious thrill seekers can ski the ravine. A three hour hike from Pinkham Notch Visitor Center on Rte 16, the ravine is a must for ski junkies who want a real taste of a true East Coast challenge. And it is a challenge, make no mistake about it. State authorities go out of their way to communicate that winter skiing is “unwise and dangerous,” on the site because of the potential for avalanches and extreme winter weather. If skiing down a sheer ravine face is not your speed or if you’re simply trying to unwind after outracing an avalanche, swing by the European Esthetics & Wellness, a full treatment spa in Lancaster that offers “maintenance of health skin for people of all ages.”

Those who want machines, instead of their legs to do most of the work, should consider the Jericho Mountain State Park a “can’t miss,” destination.  The park offers miles of trail riding for ATV and snow mobile enthusiasts in Berlin, located off Rte. 110. The Androscoggin Wayside Park is open year round, sits on the, you guessed it Androscoggin River in Errol off Rte. 16. The picnicking, fishing, and canoeing opportunities are plentiful. Gorham Moose Tours, located offers a three-hour wildlife adventure along the Androscoggin River and 13 Mile Woods.
If you prefer redlining RPMs and the primal roar of an engine to the quiet solitude of a bubbling mountain stream, fear not. Team O’Neill Rally School in Dalton has you covered. This is rally racing New England style. Dalton, thanks in no small part to Team O’Neill, hosts several rally car races on the backwoods byways and logging roads throughout the year.

The upper reaches of the state, the Great North Woods, still echo of centuries past. Groverton boasts a meeting house built in the waning years of the 18th century. The John Wingate Weeks Historic site in Lancaster offers sweeping vistas of the Presidential Range of the White Mountains, the Green Mountains of Vermont, the Kilkenny range, the Percy Peaks and the upper Connecticut River Valley. Weeks’ children gave the 420-acre Mt. Prospect estate to the state in 1941. It sits on top of Mt. Prospect. Weeks was a conservationist, congressman, U.S. senator, and Secretary of War under Presidents Harding and Coolidge.
Make sure you take advantage of the sales tax, or in New Hampshire’s case, the lackthereof.  The Northern Outlet of New England on Main Street in Colebrook carries Choko, Columbia, Sorel, Codet, Red Wing, and New Balance brands. And be advised: bring a healthy appetite. Don’t let all the rough hewn trails and untouched mountain beauty fool you, the north country offers many fine dining options. Try the New Bedford cod or the sirloin filet at Libby’s Bistro, located inside a 1898 former bank building on Main Street in Gorham. There’s a pub downstairs, if you’re looking for a more casual affair. Murphy’s Steakhouse, located at The Inn At Bear Tree, located at 3329 N. Main St. in Pittsburg, also offers filling eats in a comfortable and casual setting. The Rainbow Grille, located on Beach Road in Pittsburg, offers great eats ranging from angus beef to seafood to elk to buffalo.

Maine’s Lakes and Mountains region has no shortage of fishing spots. This area is a fisherman’s Mecca. There are 112 smaller lakes and ponds in the Rangeley Lake area alone and the countless streams and waterways are touted as having the finest wild brook trout population in America.

Sebago Lake is the largest lake in Southern Maine and a destination for fishing and boating. This body of water gives anglers a shot at landlocked salmon, smelt, lake trout, brook trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass and northern pike. The Saco River slowly meanders through Fryeburg, perfect for a canoe or kayak trip. The Jockey Cap Trail, near the center of town, offers a 360-degree view of more than 30 distant peaks. There’s also the White Mountain National Forest as well as five state parks in the region.

The Bridgton Twin Drive-In is one of five summer drive-in theaters in Maine. It is located on Route 302 and shows first-run movies on two screens from May through September. Off Route 302, Charlie Beiggs restaurant is located inside a former Windham fire station. Independently owned and operated for 20 years, Charlie Beiggs offers a variety of fresh seafood and hand-cut steaks aged to their peak of tenderness. Enjoy lunch or dinner in the dinning room, the Fire House Tavern or outside on the deck. Also in Windham, Seacoast Fun Park has go-karts, mini golf, a climbing wall, bumper boats, a giant sky swing and much more.

South Paris offers the McLaughlin Garden, “Maine’s favorite public garden.” For some of the best beer in the region, head north to Gorham,  home of Sebago Brewing Company. The brewing company’s grain silo holds 50,000 lbs. of American 2-Row Pale malt. The company offers 10 great New England brews.

Harvest Hill Farms, which hosts an old-time farmer’s market, calls Mechanics Falls home. Located on Rte 26, the farm offers maple sugar products and range-fed beef, chicken and cattle. It’s also a great place to take the kids as the farm has a corn maze and “Pumpkin Land” in the fall.

The Oxford Plains Speedway located on Rte. 26 in Oxford offers a full slate of summer racing. The asphalt track is three-eights-of-a-mile wide. The speedway includes seating for 14,000.

Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village in New Gloucester is an active community of Shakers and a working farm that is open to the public. Six of the 18 existing structures at Sabbathday Lake are open for viewing, according to the village’s website. Throughout these buildings there are 27 exhibit rooms, which explore a continuum of more than 200 years of Shaker heritage in the Maine communities.

Poland Spring Preservation Park is home to an original spring house and bottling facility built by the Poland Spring Water Company in the early 1900s. The bottling building is now a museum chronicling the history of the company. The park also has walking trails, the Maine State Building from the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and the 1912 All Soul’s Chapel.

Poland Spring Resort offers several dining opportunities. Rick’s Pub offers a casual and relaxing atmosphere and is the place to purchase cocktails, frozen drinks, beer, and wine at great prices. Cyndi’s Dockside Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. The menu includes Maine lobster, locally grown beef burgers, scallops, steaks, crab cakes, haddock and sandwiches. Mel’s Hilltop Restaurant provides diners with an expansive veranda overlooking the White Mountains and golf course, as well as inside seating for those looking to escape the heat of summer. They serve delicious Maine lobster rolls, hamburgers, hot dogs, and other luncheon favorites.

John Muir Publications named Lewiston-Auburn one of the “Best Small Arts Communities in the Country” for the number and diversity of its offerings.

For those looking for an attraction with a literary bent, fiction writer Nathaniel Hawthorne’s boyhood home is preserved in South Casco. Hawthorne is best known for penning The Scarlet Letter.

On Sept. 18, Bethel hosts the 13th annual “Harvest Fest and Chowdah Cook-Off,” on the town common.

Every fall, Newfield hosts a Civil War reenactment. This year, Company A, Third Maine Regiment Volunteer Infantry, will provide “authentic 19th century military demonstrations,” on Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Located at 270 Main St. in Bridgton, the Big Kahuna Café offers blues, folk and poetry performances. Housed in an 1860s-era Masonic Hall, the café is open seven nights a week. Artists perform Monday through Wednesday. Thursday is open mic night and weekend nights include featured performances.

With all the wonderful eating spots, resorts, lakes and mountains this region has to offer, there is sure to be something for everyone, regardless of the season. From golf courses to go-karts, festivals to farms, there is no lack of fun and excitement to be had in what many consider to be one of the most beautiful regions of the country. So if taking in all this beauty is on your to-do list, visit westernmaine.org today to begin planning your trip.

<p>Central New Hampshire, spanning the Dartmouth/Lake Sunapee Region in the west, and the Lakes Region in the east, features unlimited opportunities for fun and excitement, regardless of the season. Home to some of the world’s greatest skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling resorts, and one (if not several) of the country’s best lakes for recreational activities, the region is one of New England’s biggest vacation destinations with visitors flocking to the region by the hundreds of thousands each year. Located about two hours north of Boston, the Lakes Region alone includes nearly 300 bodies of water, highlighted by the granddaddy of them all—Lake Winnipesaukee.</p>

<p>The largest lake in the Granite State, Lake Winnipesaukee is approximately 21 miles long and covers nearly 70 square miles. It features more than 250 islands, a shoreline of about 285 miles and endless possibilities for fun and excitement. Whether it be fishing, swimming, boating or sailing, the lake serves as the hub of all the summertime action. However, the fun doesn’t end with just Lake Winnipesaukee. In fact, it spills over the shoreline and into the region’s many communities. Here is just a taste of what these communities, large and small, have to offer.</p>

<p>If family fun and excitement is what you’re looking for, we have a plethora of options to share, starting well below ground level and ending at the highest peak in all of New England.</p>

<p>The Polar Caves located on Route 25 in Rumney provide hours of fun for the whole family. The caves open for the season on April 17 and self-guided cave tours run from 10:30 a.m. to  3:30 p.m. everyday depending on weather. Ruggles Mine in Grafton is another subterranean hit with the kids. It is the oldest feldspar mine in the United States and features aquamarine jewelry made from beryl discovered at the mine.</p>

<p>Weirs Beach is home to endless kid-friendly fun, including bumper boats, go karts, bungee jumpers, batting cages, arcades, and of course, miniature golf. Some of the best spots are Daytona Fun Park, Funspot and Logs of Fun Arcade & Mini Golf.</p>

<p>Looking for some family excitement minus the noisy arcades and bumper boats? Central New Hampshire boasts a large assortment of zip lines and other outdoor adventures. White Mountain Exploration at Tenney Mountain in Plymouth, The Ultimate Adventure Gorge Canopy Tour Challenge Course, Alpine Adventures Outdoor Recreation, Monkey Trunks High Ropes and Zipline Adventure Park, and Bretton Woods Canopy Tour are all excellent options. Most of these locations offer year-round adventures, including rock climbing, canopy tours, kayaking, hiking and zip lining. Several facilities require reservations so please plan accordingly.</p>

<p>Those looking to provide their children with a little history may enjoy Canterbury Shaker Village, a national historic landmark known for its beautiful gardens, fields, ponds and forests, as well as its several restored Shaker buildings.</p>

<p>Finally, as promised, we have two locations that literally soar above the rest. Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough is a turn-of-the-century 16-room arts and crafts mansion overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee. The property features 45 miles of trails that meander around beautiful gardens and waterfalls. Finally, there is the famous Mt. Washington Cog Railway in Bretton Woods. The world’s first mountain climbing railway provides an unforgettable journey to the summit of New England’s highest peak. The railway is open year-round so visit in the winter to enjoy all the splendors of the season.</p>

<p>Speaking of the splendors of winter, here are just a few of Central New Hampshire’s greatest skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, sledding and snowshoeing resorts to consider. Loon Mountain in Lincoln, Cannon Mountain in Franconia, Wildcat Mountain Ski Area in Jackson, and Gunstock Mountain in Gilford, are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the region’s award-winning ski areas. What’s more, several of these locations are also open year-round, providing endless biking and hiking trails, and even gondola rides.</p>

<p>Those looking for some motorized fun in the winter months should look to Alpine Adventures Outdoor Recreation and Sled Ventures in Lincoln. Both offer guided snowmobile tours around the White Mountains and have full- and half-day tours available.</p>

<p>Enough of the winter already! After all, this is a golf magazine and we are much more fond of the warmer months. So what is there to do in Central New Hampshire during golf season you ask? Plenty!</p>

<p>Is fishing your thing? Try Curt Golder’s Angling Adventures in Wolfeboro or Meredith Bay Guide Service in Meredith, both offering sport fishing adventures for adults and children.</p>

<p>Rather keep the reels and rods at home and sit back for a less adventurous trip on the water? Try a cruise or boat tour. The Winnipesaukee Belle in Wolfeboro, Experience Squam Private Boat Excursions in Holderness, Lake Sunapee Cruises in Sunapee and Latitude 43 Charters in Center Harbor, are just a few of the ones we recommend. Many offer private and semiprivate boat excursions in the region’s many lakes, including Winnipesaukee of course. Others allow you to charter your own boat and go at your own speed. One option worth mentioning in greater detail is the historic M/S Mount Washington, which leaves twice daily from Weirs Beach late May through late October. During the summer the ship turns into a full-functioning restaurant and nightclub, making it the ideal adventure for a dinner party or even a corporate function.</p>

<p>Sure the M/S Mount Washington sounds like an unforgettable dining experience, but that’s not to say the region only boasts fantastic floating options when it comes to food and entertainment. And, as usual, Birdie G has several selections for you to consider.</p>

<p>Before we dive into a laundry list of great dining and entertainment options, we first want to make mention of what we consider the best place to break bread with friends and family in the entire Granite State. Located on NH Route 11 in Alton, the William Tell Inn is a regional Mecca for delicious food and exceptional service. Specializing in Continental European Cuisine, the restaurant has several renowned dishes, including Roast Rack of Lamb, Wiener Schnitzel and Sauerbraten. It also boasts a delicious, yet fairly priced Sunday Brunch. The Bossert Family has owned the William Tell Inn since 1980 and, in true family style, team up to run all aspects of the establishment—Chef Peter Bossert and his daughter, Renee, run the kitchen, and Susan Bossert manages the dining room. For more information on this delectable jewel, visit thewilliamtellinn.com</p>

<p>But as much as we love and praise the William Tell Inn, that isn’t to say there aren’t other great options in the region. Cactus Jack’s and Fratello’s in Laconia, as well as Dilemmas with Dinner in Wolfeboro, offer fantastic dining experiences coupled with musical and/or comedic entertainment. Other options for great eats are The Lyons’ Den in Gilford, offering fantastic meat and fish plates, as well as a great Sunday brunch; the Woodstock Inn, Station & Brewery in North Woodstock, which serves award-winning ales and offers daily brewery tours; the Woodshed Restaurant in Moultonboro, known for its gracious service and award-winning cuisine set in an authentic 19th-century farmhouse and barn; Galley Restaurant in Laconia; and Hector’s Fine Food & Spirits in West Laconia. JT’s Bar-B-Q & Seafood and Weirs Beach Lobster Pound, both in Weirs Beach, offer fantastic options from the sea.</p>

<p>With all these options for family fun, outdoor adventures and delicious eateries, Central New Hampshire certainly provides a diverse experience for locals and vacationers alike. So whether you’re booking travel plans for the winter, spring, summer or fall, or call Central New Hampshire your home year-round, get out there an enjoy all that this wondrous region has to offer. Oh, and don’t forget your golf clubs!</p>

Hewn from rocky New England terrain in the Southern Maine hills, The Ledges Golf Club offers players a robust and rugged challenge. Some refer to The Ledges as the premier private club experience for the public player—no wonder Golf Digest awarded it 4.5 stars.

Golfers visiting the course should be forewarned: your senses will be assailed by the lush pine tree-filled vistas and the crisp, velvety greens. But try not to let the rustic solitude distract you because the Par-72 course is challenging yet fair.

Surrounded by land dedicated to protecting the Bell Marsh Reservoir, which is the water supply for several surrounding communities, the Ledges is only an hour north of Boston, but feels like it is miles away from civilization.

The undulating greens are very fast—faster than what golfers will find at most southern Maine courses—so it’s no wonder that the course has gained a reputation as having the best greens in New England and thus offers a different kind of challenge then most golfers are accustomed to.

The course, which opened in 1999 and runs 6,981 yards from the back tees, consistently offers fresh, nuanced challenges that require golfers to use every club in their bag. The challenges come early and often, starting with the 1st hole. A difficult starter, No. 1 runs 442 yards from the back tees. Be weary of the hazard about 100 yards down the fairway. The Par-4 includes a dogleg left, and a small pond on the approach shot. On the right side of the fairway, about 200 yards down, sits a bunker. Be careful with your club selection when you get close to the hole. The inside scoop says it’s going to take three shots to get to the green for most high handicappers.

Other challenges include No. 6, where the fairway dwindles as golfers approach the green, making careful club selection a must. No. 9 is a Par-4 dogleg right, measuring 380 yards from the back tees and just 265 yards from the front tees. Miss the putting surface on the upward sloping 10th and you’re due for a walk in the woods or a bunker shot.

The last three holes can also decimate the scorecard of the unvigilant. The upward sloping Par-4, 408-yard 16th doglegs hard to the left and golfers will want to aim their tee shots to the right side of the fairway because everything kicks left.

Don’t let the stunning panoramas of the three bridges that lead to New Hampshire on No. 17 fool you. At 465 yards from the back tees, this hole is the course’s longest Par-4 and consistently tests the skill of players.

To top off the round, players face what many in the region consider the toughest finishing hole in New England. Water hazards riddle 18, a hard dogleg right. It all starts with a demanding tee shot and is a total risk/reward situation. The question is, should you hit it over the hazard in two or lay up. If you feel you can make it, go for it, but if you lay up short of the hazard, your third shot will be 200 yards uphill. One errant shot and your scorecard could be ruined—on the final hole.

The Ledges Golf Club was designed by Brad Booth, who has been hailed by many as the state’s golf “architect laureate.” This sentiment is supported by the many accolades the course has received, including being named the best new public golf course in New England by Golf Magazine (1999) and being awarded 4.5 stars by Golf Digest.

The location of the Ledges, which is tucked into the coastal community of York, a summer hotspot, plays no small part in the allure of the course. It offers several package deals with local spas, including Wentworth by the Sea, a hotel and spa located in nearby Portsmouth, N.H., and The Cliff House, a 138-year-old seaside resort in Ogunquit. For more information, or for a tee time, visit www.ledgesgolf.com.