New Hampshire

Post date: Aug 22, 2015 11:24:36 PM

We didn't have any expectations for New Hampshire. And as usual, we were not disappointed. NH is a small State, but feisty,,,the motto is "Live Free or Die", the seat belt law is required only for those under the age of 18, motorcycle helmets are not required for adults, and it's appropriately known as "The Granite State."

Our first stop on our way to Salem, was at the Annheuser-Busch Farm in Merrimack.  It was photo-day with one of the Clydesdales. Wonderful being able to stand next to one of those magnificent horses.

We toured Robert Frost's farmhouse and grounds in Derry. He wasn't a very good farmer and only lived there for a few years, but the area was certainly an inspiration for his prose. 

We visited Zorvino Vineyard and tasting room. Renee enjoyed the wines while I wandered the beautifully landscaped grounds.

We stayed in a small cabin in Thornton. There are no Hotels to speak of in the area. Summer vacations seem to be spent in Cabins, Inns, Camp Grounds and one-storied Motels. From our Cabin we could see the White Mountain Range. The top of the peaks look white from Granite rocks, which, from a distance, make it look like snow caps. 

We spent a day in the village of Holderness, cruising Squam Lake. The Lake is huge, with 30 islands. Over 400 homes surround the Lake, but only about 50 are visible from the water. Squam Lake was where "On Golden Pond" was filmed, and yes we did see and hear the Loons.

We visited Franconia Gap, State Park.  Walked along shaded paths, following a river and walked along slabs of granite walls that have been sheared in half by the rushing water, forming the Flume. Stairs have been built along the walls, to make an "easier" walk up to the top!

Of course we found yet another scenic Train in the town of Lincoln. A Beautiful ride following a river and wooded landscape. Great views as we sat back and enjoyed lunch.

New Hampshire is one of the "Green States" as I like to call them. Like Maine, and Vermont, New Hampshire has wide open spaces of green grasses, beautiful bright colored wild flowers and acres and acres of trees. Love it!