Home to a network of waterways and a vast coastline, New England is the perfect place to relax by the water and go with the flow.
New Hampshire
Just a two-hour drive from Boston, south of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, the Lakes Region boasts 273 bodies of water.
Popular lakes include Squam Lake, Newfound Lake, Ossipee Lake and the largest lake in the state, Lake Winnipesaukee, all of which are perfect for fishing, paddleboarding or boating – why not discover the history of the region on a sunset boat cruise?
Stay a while and bed down in charming waterside lodges or iconic boutique hotels, from which visitors can visit waterfalls at Castle in the Clouds, and then ride the trolley up the Estate for a stunning viewpoint. Overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee, visitors shouldn’t miss the opportunity to delight in the old-time traditions on Winnipesaukee Pier at Weirs Beach or take a scenic train ride onboard the Winnipesaukee Railroad. Expect spectacular scenery and unrivalled recreational opportunities in the state parks that surround the region.
Maine
Join the slow travel trend and watch the world go by on the Downeaster by Amtrak.
This intercity train travels 146 miles along the coast, stopping at 12 stations, with five daily round-trips from Brunswick, Maine, to Boston, Massachusetts.
Hop on and off to explore the rugged coastline of Maine, eating lobster rolls and clam chowder as you go. At beaches like Old Orchard Beach, visitors can take a dip in the Atlantic and enjoy a day of classic American fun on the pier.
Foodies will love the farmers’ markets and bakeries of Brunswick. Grab a picnic and head to the towering pine forests and trails that hug the shores of the Androscoggin River. In Portland, save time for the Portland Observatory or visit the Portland Museum of Art. Alternatively, catch a ferry to the Casco Bay Islands to pedal, paddle and savour the salty sea air.
Connecticut
Discover secret beaches and charming coastal towns in Connecticut. Named one of the best beaches in the U.S., Ocean Beach in New London is a beach and boardwalk where visitors can enjoy a waterpark, fairground rides, arcade, food vendors and picnic areas.
Those wanting to learn more about marine ecology should head to New Haven’s Lighthouse Point Park on Long Island Sound.
For visitors who prefer to explore the quaint towns of Connecticut, Simsbury is a historic town located in Farmington Valley with miles of cycle paths and walking trails.
Pedal to Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge, a beautiful 19th-century bridge with views of the river. And don’t miss the quaint seaside village of Rowayton or South Norwalk, a foodie-haven packed with restaurants and breweries – be sure to sample the Connecticut-style lobster roll while there.
