1. Overview of Bretton Woods
2. Best Things to Do
3. Best Places to Eat
4. Best Places to Stay
5. Best Time to Visit
Bretton Woods once served as a haven for presidents, celebrities, and poets seeking tranquility. Nestled within the great expanse of the surrounding national forest, the luxurious Mount Washington Hotel, constructed in 1902, enchanted its guests with over 2,000 doors, 12,000 windows, and an impressive 11 miles of plumbing. This iconic hotel remains a treasured destination even today.
Currently referred to as the Omni Mount Washington Resort, it stands as one of the last grand hotels in New Hampshire. Surrounded by breathtaking views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range, it continues to attract those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Travelers now find that the resort offers much more than mere accommodations. It’s a hub for New Hampshire’s best outdoor activities, featuring exceptional skiing opportunities, two pristine golf courses, abundant hiking trails, and a historic cog railway leading to the summit of Mount Washington.
Best Things to Do in Bretton Woods
Winter transforms Bretton Woods into a skiing haven. The Bretton Woods Ski Resort, New Hampshire’s largest ski destination, offers a staggering 464 acres of terrain along with nearly 100 trails and glades. For Nordic skiing enthusiasts, the Bretton Woods Nordic Center features one of the East’s largest cross-country ski networks, where skiers can enjoy picturesque views traversing beaver ponds and mountain streams.
In the summer, the Omni Mount Washington Resort transforms into a golfer’s paradise, boasting two championship golf courses, one designed by Donald Ross. Both courses provide stunning vistas of the Presidential Range.
Throughout the year, guests can embark on a canopy tour at Bretton Woods Ski Resort. This thrilling experience allows participants to navigate a series of treetop zip lines above the ancient hemlocks. Additionally, the Bretton Woods Skyway Gondola provides a swift ascent to the esteemed Rosebrook Lodge, ensuring stunning panoramic views during the five-minute journey.
A trip to New Hampshire would be incomplete without conquering Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern U.S. Visitors can opt for the Mount Washington Cog Railway, the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway, or hike the Jewell or Ammonoosuc Ravine trails. Hikers can create a 9.3-mile loop combining both paths or select either trail for a round-trip adventure.
Best Places to Eat in Bretton Woods
The majority of dining options in Bretton Woods can be found either at the ski area or the Omni Mount Washington Resort. At the ski area, the Switchback Grille in the Rosebrook Lodge not only features breathtaking views but also serves delicious Bavarian pretzels.
Inside the Omni Mount Washington Resort, guests can indulge in six distinct restaurants and bars, including the elegant main dining room and the Rosebrook Bar, which overlooks the Presidential Range and offers an impressive cocktail selection.
For those wishing to explore beyond the resorts, Fabyan’s Station provides a unique dining experience in a historic train station. Patrons can savor the delicious Fabyan’s Station Burger topped with pork belly and the indulgent Station Pork Sundae, a hearty dish featuring cornbread, baked beans, pulled pork, coleslaw, and pickles.
Best Places to Stay in Bretton Woods
The Omni Mount Washington Resort stands out as the premier lodging choice, providing convenient access to both golf and skiing, accompanied by a 25,000-square-foot spa and heated indoor and outdoor pools.
For those preferring a more intimate experience, the Omni Bretton Arms Inn offers a cozy atmosphere in a beautifully restored historic house, featuring just 34 rooms.
Best Time to Visit Bretton Woods
Bretton Woods promises delightful experiences year-round. While summer showcases ideal hiking weather, winter brings some of the East Coast’s finest downhill and Nordic skiing opportunities. As fall approaches, the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of yellow, orange, and red, attracting many travelers eager to witness the stunning autumn foliage during the first half of October.
