My Traditional White Mountain Itinerary
The White Mountains, a New England staple and my favorite local getaway. More specifically, the Wentworth Inn, a charming, 61-room inn close to cross-country skiing, a stunning golf course, local shopping, and an abundance of year-round, outdoor activities. The atmosphere provides a temporary escape from life’s everyday stresses and allows guests the freedom to reconnect, rediscover, and recharge.
When I feel overwhelmed, or uninspired, I typically seek refuge in a foreign territory. Usually somewhere that distractions don’t exist, my dogs aren’t barking, the towels are white and fluffy, nature is abundant, and they have cozy journaling spots. When a longer trip isn’t necessary, I opt for the White Mountains. I’m basically a regular at this inn now and I have a very specific routine.
Here are my secrets to the perfect White Mountain getaway:
- On my way up the mountains, I stop to admire all the beautiful views. There are countless viewing locations, to pull into as you make your way up. Stop, snap some photos, meditate on a rock , touch the trees, and say a prayer. The mountains will remind you how small you are, the problems that your running from may not be very important, the world is beautiful, and mother nature is so fucking powerful.
- Zebs Country Store!! This store is the epitome of the White Mountains. It’s rustic and bustling with locals and tourists alike. Prior to checking into The Wentworth Inn, I pay a visit to this unique country store. The items on my shopping list always include a couple different cheeses, honey comb, gluten free crackers, and bath bombs or some other local spa product (the shopping list will make more sense once you read the remainder of the secrets).
- Pick up a bottle of local red wine. There are several great wineries throughout New Hampshire, and although I don’t prefer wine from New Hampshire, there are still a few great bottles out there and I love to really immerse myself in all the local goods.
- Next I check into The Wentworth Inn. (pro tips: first, always book a room with a private outdoor hot tub. Second, buy the meal plan.) After spending the day galavanting through the mountains, I check into the inn just before my dinner reservations. I unpack, freshen up, then head down to the onsight farm to table restaurant. It’s a delectable four course meal curated with seasonal ingredients from local farms. It’s the perfect dinner to decompress, find some gratitude, and nourish your body. After dinner I return to my room and get the fire going. I shower (maybe utilizing some of the local spa products I just bought at Zebs Country Store), do my skin care routine, and get into my favorite pjs. I pour myself a glass of the local red wine and grab my journal. I can feel the warmth of the blazing fire in my room, and the satin pjs touching my skin, and my wind burned cheeks from befriending the elements. The ambience of the room is impeccable. I sit in front of the fire, sip my wine, and journal until I get sleepy. This is always the perfect cure for the uninspired.
- I wake up in the morning refreshed and excited for a day of leisure. I take a morning stroll for a little fasted cardio and breathe in the crisp mountain air. I reconnect with myself and nature and set my intentions for the day. Next, I head to the onsite breakfast buffet. I sit, I indulge, and I savor my morning coffee. After breakfast my afternoon is usually pretty open, sometimes I opt to read in the lobby by the fire, depending on the season maybe i’ll ski, ice skate, or take a hike. But one of my favorites will always be taking advantage of the private outdoor hot tub right outside of my room. (here’s where the cheese, crackers and honey comb come in) I prepare myself a little makeshift charcuterie board and head outside to soak, snack, and admire the mountain views for hours on end (this is why securing a room with the private hot tub is critical).
The White Mountains are definitely a bucket list item, and the Wentworth Inn adds to the holistic experience. I always leave feeling healthy, happy, and rejuvenated. Make your reservations soon (and remember my pro tips)!
Happy Healing!