When you live in Central Florida, the summer months can feel endless—heat waves rolling off the pavement, humidity hanging heavy in the air. So when my wife and I had the chance to escape to the White Mountains of New Hampshire, we didn’t think twice. The lure wasn’t just golf, but the romance of small-town charm, cool mountain breezes, and the simple joy of rediscovering each other in a place that feels timeless.
The Journey North
We started our journey by flying into Portland, Maine—a charming coastal town with its own allure—but after navigating the mountain roads, I’ll say this: if you’re planning the same trip, opt for Boston round-trip. The drive is smoother, the logistics simpler, and Boston is the way to go unless fresh lobster is your top priority.
A Stay Steeped in History
Our media group was hosted at the Maplewood Inn, an iconic property in Bethlehem operated by Bretton Woods Vacations. Perfect for wedding parties, family reunions, or large groups seeking a mix of golf and getaway, the inn felt like a step back in time. While the golf at the Maplewood won’t rival major championship venues, that almost added to the charm—this trip wasn’t about birdies and eagles; it was about slowing down and savoring the Northeast in summer.
Sweetest Town in New England
Bethlehem itself is a delightful surprise. Nestled in the White Mountains, the town brims with quirky shops, vibrant arts, and a culinary scene that punches above its weight. The standout? A few miles away, the world’s largest candy counter at Chutters is a local landmark that will bring out your inner child as soon as you walk through the door. Rows upon rows of jars filled with every sweet imaginable—it’s where you can’t help but hold hands, laugh, and maybe sneak a few samples along the way.
Dinner with a View
One evening, we ventured to the Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa, where dinner felt like a scene out of a storybook. Perched against a backdrop of rolling ski country, the golden light cast across the mountains as we dined. The next morning, we played the resort’s nine-hole course—a charming track that pairs perfectly with panoramic vistas and crisp mountain air. While short, it embodied what makes golf in New England special: the landscape is part of the experience.
We left knowing we’d return—not just to play again, but to stay at the Mountain View Grand Resort. Its spa’s allure, sweeping views, and timeless elegance make it the perfect setting for a romantic escape.
Why Bethlehem, Why Now
What struck us most was how restorative it felt. Escaping Florida’s relentless summer for a weekend of sweater-weather evenings, mountain breezes, and days spent wandering through galleries and boutiques was nothing short of dreamy. Bethlehem is the kind of destination where romance comes naturally—you don’t need itineraries or checklists, just time together and a willingness to explore.
Final Score
Our lovers’ golf trip wasn’t defined by rolling fairways or perfect greens. It was determined by shared laughter, simple pleasures, and discovering a region we can’t wait to revisit. Bethlehem, New Hampshire, with its artsy heart, sweet soul, and mountain spirit, is more than just a summer getaway—it’s a reminder that sometimes, the best trips are the ones where golf takes a back seat to love.
✨ Travel Tip: Book your accommodations through Bretton Woods Vacations, the hosts behind the Maplewood Inn. And when planning flights, Boston makes the journey far easier—unless you’re craving a Maine lobster roll.