Self-Drive Family Summer in New England: Mountain Tops to Lobster Pots

Day 1 & 2

Boston, MA

Arrive to Boston and enjoy exploring the great eats in the new Seaport District. This neighbourhood that evolved from a muddy spot in Boston Harbor to one of the city’s hottest spots, houses an impressive array of restaurants with more than four restaurant seats for every home in the area.

Start your second day in Beantown by hopping aboard a DUCK – the world famous Boston Duck Tour is hosted on a World War II-style amphibious landing vehicle and cruises to many of the city’s historic and most popular sights. Or, if whales are your thing, join a whale watching cruise. Departing from Boston Harbor, you’ll have the chance to see a number of different large whale species, like humpbacks, finbacks, pilot whales and the critically endangered right whale.

Suggested hotel: Sheraton Boston

Day 3, 4 & 5

White Mountains, NH (164 miles)

Take a scenic drive into New Hampshire’s White Mountains, the state’s crown jewel, home to the highest peak in the Northeast, overlooking a wilderness region filled with pristine lakes and dense forests. Your destination is the American Mountain Club’s rustic Highland Center lodge, which offers a full schedule of activities with something for everyone in the family. Enjoy guided scenic hikes to places like the spectacular Presidential peaks while learning about the area’s geology, nature and outdoor skills; try your hand at rock climbing on the nearby Frankenstein Cliffs, or splash around in the pools beneath Ripley or Arethusa Falls. After a day of play, return to the lodge for a hearty home-cooked meal served family-style (all meals are included), and then relax by enjoying conversation around the cosy fire before retiring to your private room for night.

Suggested hotel: AMC Highland Lodge

Day 6, 7 & 8

Phippsburg, ME (120 miles)

Travel out of the White Mountains to Coastal Maine, renowned for hosting some of America’s prettiest coastal towns, amazing seascapes, sandy beaches, picturesque lighthouses, and, of course, lobster. Look forward to spending three nights at the Sebasco Harbor Resort in Phippsburg, nestled on 450 acres along the Midcoast, boasting awe-inspiring views and a host of activities geared for the entire family. The kids can join the property’s summer camp, which includes hikes, golf and tennis clinics with a pro, live Maine wildlife demonstrations and time to splash in the pool, while the adults can explore the calm waters of Casco Bay via kayak, play a round of waterside golf, join a historic tour of town, or take the resort’s boat out for a relaxing cruise. Other options including indulging in pampering at the onsite spa, mountain bike rides, or simply lounging in the sun around the saltwater pool that sits right at the harbour’s edge. When it’s time to soothe those hunger pangs, waterfront dining on creative, healthy and delicious dishes focused on fresh, local ingredients, awaits. Afterward, relax with a good book, chat by the warmth of the fire, or, head to the Game Room where you can challenge your family to put together a puzzle or a game of cards.

Suggested hotel:  Sebasco Harbor Resort

Day 9

Boston, MA (147)

Today it’s time to return to Boston, but your self-drive tour isn’t over just yet. Make time to stop in Portsmouth, New Hampshire one of America’s oldest cities, founded in 1623. This picturesque seaside down is ideal for picking up last-minute souvenirs and gifts with excellent tax-free shopping, as well as being an ideal spot for lunch with multiple waterfront eateries like the Old Ferry Landing and the River House restaurant. If you have time and want to stretch your legs a bit more, take a self-guided walk along the Portsmouth Harbor Trail, which features 70 historic and scenic sites, that provide a taste of the local culture and charm. fly home this evening, or perhaps extend your holiday with a few more days in Boston