Whimsical Wanderings: Idyllic Summer Afternoons in New Hampshire

Lo, the warmth of summer beckons us forth from our abodes! What better sanctuary for a languid afternoon than the bucolic idylls of New Hampshire? With its scenic splendor and quaint charm, this serene corner of the world offers havens both hidden and grand. Let us embark upon a leisurely journey through some of its most enchanting retreats, where time meanders like an unhurried brook.

1. **Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves (1712 Lost River Road, North Woodstock, NH 03262)**

Nestled snugly within Kinsman Notch lies Lost River Gorge—a symphony of geology and foliage that defies mundane description. As you traverse wooden boardwalks winding through dramatic gorges peppered with boulder caves, you'll feel as though you've stepped into one of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s ethereal tales. The place is replete with mystery; each cavern invites introspection or perhaps even whimsy—imagine encountering Bilbo Baggins on his subterranean adventure.

2. **Charmingfare Farm (774 High Street, Candia, NH 03034)**

For those who seek a pastoral reverie reminiscent of Thomas Hardy's Wessex novels but without the impending doom or tragic love stories—hello there Tess Durbeyfield—you’ll find your desires met at Charmingfare Farm. Spend hours ambling among gentle farm animals as if characters from A.A. Milne's "Winnie-the-Pooh" have come to life around you. Here you can revel in simplicity while nibbling on freshly plucked apples and silently contemplating nature’s gentle rhythms.

3. **MacDowell Colony Grounds (100 High Street Peterborough NH 03458)**

Peterborough itself may remind one sharply of George Eliot's Middlemarch when it comes alive under warm sunlight—but venture into MacDowell Colony Grounds for something more profound yet equally placid: an artists' retreat infused with creative ether where dreams merge seamlessly into reality just beyond twining vines draped over trellised pathways lined by stately trees whispering inspirations known only unto them.

Stroll these grounds mindfully—the very air seems imbued by Edward MacDowell’s compositions—and allow yourself moments absorbed purely in reflection while perched near any given sculpture scattered across manicured lawns - offering broad vistas framed perfectly against azure skies dotted sparingly making cloud patterns akin abstract brush strokes suspended midair above enchanted hills stretching endlessly before gaze unfocused deliberately so memory etches vividly impressions lasting lifetimes remembered fondly evermore thereafter long past sundown slips horizon casting golden shadows lengthening gradually envelop entire landscape blissful repose unbroken notwithstanding intrusions modernity clamoring elsewhere far removed entirely altogether happily enjoyed this rarefied sanctum creative souls kindred spirits alike united pursuit shared tranquility cherished deeply held dear always forever amen amen hallelujah indeed!

Websites:

- [Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves](https://www.lostrivergorge.com)

- [Charmingfare Farm](https://www.visitthefarm.com)

- [MacDowell Colony Grounds](http://www.macdowellcolony.org)

Twitter Handles:

- @LostRiverGorge

- @VisittheFarm

- @MacDowellColony