The Historic Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa: A Wellness Sanctuary in New Hampshire
Perched majestically amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the White Mountains, Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa captures the essence of relaxation and rejuvenation. Since its inception in 1866, guests have been unwinding on the spacious veranda, soaking in the mesmerizing vistas while seated in comfortable Adirondack chairs. This idyllic setting is further enhanced by the resort’s commitment to wellness, evident through its newly introduced series of wellness retreats.
“Whether you’re enjoying a guided meditation with stunning mountain views or simply inhaling the crisp air, the landscape significantly contributes to the healing process,” shares Olivia Ashby, director of the resort’s Tower Spa. With a sprawling 1,700-acre property featuring an array of recreational amenities, including a golf course, a full-service spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and tennis courts, there is no shortage of activities to engage in.
The resort comprises 141 rooms and offers a variety of wellness-focused packages. Families, couples, and expectant parents can choose from tailored adventures, such as the Peak Pursuits Adventure Retreat for Men, the Blissful Bonding Retreat for couples, and the Bundle of Joy Babymoon Retreat for soon-to-be parents.
The indulgent offerings at Tower Spa include an extensive menu of massages and treatments across 12 serene treatment rooms. Some sessions permit guests to unwind in the Tower Room, which boasts panoramic views of the mountains, making each treatment a truly elevated experience.
For those in search of adventure, the Mountain View Grand Resort presents hiking and biking across its expansive trail network, in addition to professional guidance on its nine-hole golf course, expertly designed by golf architect Ralph Barton. A unique highlight is the Llama Tee Time Trek experience, allowing golfers to have llamas accompany them as caddies.
The Mountain View features a number of activities for families to enjoy together, including an oversize chessboard. Photo Credit: Bart Beeson
Engaging Family Activities
The Peaks & Play Family Retreat at Mountain View Grand focuses on creating memorable experiences for families. A standout feature is the on-site working farm, where children, like younger guests, can interact with friendly goats, sheep, llamas, and donkeys. With delightful activities, such as farm animal story time and creative craft sessions, children can immerse themselves in a productive and enjoyable curriculum.
Guests can visit the resort’s working farm, featuring a variety of friendly animals. Photo Credit: Bart Beeson
A picnic beyond the resort grounds is a delightful option, complete with gourmet selections such as charcuterie, sandwiches, and decadent chocolate-covered strawberries. Nearby, the Ammonoosuc River offers a refreshing escape on hot summer days.
The resort provides ample opportunities for leisure with outdoor pool access and an entertaining game room filled with activities like ping pong, foosball, and air hockey. A cozy movie theater further enhances family bonding while enjoying a selected film together.
Dining options abound, with an extensive breakfast buffet served daily at the Harvest Tavern followed by dinner featuring locally sourced dishes. The exclusive 1865 Restaurant offers a reservation-only fine dining experience suitable for guests aged 15 and older, set in an authentic wine cellar.
The Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa has a nine-hole golf course on site. Photo Credit: Carley Rudd Photography/Mountain View Grand
A Rich Historical Legacy
More than just a resort, Mountain View Grand is part of New Hampshire’s heritage. This established site is recognized on the National Registry of Historic Places and is among the state’s remaining “grand hotels,” which were once popular destinations for seasonal guests arriving by train in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Guests can admire a portrait of Dwight Eisenhower in the Eisenhower Library and discover memorabilia in the Dodge Parlor, recounting the hotel’s storied past.
After years of neglect, the resort underwent a $20 million renovation in 1988, restoring it to its former glory. It has continuously evolved, recently completing a multimillion-dollar update in 2024 that introduced enhanced wellness offerings and updated dining spaces, ensuring visitors can enjoy the best of both heritage and modern luxury.
By embracing its stunning natural environment, Mountain View Grand continues to create memorable experiences through its wellness retreats. Director Olivia Ashby remarks, “Our retreats are designed to help guests reconnect with themselves, and the setting does much of the work for us.”
For those wishing to experience this historic and rejuvenative retreat, rooms at the resort start at $229.
