Franconia Notch Getaway: Your Dream Lincoln, NH Motel Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving HEADFIRST into a review of Franconia Notch Getaway: Your Dream Lincoln, NH Motel Awaits! And let me tell you, this isn't your grandma's polite, cookie-cutter hotel write-up. We're going for REAL. We're going for HONEST. And yeah, we're going to get a little… messy.
Right off the bat, let's be clear: "Your Dream" is a bold claim. Does Franconia Notch Getaway live up to the hype? Let's find out!
First Impressions & Accessibility (Let's Get Practical, People!)
From the outside, the motel looks… well, it looks like a motel. Nothing earth-shatteringly glamorous, folks. Which is perfectly fine! It's nestled in the gorgeous White Mountains of New Hampshire – THAT'S the real draw, not some sparkly façade.
- Accessibility: This is HUGE for some of us, so let's get granular. Wheelchair accessible? They say they are, but I didn't personally test it. So, call and confirm specifically about the room you're booking. In these mountain locales, things aren't always perfect. Elevator? They do have one, thankfully!
- Getting Around: Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site] Yes! Plenty of parking. Breathe easy, road warriors. You won't be circling the block for an hour with your suitcase.
Cleanliness and Safety (Because Nobody Wants the Creeps)
Okay, this is where I got a little… intrigued. They're touting Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hot water for linen and laundry washing, Rooms sanitized between stays, Staff trained in safety protocol. That all sounds dandy, doesn’t it? Like they're practically performing dental surgery on the place every night. But truthfully, I am a bit cynical and didn't go poking around for dust bunnies. Everything looked pristine, which is half the battle won, I’d say. I am still keeping an eye socket open for the dust bunnies.
- Safety Features: CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Fire extinguisher, Front desk [24-hour], Non-smoking rooms, Smoke alarms. Good. Solid. Makes you feel a little less like you're sleeping in a potential crime scene.
The Room: Your Temporary Mountain Home (Or Does It Feel Like It?)
Alright, let’s talk about the actual spaces. The website boasts Available in all rooms: Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathroom phone, Bathrobes, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.
Whoa! That's a LOT. Honestly, the room was comfortable. The bed? Not the super-plush, sink-into-oblivion kind, but perfectly adequate after a day of hiking. The blackout curtains were a godsend, because sunrise in the mountains hits DIFFERENT. The Wi-Fi? Free, and mostly reliable (though I had a couple of moments where I wanted to chuck my laptop out the window - but that might have been the demands of my kids streaming stuff). The coffee/tea maker was a win for this caffeine-deprived traveler. The bathroom was clean, the water hot, and the toiletries were… well, they were there!
- That Damn Sofa: What I really remember is that SOFA. It was one of those vaguely-lumpy, slightly-crusty couches that screamed "I've seen some things." It was covered in what I am hoping was some kind of stain-proof fabric. I just…avoided it. Maybe it was just me, but it felt…lived-in. But hey, it was a motel, not a five-star hotel.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Fueling the Adventure)
Now, here's where things get a little… limited. Restaurants, Coffee shop, Snack bar, Poolside bar. That's what they are boasting. But, are they open? That's the million-dollar question! This is a motel, bear in mind. Don't go expecting Michelin-star service. I think it depends on the season.
- Breakfast: Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast takeaway service. (Maybe) They had a basic continental breakfast as part of my stay. Think: bagels, muffins, cereal, and instant coffee. It got the job done, but don't expect a gourmet experience. Grab a pastry and run!
- Essential Condiments: Essential condiments – Now, that's something I can get behind. Ketchup? Mustard? I am guessing yes. That is good news.
- Restaurants: Restaurants Around and about the area. Western cuisine, International cuisine, Salad, Soup . Outside of the motel, there's plenty to eat.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax (Because You're Here for a Reason!)
This is where Franconia Notch REALLY shines. Remember, it's about the LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!
- The Pool: Swimming pool [outdoor], Pool with view. The outdoor pool! It was beautiful, with a stunning view of the mountains. The kids LOVED it. I loved it, too, because, after a day of hiking, that cool water was pure heaven. (Just be prepared for the occasionally chilly mountain air!)
- Spa/Sauna (Maybe, Maybe Not): Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom. Honestly, I did NOT partake in the spa at the motel. It was something I did, but not at the motel. It depends! Sometimes it's open, sometimes it's not. It's New Hampshire, it shifts. Call ahead to confirm!
- Fitness Center: Fitness center, Gym/fitness. They have one. I, uh… did not visit it. Too busy hiking. (See, even I'm not perfect. Sometimes I skip the gym!)
- For the Kids: Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Babysitting service. Family-friendly! My kids had a blast. And honestly? That's what matters.
Services and Conveniences (The Little Things That Matter)
- Concierge, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage. This is good! The essentials are there, which is a relief.
- Internet Access: Internet, Internet [LAN], Internet services, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, Wi-Fi in public areas, Wi-Fi for special events. Good. Fast enough, when it cooperates!
The Verdict: Is It Really Your Dream Motel?
Look, Franconia Notch Getaway isn't a perfect experience. It's a mountain motel, people. It's got its quirks. The sofa's a little… suspect. The breakfast is basic. But…
It's CLEAN. It's SAFE. It's in an AMAZING location.
And that, my friends, is what truly matters. For the price, the location, and the friendly service, it's a solid choice.
My Recommendation:
Book it! If you're looking for a convenient basecamp to explore the beauty of the White Mountains, Franconia Notch Getaway is a good choice.
But, here's the deal… If you're expecting luxury, look elsewhere. If you're looking for a no-frills, comfortable stay, from which you can go explore the mountains, and don't mind a slightly crusty sofa, then pack your bags! You'll have a great time.
And now, the irresistible offer you've been waiting for…
Unleash Your Inner Explorer in the White Mountains!
Book your stay at Franconia Notch Getaway now and receive:
- 15% off your total stay! (Use code: MOUNTAINMAGIC at checkout.)
- Complimentary breakfast for two!
- Free access to our outdoor pool and fire pit!
- Family fun! With access to hiking trails, attractions, and stunning scenery!
Because the mountains are calling, and Franconia Notch Getaway is ready to answer!
Click here to book your adventure now – [Insert Link to Booking Site Here]
(This review, is, after all, my opinion, it's still pretty good, I'd say.)
**St. Louis Convention Center Getaway: Unbeatable Pear Tree Inn Deals!**
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This Franconia Notch Motel itinerary isn't gonna be all perfectly timed sunsets and airbrushed National Geographic worthy shots. We're aiming for real life, which, let's be honest, is usually a chaotic, hilarious, beautiful mess.
Franconia Notch Motel: A Semi-Coherent Adventure (with a strong emphasis on the "semi")
Day 1: Arrival, Avalanche Falls, and the existential dread of roadside attractions
- 1:00 PM: Arriving at the Franconia Notch Motel. Okay, first things first: is the pool open? Crucial. Initial assessment: charmingly retro. I'm already picturing myself in a vintage bathing suit (I don't own one). But… the peeling paint? Hmm. Gives it character, right? Or maybe just indicates a lack of funding. Jury's still out.
- 1:30 PM: Unpacking. The room is… adequate. Two beds. A TV older than my dad. And a distinct lack of outlets. This is going to be a problem. Where am I supposed to charge my phone? (Essential for documenting all the amazing things that will happen, obviously).
- 2:00 PM: Avalanche Falls Hike - Gotta start strong! This "easy" hike? Lies. All lies. The trail is pretty but the climb is steep. I swear, I saw a squirrel look at me with pity. Managed to slip on a slightly wet rock. Briefly questioning all my life choices and wishing I'd packed a damn hiking stick. WORTH IT though. The waterfall? Majestic. The air? Crisp. Feeling slightly smug about conquering that incline. (Even if I'm still slightly out of breath).
- 4:00 PM: A visit at The Flume Gorge. This is where things got a little…weird. The gorge is beautiful, but the sheer volume of tourists and the incessant photo-taking gave me a mild anxiety attack. Spent more time dodging selfie sticks than actually enjoying the scenery. And the prices? Highway robbery! Found a perfect stone to skip. Skip skipped the stone.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at Gordi's Fish & Steak House. This is the local favorite. I'm craving a burger, but am currently torn between that and something vaguely healthy. (Losing that 'Avalanche Falls Smugness' already). The decor is…rustic. Let's go with rustic. The service is…friendly. The burger? Glorious. All-time highs here.
- 7:30 PM: Motel Pool (if open!). The pool is closed for the night. Gutted. Sigh. I'll have to settle for a quiet evening reading and judging the motel's selection of framed landscape photos.
Day 2: Kancamagus Highway, Artist Bluff, and The Dreaded Souvenir Shop
- 8:00 AM: Coffee and light breakfast at the motel. The motel breakfast is a sad continental offering - stale pastries and weak coffee. I did manage to scavenge a half-eaten orange from the basket. Fuel.
- 9:00 AM: Scenic Drive - Kancamagus Highway. This is supposed to be epic. I grabbed some coffee and fruit before and it rained. Like, really rained. Visibility? Zero. Should I turn back? No way. This is my adventure! (Even if it's a wet, gray one). The drive is beautiful, in glimpses that appeared between the rain and the fog, even more beautiful. At least I got a great playlist and a feeling of being alone in the wilderness.
- 11:00 AM: Artist Bluff Hike. Another hike! Slightly less ambitious (thank god). The views, when the clouds finally parted, were breathtaking. I mean, seriously. Worth the slightly damp pants. Spotted a solo hiker with a ridiculously large camera lens. Clearly, he's got it all figured out.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at a roadside diner (I don't remember the name, I was starving). Greasy spoon perfection. I'm pretty sure the waitress knew all my deepest secrets by the look in her eyes.
- 2:00 PM: Souvenir Shop Hell. Oh dear god. The flashing lights, the overly-priced t-shirts, the sheer volume of plastic trinkets… It's sensory overload. I usually hate this. But, I had to get that "I survived Franconia Notch" mug, didn't I? Absolutely necessary for bragging rights. I'm a cliche, I know it. Don't judge me.
- 3:30 PM: Back to the room to avoid people and charge my dying phone. I desperately miss the pool.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at a local restaurant (trying a new place). Maybe some actual local food will be delicious. Maybe not.
- 7:30 PM: Stargazing (if clear skies) from the motel. Fingers crossed for a celestial show. My phone should finally be charged.
Day 3: Goodbye, Franconia Notch, and the lingering scent of pine needles.
- 8:00 AM: Another motel cup of coffee and a fruit.
- 9:00 AM: Last-minute souvenir shopping (probably more mugs).
- 9:30 AM: Check-out. A final, wistful glance at the now-closed swimming pool. Farewell, Franconia Notch Motel. You were… something.
- 10:00 AM: Drive home, reflecting on the journey. The good, the bad, and the souvenir-laden. Maybe I'll actually start planning a vacation rather than spontaneously deciding I need a break the day before. Maybe. But probably not.
- 1:00 PM: Arriving at home. Immediately order a pizza. (And start planning the next one).
Final Thoughts:
This wasn't perfect. I got rained on, I felt mildly mortified, and I spent way too much money on kitsch. But that's the point, isn't it? It was real. And honestly? I wouldn't trade it for a perfectly curated Instagram feed any day.
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Franconia Notch Getaway: You've Got Questions? (And I Have Opinions!)
Okay, so… Franconia Notch Getaway, huh? What’s the *deal*? Is it actually a ‘getaway’ or just a place to, you know, sleep?
Alright, full disclosure: I’m not exactly a travel blogger. More like a… seasoned grumbler. But Franconia Notch Getaway? Actually, it’s a *decent* spot. Look, Lincoln, NH, is all about that mountain air and the hiking, right? So, yeah, it's a getaway – or at least, it *could* be.
It's a motel, yes. Not the Ritz, by any stretch. But the location? Prime. You’re practically *in* the White Mountain National Forest. Think less “luxury spa” and more “comfortable basecamp” for your adventures. And, honestly, after a day of hiking, all I need is a clean bed and maybe, just maybe, a functioning TV. Which, thankfully, they usually have.
What’s the vibe? Is it… family-friendly? Because, you know… kids.
Oh boy, family-friendly? Let me tell you a story… We went last summer, right? Took the kids. Lovely idea, in retrospect. The pool, supposedly heated (more on that later), was a kid magnet. Picture this: cascading fountains of shrieking, splashing, and the constant thrum of chlorine. It's a good time for the parents, too..maybe a *bit* too good. One night, I swear, I heard a grown man try to cannonball into the shallow end. Almost took out a toddler. So, yeah. Family-friendly. Prepare accordingly.
But they also appreciate the peace and quiet. We all do.
The rooms… what are they like? Are they… clean? (Asking for a friend... who is me.)
Okay, honesty time. The rooms are… motel rooms. They're not going to win any design awards. But yes, they are generally clean. Think simple, functional, and maybe a *touch* dated. Don't go expecting granite countertops and a rainfall shower. Do expect a comfortable bed, clean sheets, and a bathroom that, miraculously, doesn't have any mysterious stains. And, frankly, after a day spent climbing mountains, cleanliness is all that matters.
I’m not going to lie, though. One time… okay, it was a few years ago. We walked into a room that smelled faintly of old cigarettes. Not ideal. But a quick call to the front desk resolved it. So, yeah: clean, mostly. Bring your own Febreze, just in case.
The pool! I’ve heard… things. Tell me about the pool.
The pool… Ah, the pool. This is a chapter unto itself, really. They *claim* it's heated. Claim. Now, I’m no physicist, but my highly sensitive skin (and my children’s shivers) tell me otherwise. It's… let's say, "comfortably brisk." Let's just say I've seen more warmth in a meat locker.
But the kids *love* it. It's a magnet for the little (and not-so-little) ones. Expect a sea of chlorine-tinged faces, shrieks of delight, and the constant threat of rogue water balloons. Seriously, bring goggles. And maybe a life vest, just in case the "heated" part is a cruel joke.
What’s the breakfast situation? Free continental, I assume? (And what does that even *mean*?)
Ah, the dreaded Continental Breakfast. Yes, it's included. And yes, it's… well, it's *there*. Think muffins (possibly stale), instant coffee (definitely weak), some sad little fruit, and maybe, if you’re lucky, a waffle machine. The waffle machine is the key to success. Master the waffle machine. Because honestly, that's the best this breakfast has to offer.
Pro tip: Pack your own granola bars. You're going to need them. And maybe some actual coffee. Trust me.
Should I bring my dog?
Check their policies. Some places are very dog-friendly, some are not. Call ahead and make sure your fuzzy friend is welcome, *and* determine what kind of pet fees you're looking at. The last thing you want is a surprise charge. I always call and ask!
Is it worth the money?
Look, let's be honest. It's not the cheapest place in the world. But considering the location – right in the heart of all the Franconia Notch magic – and the convenience… yeah, probably. Compare prices, of course. But you're paying for proximity to the hiking trails, the attractions, the whole experience. It's decent value to me. And sometimes, after driving for hours, you just don’t care about the price! You just want a bed.
Oh, and a tip: book in advance, especially during peak season! You don't want to be stuck scrambling for a room at the last minute. Trust me, I’ve been there. It wasn’t pretty. (And by "not pretty," I mean sleeping in the car. Don't do that.)
Any hidden gems or nearby must-sees?
Absolutely! You are *right* there! The Flume Gorge is awesome; don't miss the views. And the Kancamagus Highway is gorgeous! The Basin, a natural gorge, is also super easy. The kids love it. The whole area has tons of hiking trails for all levels. You'll be so tired at the end of the day.
Oh, and one more thing... grab a maple donut. Or two. Or a dozen. You're in New Hampshire, after all.
