The Glen House

For those seeking an unforgettable escape into the heart of the White Mountains, The Glen House in Gorham, New Hampshire, stands as a distinguished destination. Seamlessly blending a rich historical legacy with modern amenities and a deep commitment to sustainability, this hotel offers a unique and highly recommended experience for travelers searching the "Hotels Near Of Me" category. Guests consistently laud its friendly staff, impeccable cleanliness, stunning views, and quiet atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure trips.

The Glen House is majestically situated at 979 NH-16, Gorham, NH, directly at the base of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. This prime location offers unparalleled panoramic views of Mount Washington and the surrounding Presidential Range, making every window a living landscape painting. The hotel is the fifth iteration of "The Glen House" to stand on this historic site since 1852, a testament to its enduring appeal and connection to the region's past. While it feels like the middle of nowhere, providing an ideal sense of escape and rest, it's remarkably only about 10 minutes away from a variety of activities and attractions, striking a perfect balance between seclusion and convenience.

The hotel is nestled within the natural splendor of the White Mountain National Forest, an expansive wilderness area. This proximity allows for immediate access to the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center and the Mount Washington Auto Road, which are essentially on the hotel's doorstep. This means guests can embark on hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, or even a scenic drive up the Auto Road directly from the property. The building itself is designed with classic New England architecture, featuring clapboards, painted trim, and signature chimneys, harmonizing with the pristine environment.

A notable aspect of The Glen House's environment is its strong commitment to sustainability. Opened in 2018, it was designed to be nearly 100% energy-efficient and carbon-neutral. It utilizes a geothermal heating and cooling system with thirty 500-foot wells, eliminating the need for fossil fuels. High-efficiency insulation (spray foam and rigid panels), LED lighting (including "Dark Sky Compliant" outdoor lighting to preserve night sky views), and energy-regenerating elevators contribute to its eco-friendly footprint. The hotel also features electric vehicle charging stations on-site and benefits from nearby hydroelectric and solar power projects. Even the outdoor fire pit is propane-fired to maintain the Class I air quality standard of the Great Gulf Wilderness area. This dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the White Mountains is deeply ingrained in the hotel's ethos.

The Glen House prides itself on providing excellent service, marked by a friendly, helpful, and professional staff. Guests consistently highlight the warm welcome and the attentiveness of the team, from the front desk to room service and restaurant staff. This dedication to guest satisfaction ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

The hotel offers 68 individually furnished and decorated rooms, reflecting the simplicity of Shaker design while prioritizing function. Each room typically includes a mini-fridge, a full-length armoire, a spacious work station, and a 55-inch flat-screen plasma TV with cable channels. Guests rave about the "super comfy" beds, ensuring a restful night's sleep. Bathrooms are fully tiled and offer single vanities with either a standing shower or a tub/shower combination, along with free toiletries and hair dryers. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, heating, and complimentary wireless internet. Many rooms, particularly the Premium and Mountain View categories, feature private decks or balconies with seating, allowing guests to soak in the breathtaking mountain views. Room service is also available and consistently receives positive remarks for its quality.

Dining at The Glen House is a highlight. The on-site restaurant, The Notch Grille, offers family-friendly service and a menu featuring comfort food with a twist, often utilizing locally sourced ingredients. The morning breakfast is consistently described as delicious, and the service in the restaurant is highly praised. The restaurant also has an expansive outdoor dining area with a view of Mount Washington, and a bar/lounge with a "magnificent view out every window," making it a popular spot for cocktails and local brews. A shared microwave is also available for guest convenience.

Recreational amenities are plentiful. The indoor heated saltwater pool, open from 7 AM to 10 PM, is a popular spot for relaxation, especially during snowy weather, with its floor-to-ceiling picture window offering stunning views. While guests note it's not ideal for laps, it's perfect for unwinding. There is also an "adorable little gym" with a variety of equipment, offering an inspiring view during workouts. Other services include bicycle rentals, ski storage, and ski-in/ski-out access, particularly convenient for those utilizing Great Glen Trails. The hotel provides free self-parking, including an electric car charging station, and is wheelchair-accessible with an elevator. A 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, a computer station, and meeting facilities (one meeting room with 900 sq ft of space for up to 70 people) cater to both leisure and business travelers. Daily housekeeping ensures rooms are consistently clean.

The Glen House's defining features are its exceptional location, its commitment to sustainability, and its comprehensive range of amenities designed for a comfortable and active stay in the White Mountains.

• Prime Mountain Location: Situated at the base of Mount Washington and adjacent to Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center and the Mount Washington Auto Road, the hotel offers unparalleled access to outdoor activities year-round. This "slopeside fun" with ski-in/ski-out access in winter and extensive hiking/biking trails in warmer months makes it a true outdoor enthusiast's paradise.
• Sustainable Design and Operation: The hotel's nearly 100% energy-efficient and carbon-neutral design, incorporating geothermal systems, LED lighting, and EV charging stations, sets it apart as an eco-conscious choice. This focus on sustainability aligns with the pristine environment it inhabits, and includes details like public water fountains for reusable bottles and recycling programs.
• Comfortable and Scenic Accommodations: The 68 spacious rooms are individually designed in a Shaker-inspired style, offering modern comforts like comfortable beds, plasma TVs, mini-fridges, and free WiFi. Many rooms boast balconies or decks with direct mountain views, creating a serene and picturesque retreat. Room types include Standard, Classic, Premium, and Mountain View options, with king or two queen beds. Rooms are noted for being quiet and soundproof.
• Indoor Heated Saltwater Pool: A significant amenity, especially during colder months, providing a relaxing and scenic spot to unwind with its large window overlooking the mountains.
• The Notch Grille & Bar: The on-site restaurant and bar offers delicious, family-friendly dining with locally sourced ingredients, complemented by a cozy lobby fireplace and stunning views. The bar is particularly noted for its beautiful design and immediate views of the mountains, making it a "magnificent view out every window" experience.
• Fitness Center: An "adorable little gym" with a range of equipment provides a convenient option for maintaining fitness while enjoying mountain vistas.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The Glen House welcomes dogs for an extra charge of $20 per accommodation, per night, providing food and water bowls, making it a great option for guests traveling with their furry companions. Service animals are exempt from fees.
• Historical Connection: As the fifth iteration of a hotel on the same site since 1852, The Glen House carries a rich history, with its design and decor subtly reflecting this past, particularly through artwork and photographs of the Mount Washington Auto Road.

The Glen House is actively promoted as a premier four-season destination in the White Mountains, appealing to a wide range of travelers, from adventure seekers to those looking for a peaceful escape. Promotional materials often highlight its unique location at the base of Mount Washington and its direct access to Great Glen Trails, emphasizing the ease with which guests can engage in activities like skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, fat biking, and scenic drives up the Auto Road.

Special packages are frequently offered, such as the "All Adventure Package" (including guided Auto Road tours, kayak tours, and bike rentals) and the "Ride to the Sky Package" (focused on the Auto Road). Discounts for New England residents and "Bed and Breakfast" rates are also common, making stays more accessible for local visitors. The hotel's suitability for meetings, social events, and intimate weddings is also promoted, leveraging its stunning natural backdrop and comprehensive facilities.

Marketing emphasizes the blend of traditional New England charm with cutting-edge sustainability practices, appealing to environmentally conscious travelers. The luxurious yet understated comfort of the rooms, coupled with the delicious dining options at The Notch Grille and the relaxing indoor pool, are key selling points. The positive guest reviews, often mentioning the friendly staff, clean rooms, and magnificent views, serve as powerful testimonials to the high-quality experience offered at The Glen House. It is presented as a place where guests can "relax, create lasting memories, and take time to surround yourself in the beauty and wonder of the White Mountains." Check-in begins at 4:00 PM and check-out is by 11:00 AM. The minimum check-in age is 18. This highly recommended hotel offers an excellent escape, whether for a quick getaway or an extended vacation.