I’ve always been fascinated by the quiet corners of Eastern New Hampshire, where the hustle and bustle fade into the whispers of the wind through the trees. There’s something special about finding a place where nature takes the forefront and neighbors are few and far between.
For those who, like me, seek refuge in tranquil settings, these secluded neighborhoods offer the perfect escape. From hidden lakeside communities to forested retreats, each location has its own unique charm.
Join me as I count down 10 of the most secluded neighborhoods in Eastern New Hampshire, places where privacy and peace are a way of life.
10. Rural Retreats on Strafford Road – Rochester
Strafford Road in Rochester is lined with expansive properties set amid rolling countryside, offering a rural retreat that’s both peaceful and picturesque. I’ve always admired the way the homes here are spaced far apart, each enjoying its own stretch of land.
The population along this road is minimal, providing a quiet environment that’s perfect for those seeking solitude. The open fields and gentle hills make for beautiful scenery year-round. Whether you’re taking a leisurely drive or settling in for a quiet evening at home, the tranquility of Strafford Road is undeniable.
It’s one of those places where you can truly unwind and breathe in the fresh country air.
Where is Strafford Road?
Located in the eastern part of Rochester, Strafford Road stretches toward the town of Strafford, connecting two charming rural communities. To reach this area, you can follow Route 202A east from downtown Rochester, which becomes Strafford Road. The road’s path through rolling hills and open landscapes adds to its secluded feel.
Its distance from urban centers means less traffic and a more relaxed pace of life, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
9. Cherry Lane Countryside – Madbury
Cherry Lane in Madbury is a quiet, tree-lined road where homes sit on substantial acreage, enveloped by serene forests. The limited development in this area ensures a peaceful environment that I’ve come to cherish. With a small number of residents, it’s a place where you can enjoy the sounds of nature uninterrupted.
I love the sense of seclusion here, with the dense woods creating a natural barrier from the outside world. The rural charm of Cherry Lane makes it a delightful spot for those who appreciate the simpler things in life. It’s a hidden enclave that offers a true escape from the everyday.
Where is Cherry Lane?
Cherry Lane is nestled in the town of Madbury, just a short drive from Durham and Dover. To get there, you can take Route 155 to Cherry Lane, which veers off into the countryside. The road’s placement amid forests and its limited through traffic contribute to its secluded nature.
Despite its peaceful setting, it’s conveniently located near major routes, offering both isolation and accessibility for residents.
8. Shortridge Seclusions – Epping
In Epping, the Shortridge neighborhood provides a peaceful haven with large wooded lots set back from main roads. I find the immersion in nature here to be truly refreshing. The neighborhood is home to a small community, which adds to the quiet atmosphere.
Walking through the area, you’ll notice how the homes blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest. The tranquility is palpable, making it an ideal spot for those who, like me, value privacy and a connection to the outdoors. It’s a place where you can enjoy the serenity of nature right at your doorstep.
Where is Shortridge?
Shortridge is located off Route 27 in Epping, tucked away from the town’s busier areas. To reach this secluded neighborhood, you can turn onto North River Road from Route 27 and then onto Shortridge Lane. The area’s dense forests and setback homes contribute to its secluded feel.
Despite its hidden location, it’s conveniently situated near Epping’s amenities, offering a balance of solitude and accessibility.
7. Ayers Lake Sanctuaries – Barrington
Around Ayers Lake in Barrington, Long Shores Drive offers spacious lots enveloped by forested surroundings. I adore the peacefulness that comes from being near the water while still nestled in the woods. The population here is quite small, with residents appreciating the seclusion that the natural landscape provides.
The lake itself is a serene spot for canoeing and fishing, activities I’ve enjoyed on many quiet afternoons. The combination of lake and forest makes this area a sanctuary for those seeking a retreat from the hectic pace of life. It’s one of those places where the worries of the world seem to fade away.
Where is Ayers Lake?
Ayers Lake is situated in Barrington, accessible via Route 202 and Young Road, leading to Long Shores Drive. The lake’s secluded position, surrounded by dense forests, enhances the area’s private atmosphere. To reach it, you can take a scenic drive through rural Barrington, which itself is a charming experience.
The geography of the area, with its mix of water and woodland, makes it a hidden gem perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty.
6. Green Mountain Hideouts – Effingham
Effingham’s Green Mountain Road offers secluded homes nestled in the foothills, away from the bustle of city life. I’ve always found solace in the multi-acre lots here, where the sounds of nature prevail. The small community is spread out across the rolling hills, providing ample privacy for residents.
Hiking trails and panoramic views are some of the hidden treasures that make this area special to me. The lush greenery and untouched landscapes offer a perfect backdrop for those looking to reconnect with nature. It’s a place where every day feels like a retreat.
Where is Green Mountain Road?
Green Mountain Road winds through the town of Effingham, located near the New Hampshire-Maine border. To get there, you can take Route 25 east to Green Mountain Road, which leads into the heart of the foothills. The road’s elevation offers scenic vistas and contributes to its secluded feel.
The geography of the area, with its proximity to Green Mountain and surrounding forests, enhances the sense of escape and tranquility.
5. Bow Lake Escapes – Strafford
The remote homes around Bow Lake in Strafford are set on large acreages amid rolling hills and dense forests. I find the landscape here to be incredibly soothing, with the lake adding a serene touch to the surroundings. The population is sparse, allowing for a peaceful environment where nature takes center stage.
Boating and fishing on Bow Lake are my favorite activities of mine, offering relaxation and enjoyment in equal measure. The expansive properties provide a sense of freedom that’s hard to match. It’s a hidden corner of New Hampshire that offers both beauty and solitude.
Where is Bow Lake?
Bow Lake is located in Strafford, with access via Route 202A and Province Road. To reach the secluded homes around the lake, you can follow local roads that wind through the countryside to the waterfront.
The area’s hilly terrain and dense forests contribute to its secluded nature. The journey to Bow Lake, through charming rural landscapes, sets the stage for the tranquility that awaits.
4. Sunrise Lake Serenity – Middleton Shores
Middleton Shores on Sunrise Lake is a quiet community with spacious properties surrounded by thick forests. I love how the homes here seem to be part of the natural landscape, offering a peaceful retreat from the outside world. With a small population, the area maintains a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation.
Swimming, kayaking, and simply enjoying the lake’s beauty are some of my favorite pastimes here. The blend of water and woodland creates a tranquil setting that feels like a well-kept secret. It’s a place where serenity is more than just a word—it’s a way of life.
Where is Middleton Shores?
Middleton Shores is located in the town of Middleton, accessible via Route 153 and Kings Highway. To get there, you can take a scenic drive through rural New Hampshire, arriving at the shores of Sunrise Lake.
The dense forests and winding roads contribute to the area’s secluded feel. Its location away from major highways ensures a quiet environment, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solace in nature.
3. Merrymeeting Lake’s Bennett Island – New Durham
Experiencing island living on Bennett Island in Merrymeeting Lake is truly unique. Accessible only by boat, the expansive properties here offer unmatched lakeside seclusion. I’ve always found the idea of a home only reachable by water to be both exciting and peaceful.
With just a handful of residents, the island provides an intimate connection with the lake and surrounding nature. The crystal-clear waters and wooded landscapes create a tranquil environment that’s hard to find elsewhere. For me, Bennett Island represents the ultimate in secluded lakeside living.
Where is Bennett Island?
Located in Merrymeeting Lake in New Durham, Bennett Island sits nestled in one of New Hampshire’s most pristine lakes. To reach the island, you’ll need a boat from the public launch on Merrymeeting Road.
The island’s isolation by water enhances its seclusion and charm. The journey across the lake offers stunning views and a sense of adventure, making the destination even more rewarding.
2. Birch Ridge Retreats – Milton
Birch Ridge Estates in Milton is a peaceful enclave near the Salmon Falls River, offering acre-plus lots enveloped by dense woods. I appreciate how the community here values privacy and the natural environment. With a small population, it’s easy to feel like you have your own private retreat.
The proximity to the river provides opportunities for fishing and exploring, activities I’ve enjoyed on many occasions. The quiet streets and towering trees create a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding. It’s a hidden oasis that combines rural living with the comforts of a close-knit community.
Where is Birch Ridge?
Birch Ridge Estates is located in Milton, accessible via Route 125 and Birch Ridge Road. The neighborhood is tucked away near the Salmon Falls River, enhancing its secluded feel. To get there, you can follow local roads that lead away from the town center into the forested areas.
The dense woods and riverside location make it a tranquil spot that’s off the beaten path.
1. Pawtuckaway Lake Hideaways – Nottingham
Exploring the secluded lakeside homes around Pawtuckaway Lake in Nottingham has always been a delight for me. The large wooded lots and surrounding state parks offer the ultimate in privacy and natural beauty. With a small community scattered around the lake, it’s a place where you can truly connect with nature.
Hiking, boating, and simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery are some of the joys I’ve found here. The combination of lakefront living and forested surroundings creates a peaceful retreat that’s unparalleled. It’s no wonder that Pawtuckaway Lake remains one of my favorite secluded spots in Eastern New Hampshire.
Where is Pawtuckaway Lake?
Pawtuckaway Lake is situated in Nottingham encompassed by Pawtuckaway State Park. To reach the secluded homes around the lake, you can take Route 156 to local roads like Pawtuckaway Road. The area’s geography, with its mix of water, hills, and forests, contributes to its secluded nature.
The surrounding state park enhances the sense of remoteness, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
