Living in Southern New Hampshire has always been a joy for me, especially when I discover its hidden gems tucked away from the hustle and bustle. If you’re anything like me, sometimes you crave the peace and tranquility that only a secluded town can offer.
That’s why I’ve compiled a list of 10 of the most secluded towns in the region. Each one offers its own unique charm and serenity, perfect for those looking to escape and immerse themselves in nature. From rolling hills to hidden valleys, let’s explore these quiet corners where life moves at a gentler pace.
10. Sharon’s Hidden Valleys
I’ve always been captivated by Sharon, a tiny town with a population of just over 350 residents. Nestled in quiet valleys, Sharon offers a peaceful retreat with its large properties often exceeding 1 acre, providing plenty of space to breathe and unwind.
I love exploring the sprawling woodland trails here, perfect for hiking and observing wildlife in their natural habitat. The town doesn’t have much in the way of industry, which only adds to its secluded charm; it’s primarily residential, with residents cherishing the tranquility and privacy the area provides.
What makes Sharon truly secluded is its landscapes that act as natural buffers from the outside world, shielding the community from the hustle and bustle of neighboring towns.
If you’re looking for a place where you can escape and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature, Sharon’s hidden valleys might just be your perfect getaway.
Where is Sharon?
Sharon is situated in the southwestern part of Southern New Hampshire, nestled between the towns of Peterborough and Temple. Its seclusion comes from its location away from major highways and urban centers, surrounded by expansive forests and rolling hills.
To get there, I usually take Route 101 to Peterborough and then head south on local roads that wind through scenic landscapes. The lack of commercial development and the town’s commitment to preserving natural spaces make Sharon feel like a world apart.
9. Antrim’s Mountainous Hideaways
In the remote mountainous regions of Antrim, I’ve discovered secluded residences with ample acreage. This town, with a population of around 2,600, boasts sprawling homes set amidst undeveloped land and natural barriers.
One of my favorite activities here is hiking up North Pack Monadnock Mountain, where trails lead to breathtaking vistas that few others get to see. Antrim doesn’t have a bustling industry; it’s a quiet community with small local businesses and a focus on outdoor recreation.
The seclusion comes from the rolling hills and forests that envelop the town, creating a peaceful environment away from the noise. If you’re seeking a place to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature, Antrim’s mountainous hideaways are worth exploring.
Where is Antrim?
Antrim is located in the heart of the Monadnock Region, just north of Peterborough. Its secluded feel is enhanced by its position among the region’s rolling mountains and lack of through traffic, making it a quiet retreat.
When I visit, I usually take Route 202, which meanders through picturesque rural landscapes before reaching the town. The relative remoteness and natural surroundings make Antrim a hidden gem that’s perfect for those who appreciate the serenity of mountainous settings.
8. The Woodlands of Bennington
I always enjoy visiting Bennington’s sparsely populated areas, where homes are nestled within expansive forests and hills. With a population of about 1,500, this small town offers a strong connection with nature.
One of the highlights for me is Crotched Mountain, where you can ski in the winter and hike in the summer, enjoying year-round outdoor activities. Bennington doesn’t have major industries, but its local businesses cater to the community, reflecting the town’s close-knit feel.
What ensures solitude here are the large, forested lots and the limited development, making it an ideal spot for those who value privacy. The combination of dense woodlands and rolling hills creates a secluded atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Bennington?
Bennington is situated in Hillsborough County, just south of Antrim and north of Greenfield. Its location away from major highways contributes to its peaceful environment, as it’s not a pass-through for heavy traffic.
I usually reach Bennington by taking Route 202, then branching off onto smaller roads that wind through the countryside. The town’s setting amid dense forests and its distance from urban centers make it a perfect escape for those seeking a quiet, natural retreat.
7. Greenfield’s Secluded Lake Areas
I’ve found that the less-traveled shores of Greenfield’s lakes offer some of the most peaceful retreats in Southern New Hampshire. With a population of approximately 1,800, this town provides generous lot sizes and a quiet atmosphere that’s perfect for a getaway.
One of my personal favorites is spending an afternoon at Greenfield State Park, where you can swim, canoe, or simply relax by the water. The town doesn’t have significant industrial activity, focusing instead on recreation and conservation.
The secluded feel comes from the natural barriers like the lakes and forests that separate properties and shield them from outside noise. If you’re like me and enjoy waterside relaxation in a serene setting, Greenfield’s secluded lake areas are a must-visit.
Where is Greenfield?
Greenfield is located in the eastern part of the Monadnock Region, between Peterborough and Francestown. Its seclusion is due in part to the surrounding forests and the absence of major roadways cutting through the town.
I usually get there by taking Route 136, which offers scenic drives through rural landscapes. The combination of natural beauty and limited development makes Greenfield feel delightfully tucked away from the fast-paced world.
6. Francestown’s Undeveloped Retreats
I’ve always been drawn to Francestown’s rural outskirts, where over 50% of the land remains undeveloped. With a population of around 1,600, this town offers large-lot residences surrounded by natural beauty.
I enjoy visiting the Crotched Mountain Town Forest in Francestown, where the hiking trails are both peaceful and invigorating. The town doesn’t have major industries, focusing instead on preserving its historical character and natural landscapes.
The lack of commercial activity and the abundance of undeveloped land make Francestown’s retreats truly secluded. If you’re seeking a place where you can live harmoniously with nature, this might just be it.
Where is Francestown?
Francestown is nestled in Hillsborough County, northeast of Bennington and northwest of New Boston. Its secluded nature comes from its location away from major cities and highways, surrounded by forested areas and rolling hills.
I typically reach Francestown by taking Route 136 or 47, enjoying the scenic countryside along the way. The town’s commitment to maintaining its rural character ensures it remains a quiet haven away from the bustle of urban life.
5. Mason’s Forest Enclaves
I love exploring Mason’s remote areas, where spacious lots are nestled within vast woodlands. With a population of just over 1,400, Mason offers privacy and serenity more than 15 miles from the nearest urban center.
One of the hidden gems here is the Mason Rail Trail, a perfect spot for walking or biking through peaceful forests. The town is primarily residential, with little in the way of industry, which adds to its secluded charm.
The expansive wooded areas and large property sizes ensure that you can enjoy solitude and the sounds of nature undisturbed.
Where is Mason?
Mason is located in the southernmost part of Hillsborough County, bordering Massachusetts to the south. Its distance from major cities and highways contributes to its secluded feel.
I usually get there by taking smaller state routes, like Route 124, which meander through quaint New England scenery. The town’s location within vast woodlands and away from commercial hubs makes it an ideal spot for those looking to escape into nature.
4. Lyndeborough’s Rural Hillsides
I find that Lyndeborough’s rolling hills offer some of the most peaceful rural settings in Southern New Hampshire. With about 1,700 residents, it provides secluded homesteads with significant acreage.
I enjoy visiting local farms and orchards here, which add to the town’s rustic charm. There aren’t major industries, but agriculture plays a significant role, along with small businesses. The natural landscapes and the distance from high-density developments shield the town from noise and congestion.
If you’re like me and appreciate wide-open spaces and quiet country living, Lyndeborough’s rural hillsides won’t disappoint.
Where is Lyndeborough?
Lyndeborough is situated west of Milford and south of Greenfield, nestled in the hills of Hillsborough County. The town’s seclusion is due to its limited access via major highways and its spread-out population.
I often take Route 31 to get there, enjoying the scenic drives through the countryside. The combination of its hilly terrain and rural location makes Lyndeborough a tranquil escape from urban life.
3. The Quiet Corners of Temple
I’ve always appreciated the peaceful atmosphere in Temple’s quiet corners, located away from the urban bustle. With a population of around 1,400, the town boasts lots averaging over 1 acre, surrounded by undeveloped land.
One activity I enjoy here is visiting the Temple Mountain State Reservation, where you can hike and enjoy panoramic views. There’s little industry, and the town primarily consists of residential areas and small farms.
The peaceful, low-traffic environment is maintained by the limited development and the natural surroundings that provide a serene backdrop to everyday life.
Where is Temple?
Temple is nestled in Hillsborough County, near the towns of Peterborough and Wilton. Its seclusion comes from its location away from major roads and commercial zones, nestled among forests and hills.
I usually reach Temple via Route 101, turning onto smaller roads that lead into the heart of the countryside. The lack of heavy traffic and commercial development makes Temple a haven for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle.
2. East Alstead’s Hidden Meadows
I’ve discovered that East Alstead offers some of the most secluded communities with its low housing density and expansive natural surroundings. The properties here are large, set amid natural barriers like forests and streams, providing a perfect sanctuary.
One of the area’s hidden gems is Crescent Lake, where I love to spend quiet afternoons fishing or canoeing. There’s minimal industry, with the community focusing on preserving its natural beauty and rural character.
The distance from major roads and commercial zones enhances the feeling of seclusion, making East Alstead a perfect place to unwind.
Where is East Alstead?
East Alstead is located in Cheshire County, in the northeastern part of the town of Alstead. Its secluded nature is due to its remote location and the surrounding forests and waterways.
I usually get there by taking Route 123, which winds through scenic rural landscapes. The area’s natural barriers and distance from bustling centers make it an ideal spot for those looking to escape into nature.
1. The Backwoods of Deering
I’ve always found the backwoods of Deering to be the epitome of tranquility. Nestled beyond 15 miles from urban centers, this rural area offers expansive 1+ acre lots surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills.
I enjoy kayaking on Deering Reservoir, one of the town’s hidden gems where you can spend a day without seeing another soul. There isn’t much in the way of industry here, which helps maintain the quiet, close-to-nature atmosphere.
The ultimate privacy and tranquility come from the vast undeveloped lands and the natural seclusion provided by the forests. If you’re seeking a place where you can truly disconnect, the backwoods of Deering might be just what you’re looking for.
Where is Deering?
Deering is situated in Hillsborough County, northwest of Hillsborough and south of Antrim. Its seclusion stems from its position far from major highways and urban centers, enveloped by natural landscapes.
I usually access Deering by taking Route 149, which offers a scenic drive through forests and past lakes. The town’s remote location and the extensive woodlands make it a perfect retreat for those seeking solitude.
