Pack a Picnic and Enjoy the View

There are certain views that elicit gasps when looked upon. The sheer beauty is overwhelming and it’s impossible not to stare. In our own backyard, we are extra lucky as there are plenty of those places to visit. 

That’s why we are huge supporters of packing a picnic and finding a view-focused venue. Here are some tips on what to pack and where to go for the best of the best. 

WHAT TO PACK

Wine

A picnic basket just isn’t complete without the best possible bottle of wine. You didn’t pack one? It’s okay, the team at Seven Birches Winery is standing by to help! 

Seven Birches Winery hand-crafts its wines using classic European grapes combined expertly with local fruits, so no matter which bottle you pick, it’s going to be a winner. 

Also, if you want to try before you buy, their tasting room is open daily inside our resort. For just $20 per person, you get five wine samples from the tasting menu. Not satisfied? Grab a full glass for between $8-13.

If you’re wondering what varietals you might encounter take a look here. Vitis vinifera, fruit wines, hybrids, and even hard cider are standards there. 

Are you a one-stop picnicker? Seven Birches Winery even has picnic packages they’ll put together for you! Whether you’re a chocolate enthusiast or you prefer a more classic meat, cheese, and cracker combination, they’ve got something you’ll absolutely love to eat.

Cuisine

If you’d like your picnic basket packed with a more robust meal, consider letting La Vista Italian Restaurant help you. They have irresistible options sure to please even the most refined palette. 

For example, if you order their Cheese & Charcuterie Plate, you’ll get assorted meats and cheeses, apple red chili chutney, pickled carrots and cauliflower, house-made hummus, almonds, and toasted sourdough bread. Can you say “YUM?” 

Or…you could always try a fresh salad or a tasty pizza. And don’t forget they offer mouthwatering desserts like cannolis and creme brulee, so definitely save room in your basket for that sweet finish. 

You can view their full menu here. 

WHERE TO GO

The Flume Gorge at Franconia Notch

The Flume Gorge is starting to become almost cliche (because it’s mentioned so frequently), but it’s for a good reason. It’s a place of unparalleled natural beauty. 

This New Hampshire mountain wonder offers visitors a two-mile trail loved by families and individuals alike. The best part? The scenic views of Avalanche Falls, Liberty Gorge, and the Pemigewasset River, as well as the picnic area for after you complete the closed loop! 

Here’s a video from the NH State Parks that takes you along the trail.

Pro-tip: It does include stairs and uphill climbing, so make sure to wear the right shoes and prep for a bit of a challenge. The best option for your picnic is likely a freezer backpack in this case. 

Mobile Views

Want all the views and none of the walking? Take your picnic aboard the famous Hobo Railroad! This attraction has it all – historic train tracks from the 1800s, restored vintage rail cars, and a view of the Pemigewasset River and local woods that is unlike anything else! 

From summer fun to foliage peeping, they’ve got you covered. 

The Summit

If you’d rather not pack a picnic but still want to eat on top of the world (or at least New England), ride The Cog Railway and take advantage of their summit-top cafeteria! 

They also have a wonderful observation deck and other places for you to explore. The views and the historic spot are absolutely go-to for visitors and locals alike. 

Of course, if you’re feeling ready to take on a hike, you can always take advantage of these low-mileage, high-view ones near us and then return to RiverWalk in the evening. Vino, entrees, and our incredible pools and hot tubs we’ll be waiting.