I hadn’t been to Portsmouth, New Hampshire in twenty-five years but a wedding invitation was the perfect incentive to return to this terrific spot. My expectations were surpassed from college day memories of eighteen miles of glorious coastline now seen through adult eyes.

We spent the weekend at the wedding site, Wentworth by the Sea, a Marriot Hotel and Spa, located in adjacent New Castle, New Hampshire. Wentworth by the Sea is truly the grand dame of the New England seacoast and one of America’s outstanding hotels steeped in history. The weekend we were there marked the 100th anniversary of the signing of the peace treaty between Russia and Japan, which took place in the summer of 1905. President Theodore Roosevelt was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1906 for his involvement in brokering the Treaty of Portsmouth and thereby ending “World War Zero.”

Reopened in 2003 after a $27 million restoration, the Wentworth is a gorgeous resort. The setting, with water views and historic gardens, makes you want to move right in--the rooms are beautiful, complete with cathedral ceilings and marble bathrooms. The public rooms are modern while retaining an historic feel. We didn’t have a chance to partake in spa activities but made good use of the fitness center and indoor pool. There is also an outdoor pool and tennis courts and golfing privileges are available nearby at the Wentworth by the Sea Country Club. Sunday brunch in Latitudes, a waterfront restaurant, was a bargain at $12.95 per person. Besides the everyday breakfast-fare of omelets, muffins, beautiful seasonal fruits and berries, and cereals, the make-your-own-waffles were a real hit. A short distance down the road we stopped at The Ice House, a roadside eatery with wonderful homemade ice cream, and picnic tables for those who wanted to take in every bit of the great outdoors.

One of the beauties of Portsmouth is blending the old and the new—brick lined streets complete with 18th century homes. Strawberry Banke, the living history museum, provides visitors with a glimpse into life in Colonial New England. Visit the nearby Isle of Shoals, Odiorne State Park and the local beaches to see what makes this historic town a quaint New England treasure. The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard reminds you that this community is a working port. It’s fascinating to watch the commercial tugboats guide huge tankers through bridges spanning the Piscataqua River between New Hampshire and Maine. Take a tug boat cruise for an aquatic view of Portsmouth and its harbor, or walk the narrow streets filled with fun and funky restaurants and one-of-a-kind boutiques and galleries. We had a delicious lunch of grilled salmon at the Portsmouth Brewing Company and our server Genevieve felt like an old friend by the time we got to dessert. It’s a friendly town with an emphasis on hospitality.

For those of us who think of shopping as sport, Portsmouth is a hop, skip, and a jump from Kittery, Maine, where my husband kindly indulged me. With a zillion factory outlet stores, I limited my shopping to two hours when I could have happily spent two days. Suffice it to say, our daughter Lucy will look adorable as a result of my spree at Hanna Andersson and Hartstrings, two of my favorite, pricey, children’s clothing companies. In addition, the wide array of outlet stores has something for everyone from fancy designer duds, well-known franchise shops, name brands for housewares, fine china, luggage, sneakers, etc. Don’t’ miss the Kittery Trading Post. It’s a landmark.

The seacoast region is a popular getaway any time of year. It offers an abundance of recreational activities, adventure, great restaurants, shopping, historical sites and the arts, all wrapped up like a great big present. We can’t wait to go back.#

info@wentworth.com
Greater Portsmouth Chamber of Commerce (603) 436-3988