Established in 1822, the Blue Bear Inn on Crotched Mountain is a home away from home in Southern New Hampshire. The quaint inn was recently purchased by a talented husband-and-wife duo who’ve given the historic inn a facelift, while maintaining much of the original charm. Open year-round, owners Carrie and Bobby Mayer keep things exciting and entertaining as they welcome you into their abode in the charming Francestown, New Hampshire, established in 1722.
Mountainside New England charm at Blue Bear Inn
The inn sits on 54 acres on the east side of Crotched Mountain, just 3 minutes driving from one of the closest ski resorts to Boston. Crotched Mountain Ski and Ride is as close as two turns from the inn and boasts over 1,000 feet of vertical trail.
The inn feels worlds away from Boston—where the skyline turns into mountains, and the pace of life softens—yet, Blue Bear Inn is just 78 miles outside of Boston. Co-owner Carrie Mayer is a former Beacon Hill resident who understands exactly what kind of getaway a busy Bostonian needs!
Aiming to preserve much of the establishment’s history, guests find 21st-century comforts surrounded by antique art and books. There are several wood-burning fireplaces on-site, which Bobby and Carrie keep burning as Frank Sinatra hums in the background.
The inn’s Winslow Tavern offers a flash of the past with a tiny onsite enclave that feels untouched from the 1800s. The larger dining space simulates the energy of a family dinner, with visitors coming together. Whether for a cozy après-ski or brunch as a Blue Bear Inn guest, Carrie and Bobby welcome visitors to their charming abode.
A beary cozy and delicious family-owned operation
The food is as comforting as the space. A highlight of the menu is Bobby’s house-smoked beef served alongside eggs and potatoes with a smoked paprika hollandaise or as the main star of a the French dip.
Blue Bear Inn offers a continental breakfast with pastries baked fresh and served hot. Enjoy the treats by the fireplace alongside fresh coffee, orange juice, and other breakfast staples. Locals often pop-in for a meal after a day on the mountain to indulge in the elevated comfort food. The signature dessert is the Blue Bear sundae, a blue, bear-shaped chocolate chip cookie served with an ice cream flavor of your choice.
The inn draws a mix of visitors— from Bostonians looking for the perfect weekend getaway, to Epic skiers and boarders looking for the closest stay to Crotched Mountain, to various retreat groups. With the homey energy at the inn and mom and pop operation, its an idyllic spot for a retreat, and the inn’s already hosted many within just the two years of new ownership.
Seasonally-inspired celebration and adventure at your doorstep
In addition to retreats, Carrie applies over 20 years in hospitality to keep seasonal happenings energetic. Blue Bear Inn throws a lively New Years Eve party that fills the space with energy and excitement. Bobby’s also built an outdoor ice rink for guests to skate while enjoying views of foliage or snow-dusted trees. The rink should be operational later in the season as the temps drop. Adjacent to the rink is the 10-foot-deep outdoor pool, open seasonally which shares in the spectacular views. Sleds and snowshoes line the back porch to play in the fresh powder.
On Thursdays, the inn hosts a book club, something that feels straight out of Stars Hollow. While the inn’s focus on community will make your fellow guests turn into lifelong friends, the 13 guestrooms provide sublime tranquility. There are no TVs in the rooms for a reason, but Bobby and Carrie make sure to throw a watch party for Sunday football, with everyone gathering around the fireplace and cheering on the Pats. Learn more and reserve your stay at Blue Bear Inn.
Find Blue Bear Inn on Crotched Mountain at:
534 Mountain Rd, Francestown, New Hampshire 03043