Castle in the Clouds Being Restored to its Original Grandeur

Visitors to the Lakes Region of NH have long enjoyed an amazing treasure: perched high atop the Ossipee Mountain Range overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee, Castle in the Clouds beckons to those who love breathtaking views, stunning architecture, enchanting artwork, beautiful gardens, and unspoiled natural terrain. This important landmark has captivated visitors and locals alike for decades, and has been fully enjoyed as a place to attend concerts, gallery openings, and weddings, as well as a spot to relax over a leisurely patio luncheon or hike through a pristine wilderness setting. The “Lucknow” estate, as it was called by its original owners, seems to have it all, and a dedicated team, along with a caring local community, is working hard to keep Castle in the Clouds beautiful and in top condition so that it can be enjoyed for many years to come. Read the rest of this entry »

Don’t Miss the 33rd Annual Loon Festival this Weekend!

What would summer in New Hampshire be without the haunting call of a loon on a quiet lake?  These gentle and iconic birds have a way of slowing us down to help us appreciate the natural beauty that is all around.  But the loon population is threatened, and hangs in a delicate balance with changes in the environment and the effect of humans on the lakes where loons live.  Our friends at The Loon Center in Moultonborough are working to preserve the loon population, and they are inviting everyone to learn more and celebrate these water birds at their annual Loon Festival this weekend.

The 33^rd Annual Loon Festival takes place on Saturday, July 17^th from 10:00am to 2:00pm.  There will be something for everyone in the family, from crafts and children’s activities, to wildlife exhibits and slide presentations by loon biologists. Mr. Phil, Balloonologist Extraordinaire, will entertain everyone with his fun creations and banter, and Mrs. Phil will bring her creative face painting skills.  Play “Pin the Chick on the Loon” game or take the “Loon Facts” quiz and win a chance to “Dunk the Biologist” in the dunk tank!

The Loon Center will provide refreshments and live bluegrass music for a real party atmosphere, rain or shine!  Also on hand will be Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, who will feature their own Discovery Table.  Admission to the Loon Festival is free, so gather up some friends and head over to Moultonborough for a great cause!

Carrie Reed
The Mill Falls Blogging Team

Image credit: pmarkham at Flickr.com