A true peach of a place to stop

I’m not normally given to writing about specific accommodations; however, this post will be an exception. Like so many others, when we travel the highways and byways of the US and Canada, Marla and I are looking for a memorable place to eat and enjoy local ambiance. Several years ago, we discovered such a place in North Conway, New Hampshire, a once-quaint town whose appearance has been altered dramatically during the past several decades. Long ago, North Conway’s traditional character was subsumed by the influx of outlet stores. Over time, massive amounts of traffic supplanted the bucolic town and country roads. Soon, bargain shopping replaced sightseeing as the principal reason to visit the town. Despite the aforementioned metamorphosis, the Mount Washington Valley retains more than its share of quaint places, including one-of-a-kind shops, lodgings, and restaurants. And, yes, it provides one of the very best views of Mount Washington and the Presidentials, readily  observable from Route 16. But, I digress.

A recent meeting in North Conway, to visit old and new friends at the dynamic Glen Group, provided the opportunity to search through book shelves at the marvelous White Birch Bookstore, and to enjoy the wonderful food at Peach’s. While only in business for the last seven years, this little food establishment is already a regional classic. As a mom-and-pop place surrounded by a large range of family and franchise restaurants, Peach’s has succeeded where many others have failed. The reason for this is simple: they provide high quality, unusual breakfast and lunch fare, in a manner that makes guests feel we are sharing a meal in their kitchen. While I eschew the word ‘unique,’ I can report that the breakfasts I have experienced are like nothing else I’ve eaten–ANYWHERE. My new favorite is their occasional daily special: banana bread french toast served with bananas, strawberries, blueberries, a sprinkle of confectioners sugar, and a spritz of real whip cream. Oh, did I forget to mention the real maple syrup? All I can say is OMG.

If you’re looking for a lesson in this post, here it is. There are treasures to be found everywhere: small family motels, cottages, and b&bs; hole-in-the-wall restaurants; and crazy, cool roadside attractions. So, study websites like Roadside and Trip Advisor; then, get out there. But, one must stay the heck off of the interstates, or you’re doomed to a rubber stamp experience.