📍 Location & Geography
Sunapee is a charming town located in Sullivan County, New Hampshire, United States. It is nestled in the western part of the state, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. The town is named after Lake Sunapee, a significant feature of the region, and is bordered by the towns of Newbury, New London, Springfield, Goshen, and Newport.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Sunapee, New Hampshire, are approximately 43.39 degrees north latitude and 72.09 degrees west longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Sunapee is situated in the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee region of New Hampshire. The town covers a total area of about 25.2 square miles (65.3 km²), of which 22.2 square miles (57.5 km²) is land and 3.0 square miles (7.8 km²), or 11.94%, is water, primarily Lake Sunapee.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 U.S. Census, the population of Sunapee was approximately 3,365 people. The demographic makeup is predominantly White, with a small percentage of the population being of Hispanic, Asian, African American, and other ethnic backgrounds. The median age in the town is around 49 years, indicating a slightly older population.
🏛️ History
The town of Sunapee was incorporated in 1781. It was originally inhabited by the Pennacook and Abenaki tribes, who named the area “Sunapee” meaning “Goose Lake” in the Algonquin language. The town was a popular summer resort area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with visitors attracted to the natural beauty of Lake Sunapee.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Sunapee is renowned for its natural beauty, with Lake Sunapee being a major attraction. The lake is surrounded by three towns, including Sunapee, and is the fifth-largest lake located entirely in New Hampshire. The town is also home to Mount Sunapee State Park, which offers year-round activities, from swimming and boating in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
🏫 Education
Sunapee is served by the Sunapee School District, which includes Sunapee Central School for grades K-5 and Sunapee Middle High School for grades 6-12. The schools are known for their small class sizes and strong community support. There are also several colleges and universities within a short driving distance, including Dartmouth College and Colby-Sawyer College.
🚧 Transportation
The primary mode of transportation in Sunapee is by car, with New Hampshire Route 11 and New Hampshire Route 103 being the main roads serving the town. The nearest airport is Lebanon Municipal Airport, located about 27 miles to the northwest. Public transportation options are limited, although the town is served by a few regional bus lines.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every summer, Sunapee hosts the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen’s Fair, one of the oldest and most prestigious craft fairs in the country. The town is also known for the Sunapee Harbor, a lively spot with shops, restaurants, and boat tours. Additionally, Sunapee is home to the Flanders Stage, where free concerts are held during the summer months.