Welcome to Stepping Stones Farm & Retreat Center
From the Owner: I love people and truly enjoy welcoming guests from near and far to our historic family farm. I grew up here, live onsite, and am proud to continue our third generation legacy of hospitality. We welcome people of all ages, backgrounds, identities, and orientations. We strive to make every stay at the Lodge inviting, safe, and comfortable.
The Lodge
Our rustic, hand hewn log Lodge comfortably accommodates up to 22 guests. The space is warm, welcoming, and thoughtfully equipped for groups and families.
Guests enjoy:
• Sparkling white linens in 10 guest rooms
• Clean Jack and Jill style bathrooms
• A well equipped kitchen
• Cut flowers on the table and farm fresh eggs
• A classic front porch made for rocking
• High speed internet and handicapped accessibility
It’s the perfect blend of old world charm and modern convenience.
The Farm
Surrounded by lawns, gardens, pastures, streams, dirt roads, and forests, the farm offers a true escape from a chaotic world. Our 28 acres are nestled within hundreds of acres of conserved land and feature:
• Open fields bordered by old growth forest
• A historic three story bank barn
• Riding rings and colonial farm buildings
• Peaceful scenery in every direction
Guests are welcome to stroll the grounds, splash in the pool, dine under the stars, or gather around the fire circle. Horses graze nearby, hens lay fresh eggs, and friendly goats add to the farm’s welcoming spirit. Seasonal pleasures include scenic walks, biking, fall foliage, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and horseback riding. Skiing and snowboarding is available at several mountains within easy driving distance.
A Place with History
Stepping Stones Farm has welcomed travelers since 1754. Stagecoaches once stopped here along the route from Boston to Montreal. The farm has long served as a gathering place for community and connection.
The Lodge itself was built in 1976 using hand hewn logs harvested on the property. Inside, cathedral ceilings, wrought iron chandeliers, and a grand fieldstone fireplace create a space ideal for families, friends, businesses, and retreat groups.
Location
While the farm feels wonderfully secluded, it’s easy to reach and close to local attractions:
• 1.5 hours from Boston/Logan Airport
• 45 minutes from Manchester Boston Regional Airport (MHT)
Nearby highlights include maple sugaring tours and treats at The Maple Station, fresh milk and ice cream at Connolly’s Dairy Farm, and the historic Frye’s Measure Mill Museum. Temple is the gateway to New Hampshire’s Monadnock Region, home to Mount Monadnock, Miller State Park, Temple Mountain, and a rich array of outdoor recreation, arts, dining, and New England history.
Gatherings & Retreats
Zoned rural and residential, the farm offers privacy and peace. Dogs are welcome.
We welcome gatherings of all kinds, including:
• Family reunions and friend get togethers
• Baby showers and milestone celebrations
• Lodging for weddings and celebrations of life
• Corporate & wellness retreats and workshops
Concierge services and AV equipment are available to support retreats and professional gatherings.
The Historic Bank Barn
Our iconic three story Bank Barn, the largest of its kind east of the Mississippi, evokes classic Currier & Ives charm.
The newly renovated second floor features:
• A lovely central aisle with twinkling lights
• A carriage and sleigh collection
• Flexible spaces for celebration, learning, and gathering
The Wisdom Horse Room is ideal for meetings, classes, yoga, meditation, workshops, and presentations. It is open, light filled, and equipped with internet access.
On Farm Experiences (Additional Fee)
Guests may enhance their stay with unique farm experiences, including:
• “Meet the Minis” – interact with horses and goats, hold a chicken, collect eggs
• Guided historic farm tours
• Unmounted equine experiential sessions- Wisdom Horse
• Horseback riding in the ring or on scenic dirt roads
With four outdoor rings, a large indoor arena, and miles of dirt roads, experiencing the farm on horseback is truly special.
Equine Vacation Stays
We now offer Equine Vacation Stays for riders and carriage drivers. Bring your own horse and enjoy uninterrupted, quality time together while riding or driving on our roads and rings with friends.
Outdoor Living
From spring through fall, guests can enjoy outdoor dining under twinkling lights, grilling, and evenings around the fire circle while listening to owls call at dusk. Wildlife sightings often include deer, pheasants, quail, partridge, and wild turkeys.
Plan Your Stay
All guests receive a detailed Welcome Packet with recommendations for caterers, babysitters and elder sitters, massage therapists, guided farm tours, and horseback riding to help you plan a memorable stay.
Stepping Stones Farm & Retreat Center is a place to breathe deeply, reconnect, and feel at home — a timeless New England sanctuary for rest, celebration, and community.