The Margate Resort

This lakefront property is highly regarded for its picturesque setting directly on the water, offering stunning views and a private beach area that serves as a memorable backdrop for weddings and special events. Many guests appreciate the ongoing renovations that have modernized parts of the hotel, contributing to a pleasant stay. The attentive and friendly staff consistently receive praise for their helpfulness and accommodating nature. This destination is particularly well-suited for families seeking a fun-filled getaway with various activities, wedding guests enjoying the convenience of on-site festivities, and concert-goers due to its proximity to local venues. To enhance your experience, it is advisable to request a renovated room in the main building to ensure direct access to amenities and to be aware that some facilities operate seasonally.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently highlight the impressive indoor pool, often described as large, clean, and heated, providing a great space for relaxation and fun, though some found the water cloudy or the pool small. The hot tub and sauna are also popular features for unwinding. The main building's lobby is noted for its inviting atmosphere, complete with a fireplace and comfortable lounge areas, often offering complimentary coffee. A convenient tunnel connects the rooms to the main building, which is especially appreciated during colder weather. While most rooms include an oversized mini-fridge and a coffee maker, some guests noted the absence of a hairdryer or microwave. Feedback on Wi-Fi quality is mixed, with some finding it slow, and the game room is often reported as closed or very small.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally receives high marks for its cleanliness, with many guests describing rooms and common areas as spotless and immaculate. Most guests find the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though a minority reported them as too firm or squeaky, suggesting some mattresses may need updating. While many rooms have been renovated with modern decor and easy-to-clean flooring, some older sections are described as dated, with peeling wallpaper, worn carpets, or small televisions. Noise levels vary; some guests experienced quiet stays, while others noted thin walls leading to noise from corridors or neighboring rooms. Bathrooms are generally clean, but some are small, lacking counter space, towel bars, or hooks, and a few guests reported issues with shower curtains or water temperature.

Dining & Food Quality
The beach bar and Tiki bar are standout features, offering a vibrant atmosphere with great lake views, delicious food, and top-notch service, including servers who take orders directly on the beach. However, these outdoor dining options, along with the main restaurant and breakfast buffet, are frequently closed during the off-season, which disappoints many guests. When available, the breakfast buffet is often praised for its variety and quality, with some highlighting the omelette station, though a few guests found it overpriced or the food cold. Some guests expressed frustration that no complimentary breakfast is offered, and that the limited dining options during certain periods necessitate seeking meals off-site.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's prime location directly on Lake Winnipesaukee is a major draw, offering immediate access to a private beach and stunning water views. It is conveniently situated near popular attractions such as Weirs Beach, Gunstock Mountain, and the Bank of NH Pavilion, making it ideal for various activities. A large supermarket is also located directly across the street, providing easy access to necessities. However, a significant point of contention for many guests is the presence of an "Inn" building located across a busy road from the main resort. Guests often book expecting a lakeside room and are disappointed to find themselves in the Inn, requiring them to cross the road to access most amenities, which can be challenging due to the lack of a crosswalk.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and accommodating nature. Guests frequently mention positive interactions with front desk personnel, who are described as welcoming and efficient during check-in. Many appreciate the staff's willingness to assist with requests, such as moving rooms or providing extra towels promptly. However, feedback regarding housekeeping is mixed; while some found it responsive when requested, many guests reported a lack of daily room servicing unless specifically called for, leading to frustration over unmade beds or unemptied trash. Despite these inconsistencies, the overall sentiment is that the staff strives to provide excellent service, particularly in handling guest concerns and special events like weddings.

Additional Information
A recurring theme in guest feedback is the impact of seasonal closures on various amenities, including restaurants, bars, and the game room, which can significantly alter the guest experience, especially for those visiting outside of peak summer months. The hotel is a very popular wedding venue, hosting multiple events simultaneously, which can sometimes lead to increased noise levels from festivities or private parties closing off certain areas for other guests. While renovations are ongoing and have greatly improved some rooms, guests should be aware that older, unrenovated rooms still exist and may not meet modern expectations. Some guests also noted specific policies, such as restrictions on bringing outside alcohol or coolers to the beach area, which can be a point of contention.