Exposed Beams - Papa Bear Cottage on Squam Lake | Cottage in Holderness

Lovingly known as "Papa Bear", this rustic cabin was built in the late 1940s and features exposed beams, and a cozy, studio-style layout that sleeps 2-4 guests. The sleeping areas include a full-size bed in the bedroom area, plus a full-size futon in the living space. The cottage offers a small efficiency kitchen with a stove, oven, fridge, microwave, coffee maker, basic cooking and serving utensils, along with a stall shower in the enclosed bathroom.
Papa Bear is a 3-season cottage. While it does not have built-in heat or air conditioning, it is equipped with a large windows, a large ceiling fan, and several tabletop fans to help you enjoy the beautiful lakeside air and a heated blanket to keep you cozy at night.
Papa Bear parking is adjacent to the cottage, with a slight, unpaved, uneven uphill path and several steps to the entrance (please see photo). Navigating this path unassisted is necessary to access the cottage, and this cottage may not be suitable for those with mobility concerns. This cabin is near the base of our property - closer to the water, but also closer to the road - so you can expect a small amount of road noise along with the gentle calls of nearby loons.
Outside, Papa Bear offers a small natural deck area with a table and chairs, plus a charcoal grill for guest use. Charcoal and basic supplies are provided, but availability may vary based upon prior use. We ask that you leave the grill reasonably clean for the next family, and replace what is used.
Our Laughing Bear Beach & Dock is a shared lakefront area used by guests and is just across the street. It is perfect for swimming, paddling, fishing, or relaxing by the water. Please note that this is a shared family property, and guests may see other families during their stay. Dock space is available for a small daily fee and is reserved on a first-requested basis for guests bringing or renting a boat.
Additionally, guests have access to 2 single kayaks and fishing poles. Please be sure sure to bring your own beach towels. Also - We love our furry friends! 1 pet is allowed per week to allow everyone to have a fun and relaxing trip. When contacting us about your reservation, please ask if we have availability that week for pets.
The area has limited cell service, however our property has great wifi located throughout.
Within walking distance of the town of Holderness, you are steps away from delicious award-winning eateries, cafes, and the cutest local library you're ever going to visit.
Year-Round Location Highlights:
- Our privately owned beach and dock area offers swimming, paddling, and fishing access.
- Nestled along scenic Route 113 – perfect for summer drives & autumn leaf-peeping
- Steps away from breathtaking foliage views in the fall (reflecting off of Squam Lake, while Loons call in the distance is something to experience!)
- Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion (concert venue) - 16 miles
Please note: Exterior security cameras are installed in shared outdoor areas, including parking and utility spaces, for property safety. No cameras monitor interior or private guest areas.

Exposed Beams - Papa Bear Cottage on Squam Lake is located in Holderness. Exposed Beams - Papa Bear Cottage on Squam Lake provides accommodation, featuring Pet Friendly, Security/Safety, Barbecue/Outdoor Cooking, among other amenities. This Cottage features Pet Friendly, Security and Barbecue to make your stay a comfortable one.

Exposed Beams - Papa Bear Cottage on Squam Lake has 2 Bedrooms , 1 Bathroom, and max occupancy of 4 people. The minimum rental for this property is 1 nights, but this can change depending on the season you plan on staying. Previous guests have given good rated it, and VRBO labeled it a top-rated Cottage because of the excellent services rendered by the owner or manager of this Cottage, and has consistently provided great experiences for their guests. Most families or guests that use it recommend it to their friends and some of them are repeat guests. Cottage has a friendly neighborhood, and the Holderness has interesting places to visit. If you want to learn more about the Cottage in Holderness, such as places to visit and things to do nearby, you can check below to learn more.