Under the eaves

Some of the most blissful, romantic lodgings in New England are on working or former farms. Generally, the lodgings are in the farmhouse; be it a humble, woodframe abode or the Georgian mansion of a gentleman farmer. Occasionally, the bed and breakfast is in a former barn, one that has been remodeled and gussied up, but that still maintains a country ambience. If you comb the pages of local author Bernice Chesler's "Bed and Breakfast in New England," the classic guide now in its sixth edition, you'll find a slew of lodgings that fit these categories. In some settings, visitors can participate in farm life. In others, the clientele is unaware of the relationship between cow and camembert, and wishes to keep it that way.

Bungay Jar Bed & Breakfast Location: Easton Valley Road, Box 15, Franconia, N.H. Phone: 603-823-7775 or 1-800-421-0701. E-mail: [email protected]. Website: www.bungayjar.com. Get directions

Speaking of which, Bungay Jar in Franconia, N.H., is a barn in the way French champagne is a drink. More than 30 years ago, an 18th-century post and beam barn was moved to this small White Mountain town. The barn became the armature for what is today a luxurious three story barn-lodging with six suites and a cottage that overlook lavish gardens, including labeled perennials and antique roses. Bungay features a small library, sauna, two-storied fireplaced living room, and decks with views of the White Mountains's Kinsman Range, part of the Appalachian Trail.

Multiple cats and dogs are on the premises, as well as horses and llamas, which occupy their own barn.

Published in the Boston Globe Calendar's 1999 Wandering New England issue.