The NASWA Resort: A Family’s Legacy, 90 Years in the Making

Nestled on the tranquil shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, The NASWA Resort in Laconia, New Hampshire, is more than a destination—it’s a name steeped in history, rooted in tradition, and woven into the very fabric of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. This year, the resort celebrates its remarkable 90th anniversary—an extraordinary milestone made even more special by the centennial year of its beloved matriarch, Hope Makris, whose life and leadership are deeply intertwined with the resort’s enduring legacy.

Humble Beginnings and a Vision for Hospitality

The NASWA story began in 1935 when Jim and Fannie Salta, immigrants from Lesbos, Greece, discovered a pristine natural spring while exploring a rocky hillside near Weirs Beach, a growing tourist destination. Their discovery proved serendipitous—the spring water tested 100% pure, leading the couple to establish the Natural Spring Water Company.

With their entrepreneurial spirit, Jim and Fannie expanded their offerings, selling the spring water alongside homemade baked beans, prepared in an outdoor oven and served at their general store. Recognizing a growing demand for accommodations in the area, they added five one-room cabins in 1936 and named them the NASWA Spring Water Cabins, after their burgeoning spring water enterprise.

From the beginning, the Saltas emphasized family, community, and hospitality. Jim and Fannie raised their children on the beautiful property, planting the seeds for a multi-generational family business that continues to thrive today. The Greek tradition of ‘philoxenia’—meaning ‘friend of the stranger’—was at the heart of their approach to hospitality, treating every guest as a cherished friend.

Growth and Expansion: From Cabins to a Resort

In the 1940s, Jim and Fannie Salta expanded their vision for The NASWA by purchasing a prized waterfront parcel along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. Recognizing the growing demand for lakeside accommodations, they began building additional cabins to create a retreat where guests could experience the beauty of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region up close. These initial expansions laid the groundwork for what would become a beloved lakeside destination.

By the 1950s, their son-in-law Peter Makris, a man known for his larger-than-life personality and lovingly called the “Big Kahuna,” joined the family business. Peter brought his passion for hospitality and craftsmanship to the forefront, constructing many of the charming lakeside cottages that still welcome guests today. His influence extended well beyond construction. For 56 years, he took house guests on complimentary boat rides on Lake Winnipesaukee, often accompanied by his dog, Agape, creating cherished traditions that guests still talk about today.

As the tourism boom of the mid-20th century swept through Laconia, The NASWA evolved to meet the moment. Its prime location, visible from the bustling Weirs Beach area and along major travel routes, made it a natural destination for vacationers. To reflect its transformation from a collection of cabins into a larger, more accessible property, the name was updated to the NASWA Motor Inn, capturing the convenience and excitement of the era’s travel culture.

But the evolution didn’t stop there. Peter and Hope Makris, Jim and Fannie’s daughter, worked tirelessly to elevate the guest experience. They introduced dining options, entertainment venues, and modern amenities that added new dimensions to the property. These additions transformed The NASWA into more than just a place to stay—it became a full-service resort, a haven where guests could enjoy fine dining at the Blue Bistro, casual lakeside dining at the NazBar & Grill, and vibrant social gatherings.

The next chapter of The NASWA’s story came with a new name: The NASWA Resort, reflecting the property’s status as one of Lake Winnipesaukee’s premier destinations. Throughout these changes, Peter’s energy and leadership left an indelible mark. Known for his warm welcomes, tireless work ethic, and community involvement, the “Big Kahuna” became the face of the resort, embodying the spirit of hospitality that continues to define The NASWA to this day.

From its humble beginnings as a spring water company to its evolution into a beloved resort, The NASWA’s story is a testament to the vision, dedication, and love of the Salta and Makris families. As the resort celebrates 90 years, it remains a shining example of how hospitality, when rooted in family values and tradition, can create a legacy that endures for generations.

Hope Makris: The Matriarch of New Hampshire Hospitality

Ask anyone in the Lakes Region, and they’ll tell you that Hope Makris is nothing short of a legend. For more than six decades, she and her late husband, Peter Makris, were the heart and soul of The NASWA Resort. Together, they raised their three daughters—Karen, Victoria, and Cynthia—on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, with the resort serving as both home and an extended playground. The girls grew up immersed in the rhythm of hospitality, watching their parents pour their hearts into every detail, from warmly greeting guests to spearheading expansions that kept the property fresh, vibrant, and ahead of its time.

Hope’s journey in hospitality began long before she became the matriarch of The NASWA. As the daughter of Jim and Fannie Salta, immigrants from Lesbos, Greece, Hope learned the Greek tradition of ‘philoxenia’—treating strangers as friends—at an early age. She graduated from the University of New Hampshire in 1946, during a time when the campus was predominantly female due to World War II. Hope followed her father’s guidance to find a husband who could support her in running the resort, leading her to meet Peter Makris, a Marine veteran and law student whose partnership with Hope would shape The NASWA’s future.

Even after Peter’s passing in 2007, Hope’s unwavering dedication kept the family’s vision alive. Known affectionately as the “Matriarch of Hospitality in New Hampshire,” Hope has left an indelible mark not only on The NASWA but also on the entire Lakes Region. Her commitment to excellence, deep sense of community, and passion for creating unforgettable guest experiences have set the gold standard for hospitality in the area.

Hope’s influence at The NASWA extended beyond management. When the resort transitioned to a computerized reservation system, Hope reinvented herself as a self-taught pastry chef. Her desserts, including the iconic carrot cake, ‘Tommy Bahama Cake,’ and key lime pie, became the stars of the Blue Bistro’s menu. She could often be found in the restaurant, sharing stories and connecting with guests, her warmth adding a personal touch that made each visit special.

Now, as Hope celebrates her 100th year, her legacy shines brighter than ever. Her century of life mirrors the story of The NASWA itself—one of resilience, growth, and an enduring commitment to bringing people together. Her influence is felt in every corner of the resort, from the warm welcomes extended to guests to the enduring traditions that make The NASWA a home away from home for generations of families. It’s not just her age that makes Hope extraordinary; it’s the timeless values she’s instilled in her family, her team, and the countless visitors who return year after year.

Through her leadership, Hope has ensured that The NASWA remains not just a resort but a living testament to what hospitality should be: personal, welcoming, and unforgettable.

Cynthia Makris: Carrying the Torch Forward

Cynthia Makris, the third-generation owner of The NASWA Resort, has dedicated her life to preserving and enhancing her family’s legacy. Growing up at the resort, Cynthia was immersed in the rhythms of hospitality from a young age. She often describes her upbringing as a blend of ‘Dirty Dancing,’ ‘Hotel New Hampshire,’ and ‘The Addams Family’—a mix of tradition, adventure, and a little bit of quirkiness.

In 1981, inspired by her travels to the Caribbean, Cynthia opened the NazBar, securing the first outdoor liquor license in New Hampshire. Her vision transformed the resort’s lakeside experience, bringing a relaxed, tropical vibe that complemented the resort’s welcoming atmosphere. Cynthia’s influence extended further as she rebranded the resort’s main restaurant as the Blue Bistro, apprenticed under a renowned Boston chef, and introduced fine dining to the property.

Cynthia continues to lead The NASWA with the same spirit of ‘philoxenia’ that her grandparents established nearly a century ago. Her leadership ensures the resort remains a cherished destination for returning guests while also attracting new visitors with its blend of traditional hospitality and modern amenities.

Looking to the Future

As The NASWA celebrates its remarkable 90th anniversary, it stands at a crossroads where tradition meets innovation, honoring its storied past while embracing the opportunities of tomorrow. The Makris family remains unwavering in their mission: “Treat every guest like family.” This simple yet profound philosophy continues to guide every decision, ensuring that The NASWA stays true to its roots even as it evolves to meet the desires of a new generation of travelers.

Today’s guests, especially those discovering The NASWA for the first time, aren’t just looking for a place to stay—they’re seeking something unique, something unforgettable. They want experiences that stand apart from the cookie-cutter hotels or predictable destinations that can be found anywhere. At The NASWA, they find more than a resort—they find a sense of place, where the shimmering waters of Lake Winnipesaukee meet the rich legacy of a family who has poured their hearts into creating something truly special.

For returning guests, The NASWA is a tradition, a home away from home where childhood memories are relived and new ones are made. For newcomers, it’s a revelation—a place that offers the warmth of old-world hospitality blended with the charm and excitement of modern amenities, lively events, and unparalleled lakeside experiences. Whether it’s lounging on the private beach, dining at the iconic Blue Bistro or NazBar & Grill, or discovering the history woven into every corner of the property, there’s something magical about The NASWA that keeps people coming back.

As the property is introduced to younger generations, who value authenticity and meaningful connections, The NASWA offers a chance to step out of the ordinary and into a world that feels both timeless and fresh. These travelers are drawn to the resort not just for its location but for its soul—the stories, the traditions, and the people who make every visit a personal and enriching experience.

So, as we raise a glass to 90 years of memories and celebrate the incredible legacy of Hope Makris at 100, we do so with excitement for what’s still to come. The NASWA Resort’s story is far from over—it’s entering a new chapter, one that promises to preserve its heritage while inviting new generations to write their own part of the story. Here’s to the future, where the past and present collide in the best possible way, and where The NASWA continues to shine as a cornerstone of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region.