The Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee Region covers the west-central portion of the state. The region is named after two local landmarks: Dartmouth College in Hanover, and Lake Sunapee in the towns of Newbury, Sunapee, and New London. The towns along the Connecticut River, along with the adjoining towns across the river in Vermont, are also known as the Upper Valley. The region is known for its many cultural and educational institutions, and for a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities.