Oh lord...just typed a whole ton of info for you and my puter froze. Short version...
The Waybury Inn in Middlebury Vermont is charming as is the town...
I'd stay away from being actually in North Conway at that time of year unless they like traffic...with the outlet shopping there it gets VERY busy....but nearby Jackson NH has some very nice B&B's.
The Woodstock Inn in NH (North Woodstock) is lively with quieter houses across the street in an area that provides outstanding Moderate hiking that will lead them to fantastic views (Franconia notch area).
Warn them that if they're seeking foliage that Oct 10th-ish is peak (regardless of what the travel brochures may tell them). I lived in the White Mtns of NH for a number of years and cant tell you how many people were booked for "foliage" tours and vacations in the 3rd week of Oct thru the first week in Nov...and they were always disappointed to have missed it.
If they go to the Woodstock Inn...let me know and I'll make sure they get a nice room (I know the owners). (honestly...I like the Waybury Inn better(shhhh...dont tell)...but prefer the beauty of the Lincoln (Franconia) area and I love to hike there. If they like to hike and decide on that area...have them ask about hiking Bald Nob and Georgiana Falls (they'll have to get directions to the Georgiana trailhead...it can be tricky to find).
Wherever they go...I hope they have a good time.
