SANDPOINT - Bonner County is already well-known among folks around the country as a prime spot to rest after a hard life's work.

Now that reputation has spread even further.

"Where To Retire," a nationwide magazine that assists individuals in selecting a retirement location, will feature Sandpoint in its upcoming June 19 issue. In a feature entitled "Laid-back Lakeside Living," the magazine staff list out the many qualities that make Sandpoint a popular destination for retirees seeking an exciting location to spend their twilight years. In addition to Sandpoint, the magazine also examines seven other towns known for their great lakeside locations - Traverse City, Mich., Lake of the Ozarks, Mo., Murray, Ky., Gainesville, Ga., Granbury, Texas, Lake Tahoe, Calif. and Nev. and Lake Havasu City, Ariz.

"While our eight featured towns share many similarities, including proximity to health-care services, shopping and entertainment, they vary greatly in climate and setting - from mountains to the desert," said Mary Lu Abbott, editor of "Where To Retire."

According to Abbott, lakeside towns are a big draw for the recently retired. After all, the geographical feature offers both a natural beauty and a ready-made source of fun.

"Lakeside communities, such as Sandpoint, offer retirees a laid-back lifestyle away from big-city hassles and with all the recreational perks of water access," Abbott said.

Of course, Sandpoint has plenty of other advantages that make it popular with migrating seniors. As a mountain town, the landscape, woods, wildlife and trails are all big bonuses as well. According to Abbott, towns centered around inland lakes also tend to be more affordable than coastal communities.

Individuals seeking a pleasant retirement location usually bring more to their new community besides themselves. Abbott said the 700,000 individuals a year seeking a new residents for their retirement tend to be healthier, better educated and more financial affluent. That means they can have a lot to contribute to the local economy and community.