Maine is a stunning state consisting largely of wilderness and open land that offers beauty every season all year long. The cold weather and short days can be a bit of a deterrent for some travelers during the winter months, but now that Maine's summer season is fast approaching, why not plan a trip to explore the state's vast scenic beauty, rich history and cultural offerings? We've rounded up three historic bed and breakfasts that will provide the perfect temporary home away from home while you explore Maine's rugged coastlines and vibrant waterfront towns.
History and modern luxury converge seamlessly at the Berry Manor Inn, a romantic bed and breakfast located in Rockland, Maine built in 1898. The intimate inn offers 12 guest rooms each highlighting the vintage architectural charm of the building while providing all of the modern conveniences any discerning traveler would need--including their famous pies made in-house. Every morning breakfast is made to order for each guest and consists of a delicious and seasonal sweet and savory combination.
After fueling up on breakfast, guests can explore Rockland, which was named "The Top Adventure Town in Maine to Live and Play" in 2007 and 2010 by National Geographic due to its many outdoor activities and cultural events. Rockland has also gained the reputation of being one of the country's top "foodie" destinations, earning the distinction of "Pie Town" by celebrity chef Bobby Flay from the Food Network when he came to town for a pie cook-off, which featured the Berry Manor Inn's local baking legends, "The Pie Moms". Regardless of what brings travelers to the inn, they will be sure to enjoy the area's lighthouses, world-famous lobsters, renowned museums, and year-round outdoor activities as they savor the flavors, arts, and adventures of Mid-coast Maine.
Photos courtesy of Jumping Rocks Photography
Built in 1812, Captain Lord Mansion is situated in a quiet residential neighborhood at the head of a sloping village green, overlooking the Kennebunk River ensuring quiet and tranquility during your stay. The inn offers 20 large luxurious guest rooms each with their own soothing design aesthetic in addition to having an on-site day spa where guests can indulge in facials and massages for extra pampering. A hearty 3-course breakfast is served in the dining room each morning made from the freshest local and seasonal ingredients to get you fueled for your day ahead.
Despite the peaceful location, guests can walk to the historic village of Kennebunkport to explore all of its shops, galleries, and restaurants. For guests who want to take advantage of Maine's legendary outdoors and adventure, the inn is a short walk away from activities like sailing, canoeing, kayaking, whale watches, beaches, as well as bicycling, golf, and tennis. Captain Lord Mansion has been owned and operated by the same family native to the region for over 30 years--so don't hesitate to tap into their local knowledge on where to kayak, the perfect spot for a romantic picnic, where to see seals or bald eagles in the wild, or how to find your own private beach.
Photos courtesy of JaggerFoto.com
Belfast Bay Inn (Belfast, ME)
Belfast Bay Inn is a charming boutique bed and breakfast located on Main Street in the heart of Belfast, Maine steps away from the waterfront that has amazing galleries, restaurants, shops, and more to explore. Built in 1850, this historic inn is located in a quiet little city by the ocean and near some of the finest stretches of scenic coastline in Maine. The inn offers 8 guest suites ranging from 500-1000 square feet ensuring you have ample space during your stay and feature vintage architectural details like exposed brick walls and original hardwood floors. Some of the suites feature harbor views, gas fireplaces and balconies and all of the rooms offer the ultimate in romance, relaxation, and luxury.
Each morning guests have the option to have breakfast served in their suite or if weather permits to eat in the inn's Garden Courtyard. Belfast, Maine offers the perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you, outdoor adventures, great dining and is situated about an hour and half from Bar Harbor and roughly a half hour away from Camden. No matter what guests choose to do (or not do) this elegant inn is the perfect temporary home base for your visit to the region.
Photos courtesy of Belfast Bay Inn
Disclosure: All of the above inns and many other historic travel destinations can be found on our website.