janiekins

Looking for a wonderful place to stay in Maine for 4 nights in August w/ hubby - have already been to Kennebunkport many times - any other suggestions for a great town on the coast - maybe Camden or someplace else? - any great resorts or Inns?

RSSmith

If you want a romantic and secluded getaway, stay at the Dark Harbor House on Islesboro. The inn is a beautifully restored 1890's "cottage" with a fantastic chef. The island is reached by ferry from Lincolnville (10 miles north of Camden) and is beautiful. No tacky tourist shops, McDonald's, etc., but also no nightlife, so it's not for everyone. If you like quiet walks along the beach, foraging at antique stores and book stores,etc., you will have a wonderful 4 days.

janiekins

Hi RSSmith - Have you ever stayed at at the Dark Harbor House? I have 4 nights to spend away - would it make sense to stay at Dark Harbor for 2 nights and then Camden for 2 nights or can you recommend something else? thank you for your help.

RSSmith

Yes, we've stayed there numerous times. We now have a home on the island and often have dinner at the Dark Harbor House when we visit. I think the combination of 2 nights in Camden and 2 nights on the island sounds good. I can't recommend any specific hotels in Camden but there are numerous luxury inns as well as nice B&Bs. Make time to visit Camden Hills State Park if you get a clear day - the views are spectacular. The best mainland restaurant in the region is probably Primo in Rockland, about 20 minutes south of Camden.

travelstheglobe

Acadia National Park in Maine without hesitation. There are countless numbers of beautiful towns on Mt. Desert Island. Just about 10 miles away from the hustle and bustle of touristy Bar Harbor, is the unspoiled and very charming hamlet of Northeast Harbor, home to some of the most extraordinary Summer Cottages. We overnighted at the lovely Maison Suisse Inn which is right in town and just a short walk from one of the most beautiful harbors you will ever see. Also fitting into the setting nicely is the delicious and atmospheric bistro, La Matta Cena, featuring foods from Tuscany. A noteworthy cypress tree lined, candlelit courtyard and rustic barn interior resembles the true Tuscan countryside experience. We sampled the signature grilled caesar salad which was flavorful with an exciting combination of temperatures and textures. We then moved on to the crostini platter which was an interesting combo of mix and match toppings including roasted fig and pomegranate tapenade served atop a crispy baguette spread with local goat cheese and finished with toasted pine nuts, and also a marvelous blend of tuscan white beans and roasted garlic puree and a zippy black and green olive tapenade. Dinner could not have been more outstanding. The ragu, a flavorful mix of braised duck, pork, beef, and lamb served over homemade tagliatelle pasta is the real thing and the remarkable pecan encrusted halibut with a wild mushroom glaze left us planning our next visit. The menu also features gelato made daily at the bistro and desserts including the popular tiramisu and the chocolate sausage with sweet ravioli.
The service was genuinely helpful and intelligent. The restaurant is just off Main Street and sits just behind the tiny and very interesting Maritime Museum. Next, we traveled over to Somesville just what you dreamed a picturesque village in Maine would resemble. We then head to Bass Harbor and Bernard where there is the most outstanding Loster Pound overlooking the harbor... go at night it is just so nice to hear the occasional boat putter into the harbor. Head to Southwest Harbor and into XYZ, a authentic Mexican restaurant none of this Tex-Mex stuff. They are on a private road in Manset just outside of SW Harbor. They are the best Mexican food we have had in the States. Don't miss the 7 chile chili!. Do spend a day kayaking on Little Long Pond, go to Dan Falt's artist studio in NE Harbor and paint with the kids (a unique and wonderful experience), go biking on the carriage roads in the park (NE Harbor has a bike rental), or take the mail boat to one of the outer islands and shell search. But go go go to Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park..You won't find a more beautiful or delicious destination in Maine!!!