This is a Guest post from Noella Schink - who is a travel writer from Portland, Maine, a New England city she wouldn’t trade for the world. She loves to get away from it all with a night at a luxury hotel, inn or B&B whenever she can, and then delights in writing about her experiences!
Nowhere else in the country ~
Offers the idyllic charm of a New England Inn:
Maple Hill Farm Inn —11 Inn Road, Hallowell, Maine This renovated farm house just outside of Augusta boasts a working farm, hundreds of acres of nature trails and the biggest solar array in the state!
You’ll love the outdoor Jacuzzi and sauna after a “tough day” of relaxing in your plush room (outfitted with flat screen TV, DVD player and artfully chosen antiques).
There is a common kitchen area where you’ll always be greeted with fresh baked goods and coffee, as well as “the pub,” a cozy nook perfect for a nightcap, chatting with new friends or watching the Red Sox game. Touted as the one of the best inns in Maine many years running, owners Scott Cowger and Vince Hannan really go above and beyond in their attention to detail. Maple Hill Farm is a welcome relief from the chaos and bustle that takes over the coastal region every summer.
The Wentworth Inn —1 Carter Notch Road, Jackson Village, New Hampshire An impeccable example of the heyday of New England resorts, the Wentworth Inn is truly grand, in traditional European style. There are smoking and billiard saloons, a gilded ballroom and luxuriously appointed bedrooms with cozy crackling fireplaces, all tucked in the picturesque White Mountains of New Hampshire. Wildcat Ski area is right down the road for the adventuresome types, or if it’s summertime, you can make use of the miles of serene, wooded hiking trails around Jackson village or the award winning 18 hole golf course. Dinner at the onsite restaurant will tickle even the most discerning palate, as Chef Brian Gazda is prestigiously trained and focused on locally sourcing almost all of his ingredients.
Three Stanley Avenue —3 Stanley Avenue, Kingfield, Maine Perfect for a quaint, romantic escape, Three Stanley Avenue will transport you back to a simpler time. Built in 1900 by the younger brother of the Stanley Steamer twins, the inn has simple Victorian décor, luxurious clawfoot tubs but no televisions! Stroll down the charming Main Street of Kingfield, relax in the gazebo or enjoy a world class “Maine Cuisine” meal at the restaurant next door, aptly named One Stanley Avenue. Tucked in the shadow of Sugarloaf Mountain, it’s the perfect accommodation if you want to ski during the day and then come home to peace and quiet at night. You’ll love the unfussy attitude of the locals and the warm hospitality of owner Dan Davis, who has worked as executive chef and innkeeper since 1972.
Captain’s House Inn —369-377 Old Harbor Road, Chatham, Massachusetts Built in 1839, this famous B&B is a Cape Cod staple. Touted as one of the top ten most romantic inns in the country, its luxe amenities and impeccable service are second to none. The Greek revival style house is surrounded by peaceful gardens, winding walking trails and that sought after fresh sea air. You’ll be charmed by the quaint furnishings, working fireplaces, flowery wallpaper and old-school atmosphere within. Lounge in an Adirondack chair in the sunny yard, challenge your companions to a game of croquet or make for the waterfront where scenic cruises along the coast are the perfect vantage point for admiring Cape Cod. Just make sure you’re back in time for full English tea in the afternoon!
The Mayflower Inn —118 Woodbury Road, Washington, Connecticut This seemingly idyllic country inn offers more than meets the eye. Pamper yourself with a full menu of decadent spa treatments, dine in elegance worthy of the Hamptons yet still enjoy the tranquil New England location. The property’s guest suites offer four poster beds, cushy lounges and even an al fresco terrace overlooking the garden. The nearby Steep Rock Nature Preserve is a beautiful area of walking trails, bird watching and natural serenity, or if you prefer more active days, you can kayak or canoe along the Shepaug River. End your day with an artfully crafted meal of fresh local produce and even fresher seafood in the award winning dining room.