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In this region of Maine, beach activities take center stage, particularly during the summer months when the shores become bustling with visitors. However, in the off-season, these coastal gems often provide a serene and solitary experience. If you seek a reflective stroll along the sand, destinations like York, Ogunquit, and Wells offer scenic views that invite contemplation. For those who prefer a woodland experience, the Rachel Carson Nature Wildlife Refuge and the Cape Elizabeth Greenbelt provide accessible hiking options with beautiful scenery for walkers of all skill levels.
Portland, Maine’s largest city, is a culinary hotspot that serves as a gateway for food enthusiasts. Just a two-hour drive from Boston, the city boasts a population of only 69,000, yet it offers an exceptional variety of dining experiences. While Maine is known for its natural beauty and tranquil settings, skipping a visit to Portland would mean missing out on a vibrant cultural and culinary scene.
Your culinary adventure should start with a stop at Pot + Pan, a new bakery founded by women that specializes in low-dose edibles crafted by chefs. Their mini-Bundt cakes are a must-try. For accommodation, consider reserving a room at the contemporary Longfellow Hotel, conveniently located near many of the West End’s popular cafés and bakeries, as well as a spa featuring social sauna cabins perfect for groups. Another excellent choice nearby is Blind Tiger, nestled in a beautifully renovated Victorian home. If you’re planning an extended stay, the Weldon Hotel offers spacious apartment-style accommodations, ideal for longer visits that allow a deeper exploration of the city.
Dining in Portland is a treat, as the city consistently garners accolades from gourmet circles, including frequent mentions in James Beard nominations. Notable eateries include Sur Lie for a variety of shareable small plates, Twelve, led by chef Colin Wyatt of Eleven Madison Park fame, and Eventide Oyster Co. for lobster rolls and fresh oysters. For inventive Vietnamese cuisine, look no further than Cong Tu Bot, while Ocotillo serves up delicious Mexican fare. Don’t miss the wood-fired dishes at Fore Street. If you’re planning a return in June 2025 or later, be sure to dine at Dry Dock, a beloved seafood tavern from the 1980s that is set to reopen after closing in 2018, stirring excitement among local patrons.
Before departing from Portland, stop by Zubakery for indulgent monkey bread or rich chocolate croissants, as the bakery’s renowned status earned it the 2024 James Beard Award for Outstanding Bakery. Should you wish to stretch your legs before your journey, the Presumpscot River Preserve, located near Falmouth, features 60 acres of tranquil trails that transform from bustling roads to peaceful woodlands in no time.
Exploring the Mid-Coast: Where Mountains and Sea Converge
The mid-coast region exemplifies the quintessential Maine experience, with endless forests, rugged coastlines, and highlights such as the L.L.Bean flagship store in Freeport, famously open 24/7. Although currently renovating, it still offers reduced hours for eager shoppers. The landscape here is markedly different from the South Coast, featuring more mountainous terrain and windy vistas, creating countless opportunities for exploration. One could easily spend an entire week road-tripping through this enchanting area without seeing the same sights twice.
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www.cntraveler.com