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Posts Tagged ‘outdoor activities’

Favorite Things About Kennebunkport Maine

May 11th, 2013 by mainestayinn

So while last night’s surprise thunderstorms sidelined my plans for some outdoor fun, a day like today reminded me of some of my favorite things about Kennebunkport Maine.  Now, we all know that there are way too many amazing things about this seaside town, so I will do my darnedest to keep this list reasonable.  But since I am making this a short one, apologies if I left anyone else’s faves off!

  • The beach –  Whenever.  No seriously, in rain or shine, snow covered or so-hot-you-could-fry-an-egg, the Kennebunkport Maine beaches are incredible.  Mother nature does such a wonderful job at keeping the coastline exciting, and making sure that you can never get bored looking at it!  But fortunately for us, the variety of beaches and coastline in and around town has something for everyone – secluded stretches of
    How could you not love this coastline?!

    How could you not love this coastline?!

    sandy beach, classic rocky Maine coast, slips of waterfront meandering through our quaint village, and even beaches with wide paved paths for those who want to enjoy the ocean without dealing with the sand.  Plus, unlike many vacation destinations, you can head there on foot from the Maine Stay Inn or by car and not worry about parking – we’ve got plenty!

  • The food – Most of you know that enjoying great culinary creations is one of my favorite past times, and fortunately for me, Kennebunkport Maine has eateries that can compete with those from any big city.  So whether you’re craving a simple boiled lobster or a stunning five-star tasting menu, we’ve got you covered. Yum!
  • The shops – It makes sense that my two favorite kinds of shopping are for food and room decor, but that doesn’t do me much good come Christmas and birthday time.  Fortunately  Kennebunkport Maine makes it so easy for me!  The amazing mix of stores in Dock Square means that I can find almost anything for that perfect gift.  On the rare occasion when I can’t, I know that I’ve got two world-class Outlet centers barely a half hour away!
  • The outdoor fun – If there’s anything I love more than food, it’s playing outside.  So whether it’s enjoying cross country skiing and horse-drawn sleigh riding in the winter or hiking, biking and running in the summer, I am in.  Over the past few years, the amount of conservation land in and around Kennebunkport Maine has just exploded, which means that there are about a gagillion options for peaceful and pristine outdoor activities.

I could go on all night about why I love this town, but you’ll just have to come and explore Kennebunkport Maine for yourself!

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Hiking “The Secret Garden” in Kennebunkport Maine

April 29th, 2013 by mainestayinn

As you may know, getting outdoors (no matter the season!) is one of my absolute favorite past times, so when I learned about “The Secret Garden” just over the border from Kennebunkport Maine, I just had to find it.  But after a little bit of research about this hidden gem, I worried that it could potentially be a bit mucky.  And with springtime often associated with “mud season” from the melting snow and showers that bring May flowers the concern was

Hiking the Secret Garden!

Hiking the Secret Garden!

real, as this wooded trail features countless bubbling brooks and pretty streams.  Even the recent stretch of warmer weather and sunny days, some of the soil was a bit soggy, but considering the fact that the last piles of snow have just barely melted, it was to be expected.  I just should have planned my footwear better!  So this weekend, I snuck away from the Maine Stay Inn for a little while to take advantage of the incredible weather to finally go exploring.

Now, I probably run/drive/bike by the Port Road cemetery on a daily basis, but I had never considered that acres of conservation land might lay behind the rows of historic headstones.  And while traversing a cemetery might give some the heeby-geebies, on a such a gorgeous day, there was nothing creepy about it.  So I turned into the main gates and at the far side found a small parking area (it wasn’t large enough to call it a “lot’”).  Leading into the woods, I found a large sign telling me that I was on the right track.  The walk was nothing but spectacular, as the sunshine filtered through the budding trees.  The Kennebunk Land Trust lists the trail as being a 1.5 mile loop, but it felt like more – either because of the challenge of uneven terrain or because I was just enjoying the scenery or both!  To cross boggy areas or the multiple streams, the Trust has built sturdy elevated paths and small bridges to keep you dry.  And while this preserve doesn’t offer a storybook garden with a hidden door like I imagined, it really is a quiet escape.  Best of all, thanks to brand new sidewalks, “The Secret Garden” is an easy walk from Kennebunkport Maine!

 

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Celebrating Earth Day In Kennebunkport Maine

April 22nd, 2013 by mainestayinn

It only seems appropriate to celebrate Earth Day by exploring the seemingly endless acres of conservation land in and around Kennebunkport Maine.  We are so fortunate that for the last several decades folks in the area have been working to preserve some stunning parcels of land for all of us to enjoy.  That means that in addition to miles of scenic coastline and sandy beaches, locals and visitors alike have many other peaceful locations to enjoy

A secluded stretch of coastline

A secluded stretch of coastline

the nature and wildlife of Southern Maine.  As many of you know, one of our most favorite destinations is Laudholm Farm at the Wells Reserve.  With about 1700 acres of federally protected land and 7 miles of trails, you have the unique opportunity to explore estuaries, wooded areas, fields, and even a stunning stretch of unspoiled beaches.  But for those looking to cover slightly less distance in their activities, the Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge is a great option.  Although this preserve covers a tremendous amount of land across many communities in the area, most of it is dedicated for use by the critters, but there is a scenic mile-long loop for us all to enjoy.

Luckily for us, there are even more places to explore the great outdoors, thanks to the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust and the Kennebunk Land Trust.  Both have protected a variety of parcels throughout the community, and while not all are accessible to the public, those that are offer tremendous recreation potential throughout the year.  For running, biking, hiking, and even cross country skiing in the winter you can choose what works for you and the Maine Stay Inn can help you pick the right place to go!  So whether you’re visiting Kennebunkport Maine on Earth Day or on any of the other 364 days of the year, we’ve got tons of places for you to explore and get your fill of the great outdoors!

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A Walk in the Woods, Kennebunkport Style!

February 25th, 2013 by mainestayinn

While much of the state of Maine is heavily wooded and home to some big critters like moose and bears, those of us in Kennebunkport are fortunate to be able to easily enjoy an old-school “walk in the woods” without venturing from the perks of a delightful seaside village studded with awesome restaurants, art galleries, and great shopping.  And frankly, I just love that!  I mean, what could be better than exploring the great outdoors, cleaning up in a luxurious bathroom, and heading out to a great dinner?  But, as usual, I digress.  We already know about how much I love the

Enjoy a winter walk in the woods!

Enjoy a winter walk in the woods!

Kennebunkport restaurants, but the recent dusting of snow inspired me to get out and explore some of my other favorite places – the natural kind!

So if you are looking for a spot to reconnect with mother nature, you certainly don’t have to venture far from our Kennebunkport bed and breakfast.  After a fresh coat of powder, I love to admire the way bare tree limbs catch the snow, and the best place to do so is at the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust‘s Smith Preserve.  Just a few minutes drive from the inn, it’s easy to zip past the parking lot, especially because it is usually empty.  Seriously, this is a hidden gem!  And with no charge to enjoy the winding loops of trails through the woods, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy some solace in the great outdoors.

Feel like you’d be missing out by not walking along the ocean?  The Wells Reserve at Laudholm Farm is just over the town line, but with over 7 miles of trails (yes, some are wooded!) and a protected strip of coastline, it is a must-visit destination during every season.  But if you’re looking for a little elevation, head just a few miles to our south, where you can hike to your heart’s content at Mount Agamenticus.  Especially during the winter months, the terrain is stunning (and yes, you can see the ocean from the top), and your trip down Route 1 is easy peasy.  No matter what you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the amazing outdoor opportunities in Kennebunkport.

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Fall Foliage in New England

October 24th, 2012 by mainestayinn

The 2012 Fall foliage in New England has been spectacular, with some truly spectacular colors.  And in Kennebunkport, we have been fortunate to enjoy quite a long foliage season.  While the weather forecasters have just announced that the area has become “past peak,” that certainly doesn’t mean that there aren’t lots of glorious leafy displays to enjoy in the area!  It’s particularly hard to

fall foliage in new england

Check out this gorgeous foliage display! And who said we were past peak?

believe that the weatherman thinks we’ve seen the best of the colors, because the giant maple outside my bedroom window is just beginning to turn yellow.  Fortunately, that means from mid-September through late October we (and visitors to our Maine bed and breakfast) can drink in the iconic displays of fall foliage in New England!

But since there are some trees that have passed their prime or are dropping their crimson leaves, the best opportunity to enjoy brightly colored leaves are in areas where there are oodles of trees.  One of the best spots for glimpsing these great hues is the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust.  With a variety of sites throughout town, you’re sure to find a favorite.  One of ours is the main site off of Gravelly Brook Road, which offers scenic paths leading to charming fields.  So grab your walking shoes and a camera, because this is a spot just waiting to explore!  Another glorious spot is one we’ve talked about often, because we just love it so much!  Just over the border in Wells, you’ll find the Wells Reserve at Laudholm Farm.  With seven miles of trails in a variety of terrain, you’ll even have the opportunity to enjoy the late fall foliage while walking a deserted beach!  But one of my favorite spots is the elevated pasture located at the center of this beautiful property.  So enjoy a leisurely hike through the trails, while enjoying the crunch of leaves under your feet and the colorful foliage arching above your head or kick back and relax in one of the sun-filled fields.  Here in Kennebunkport we are enjoying the last of fall foliage in New England and hope you are too!

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Enjoying Outdoor Dining in Kennebunkport

July 2nd, 2012 by mainestayinn

This evening I received a welcome surprise – a visit from some of my oldest friends – which meant that we just had to pick a dinner locale with outdoor dining in Kennebunkport.  Today graced us with incredible weather that, while on the warm side, meant that sitting outside for dinner was absolutely perfect – no sweaters required.  But on the stroll downtown from our Kennebunkport Bed

row boats in Kennebunkport

You’ll enjoy seeing row boats like these when you experience outdoor dining in Kennebunkport’s Tia’s Topside

and Breakfast, I realized just how lucky we are to have such a great assortment of spots to enjoy a meal in the open air.

Closest to the inn, you’ll find the Arundel Wharf Restaurant with an assortment of indoor, tented, and outdoor dining options.  Its varied and well executed menu mirrors the seating arrangements and the location just can’t be beat!  But if you find yourself desiring a bird’s eye view of the marinas, you could check out Federal Jack’s, the local brew pub.  With a dining room on the second floor and impressive deck space, it is a great option for outdoor dining in Kennebunkport or just enjoying a beer in the open air.  Tia’s Topside also offers deck dining, but instead of checking out the swanky yachts in town, you can enjoy a view of the quiet inlet which is now home to a few gently bobbing row boats.

But if you’re looking for something a little more upscale, you can check out the patio at One Dock.  View?  Not so much, but the food is definitely something to write home about!  But it is still outside, and who can beat summertime in New England?  One big perk, though, is that it is perfect for people watching, which is something I really enjoy, and the light veil of potted plants and trellises is perfect for concealing my gawking.  But since there is live music here nearly every night of the summer, it’s sometimes not the spot for a romantic outdoor dining experience in Kennebunkport.  For that, I recommend heading to Old Vines Wine Bar, whose new patio is just calling my name!  And it’s location next to the lush gardens of florist Fleurant definitely helps counteract the traffic noise from its location on Route 35.  Plus, after a glass of wine or two, it’s sure not to phase you at all!  It’s funny to think that this list doesn’t even cover all of the Kennebunkport Maine Restaurants with outdoor dining, and these are just the few within walking distance of the Maine Stay Inn, but it’s true, so get out there and start eating!

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The Front Porch of Kennebunkport is Now Open!

May 22nd, 2012 by mainestayinn

Considered by many to be the “front porch” of Kennebunkport, the Maine Stay Inn‘s grand wraparound has been a feature of town for well over 150 years.  And for at least the past several decades, visitors have enjoyed breakfast outside during the warmer

Be sure to check out or new porch dining sets!

months.  Each year around this time, we hang the spherical planters of coral impatiens.  They start the size of basketballs and with tender, loving care from innkeepers and staff (okay, mostly Walter), they nearly fill the entire space between the support columns.  They’re finally up and don’t provide an ounce of shade, but the bright flowers give off such cheer that their dinky-ness isn’t quite so noticeable!

At the end of last year, we decided to retire the porch furniture, in favor of sturdier and infinitely more comfortable dining sets.  And although the dining tables are just slightly larger, they now can comfortably seat a group of three.  They arrived a short while later, but until the weather warmed, they stayed right in their boxes.  Finally the time has come!  We unboxed the order in April, but had to wait for warm enough mornings to ensure that no one would be chilled. So we waited.  And waited.  And waited.

And this week the morning temps were finally warm enough, so we cleaned and prepped, making sure that visitors to our Kennebunkport Hotel would enjoy a clean and comfortable dining experience.  So it’s official  - the Maine Stay Inn porch is finally open for breakfast!

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A Taste of Summer In Kennebunkport Maine

March 18th, 2012 by mainestayinn

Kennebunkport Maine gets ready for summer

Summer, Spring, or Winter?

After a day like today, it’s hard to believe that summer isn’t already here and that spring is, in fact, just on its way to Kennebunkport Maine.  By the time we finished serving breakfast it was already well into the 50s, and more than a few guests of our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast donned on shorts for a midday walk.  Granted, it was still a little too chilly for that in my book, but by lunchtime, I was definitely regretting the choice to wear corduroy pants today and had to shed layers all the way down to a tank top!  The bright sunshine and still air made it feel even warmer than it actually was, but Mother Nature was definitely giving us a taste of what’s to come, which inspired me to think back on what some of my favorite summer activities are in Kennebunkport Maine.  Now, it’s still a teeny bit to cool for a few of my faves – and by that I mean eating lobster on the beach (thanks to cold, wet sand), swimming in the ocean (ummm, it is still Maine in March), and taking a nap on the beach.  But it’s absolutely ideal for exploring the outdoors (while staying dry, of course!), so this afternoon I decided to wander down to Laudholm Farm.  While it is technically known as the Wells Reserve, that just sounds a little too formal for this incredible parcel of protected land.  Just a few minutes down the road from Kennebunkport Maine, Laudholm Farm offer trails through a variety of terrain and vistas like you can’t imagine.  Today, however, I explored some unfamiliar turf, but still ended up along the beach just as the sun was beginning to set.  Images like the one here just reminded me so much of summer in Kennebunkport Maine that I couldn’t help but share – enjoy and get inspired!

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Spring Skiing From Our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast

March 11th, 2012 by mainestayinn

Despite the unseasonably warm weather we’ve had lately, there’s still plentiful skiing to be had not far from our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast.  Luckily for vistors to Kennebunkport Maine,  there are many wonderful mountain options located close enough for a day (or even half day) ski trip.  Although it may seem like spring is upon us, the New England ski season is far from over, with some of the best conditions yet to be seen during the spring months.

Enjoy spring skiing not far from Kennebunkport!

You're not too far to enjoy some great spring skiing!

With a variety of amenities for families, Cranmore Mountian Resort in nearby North Conway, NH is just an easy drdive away.  After enjoying a hearty breakfast at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, you’ll be on the slopes of Cranmore in under two hours (assuming you don’t stop for some outlet shopping, of course!).  Boasting 39 trails of varied terrain, multiple terrain parks, glades, and three lifts designed for beginners, it’s perfect for the whole family! 

But if you’re up for great skiing, but not putting the miles on your car, consider Shawnee Peak, just an hour and 15 minutes away.  It’s the hidden gem of Maine skiing and offers something for everyone, even the sightseer with the wonderful views Maine’s Lake Region.  Offering the most extensive night skiing in Maine (with  great prices!), you can spend the day relaxing at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, and the night cruising down the slopes!  Plus you can come back to snuggle by the fire with hot chocolate or warm cookies at the Maine Stay.

Any plug for New England skiing would be incomplete without a mention of Sugarloaf, which has arguably the best skiing in the East.  It can be a daunting trek, located  4.5 hours from Boston and 8.5 from New York City, but you’re part-way there once you’ve reached Kennebunkport Maine!  In under three hours you can enjoy 153 trails and glades, plus the only above treeline line lift-serviced skiing in the East at their Brackett Basin.  Even the most daring and skilled skier is sure to be challenged there!

But if you’re schedule’s packed until April, don’t stress! There’s plenty of skiing still to be had – it is Maine after all!  Plus, Sugarloaf is typically open until early May.  Even with spring knocking, it’s not too late to grab a ski trip during your visit to a Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, because even if there’s no snow on the ground at home, there’ll be plenty on the slopes!

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