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Posts Tagged ‘romantic getaways’

A Romantic Evening in Kennebunkport Maine

February 27th, 2013 by mainestayinn

On a blustery evening like tonight, there is nothing better than a cozy, romantic dinner before settling in for the night, and fortunately for everyone, Kennebunkport Maine has some great destinations that fit the bill perfectly! Now, I have to admit that sometimes on wintry nights like this one, visitors choose to bring their dinners in, to enjoy before the living room fire (yep, I’ve certainly been known to do this myself!), because it is just oh-so-tempting to hop into bed or slide into a hot bath without having to brave the elements.  But when you’re hankering for a romantic dinner out, consider checking out one of these great nearby restaurants that score a perfect 10 for setting the mood.

  • Just a moment’s drive from the Maine Stay Inn, you’ll find Grissini, an Italian restaurant with an upscale main floor and a more casual lower level, known as the Grotto.  And on a snowy winter evening, there is
    Enjoy a romantic dinner on a snowy winter night

    Enjoy a romantic dinner on a snowy winter night!

    nothing more romantic than sipping a glass of your favorite wines in front of their roaring fireplace.  

  • Want a spot that sets the mood that’s close enough to walk to  - even in the snow?  The fireside lounge style dining and cozy bar area at One Dock is a great choice.  Plus, with great gluten free options, it’s a personal fave.
  • Just a few minutes down the road on the Wells border, you’ll find Joshua’s Restaurant.  Set in a colonial farmhouse, you’ll find an intimate dining atmosphere (and yes, it has fireplaces – plural!) with positively incredible concoctions.
  • But if you are looking for fine dining a little closer to home, On the Marsh Bistro is always a hit.  There you’ll enjoy a stellar meal by candlelight with attentive, never oppressive service.  And since it’s located about two minutes from your Kennebunkport Maine bed and breakfast, you’ll hardly have time to feel the winter chill before snuggling into bed!

So even though Valentine’s Day has passed, there are plenty of great ways to celebrate the ones you love, and enjoying a romantic dinner on a classic winter evening in Kennebunkport Maine seems tops the list.

Romantic Getaways to Maine Bed and Breakfasts

February 13th, 2013 by mainestayinn

Believe it or not, Valentine’s Day is upon us and that means it is the perfect time for planning romantic getaways, and what better place than to Maine bed and breakfasts?!  With the landscape rejuvenated by the recent snowfall, the scene is set for an idyllic wintertime escape, so this Valentine’s Day, skip the flowers and chocolate and trade up to something extra special for the one you love and plan a getaway to take advantage of the incredible beauty of the season.  For many people, the idea of Maine bed and breakfasts conjures up images of doilies and lace, fake flowers and teddy bears, which doesn’t exactly scream “romance.”  But the truth is that the B&Bs of today offer amenities that are perfect for setting the mood, so it’s time to banish the idea of creaky beds and and nosy neighbors!  Here are some of the things visitors enjoy during their romantic getaways:

  • Say bye-bye to those kitchy patterns, because the Maine Stay Inn offers modern, contemporary, and transitional decor, as
    Dessert by the fire?  Yes, please!

    Dessert by the fire? Yes, please!

    well as updated and simplified decor that brings the main house’s Victorian identity into the 21st century!  And along with it comes technology to match, with flat screen televisions and iPad/iPod docking stations.

  • What could be better than snuggling up with your special someone in front of a glowing fire?  Only one that you don’t have to stoke yourself!  So take advantage of the ambience of the warm gas fireplaces in most rooms and suites.  But if your chosen spot doesn’t offer a gas one, we’ve got electric fireplaces for that very purpose.  Not to mention the fact that every visitor is always welcome to enjoy the warmth of the living room fire!
  • No more shared bathrooms like Maine bed and breakfasts of the olden days, my friends, because every room and suite at the Maine Stay offers private baths, many with those features that set the scene for your romantic getaways.  Yes, you’ll find showers built for two and even double whirlpool tubs!
  • But romantic getaways wouldn’t be complete without breakfast in bed, and guess what?  You can even find that in our cottage suites and deluxe fireplace suite 12 in the main house.

There’s no question about it – Maine bed and breakfasts really are the the spot for your next escape, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect reason to get away!

Kennebunkport’s Heating Up this February

January 31st, 2013 by mainestayinn

It’s hard to believe that February is already up on us, and while Old Man Winter is definitely still hanging around, things are heating up in Kennebunkport in anticipation of Valentine’s Day!  Unlike some vacation communities, Kennebunkport doesn’t go into

Cocoa in front of the fire - what a treat!

Cocoa in front of the fire – what a treat!

hibernation during the winter months, and while restaurants, shops, and galleries usually take little breaks at some point during the season for things like renovations, family time, and staff training, little of that happens during February.  And that’s because February is for Lovers!  Seriously, though, the businesses of Kennebunkport have teamed up each year to make sure that you’ll have the ideal romantic getaway in town and enjoy the great shopping, dining, and recreation that you have come to expect.  And with Third Night Free specials at the Maine Stay Inn, you can enjoy a much-needed respite and stay on budget.

So it’s time to get crackin’ and start planning that getaway with your special someone, because what could be better than escaping the stressors of daily life and cuddling by a glowing fire?  Maybe just doing so with a steaming cup of cocoa and gooey fresh-out-of-the-oven cookies!  And yep, we’ve got that.  We’re also happy to help you figure out which restaurants will best fit the mood of your vay-cay and where to find your favorite wintertime activities.  Just looking to snuggle and play things by ear?  No problem!  We’ll happily deliver a gourmet breakfast to the door of your cottage suite, so you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast in bed.  And when (or if) you decide to venture out for some exploring, we’ll having afternoon cookies and hot beverages waiting for your return (mmmm… that’s making me hungry!).  This February, don’t miss out on spending some quality time with your special someone in Kennebunkport Maine.

5 Ways to Add Romance to Your Maine Bed and Breakfast Vacation

August 13th, 2012 by mainestayinn

For some folks, coming up with ideas to add romance to your Maine vacation is a piece of cake, while for others, it’s as daunting as explaining particle physics.  But no matter which camp you fall into, there is no better place to enjoy a romantic getaway than Kennebunkport Maine, with its assortment of incredible restaurants and breathtaking vistas.  Nevertheless, I am going to share five of my favorite intimate adventures in the area (and get your mind out of the gutter – they’re all totally PG):

romantic picnic in kennebunkport maine

A scenic spot like this one is perfect for a romantic picnic!

  • Have a quiet picnic lunch.  Seriously, what could be more relaxing that picking up a gourmet lunch at one of our favorite markets with high-end prepared foods and layering on a bottle of wine and an assortment of cheese?  Nada, that’s what I think!  And fortunately for us at the Kennebunkport Maine Stay Inn, there are plenty of quiet, tucked-away spots just a stone’s throw from the inn.
  • Choose the perfect room.  Think about a favorite color or whether you (or rather your special someone) likes a fireplace or a whirlpool tub.  Those little details can go a long way in setting the right tone for your Maine vacation.  And consider one of our Cottage Suites, because the option for having breakfast delivered to your door and indulging in breakfast in bed is something you can’t really have at home.  But if you need guidance, the staff of our Kennebunkport Maine Bed and Breakfast is happy to help!
  • Take schooner or sailboat ride.  Kennebunkport is fortunate to have several companies that offer trips on large, multi-masted schooners, and they all provide relaxing cruises along the coastline for small groups.  There’s little worry when it comes to seasickness, because the captains won’t go out if the water is rough.  So sit back, relax and enjoy each other’s company while drinking in the views of the Maine coastline.
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of Kennebunkport’s many excellent restaurants.  At the Maine Stay, we’re happy to help guide you to a spot with just the right vibe, whether that means dining by candlelight or something fresh and modern.
  • Catch a sunset!  There’s something so romantic about watching the sky light up in the evening right by your partner’s side, and Kennebunkport is known for some pretty spectacular displays.  Dock Square, with its historic facades and waterfront location, is often an ideal backdrop for a beautiful sunset, but there are also plenty of quiet coves along the coast that offer seclusion and a place for lounging (or, if you’re feeling creative, a great spot for a sunset picnic!).

So seize the opportunity to inject a little romantic spirit into your Maine Bed and Breakfast experience, but keep in mind that the staff at the Maine Stay has lots of great ideas (okay, not all of them are original, as plenty of guests have given us some great ones over the years), and they are all happy to share with you.  Happy planning!

A Happy Valentine’s Day in Kennebunkport Maine

February 14th, 2012 by mainestayinn

Inns for valentine's day getaways to kennebunkport maine

Especially for Valentine's Day - don't you?!

Love was certainly in the air this Valentine’s Day in Kennebunkport Maine, and the Maine Stay was no exception!  We started off the day with a festive breakfast, dishing up our signature crustless quiche with steaming raspberry muffins and homemade cranberry applesauce, though I must admit that my attempts to form it into little hearts was a bit of a flop.  Couples gathered around the table in our Kennebunkport Maine Bed and Breakfast, and they all really seemed to hit it off, even sharing how long they’ve been together (of course I’ll spill the beans – they ranged from still dating to married for well over 3o years).  But while some chose to be social, others preferred to spend Valentine’s Day enjoying breakfast in bed (and considering the chilly temps this morning, I was a little envious!).  To banish the cold after a long afternoon walk, guests shared their “excess” candy (does such a thing actually exist?) and we enjoyed steaming mugs of cocoa with whipped cream shaped into hearts – can you tell I love Valentine’s?

In my mind, however, the best part is helping visitors figure out what Kennebunkport Maine Restaurant is going to make their evening exactly as they imagined.  This year, though, people really were planners, and, quite surprisingly, many dining reservations had already been made.  So it was easy to tell that the big winners today were Bandaloop, 50Local, and On the Marsh.  Now, there’s no judgement there – those were just the most popular one guests selected for dining tonight.  This might actually be the first time that none of our Valentine’s diners chose to head to the White Barn Inn, and instead opted for one of the lower key establishments that make Kennebunkport Maine what it is.  Later, however, when I looked into dinner reservations for myself, I was pleased to find quite a few places were fully booked.  Just another reason to book your Kennebunkport Maine Bed and Breakfast reservations early!  But as Valentine’s Day draws to a close, the guests are discovering the allure of our whirlpool tubs and romance of our many glowing gas fireplaces.  Happy Valentine’s Day from Kennebunkport Maine!

Wining and Dining: Romantic Kennebunkport Maine Restaurants

February 10th, 2012 by mainestayinn

Tis the season to pull out all the stops when it comes to planning your romantic getaway, and Kennebunkport Maine restaurants never fail to impress.  Now, you’ve surely earned bonus points for planning this intimate escape to a Maine Bed and Breakfast, but picking the perfect spot for a special meal is sure to be the hot fudge to your ice cream sundae – it’s a critical team player.  However, over the last few years, I have really come to recognize that everyone has a different take on what makes a romantic evening, so I will try to provide something for everyone (though, Dad, you’re out of luck – pizza and beer while watching CSPAN is not going to make the cut).

  • The White Barn Inn is basically the epitome of “wining and dining” in Kennebunkport Maine.  Their wine list is more than extensive and their prix fixe menu offers a wine pairing option.  The atmosphere, while very formal, is certainly intimate
    Lamb Chops at a romantic Kennebunkport Maine restaurant

    Luscious lamb chops at Joshua's!

    with cozy tables, low lights, deep colors, and lots of candles.  But gents, if you aren’t comfortable in a jacket, pass on this one, as they are required.

  • On the Marsh Bistro is an excellent option for visitors looking for romantic Kennebunkport Maine restaurants, but at about half the price of their aforementioned competitor.  The charming dining rooms here overlook the marsh and feature endless nooks for enjoying your evening out with your other half without being distracted by other diners.  If the ocean calls, consider the Cape Arundel Inn, whose vibe is much more airy, but equally as impressive.
  • Joshua’s Restaurant is another wonderful choice, providing some of the freshest cuisine around.  They utilize lots of local and organic ingredients, but the setting in an antique farmhouse with wide plank floors and open hearths make this a no-brainer for romantic dining.
  • Sometimes, though, your evening for two just means a night out with excellent food and an atmosphere conducive for eye-gazing and quiet whispering.  If that’s the case, check out Bandaloop Restaurant and Grissini (where I am particularly fond of the atmosphere in their lower level) – plus, both are just a hop, skip, and a jump from our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast.
  • Don’t want the night to end?  Consider capping it off with a stop at Old Vines Wine Bar, which offers delectable tapas style dishes and an extensive wine list.  The vibe is amazing and definitely right on the mark when it comes to setting the mood for a romantic getaway.

While any one of these incredible Kennebunkport Maine Restaurants would be ideal for a romantic evening, this list was certainly not exhaustive.  So get out and explore the awesome options in the area and get crackin’ on your Valentine’s getaway plans!

Romantic Getaway Ideas to a Maine Bed and Breakfast

February 1st, 2012 by mainestayinn

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and that means it is time to start planning your romantic getaway, and a Maine Bed and Breakfast is a sure-fire way to score a home run with your other half.  You’ll score big points for planning a special weekend away.

Enjoying a romantic getaway at a Maine Bed and Breakfast

Snuggle by the fire!

If you upgrade to a room or suite with a fireplace or jacuzzi tub, that special someone will surely be delighted.  And if she’s been working long hours or doing double duty at home, I’d venture to guess that the option of sleeping in and having breakfast delivered right to your door would sound really good.  If you think so too, consider choosing one of our Cottage Suites.  It’s a unique attribute of our Maine Bed and Breakfast, and ensures you more space, an added sense of privacy, and our version of room service.  So if you’re hesitant about the idea of staying at your first Maine Bed and Breakfast, don’t stress – the Cottage Suitesare the ideal way to test the waters!

If someone were taking me away for a romantic getaway, it would be even more special if it meant sneaking away for an extra day (yay for playing hookey from work!).  But it doesn’t have to break the bank, because we are offering a Third Night Free special, which means that you can enjoy a three night escape, but only pay the price of two!  And don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone about your bargain find!  Sometimes, though, you can only sneak away for a night, so consider celebrating on Valentine’s Day itself.  Sure, ducking out of work can be a challenge, but the revitalization you’ll feel is unimaginable! Just think – it’ll sure be a short week.

But sometimes, though, you’ve got to pull out a few extra surprises to make your romantic getaway especially memorable.  You could go the more traditional route with flowers, champagne, or lavish dinners.  Instead, you could surprise her by setting the mood with flameless candles, romantic music, and chocolately treats.  Or, you might know something that would mean the world to your partner.  But whatever the request, we’re here to help you make this Valentine’s getaway one for the record books!

Tips for a Romantic Getaway in Kennebunkport Maine

January 18th, 2012 by avadmin

Whether you are ready or not, Valentine’s Day is on it’s way, and the Maine Stay has been busy brainstorming ideas for how to make your romantic getaway to Kennebunkport Maine extra special.  Frankly, you’re on the right track if you are planning a Maine Bed and Breakfastvacation, but sometimes you just need to take things to another level.  We’ve got you covered!  One of the most important things is selecting the right room or suite for your getaway.  If breakfast in bed sounds like something that will make

Romantic Getaway to Kennebunkport Maine

An epicurean delight for your romantic getaway to Kennebunkport Maine!

your special someone go ga-ga, then one of our Cottage Suites is up your alley, but if the romantic and luxurious details that come along with Victorian architecture is your thing, then you’re better suited for the main house.  You’ll be sure to earn bonus points with a cozy gas fireplace or a deep jacuzzi tub.

Sometimes, though, you need just a little something extra to surprise your partner.  A favorite bottle of wine or champagne is always a fave, and while we can’t sell you one, we’re more than happy to pick one up for you at the local wine store in Kennebunkport Maine (don’t forget to provide us with the security code on the back of your credit card or they won’t take it!).  A stunning floral arrangement or simply a single rose always make a meaningful statement.  Although, if you’re anything like me, the way to my heart is absolutely through my stomach, so a delicious treat is definitely a sure-fire winner.  A delectable spread of fruits and cheeses makes a great treat before heading out to dinner at one of the amazing restaurants in Kennebunkport Maine or as an alternative to sugary treats for those who lack my incredible sweet tooth.  But often dessert just calls, and a platter carefully crafter for you makes another special surprise.  Sometimes, though, you just need a little of both!  Our Romance Package lets guests of our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast have the best of both worlds – a fruit, cheese, and dessert sampler or fruit and cheese with sparkling cider.  No matter what you choose, your romantic getaway to Kennebunkport is sure to provide lasting memories with your special someone!