Winter is the Season for Romance in the MidCoast

Fresh snowfalls, twinkling lights, and crisp air create a magical time for a romantic escape to the MidCoast. Winter is a great time for snowshoeing, skating, and outdoor sports. But it also brings on hibernation mode, with quiet evenings, hot cocoa, and relaxed romantic coziness.

 

Settle in to the Charms of a Historic Inn

The architecture and service found in thoughtfully preserved historic inns make any stay delightful. Here are just a few of our favorite escapes.

 

 

Captain Nickels Inn – Searsport

Once the home of Captain Albert Nickels, this 1874 oceanfront residence is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The ten rooms and suites feature amenities such as private balconies, fireplaces, and views of Penobscot Bay. The Captain’s Suite offers access to the widow’s walk and stunning views of the bay.

 

 

The Norumbega – Camden

The stunning Norumbega in Camden is known as “The Stone Castle by The Sea.” Overlooking Penobscot Bay, the great house has served as a private residence for over a century. The inn’s elegant guest rooms, luxury suites, fireplaces everywhere, personable service, and landscaped grounds make any stay enjoyable.

 

 

The Lindsey Guest House – Rockland

Hidden just steps away from the bustling art museums and small shops of Rockland, the Lindsey Guest House offers a warm retreat. Each of the nine guest rooms is one-of-a-kind. The owners at The Lindsey are known for their hospitality, knowledge about exploring Rockland, and for serving memorable breakfasts.

 

 

Benjamin Packard House – Bath

This beautifully restored 1790 Italianate inn was once the home of Benjamin Packard, a well-known shipwright in Bath. His name was given to a 244-foot square-rigged ship that sailed out of New York. The inn has four guest rooms, and the Kennebec River is just a short walk away.

 

 

Romantic Dinners aren’t just for Valentine’s Day

You can create a romantic connection whenever food becomes a shared adventure. Here are a few favorite places to enjoy the menu as much as the company.

 

 

Noble Kitchen & Bar – Brunswick

Take the Amtrak Downeaster from Boston to its Brunswick Station, and you’ll be just steps away from the renowned Noble Kitchen. Noble’s chefs offer contemporary dishes that honor the fresh, sustainable foods from nearby family farms. The Noble Kitchen is located in the stylish Brunswick Hotel, so if you take the Downeaster, reserve a room, and on the following day, take a walking tour of Brunswick.

 

 

Nina June – Rockport

Nina June is one of the most popular dining destinations in the MidCoast. Situated on hilly Central Street, it offers a stunning view of Rockport Harbor. Nina June is the passionate creation of chef and cookbook author Sara Jenkins. Born in nearby Camden, she was raised in Italy, Spain, and Lebanon and eventually managed the restaurants Porchetta and Porsena in New York’s East Village.

 

 

40 Paper Bistro & Bar – Camden

Located in the historic Knox Woolen Mill, 40 Paper is renowned for its unique Italian cuisine. The menu features both innovative and traditional dishes—many inspired by foods from Spain, France, and neighboring Mediterranean regions. The dining space is cozy and welcoming, while the large bar remains one of the neighborhood’s most popular spots.

 

 

The Causeway – Spruce Head

South of Rockland, at the end of Route 73, you’ll find the historic Craignair Inn and Causeway Restaurant. In the 1930s, the inn housed workers from nearby quarries on Clark Island. The Causeway’s inspired seafood menu is only outdone by the sweeping, epic ocean views.

 

 

Suzuki’s Sushi Bar – Rockland

This gem is one of the most delightful sushi bars in Maine. The chef’s selection—omakase—is often made entirely with local fish caught that day. Think scallops, grey sole, line-caught mackerel, monkfish, oysters, and more. Keiko Suzuki Steinberger has been twice nominated by the James Beard Foundation for Best Chef in the Northeast.

 

This is the perfect time of year to settle in with a good book and get to know some writers of the MidCoast—there are a surprising number of well-known writers, past and present, with ties to the region. And if you’re thinking about a MidCoast Maine adventure this year, it’s never too early to start planning! We have ideas, tips and resources to help you to plan the perfect getaway.