Luxury holidays in Southern Maine

Winding its way beside the Atlantic Ocean, the craggy, windswept coastline, bobbing with lobster boats in every harbour, is the more familiar Maine landscape. The charm of seaside towns with perfect-vacation-photo-backdrops, inviting inns, views of pine-covered islands, boating outfitters and lobster shacks is hard to resist. Make a stop in Portland where a vibrant arts scene has emerged, along with a community of creative chefs making the most of local ingredients. Unspoilt beauty is in abundance in Maine’s vast interior with thousands of lakes, clear rivers and hiking trails over majestic mountains – including a large chunk of the Appalachian Trial. Heading deep into the woods could be your chance to spot an actual lumbering moose, whose likeness is plastered all over Maine memorabilia.

Areas in Southern Maine

When to go

Maine offers activities year-round from swimming on the coast to skiing in the mountains. Summer – late May to early September – is peak season along the coast, and many coastal shops and restaurant close in the off-season.

Getting there

  • Planes

    Portland International Jetport (www.portlandjetport.org) is best for exploring the southern and mid-coastal regions. Bangor International Airport (www.flybangor.com) is convenient if exploring northern Maine.
  • Automobiles

    A car is essential for exploring. There are reputable car-hire options at both airports.