I recently embarked on a quest to find the perfect waterfront accommodations and charming cottages in Portland, Maine. This coastal haven promised tranquility and a break from the usual hustle and bustle of life. In this detailed account, I’ll share my experiences at the Cliff House Resort & Spa, The Press Hotel, Camden Harbor Inn, White Barn Inn & Spa, Samoset Resort, and Harraseeket Inn. From service quality and locations to special deals and pricing, I’ll delve deep into each establishment, along with my personal impressions.
1. Cliff House Resort & Spa – A Cliffside Oasis
Location: Cape Neddick, Maine
Getting There: A scenic drive along Route 1 from Portland International Jetport leads to the resort.
Special Offers: Keep an eye out for seasonal packages with spa and dining credits.
Room Rates: Vary depending on the season and room type.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★★
Reservation Platform: [Cliff House Resort & Spa Website]
My serene retreat began at the Cliff House Resort & Spa, dramatically perched on the cliffs of Cape Neddick. The ocean’s breathtaking views, the soothing sound of waves crashing below, and the overall tranquil ambiance instantly transported me to a world of relaxation.
The resort’s luxurious amenities included a world-class spa, where I indulged in rejuvenating treatments while taking in panoramic ocean vistas. Nubb’s Lobster Shack on the property offered delightful Maine cuisine, and I savored lobster rolls as I watched the sunset over the Atlantic.My room, with its coastal-themed decor and a private balcony, provided the perfect retreat. Waking up to the sunrise over the ocean was an unforgettable experience. Impeccable service and attention to detail by the staff made me feel truly pampered.
2. The Press Hotel – Urban Chic in Portland
Location: Portland, Maine
Getting There: Conveniently located in downtown Portland, easily accessible from the airport.
Special Offers: Keep an eye out for packages with dining and spa discounts.
Room Rates: Vary by room type and season.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★☆
Reservation Platform: [The Press Hotel Website]
My next destination was The Press Hotel, a stylish boutique establishment housed in a historic newspaper building in the heart of Portland. The hotel’s design celebrated its journalistic heritage, with typewriters and vintage printing presses as decor.The room was elegant and comfortable, and the rooftop bar offered sweeping views of the city skyline. Dining at UNION Restaurant, where locally sourced ingredients took center stage, was a delightful culinary experience.Being in the heart of downtown Portland allowed me to explore the city’s vibrant arts scene and culinary delights on foot. The staff’s local knowledge was invaluable in planning my urban adventures.
3.Camden Harbor Inn – Charming Elegance in Camden
Location: Camden, Maine
Getting There: A picturesque drive from Portland or accessible by bus.
Special Offers: Look out for packages that include harbor cruises and spa treatments.
Room Rates: Vary by room type and season.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★★
Reservation Platform: [Camden Harbor Inn Website]
My journey took me to Camden Harbor Inn, a charming and elegant retreat in the picturesque town of Camden. The inn’s European-style ambiance and warm hospitality instantly won me over.The room, with its cozy fireplace and views of Camden Harbor, provided a tranquil escape. The inn’s restaurant, Natalie’s, offered an exquisite culinary journey, and I relished a multi-course gourmet dinner that showcased Maine’s finest ingredients.
Exploring Camden’s picturesque harbor and strolling through its quaint streets was a joy, and the inn’s central location made it easy to do so. The innkeepers’ attention to detail and personalized service added an extra layer of warmth to my stay.
4. White Barn Inn & Spa – Culinary Bliss in Kennebunkport
Getting There: A scenic drive or a short flight from Portland.
Location: Kennebunkport, Maine
Special Offers: Check for packages that include gourmet dining experiences.
Room Rates: Varies by room type and season.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★☆
Reservation Platform: [White Barn Inn & Spa Website]
Continuing my culinary journey, I arrived at the White Barn Inn & Spa, a Relais & Châteaux property known for its gourmet dining and refined accommodations. The inn’s classic New England charm and beautifully landscaped gardens created a serene atmosphere.The room was tastefully appointed, and the inn’s restaurant, with its prix fixe menu, delivered a memorable culinary experience. The lobster tasting menu was a highlight, showcasing Maine’s famed crustacean in various delectable preparations.
Kennebunkport’s coastal beauty was on full display, and I took a leisurely bike ride to explore the town’s attractions. The inn’s spa was a haven of relaxation, and I enjoyed a soothing massage before continuing my journey.
5.Samoset Resort – Family-Friendly Seaside Retreat
Location: Rockport, Maine
Getting There: Easily accessible by car from Portland.
Special Offers: Keep an eye out for family-friendly packages.
Room Rates: Vary by room type and season.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★☆
Reservation Platform: [Samoset Resort Website]
My exploration of the Maine coast led me to the Samoset Resort in Rockport, a family-friendly seaside haven. The resort’s stunning views of Penobscot Bay and its welcoming ambiance made it an ideal destination for travelers of all ages.My room offered a view of the bay and provided a comfortable retreat. The resort’s amenities, including a golf course and spa, offered a range of activities for relaxation and recreation. Dining at La Bella Vita, the resort’s Italian restaurant, was a flavorful experience.
Exploring the nearby town of Rockland and its cultural attractions added depth to my visit. The Samoset’s location on the coast allowed me to partake in water-based activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, creating cherished memories of seaside adventures.
6.Harraseeket Inn – Classic Comfort in Freeport
Location: Freeport, Maine
Getting There: A short drive from Portland or accessible by train and bus.
Special Offers: Look for shopping packages and discounts at nearby outlets.
Room Rates: Vary by room type and season.
Recommendation Rating: ★★★★★
Reservation Platform: [Harraseeket Inn Website]
My final destination was the Harraseeket Inn in Freeport, a classic New England inn known for its comfort and hospitality. The inn’s warm and inviting atmosphere provided a sense of home away from home.My room, with its traditional decor, was cozy and comfortable. The inn’s on-site restaurant, Broad Arrow Tavern, served hearty New England fare, and the breakfast was a delightful start to the day.
Freeport’s shopping district, with its famous outlet stores, was within walking distance, making it convenient for retail therapy. The inn’s proximity to the train and bus stations made it an accessible destination for travelers arriving by public transportation.
In hindsight, each of these six establishments offered a distinct and memorable experience:
1. Cliff House Resort & Spa:
- Services: The Cliff House Resort & Spa boasts world-class spa facilities, exceptional oceanfront dining, and an attentive staff dedicated to ensuring a luxurious experience.
- Room Prices: Room rates at the Cliff House vary based on room type and season, ranging from $250 to $800 per night.
- Entertainment Facilities: Guests can indulge in spa treatments, savor lobster rolls at Nubb’s Lobster Shack, and take in breathtaking oceanfront views.
- Proximity to Airport: Located about 44 miles from Portland International Jetport, a scenic drive along Route 1 brings you to this coastal haven.
2. The Press Hotel:
- Services: The Press Hotel offers a stylish boutique experience in downtown Portland, complete with a rooftop bar, UNION Restaurant, and attentive service.
- Room Prices: Room prices at The Press Hotel vary by room type and season, ranging from $200 to $400 per night.
- Entertainment Facilities: Guests can enjoy the rooftop bar, dine at the UNION Restaurant, and explore Portland’s vibrant cultural scene.
- Proximity to Airport: Conveniently located in downtown Portland, the hotel is just about 3 miles from Portland International Jetport.
3. Camden Harbor Inn:
- Services: Camden Harbor Inn exudes European-style elegance, offers gourmet dining at Natalie’s, and prides itself on personalized service.
- Room Prices: Room rates at Camden Harbor Inn vary depending on room type and season, ranging from $250 to $600 per night.
- Entertainment Facilities: Guests can savor exquisite cuisine at Natalie’s, enjoy access to Camden Harbor, and explore the charming town.
- Proximity to Airport: Situated in picturesque Camden, the inn is accessible via a scenic drive from Portland or by bus.
4. White Barn Inn & Spa:
- Services: The White Barn Inn & Spa provides a refined ambiance, gourmet dining at White Barn Inn Restaurant, and a spa offering rejuvenating treatments.
- Room Prices: Room rates at the White Barn Inn & Spa vary based on room type and season, ranging from $400 to over $1,000 per night.
- Entertainment Facilities: Guests can relish gourmet cuisine at the White Barn Inn Restaurant, indulge in spa treatments, and explore the charming Kennebunkport.
- Proximity to Airport: Located in Kennebunkport, it’s a scenic drive or a short flight from Portland.
5. Samoset Resort:
- Services: Samoset Resort caters to families with stunning bay views, a golf course, and a spa, offering a diverse range of activities.
- Room Prices: Room prices at Samoset Resort vary by room type and season, ranging from $200 to $600 per night.
- Entertainment Facilities: The resort offers golf, spa treatments, water-based activities, and the opportunity to explore nearby Rockland and Rockport.
- Proximity to Airport: Easily accessible by car from Portland.
6. Harraseeket Inn:
- Services: Harraseeket Inn provides classic New England comfort, a dining experience at Broad Arrow Tavern, and proximity to shopping in Freeport.
- Room Prices: Room rates at Harraseeket Inn vary depending on room type and season, ranging from $150 to $400 per night.
- Entertainment Facilities: Guests can explore Freeport’s shopping district, visit nearby outlets, and enjoy the coastal charm of the area.
- Proximity to Airport: The inn is a short drive from Portland or accessible by train and bus.
My journey through these Harbor Hotels and Charming Cottages in Portland, Maine, was a delightful blend of relaxation, exploration, and culinary indulgence. Each establishment offered a unique experience, allowing me to tailor my stay to my preferences.Whether it was the awe-inspiring cliffside views at Cliff House, the urban charm of The Press Hotel, the European elegance of Camden Harbor Inn, the gourmet delights of White Barn Inn, the family-friendly atmosphere of Samoset Resort, or the classic comfort of Harraseeket Inn, Portland’s accommodations left an indelible mark on my travel memories.
