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Mount Desert Island, Maine
by Ron Cloer
Most people who visit Mount
Desert Island think of Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor but there are
several other small towns that are on the outside edges of the island.
Southwest Harbor, Northeast Harbor, Somes Harbor, Bass Harbor, Seal
Harbor are among those small towns that often get overlooked. But a
trip to these Harbors shows idyllic bays and harbors dotted with lobster
boats, evergreens in wild abundance, and mountains backdrops. Since you won't find any hotels
or motels, try
Vacation Home Rentals
Southwest Harbor with piers that jut out here and there intermingled
with lobster boats and pleasure crafts is gorgeous. Beyond the views
you can also pickup a nice lunch or snack while you’re there. The Maine
Pizza and Sub Shop is a reasonably priced little place with delicious
food that’s well worth the price.
Seal Harbor has a tiny beach,
(rare in Maine) lobster boats, sail boats, and a quaint little island
grown over with evergreens. It’s one of those places that makes you
stop and soak in the beauty. A digital camera will be priceless on your
trip to Maine.
Somes Harbor has a wonderful white arched bridge and a library with
spectacular views. (They have books too) When the tourist rush gets
overwhelming in Bar Harbor, retreat to this little library to regain
your perspective. Since the water is so shallow, the tides have a huge
impact on the water level. This is a good teaching moment if you have
kids, because they can easily see the tide coming in and out.
The only lighthouse on Mount Dessert Island is the Bass Harbor Light.
Behind the Portland Head Light this is probably the 2nd most
photographed lighthouse. It’s not a huge lighthouse but it is perched
on some of Maine’s most beautiful and very rocky real estate. Envision
a white lighthouse surrounded on 3 sides with dark green pines and on
the other, pale orange rocky outcroppings and a vivid blue ocean. If
it’s wet please be very careful walking down the steps to get your
picture, they will be slick.
What I’m trying to relay is that the entire island is worth exploring.
The tourist attractions and stores are great but for a better-rounded
trip, see the whole island.
Related Articles -
Bar Harbor
Acadia National Park
Things To Do
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