Maine Travel Forum

We are planning a trip to Maine and Nova Scotia for summer 2009.
We are outdoorsy types that would love a true New England experience.
Do you have any lodging recommendations for Bar Harbor and Yarmouth?
2 adults, 2 teenagers. We plan to hike Acadia, take the CAT ferry to
Nova Scotia, other than that... no set plans.

Suggestions?

We stayed at the Best Western last May and it was located about 5 miles along the highway before entering the town proper of Bar Harbor. Their rates are pretty good, and they've got a pool, free wifi access and free breakfast.

From the hotel you could get to the CAT ferry terminal and the entrance to Acadia first before you hit town. Aside from the usual must-do (eat lobster), Acadia is great for camping, hiking, biking, boating and fishing so do bring the necessary gear for these activities. There are also boat cruises in town where you could get to see whales.

The main avenue in town is lined with restos and stores, look for and try out their local beer (Bar Harbor Beer), local blueberry jam and -- just for curiosity's sake -- lobster ice cream (which actually has lobster bits). By the way, have dinner a little early...there's not much night life so establishments are closed by 9 pm.

Are you camping? Camping at Blackwoods Campground in Acadia is really nice. We've also camped at the KOA but it's pricey since it's like the Hilton of campgrounds. I've stayed at the Eden Cottages and that's nice for families. There are bdrms and a living room area, kitchen. Depends on how long you stay but it might be a good option for you.

Definitely go to Jordan Pond for lunch (popovers!). Try to make reservations ahead of time. Not necessary but there can sometimes be a long wait. The trail around Jordan Pond is really nice too. It's flat and will take you a little over an hr. Nice scenary. Good walk for after lunch. We hiked the Beehive Trail the last time we were in Acadia. LOVED it! Your teenagers might be able to do it, even though there are rungs and ladders. It's a popular trail. I have some pictures if you want to see. Just email me.

Downtown Bar Harbor is full of souvenir shops and restaurants. We like going to Geddy's for seafood. Fun atmosphere, not quiet. Your kids will love it.

If you like lake swimming, go to Echo Lake. Beautiful.

Never been to Nova Scotia so can't help you there. Let me know if you have other questions. :)

If you're bringing a car, the CAT is a bit pricey, so if you're renting, you might want to leave US car in Bar Harbour, walk on and rent in Yarmouth. (Enterprise is best price here, & they'll meet you) If you want hotel, The Colony is just across the street from the terminal, acceptable, good meals. The Rodd Grand is a bit nicer, dinner theatre (great), pool exercise rooms, etc.
For Motels, there are quite a few "name brands" Comfort Inn is new, nice, continental breakfast, etc. Best Western is very central, breakfast, I think, with an outdoor pool. Right across from Wendy's, so nice for teens. Camping? We have two really good sites close to the terminal. Outdoorsy activities? We have great beaches, some neat historic sites, walking trails, biking, a boat club (right in town) where you can rent canoes and paddle around -- believe it or not the lake is right in town as well -- my site has a shot taken at Milo park. that's really close. I have a bit about a variety of things from this end of Nova Scotia on my home page. If you have questions, please feel free to ask. I love to see people get the best value for their visits here. We also have some incredible Bed and Breakfasts here. Historic old sea captain's homes.