The holiday season is always so hectic, especially when you live across the street from the Boston Pops, so my husband and I like to spend a night away from it all. When he asked where we should go this year, I didn't really have a specific place in mind. My only pre-requisites were that wherever we went had to have a fireplace and a large soaking tub, the perfect recipe for de-stressing. So, we stumbled on the Captain Fairfield Inn in Kennebunkport, Maine. Not only did they have both of the things I was looking for, but they were fabulous. The Captain Fairfield Inn is technically part of a chain, Lark Hotels, but feels like a family-run B&B. There are only about 10 rooms, give or take, breakfasts are usually included and it feels more like a friend's home than a hotel. That's the angle Lark Hotels takes with all of its properties, including 76 Main in Nantucket which I've also had the pleasure of staying. These properties aren't just any B&B though, they are decorated with taste, using only the latest trends from the interior design world. Another reason why I love staying with them.
Kennebunkport is known for being mostly a summer destination (after all it's where the Bush's summer) and not necessarily a winter hot spot. But we benefitted from that with friendly off-season rates therefore being able to take the largest room at the inn, the Lark Suite. We also learned quickly that Kennebunkport goes all out for Christmas and the quaint little seaside town was beautifully decorated to the nines. It made for a very festive atmosphere and we were delighted with our decision. I highly recommend it, and if you go here are some ideas of how you can spend your time:
- Take a leisurely stroll around town. There are several cafes to have a cup of coffee, restaurants for a bite, and cute shops to browse. Not to mention, the water makes a pretty backdrop.
- Relax fireside at the Inn with a good book. There is a constant supply of coffee and tea for you to help yourself and there is even freshly baked sea salt chocolate chip cookies in the afternoon. Or just get a bottle of wine :)
- Drive to nearby Ogunquit, another quaint little seaside village for exploring. The pizza and craft beer at Cornerstone is delightful.
- There is no spa at the Inn but don't let that prevent you from taking a relaxing bath. Bring along some salts or a soak and you won't even know the difference. Because, when do we ever make time for that at home?
- Take a scenic drive along Maine's coast. In the Kennebunkport area, there is Cape Porpoise Pier and of course the Bush Compound on Walkers Point. Just a little way's out you've got York's Nubble Light, Biddeford's Wood Island Light and Timber Point, which has a nice path for those looking to stretch their legs.
So, the next time you're looking for a mini getaway, definitely consider the Captain Fairfield Inn in Kennebunkport or any other of the Lark Hotels in New England, California or Nashville. To learn more about the Captain Fairfield Inn and other hotels in the Lark family, visit their website.