Tag Archives: Maine Winter Getaways
Alpine Skiing in Maine: a Visitor’s Guide to the Camden Snow Bowl
Unbeknownst to much of New England, the 100-acre Camden Snow Bowl features some of the cleanest alpine skiing in Maine. Despite its small-town feel, the Snow Bowl boasts more than 20-plus recently-upgraded runs that reach nearly 1,300 feet above the sea. There’s never been a more enticing time to “Ski the Sea,” as packed powder currently sits anywhere from 24 to 30 inches. Start and finish each day of MidCoast Maine exploration and sophistication at Camden Harbour Inn, a Relais & Châteaux top destination that is home to a AAA Four-Diamond restaurant.
The Most Underrated Alpine Skiing in Maine
While the Camden Snow Bowl is one of the oldest ski areas in New England, it remains an underrated coastal attraction. It offers some of the finest alpine skiing in Maine, including 48 well-lit acres of night skiing—a rarity. Over 60 percent of the terrain is deemed “advanced,” so prepare for a challenging, black-diamond experience. Some of the most beloved runs include the “Northeaster,” “Mussel Ridge,” and the “Lookout.” Ultra-skilled skiers can take full advantage of the Snow Bowl’s two expansive terrain parks.
Snowshoeing, Nordic Skiing, and National Toboggan Championships
Most New Englanders know the Camden Snow Bowl as the home of the U.S. National Toboggan Championships, nicknamed “Tobogganville.” Tobogganville is home to the U.S.’s last remaining gravity-operated wooden toboggan chute. Near the chute, Nordic skiing enthusiasts will discover pristine terrain via the expansive Kuller Nordic Loop Trail and adjacent Ragged Mountain Preserve, which also features ample acreage for snowshoeing. There’s no shortage of world-class Nordic skiing in Maine’s most romantic bay-side village. Snowshoers will also discover peaceful Hosmer Brook and a hidden trail atop Ragged Mountain.
Opulent, Award-Winning Lodging in Camden, Maine
After a memorable afternoon on the slopes, return to Camden Harbour Inn for a five-course lobster-tasting dinner, complete with a seafood tower for two, Maine oysters, lobster bisque, roasted lobster, fine vino, and more. Natalie’s features a sleek, European-style aesthetic and romantic ambiance. Follow dinner with a relaxing evening in a Penobscot Bay-view suite. In-room amenities range from iPads to BainUltra therapeutic air baths and traditional saunas. The inn is only a short jaunt from the heart of Camden, as well as the historic yacht club.
To book a well-deserved snow-filled escape to Camden Harbour Inn, please check availability online (or speak with a reservationist at 800-236-4266).
Luxuriant Midcoast Maine Winter Getaways: Camden Harbour
With Thanksgiving officially in the rearview mirror, it’s finally time to gaze toward the upcoming winter season. Contrary to popular belief, one of the most desirable times to visit Midcoast Maine is amid winter’s peak. In late fall, Maine’s coast subtly transforms from a vibrant, colorful setting to a frosty, undeniably serene locale worth revisiting time and time again. Every winter, the deep blue Atlantic gushes toward Camden’s rocky coastline, which is typically splotched with snow-covered trees, lengthy ice crystals, and curious woodland critters. And, while most Midcoast Maine winter getaways include an afternoon of skiing, snowshoeing, or sightseeing, sometimes the most rewarding seasonal activity is a much-needed pampering at Camden Harbour Inn.
The Winter Wonderland Package
Despite remaining one of the most luxuriant Midcoast Maine winter getaways, Camden Harbour Inn proudly offers a wide variety of money-saving promotions. The Winter Wonderland Package, in particular, is an exercise in sophistication, adventure, and romance. For those that have never experienced a classic Midcoast Maine winter, eager travelers can expect a festive ambiance, picturesque forestry, and dazzling seasonal menus at high-end eateries such as Natalie’s Restaurant. Starting at just $445 per person, the Winter Wonderland Package includes a two-night stay, 60-minute couple’s massage, lavish four-course dinner at Natalie’s, ski passes, and even glasses of glühwein. Most guests couple this deluxe package with a cooking class or wine tasting.
Enticing Winter Activities in Maine
There are dozens of ways to explore Camden, Maine, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and a visit to its many eclectic downtown shops. But what sets this gorgeous seaside town apart from many other quintessential New England winter getaways is the ever-popular Camden Snowbowl. Not only does the Snowbowl feature panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, towering Mount Battie, and the city of Camden itself, but this timeless ski area is also home to the annual U.S. National Toboggan Championships. The Snowbowl has ample ski hills, a cross-country trail system, tubing, and, yes, several of the slickest toboggan slopes in New England. A half-day of snowshoeing (or winter hiking) inside nearby Camden Hills State Park should also be on the docket.
Sumptuous Maine Winter Getaways: Art, History, and Beauty
Before indulging in fine cuisine at Natalie’s, enjoying world-class vino at dusk, and soaking in a private, therapeutic air bath, don’t forget to explore the region with a self-guided journey to the area’s top museums and galleries. The always engrossing Maine Lighthouse Museum is open through the holidays. However, couples are urged to visit the Center for Maine Contemporary Art or Farnsworth Museum, two ideal destinations for aesthetes and casual art observers alike. The Owl’s Head Transportation Museum, meanwhile, is an interesting trip down memory lane.
The friendly, knowledgeable staff at Camden Harbour Inn has been tirelessly helping book a variety of Midcoast Maine winter getaways as of late, ranging from long-awaited New England honeymoons to corporate holiday retreats. As one of the only Relais & Châteaux members in the region, the inn always sees an influx of holiday-related vacations. So, to book an opulent respite at one of the best winter resorts in Maine, please call 1-800-236-4266.