Vacation at a historic hotel, inn, or resort when visitng Maine

The romantic Inn at Tanglewood Hall has its origins in the 1880s, when it was built as a summer cottage for Chicago lumber baron Alexander Coburn Soper and his wife, Mollie Eliza Pope. The bed-and-breakfast inn, a York Historical Society Decorator Showcase in 1994, has been restored to its 19th-century grandeur, with six exquisite guest rooms, a wraparound veranda, grand staircase and gorgeous woodland gardens with whimsical fountains. Period antiques can be found both downstairs and in classic rooms and suites, all with gas or electric fireplaces, silky sheets and room to stretch out and plan your day on the nearby beach, in the seaside village or engaging in coastal activities from sea kayaking and harbor cruises to beachside arcades and concerts.

The inviting Inn at Diamond Cove features a variety of modern amenities, from a heated pool to tennis courts and a yoga studio. But its celebrated roots are in the past. The inn is housed in what used to be the barracks for Fort McKinley, built during the 1890s to protect Portland Harbor and Casco Bay. It actually overlooks the former parade grounds. The casually elegant Diamond’s Edge Restaurant is in the former quartermaster’s storehouse, overlooking the cove. But before the fort, the property was a well-known artists’ retreat, welcoming Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Harriet Beecher Stowe, among others. No doubt they, too, enjoyed the island’s old forests, secluded beaches and spectacular sunsets. Relaxation is still only a short boat trip away from Portland’s Old Port district.

Guests at 16 Bay View notice right away how the boutique hotel has been influenced by its past. Bold structural elements and architectural features in the building, which began a century ago as an industrial brick building, make staying there a memorable experience. Your suite might feature exposed original brick, and all accommodations have ornamental iron balconies that look out over stunning bay, harbor or park views. Gas fireplaces and large, freestanding soaking tubs add to the warm, luxurious atmosphere. Sink into the plush leather couch in the Vintage Room bar and small-plates restaurant, or head up to The View, the magnificent rooftop bar and terrace. The hotel is in the middle of a thriving district full of galleries, fine restaurants and boutiques, and just steps from the harbor.

Visit our sister properties - Lord Camden Inn - Grand Harbor Inn