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  4. DownEast and Acadia Maine
  5. Mount Desert Island
  6. Acadia National Park

Best Lodging

Where can I find the best lodging options? Looking for the best quality hotels and also best areas to stay? More concerned with best quality and less concerned about price. Thank you

Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island offer some incredible lodging options, from luxurious resorts to charming boutique hotels. Since you're focused on quality and less concerned with price, there are a few top-notch places that provide exceptional amenities, service, and proximity to the park’s natural beauty. Here are some of the best lodging options and areas to stay in when visiting Acadia and Mount Desert Island:

1. Bar Harbor (The Heart of Acadia National Park)

Bar Harbor is the most popular town to stay in when visiting Acadia, and it’s located just a short drive from the park's main entrances. The town offers a range of high-quality accommodations, from upscale hotels to elegant inns. Here are some of the best options in Bar Harbor:

  • Jordan Pond House: Located inside Acadia National Park, the Jordan Pond House offers beautiful views and fine dining. The historic building has been serving guests for decades and is known for its classic Maine charm. It’s a great place for those looking to stay within the park itself, with access to hiking trails and pristine landscapes right at your doorstep.
  • The Bar Harbor Inn: A high-end, oceanfront property with beautiful views of Frenchman Bay. The inn offers elegant rooms, top-notch service, and proximity to downtown Bar Harbor’s shops, restaurants, and activities. It's also just a short drive to the park entrances and some of Acadia's best scenic areas.
  • Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina: This luxurious waterfront hotel offers beautiful rooms with sweeping views of the harbor, a full-service spa, and a marina. Located just a short walk from the heart of Bar Harbor, it provides easy access to the town's shops and restaurants, as well as a relaxing atmosphere after a day of exploring Acadia.

2. Northeast Harbor (A Quieter, More Secluded Experience)

Northeast Harbor offers a more serene and secluded experience compared to Bar Harbor, making it ideal for visitors who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Acadia without the crowds. Here are a couple of excellent lodging options in Northeast Harbor:

  • The Asticou Inn: A historic inn with elegant rooms, located in the quiet and charming village of Northeast Harbor. The Asticou Inn has been serving guests for over 100 years and offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens and views of the harbor. It's a short drive from Acadia's more secluded areas like the beautiful Seal Cove and the quieter trails around the park.
  • Kimball Terrace Inn: A modern and highly-rated inn in Northeast Harbor with spacious rooms and stunning views of the harbor and surrounding mountains. It’s a great option for those looking for a peaceful, comfortable stay while still being close to the park and the surrounding villages.

3. Southwest Harbor (Close to the Quiet Side of Acadia)

Southwest Harbor is located on the "quiet side" of Mount Desert Island, offering a more laid-back and less commercialized atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for visitors who want to experience Acadia away from the crowds. Here are some great options in Southwest Harbor:

  • Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center: This luxurious, oceanfront hotel is located just outside of Southwest Harbor, offering stunning views of Frenchman Bay and a full range of amenities. The property is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with access to Acadia’s quieter trails and hidden gems.
  • Harbor Ridge: A peaceful, upscale resort just a short drive from Southwest Harbor. It offers a variety of accommodations, including suites and cottages, with views of the harbor and the surrounding mountains. It’s ideal for those who want a combination of privacy, luxury, and access to Acadia’s less-traveled areas.

4. Seal Harbor (A Tranquil Retreat in Acadia’s Heart)

Seal Harbor is a small, peaceful village on Mount Desert Island, offering a tranquil experience while still being close to the park. It's perfect for those who prefer a more secluded stay while being just a short drive from Acadia's scenic areas and trails.

  • The Seal Harbor Inn: A charming and historic inn located near the village’s harbor. It offers a quiet, relaxing retreat with lovely gardens and easy access to Acadia’s hiking trails and scenic views.

Conclusion: If you're looking for the best quality lodging near Acadia National Park, you can't go wrong with staying in Bar Harbor, which offers a wide variety of luxury hotels, inns, and resorts. If you prefer a quieter experience, Northeast Harbor, Southwest Harbor, and Seal Harbor all provide a more secluded atmosphere with upscale accommodations. Whichever you choose, these areas offer both high-quality lodging and easy access to the natural beauty of Acadia National Park. Enjoy your stay in Maine!

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