The area known as Downeast Acadia, so named because of the strong northwinds which continually pushed the tall ships and schooners in a southeasterly direction, is comprised of three areas.

WASHINGTON COUNTY

The best of both worlds is available in Washington County. The coastline which stretches from Milbridge all the way up to Calais is a perfect way to enjoy the ocean. The shores give way to Cobscook Bay State Park and the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge and offer a perfect way to "get away from it all". There is plenty to see and do from nature watching to canoeing, from hiking to foliage tours. Visit the Bay of Fundy and experience the longest tide in the country from a spectacular view on top of 100 foot cliffs! The Great Maine Blueberry Festival is also a major attraction in Machias during the late summer, drawing travelers from all over the world.

BAR HARBOR & MOUNT DESERT ISLAND

View of Bar Harbor from Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park Photo: Bill and Jan Dillberg Downeast Arcadia

This region is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country - but never overcrowded. The town itself is a centuries-old perfect Maine village and features museums and shops representing local arts and crafts. One of the most spectacular Whale Watching points in the country, the boat tours even offer guarantees for a return trip if no whales are spotted! The Nova Scotia Ferry also leaves from Bar Harbor and you can use the area for relaxing vacation period on your return from Canada. Acadia National Park is situated on the spectacular Mount Desert Island outside of Bar Harbor. The island is comprised of seventeen mountains and four lakes and is linked to the mainland for easy access. Camping, hiking and climbing are all right there for you, but it's just a quick trip into town for a relaxing dinner and a thriving nightlife. There is also a fully developed area which is rivaled only by Newport, Rhode Island in its great expanses of estates, gardens, museums and marinas.

PENOBSCOT BAY

The East Penbsoct Bay region is the final area in Downeast Acadia. Comprising the picture postcard towns of Blue HIll, Brooklin, Castine, Deer Island and Stonington, many these villages are on islands, easily accessbile by bridge or ferry, and give you the perfect picture of what life on the coast of Maine has been like since the first settlers as most of the area is still devoted to fishing and farming. There are world-class restaurants and hotels interspersed with the local fare and Bed & Breakfast establishments.

(For the M*A*S*H enthusiast, it is fun to notice and point out the many references to the characters and places in the great books, movie and television series: Penobscot Bay was the home of M*A*S*H author Richard Hooker.)

Plan an extended vacation in Downeast Acadia and by exploring all three of its areas, you will be treated to a little bit of everything which Maine has to offer.