Lantern Camp

ORLAND, MAINE

Personalities

Solitary wanderers. Creative souls. Free-spirited couples. Families introducing young eyes to the wilderness. Adventurers traveling with their pets. Groups reuniting under open skies. Travelers who crave real connection to nature.

Moments

Waking up to a hundred-mile view. Purple-stained fingers from picking wild blueberries as you wander along private trails. Quiet steam rising from the private cedarwood sauna. The sharp pop of dry birch in your fire pit. Midnight stargazing wrapped in wool blankets, watching the cosmos drift over the landscape.

Best Visiting Months

The camp awakens in mid-April as winter frost releases its grip and songbirds return to build their nests. By late May, mountain laurel blooms and fresh green foliage blankets the property’s 166 acres, offering a tranquil alternative to the regional summer crowds. High summer brings peak wild blueberry harvest from mid-July through August, transforming the hillsides into a natural foraging playground. As crisp autumn air settles in, bright foliage sweeps across the valley, making the heated cabins, outdoor fire pits, and cedar sauna deeply comforting retreats through mid-November.

COST

Why Stay

High on a sunlit ridge in Maine’s Downeast / Acadia region, Lantern Camp Orland occupies a raw, elevated landscape, where the built footprint covers just two of its 166 total acres. Rolling meadows and spruce forests stretch in every direction, offering sweeping 100-mile views that reach all the way from Mt. Katahdin to Penobscot Bay. Conceived by co-founder Addison Godine, the simple, modernist architecture takes cues from classic New England farm structures and rugged backwoods shelters. Generous wall-to-wall glazing turns the natural elements into living art, while local timber finishes, stainless steel kitchens, and natural wood fiber insulation keep the environmental footprint minimal.

Twenty-four elemental cabins dot the hillside, split between light-filled Field Cabins with private en-suite baths and intimate Forest Cabins tucked beneath the canopy. Each dwelling functions as an architectural portal designed to pull focus directly outward toward mossy boulders, swaying ferns, and endless horizon lines.

Daily rhythms revolve around deep restoration and tactile connection with the land. Guests spend unhurried mornings wandering miles of private trails, afternoons collecting wild lowbush fruit, and cheerful evenings around the grill. Quiet nights include gathering around fire pits, private sessions in the sauna, and stargazing under dark skies.

Why Wander

Tucked just off the coastal highway, the camp acts as a tranquil refuge within striking distance of Maine’s most iconic shoreline. Acadia National Park rests just a short drive away, granting seamless access to tidal coves, granite ocean bluffs, and rugged coastal peaks.

Coastal discovery unfolds effortlessly along nearby peninsulas. Guests can head out on early morning boat rides to spot Atlantic puffins and blue whales, explore historic stone lighthouses, or hunt for secret gravel beaches along the outer reaches of Blue Hill and Mount Desert Island.

Quaint maritime villages invite endless afternoon detours. Quiet harbor roads lead past coastal art studios, antique barns, and working docks where classic lobster boats haul in the day's catch.

Indulge In

Slow, intentional cooking takes center stage as an essential evening ritual with cabins that feature thoughtfully equipped kitchens, firepits, and grills, simple dinners turn into open-air feasts. The camp store stocks artisanal local basics, snacks, and firepit essentials for treats under the stars.

Memorable culinary stops lie scattered through the neighboring towns and fishing harbors. Travelers can reserve a table for refined farm-and-sea cuisine at Aragosta or Arborvine, or swing by rustic wood-fired pizza ovens, coastal craft breweries, and roadside lobster shacks for a true taste of coastal Maine.

Getting There

Tucked down a winding dirt road that climbs to an open ridge, the property feels wonderfully remote yet accessible. The camp is an easy 35-minute drive southeast from Bangor International Airport, or a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive north from Portland through Maine’s spruce woodlands.

Wild Initiatives

Radical conservation guides every design decision across the property. By intentionally clustering the cabins on a small fraction of the land, more than 160 acres of continuous forest and meadow remain completely undisturbed. During construction, workers hand-transplanted thousands of wild blueberry bushes, permanently replacing chemical sprays with a native mowing practice to protect delicate soil biomes. Under a certified forestry management program, the surrounding woodlands are left to rewild, restoring native habitat for local wildlife to thrive for decades to come.

AWOL Kennebunkport

Maine, USA

THE PERSONALITIES

Sunseekers. Bird Watchers. Collectors of Antiquities. Beer enthusiasts. Seafood lovers. Sailors.

MOMENTS

Bike rides and ice cream. Lobsters and craft beer. Sunset sails. Salty air. Scenic drives. Maine magic.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

While Kennebunkport could be considered a year-round destination, the best time to visit is during warmer weather months from June to October. In the summer, guests love to visit nearby beaches to surf, sail, kayak, etc. Local companies offer whale watching and lobster tours on the Kennebunk River and out onto the Atlantic Ocean along the coastline of the Kennebunks. Like all New England towns, fall foliage is also a big draw. Peak foliage in Kennebunkport typically happens mid-October.

However, it's also worth noting, Kennebunkport is famous for its annual Christmas Prelude event and was voted the #2 Christmas Town in America by HGTV.  The 11-day event is reminiscent of a Hallmark movie with tree lightings, Santa arriving by lobster boat, caroling at the Franciscan Monastery, a beautiful fireworks display, a lively street festival, and more.

COST

WHY STAY

AWOL Kennebunkport is a private retreat situated in a serene village setting among ancient pine, elm, balsam fir, and birch trees, as well as wild blueberry bushes. The boutique hotel provides guests with a tranquil escape from the lively activity of Kennebunkport's Dock Square, offering a quintessential Maine experience.

The accommodations at AWOL Kennebunkport are designed to offer both privacy and opportunities for connection. The hotel features a range of options, including cabin studios, deluxe cabins, and unique suites, each thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and a sense of calm. The interiors often include elements like concrete-encased gas fireplaces, plush king beds, hardwood floors, and built-in lounge seating. Many of the rooms also boast unique features such as Japanese soaking tubs, large concrete walk-in showers, and private patios.

AWOL Kennebunkport celebrates individuality and connection, effortlessly combining a sense of seclusion with the convenience of proximity to the harbor and the lively Dock Square. Whether guests prefer to enjoy a sunset from a secluded spot, connect with fellow travelers, or simply relax in front of a fireplace, AWOL provides the perfect setting.

WHY WANDER

Kennebunkport, Maine, is a picturesque coastal town renowned for its scenic beauty, historical charm, and vibrant community. Visitors can wander through Dock Square, which features boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants offering fresh, locally caught seafood. The town's well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture adds to its timeless appeal.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as sailing, kayaking, and beachcombing along the stunning shoreline. Coastal Maine Kayak and Schooner Eleanor Cruise offer opportunities to explore the waters, while the First Chance Whale Watch provides the chance to see whales and learn about local marine life. Visit the Rachel Carson Preserve to experience its diverse ecosystems and wildlife, or Mount Agamenticus for its extensive trails, perfect for hiking and biking.

Visitors can take a scenic drive to Walker's Point, the Bush family's retreat, explore the Maine Beer Trail for a taste of local breweries, or spend the day at the Cottage Breeze Day Spa. The town's beaches and water activities, combined with popular events like the annual Christmas Prelude, make Kennebunkport a perfect spot for exploring New England.

INDULGE IN

Kennebunkport boasts a vibrant culinary scene that highlights fresh seafood straight from the local waters. AWOL Kennebunkport enhances this gastronomic experience with a complimentary artisanal toast bar. This unique offering features a variety of savory and sweet breads and pastries, complemented by an array of spreads and toppings such as cream cheeses, hummus, jams, granola, honey, bacon bits, and pea shoots.

Favorite local spots:

• Earth at Hidden Pond

• The Boathouse

• 50 Local

• Musette

• Ocean

• The Clam Shack

GETTING THERE

The closest airport is 30 minutes in Portland. More info here.

WILD INITIATIVES

AWOL Kennebunkport is housed in a historic captain’s home that's been lovingly restored.

*Photos property of AWOL Kennebunkport, Lark Hotels

Bluebird Ocean Point Inn

MAINE, USA

THE PERSONALITIES

Families. Seafood lovers. Sailing enthusiasts.

MOMENTS

Seascapes. Lighthouses and lobster claws. 3,500 miles of coastline. The soothing sound of the Atlantic's crashing waves. Sunset kayaks. Maine magic. New England at its best.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Boothbay is a seasonal destination with many businesses (including the hotel) open June through October. The height of the season occurs around from July to August when the weather is at its warmest, making it ideal for outdoor activities like boating, kayaking, and exploring the coastal scenery. However, from September to early October, the weather is still pleasant, and the summer crowds start to dwindle. This is an excellent time for a visit if you prefer a quieter experience while still enjoying many seasonal activities. Early October also brings beautiful fall foliage, adding to the charm of the area.

COST

WHY STAY

Bluebird Ocean Point Inn is a coastal retreat in East Boothbay, Maine, ideal for a New England summer getaway. Nestled along a rugged shoreline and surrounded by pine forests and rolling hills, this boutique hotel offers a serene escape where guests can enjoy paddling, fishing, swimming, and hiking to scenic vistas. The nearby Boothbay Harbor provides additional attractions, including local shops and the renowned Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

The Inn features a variety of accommodations, including cottages and single as well as multi-bedroom suites, all designed with a modern take on New England cottage style. These rooms offer comforts like plush beds, thoughtful storage, and cozy nooks, making them perfect for families, couples, and groups. Many rooms boast ocean views and private porches, enhancing the connection to the picturesque surroundings.

Guests can dine at the on-site Ocean Point Kitchen, which offers spectacular oceanfront views. Amenities include an outdoor pool, communal fire pits, and family-friendly features such as the BluebirdKIDS program, providing welcome gifts and area guides for younger guests. This generational retreat invites families and friends to create lasting memories in an authentic Maine setting.

WHY WANDER

Boothbay Harbor is a quintessential seaside town in Mid-Coast Maine. The area boasts picturesque views, fresh seafood, and activities like kayaking and sailing. Visitors can explore over 3,500 miles of coastline, partake in whale watching, or embark on self-guided lighthouse tours. The town's charm extends to its historic Boothbay Railway Village, which offers a glimpse into Maine's past with vintage cars and a working steam train. Downtown Boothbay Harbor features quaint shops, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants serving local seafood.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the Appalachee Preserve Loop, kayak around the harbor, or take a schooner sail to enjoy the stunning coastline. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, one of New England's largest, offers beautifully landscaped gardens and educational programs. The Boothbay Region Land Trust preserves, like Porter Preserve and Ovens Mouth Preserve, provide scenic spots for picnics and exploration. Additionally, the area's Sculpture Boothbay trail showcases local art against the backdrop of Maine's natural beauty.

INDULGE IN

Ocean Point Kitchen is a relaxed New England eatery located at Bluebird Ocean Point Inn serving classic coastal Maine cuisine. Enjoy local beverages, freshly caught seafood, and farm-fresh seasonal salads and entrées.

Local favourites:

• The Carriage House Restaurant

• Bet's Fish Fry

• Cabbage Island Clambakes

• Boothbay Craft Brewery

• Footbridge Brewery

GETTING THERE

The nearest major airport is Portland International Jetport (PWM) in Portland, Maine. From there, you can rent a car and take I-295 North from Portland.

WILD INITIATIVES

Bluebird Hotels breathe new life into worn down motels and motor lodges to restore them to their former glory and add years to their lives.

*Photos property of Bluebird Ocean Point Inn, Lark Hotels