Gather the girls! It’s time to plan your perfect bachelorette itinerary in Rockland Maine. Wedding bells are in your future, but now is the time to make merry with your gal pals. Let’s map out a weekend that blends action and adventure with something more sedate and cerebral.
Where to Stay
Your first step is to book the Rockland Talbot House, a sister property to the Berry Manor Inn. We’re located a stone’s throw from Rockland’s vibrant town center. Our charming Victorian mansion offers 6 spacious guest rooms complete with all the modern amenities. It’s a great place for a comfortable and relaxing getaway for all. Feel free to stretch out in front of the big screen TV, or cozy up with a glass of wine and a romance novel in the library or out on the porch.
Day 1
Make your way to mid-coast Maine with a leisurely drive along Route 1 through scenic towns and villages. If you time it right you could stop for a lobster roll at Red’s Eats in Wiscasset. But if you’re eager to hit the ground running, motor on up to Rockland and have lunch at any of a dozen or more lovely restaurants in town.
After lunch, you’ll have a few hours to fill before checking in to your weekend hideaway. It’s time for some retail therapy! Wander through the main streets and back alleys. You’re bound to find fun and funky shops offering up everything from artisan olive oils to vintage clothing.
Once your arms are laden down with shopping bags filled with your new finds, it’s time to put your feet up and relax in your luxurious rooms at the Inn. Head to the pantry for a cup of coffee or tea and a slice of pie, or languish in your private bath with a long soak.
As evening draws near it’s time to decide where to dine. With no shortage of great restaurants to choose from, it’s just a matter of what appeals. With a reputation as a foodie destination the Rockland restaurant scene caters to everything from pub grub to fine dining, and everything in between.
Day 2
Wake to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and something wonderful waiting for you at the breakfast table. Fresh fruit and juices, homemade breads and pastries, and a sweet or savory entrée will energize you for the day ahead.
Morning Activities
Kayaking is on the agenda this morning. Book a private tour with any one of our recommended outfitters, or rent equipment and head off on your own. Assess the skills and experience of your group before deciding where to paddle. The midcoast of Maine is rife with rivers, lakes, and ponds to explore, as well as the ever-present lure of the ocean. The Morning Island Hop Excursion with Port Clyde Kayaks will have you out on the water for 2 ½ hours with an expert guide leading the way.
Invigorated by your morning kayak adventure, lunch seems like a nice way to unwind. Pull up a seat at any of Rockland’s outdoor dining establishments for a relaxing meal al fresco. The topic for discussion over lunch is how to spend the rest of your day.
Afternoon Activities
One of our favorite ways to spend an afternoon in mid-coast Maine is to visit some of our local vineyards and wineries. Yes, Maine is home to more than just lighthouses and lobsters. More and more vintners and distillers are finding their way to the coast of Maine. They produce noteworthy vintages of red, white, and rose wines. Choose a designated driver and head out to explore the gorgeous scenery as you meander from vineyard to vineyard.
No doubt after a full day of adventure you’ll want some downtime before heading out to dinner. Take a snooze in an Adirondack chair in the garden, or sit and rock on the porch as the sun sets in the west. You’ll have plenty of time to recuperate before heading out for your reservation at Primo.
A true farm-to-table destination, Primo is the brainchild of chef Melissa Kelly, a two-time James Beard Award-Winner. Dine-in style on the finest and freshest ingredients available, most raised or grown right on the property. Make sure to toast the bride-to-be with a selection from their excellent wine list.
Fully sated, a restful sleep awaits you back at the Inn. But don’t forget about the pie in the pantry. That is, if you still have room.
Day 3
Your final day begins with another wonderful breakfast before packing up and heading home. To ease gently back into reality, spend some time wandering the museums and galleries that line the main streets of Rockland. Known as the “arts capital of Maine” you won’t want to miss the iconic Farnsworth Museum or the architectural wonder of the Center for Maine Contemporary Art. And visit their gift shops for a trinket or two to take home with you.
With your perfect bachelorette itinerary in Rockland Maine now complete, your trip back home may be bittersweet. But, now that you’ve discovered the beauty of mid-coast Maine and the comfort and luxury of the Rockland Talbot House and the Berry Manor Inn, we’re certain you’ll be back to visit us often.
Published: June 2022