2014 Visitor's Guide

Drive along Route 1 a few minutes north from Portland and you’ll soon find yourself in the pretty coastal town of F ALMOUTH . Just a short jaunt north of that is Y ARMOUTH , and even farther along away up the coast is the little slice of Maine known as C UMBERLAND . With salt-water views, acres of forest, and easy access to islands, this region is popular among vacationers and locals alike. Somewhat hidden gems, these towns offer many unique recreational opportunities. Follow road signs for Falmouth Foreside just north of Portland on I295 and enjoy a walk around Mackworth Island just beyond the bridge. You’ll find a surprising settlement: fairy houses, built by children out of found natural materials. Continue north on Route 1 in Falmouth and turn onto Route 88, one of the most beautiful drives in America. Stop into Town Landing Market in Falmouth Foreside and walk down the hill to Falmouth Town Landing, offering spectacular views of the harbor. Continue up Route 88 to explore Cousins Island, easily accessible by car. From here, you can hop a ferry to Chebeague Island, or stay to wander around the state parks and public beaches. With this much coastline, it’s only logical to have top-notch seafood spots, but if you really want to sample the best of the ocean’s bounty, visit Yarmouth during the third week in July, when the annual Clam Festival takes over the town center. The family-friendly event features plenty of clams and chowders, as well as amusement rides for the kids. While we’re on the subject of events, there is also a great town fair in Cumberland. One of Maine’s largest agricultural fairs, it’s a very cool way to learn about the farmland culture, which played a huge part in the formation of this community, as you chow down on some delicious fairground food. Missed the fest? No worries, there are plenty of places to eat and shop open year-round. Antiques are particularly • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

When it comes to outdoor exploring, there are ample choices. There are multiple parks in the area, from the well-groomed and popular Bicentennial Park & Skate Park to the more isolated trails that run along the river. In the winter, ice-skating is a popular pastime, as is cross-country skiing. In the summer, you can take a dip at the public pool in Westbrook, or bring your fishing rods up to Highland Lake. You can also rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards from the City of Westbrook and enjoy a beautiful stretch of the Presumpscot River between Saccarappa Falls and the historic Elms on your own or on a guided tour. Snowmobiling is also a popular activity, thanks to the wooded trails and gently rolling topography. After all that skating and skiing, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Despite the old-fashioned architecture of downtown Westbrook, the area is buzzing with great places to eat and shop. You can get anything from spicy Indian to comforting Italian cuisine at the local eateries. But if you want cold beer, head to Gorham, where the nationally acclaimed Sebago Brewing Company can be found. Order a Maine-made brew and hearty pub food before heading out for your next adventure.

Photos, from top: Falmouth Town Landing in Casco Bay, courtesy Liberty Bell Furniture; Yarmouth Clam Festival celebrates Maine’s molluscs and more July 18-20, Cynthia Farr-Weinfeld

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