Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Flights
available
30.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
With almost 400 miles from Kittery to the Canadian border, the coast of Maine presents incredibly diverse landscapes brimming with New England charm. This trip encompasses the very best that coastal Maine has to offer, from quaint artistic towns to the dramatic beauty of craggy shorelines that look out to historic island lighthouses.
Treat yourself to a variety of Maine delicacies like smoked salmon, fresh blueberries, the local favourite 'whoopee pie' and the world-famous Maine lobster. This distinctive trip gives you a unique insight into the creativity and beauty of the area as you ride through Acadia National Park, along the Schoodic Peninsula and through picturesque waterfront towns, all the while spoilt with unmatched ocean views.
Undoubtedly a highlight of your trip, the accommodation featured on this holiday is of great standard. You'll spend your week in charming New England Inns dotted along Maine's rugged coastline, with the exception of your first night in Portland city. Brimming with tradition and warm hospitality, a cosy room and hearty breakfast awaits you after an exhilarating day cycling.
Add extra nights in Portland or Boston should you want to explore these exciting American cities.
Please note: Cycling helmets are a legal requirement in the state of Maine for cyclists under 16 years of age.
TERRAIN
The route is moderately challenging, with varied terrain including a mix of rolling coastal roads, short steep climbs, and scenic backroads. You’ll ride past fishing villages, lighthouses, and rugged shores, with occasional stretches on busier highways. In Acadia, the smooth, car-free carriage roads offer a serene finale.
After arriving in Boston, you'll take a local bus to Portland, Maine where your hotelier will pick you up. You'll spend your first night in Portland to rest up before being collected the following morning for your transfer to Spruce Head.
You stay at Portland Regency Hotel.
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Your first night is spent in Portland Regency Hotel & Spa, an elegant and historical building in the Old Port District of Portland. With a luxury spa and creative onsite restaurant, this is the perfect place to rest up before beginning your cycling tour. Add extra nights in Portland if you'd like to explore this bustling city. There's plenty to see from whale watching to the renowned Portland Symphony Orchestra!
You'll be met at your Portland hotel and transferred to your first traditional New England Inn located in Spruce Head. From here, you'll embark on your first ride along coastal roads to the fishing village of Port Clyde and onto Marshall Point lighthouse, made famous by Forrest Gump. In the evening, you'll have plenty of time to marvel at the coastal views from the lovely garden of your inn.
You stay at Craignair Inn.
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Perfectly nestled along the craggy coast, this quiet escape serves up classic hospitality for a unique and welcoming stay. Many of the rooms have terraces with ocean views to enjoy all evening. There’s also an excellent restaurant and bar offering a relaxed setting and high-quality, local food.
Take a moment to enjoy your morning coffee overlooking the beautiful ocean before setting off to Birch Point State Park, home to the fascinating Owls Head lighthouse standing guard over Penobscot Bay. Continue to the eclectic village of Rockland, known as one of the world’s largest distributors of lobster. You have the option to visit Farnsworth Museum of Art featuring an extensive collection of art from the Wyeth family. Rockland is also home to many charming shops and galleries so there’s plenty to explore at your own pace this evening.
You stay at Berry Manor Inn.
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Another beautiful inn located in the historic district of Rockland, Berry Manor Inn is a luxury coastal inn, in a beautiful Victorian home. Renowned for its homemade pies and grand hospitality, this elegant getaway allows guests access to a 24 hour pantry and a lovely garden to relax in.
You will enjoy great views of the Camden Hills and Rockland Harbour as you take an early morning ferry to Vinalhaven. Spend the day discovering the island, browsing downtown, and cycling up the island. Enjoy a swim in an old granite quarry and get a glimpse into island life before returning on the ferry back to Rockland.
Today, you have some lovely options to consider for your ride. As the route from Rockland to Camden is 16.5km, we have a couple of loop rides that you can add in at Beauchamp Point (this is a beautiful 11km coastal ride through a natural reserve) and in the Camden Hills state park where sweeping views of Camden and Penobscot Bay await (24km). On your arrival in Camden, take your time wandering around this picturesque town, featuring a well-sheltered harbour surrounded by lush forests and hills.
You stay at Blue Harbor House.
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Experience beautiful Camden, Maine, while staying at Blue Harbor House Inn, conveniently located just a few blocks from downtown shops, restaurants, and the harbor. You will be treated to a two-course gourmet breakfast each morning and fresh-baked treats each afternoon, as well as complimentary coffee and tea.
Your morning begins with an included transfer to Bar Harbour, the gateway to Acadia National Park. This stunning national treasure will be your home for the day as you ride through breath-taking scenery along Acadia’s famous carriage roads. Gifted by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr, he envisioned motor-free byways to visit the heart of Mount Desert Island taking advantage of the incredible scenic views; thus, the carriage ways were created. This is a fantastic ride where you become fully immersed in the best of Maine’s captivating landscapes.
You stay at Sandbar Cottage.
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Your final classic New England Inn is just steps from the waterfront in Bar Harbour where you’ll enjoy a boutique cottage experience. Relax in the lovely gardens on the terrace when you’re not enjoying the beautiful town of Bar Harbour. Hearty breakfasts are provided at each inn and there are plenty of restaurant options within each town.
A highlight of your week, your day begins with a unique ferry ride across Frenchman Bay to Winter Harbour and the Schoodic Peninsula. With over 27 acres of unique pink granite shores, it's easy to see why artists are frequently inspired by this stunning peninsula. Along your ride, you'll be rewarded with remarkable views over Mount Desert Island, Cadillac Mountain, and the historical lighthouses of Mark Island, Baker Island, and Egg Rock. Admire the dramatic waves as they crash into Schoodic's rugged shore before continuing to a traditional lobstering community.
Please note, if you have opted for an e-bike on this trip, the ferry does not accept e-bikes therefore we have two alternative routes available. The first being on the quieter side of Acadia in Southwest Harbour (59km) or you can opt to do Acadia National Park's famous Park Loop Road (33km).
What better way to end your New England escape than to go for one last morning cycle up Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard as a spectacular finish to your week!
Transfer at 11.30 (Saturday's only) back to Portland for your return bus to Boston Airport or for an extra night or two in this bustling American city.
Price excludes estimated local taxes/fees of 120 USD.
These prices are per person, based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £819.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Boston Int. airport.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices fluctuate significantly and can change rapidly. At Headwater, we offer competitively priced flights with built-in flight protection for your peace of mind. For more details, please click here.
Self-guided cycling
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Flights
available
30.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
Optional
e-bike hire
