Cycling Maine's Coast & National Park

Cycling information

Day 1: Arrive in Portland

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.
Overnight Portland Regency Hotel & Spa, Portland (breakfast included).

Day 2: Port Clyde and Clark Island (39km/24.2mi)

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.
Overnight Craignair Inn, Spruce Head (breakfast included).

Day 3: Spruce Head to Rockland (43km/26.7mi)

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.
Overnight Berry Manor Inn, Rockland (breakfast included).

Day 4: To Vinalhaven (36km/22.4mi)

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.
Overnight Berry Manor Inn, Rockland (breakfast included).

Day 5: Rockland to Camden (17km/10.6mi or 24km/14.9mi)

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.
Overnight Hartstone Inn, Camden (breakfast included).

Day 6: Acadia's Carriage Roads (43km/26.7mi)

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.
Overnight Sandbar Cottage, Bar Harbour (breakfast included).

Day 7: The Schoodic Peninsula (47km/29.2mi or 59km/36.7mi)

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 an alternative route is available on the quieter side of Acadia in Southwest Harbour (58km).
Overnight Sandbar Cottage, Bar Harbour (breakfast included).

Day 8: Acadia National Park and departure (34km/21.1mi)

What better way to end your New England escape than to cycle Acadia National Park's famous Park Loop, winding along the craggy shore. You have the option to climb Cadillac Mountain (additional 10km), 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.