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Historic Inns of Rockland, Maine

Tucked into various parts of the city of Rockland, Maine, are four outstanding Inns that make up the Historic Inns of Rockland. Each Inn is unique and has their own historical significance, but the innkeepers all share the same commitment to being green, and to the Interfaith Food Pantry and Fuel Assistance Program.

For the past five years, the Historic Inns of Rockland have hosted an Inn-to-Inn Pie Tour to raise money for the Food Pantry and Fuel Assistance Program, and have raised over $12,000 to fund the project. The innkeepers have a deep sense of duty to help others by reducing their carbon footprints by going green (they are all certified "green") and by participating in the annual drive to raise funds for locals who need assistance with food and fuel.

Entering The Captain Lindsey House, owned by Ken and Ellen Barnes, offers a unique entrance from Lindsey Street; visitors step up several stairs to what resembles a ticket office at a theater, but on a much more elegant level. Rich wood tones surround the large glass enclosure of the reception area and there are tufted seats if you have to wait. The sitting room opposite the reception area is large and welcoming with comfortable-looking furniture, a fire place and antiques. There is a library/office for the guests' use which includes a computer port and telephone. The quests' quarters are beautiful and welcoming and each of the nine rooms have computer modem ports and private bathrooms. For reservations online, go to: http://www.lindseyhouse.com

The Old Granite Inn, directly across from the ferry terminal, is a gray stone-fronted Federal Colonial, built in 1840, and offers eight beautifully appointed rooms. The minimalist sitting room offers the visitor an opportunity to enjoy a crackling fire in the fireplace, and the breakfast room offers a large room and the scent of coffee and maple syrup. The rooms at the front of the Inn offer lovely views of the harbor directly across the street. Visit their website at: http://www.oldgraniteinn.com

Th e Berry Manor Inn is a delightful indulgence with its large parlors that flank the entry, ornate woodwork on the open staircase, beautiful wood floors and the wonderfully warm colors on the walls. The twelve rooms are large and beautifully appointed and the warmth of the Innkeepers makes this an Inn not to miss! The "Pie Moms" hold court here, making the pies that are always available to the guests. They are so good that Bobby Flay dropped by for a "showdown" a few years ago. The Berry Manor Inn also has a carriage house that has been remodeled and is perfect for couples traveling together, since it is away from the main building but offers a small kitchen (complete with pie, of course), lavish bathrooms with Jacuzzi tubs and double showers. The Berry Manor Inn is Rockland's only Four Diamond Inn, awarded by AAA for exceptional accommodations. Make your reservations at: www.berrymanorinn.com

The LimeRock Inn is as lovely as an Inn gets, and Innkeepers, PJ Walter and Frank Isganitis, are consummate hosts. I was welcomed by PJ, who gave me a tour and showed me to my room; although the Grand Manan room is touted to be the premier room, my vote goes to the Turret Room as the best of the best. A large bathroom, with white French doors, has an inviting claw foot bathtub as well as a shower, and the three curved windows of the turret are beautiful as well as fascinating.

The Inn is elegant and homey at the same time; there is a guest pantry where guests can help themselves to chilled water and soft drinks, and a computer is always available for those who just have to check in. The breakfast room is lovely, and breakfast was sublime. Conversation flows freely between guests and innkeepers, as does the coffee. For a wonderful Inn experience, visit: www.limerockinn.com

Learn more about this author, Linda Batey.
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