Maine's Southern Coast: St. Anthony's Franciscan Monastery

Every day when we drove from our vacation house into town, we passed the entrance to St. Anthony's Franciscan Monastery.  Noticing a sign that welcomed the public and seeing only glimpses of some lovely stonework, my husband and I became more and more curious about what was beyond the entrance.  So one evening just before dark as we were driving home from town, we decided to take a peak beyond the gate.  

We didn't go far or stay long because daylight was almost gone, but what we saw was enchanting.  We returned the next day to explore, and I'm so glad we did!  The Franciscan Monastery is located just off of Beach Road in Kennebunkport, and it's a lovely, peaceful spot to stretch your legs and be inspired.

Beautiful trails run through the property.

A small statue and prayer to St. Anthony

We saw beautiful ferns along the trails at the monastery & throughout the area.

Flowers were tucked into tree trunks and rocks along the trails.

Benches & a swing that overlook the Kennebunk River

Wander through the marsh to this quiet spot

From the bench in the marsh, you can watch the boats come and go.

Kateri Tekakwitha

Observing the harbor and downtown Kennebunkport

Lily of the Valley

Rhodedendron

Lilac