Advice to Fellow Travelers: Take the Road Less Traveled

Some of our most memorable and enjoyable travel experiences have happened when we have gone off the beaten path--when we have ditched the plan and just wandered.  During our recent trip to Maine after visiting the famous Nubble Lighthouse, we took the back way (Shore Road) from Cape Neddick to Ogunquit, leaving Highway 1 to the other tourists.  What we found was the beautiful St. Peter's by-the-Sea Episcopal Church.

St. Peter's by-the-Sea Episcopal Church

This beautiful church, constructed in 1897, is made of stone, wood, and gorgeous stained glass and is listed on The National Register of Historic Places. The church sits near the top of Christian Hill where, at the request of original owner of the land, its cross can be seen by fishermen when they are at sea. A memorial garden sits among the woods beside the church.  Services are held at St. Peter's on Sundays during the summer.  Visit the church's website for a virtual tour and more information.

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

Maine's Southern Coast: Kennebunkport

Each of the towns we visited along the southern coast of Maine had it's own unique charm, but my favorite was Kennebunkport.  The people I encountered there were friendly and obviously took pride in their town.  There was a variety of restaurants, shops, and activities to keep us busy and happy, and there were many more that were within a 30-45 minute drive.  Located where the Kennebunk River meets the Atlantic Ocean, Kennebunkport's natural setting was simply beautiful.  We visited in early June before the summer tourist season really got started, so we were able to enjoy the town's easy-going, fun, and peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrived.  Kennebunkport is a great little town that is a nice blend of classy and quirky.

"Love Locks" on the bridge entering downtown Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport Harbor

Planters in downtown Kennebunkport

Take a carriage ride and see the town

The wood slices on the side of this hotel seemed to fit well
with the driftwood along the shore of the river.

Cider Mill Press

Lobster, anyone?

The Nott House, 1853
National Register of Historic Places

Mermaids and Seahorses

Lovely homes everywhere

Love these creative planters!

An adorable fairy garden. . .

. . .and fairies arriving by hot air balloon!

Evening on Kennebunkport Harbor