Maine ingredient S
THE
Consider Maine's stunning natural attractions, pristine environment, rich history and culture and it's little surprise that the state's visitor numbers are rising nicely, says Peter Ellegard
panning an area larger than all the other New England states combined, Maine’s natural attractions and pristine nature are
its foremost appeal to visitors. The untamed Atlantic has shaped its
shores. The state has 5,500 miles of mainly rocky coastline, protected by over 60 lighthouses, and about 2,000 offshore islands. But there are also pretty beaches. Acadia National Park is the biggest tourist magnet, for its stunning seascapes and spectacular cliffs. Maine’s official state name, the Pine
Tree State, also hints at the wild and unspoilt character of its interior. It is America’s most forested state as well as being the most sparsely populated state east of the Mississippi. It has over half a million acres of state and national parks and 22,000 miles of rivers, as well as thousands of lakes. It encompasses the northernmost section of the Appalachian Trail as well as many other hiking trails and canoe trails, much of them through wilderness. In short, if you want to lose yourself amidst nature’s glories, this is the place to do it. Maine also has plenty of history and culture. Its seafaring heritage is maintained in the many quaint fishing villages and towns such as Kennebunkport and Bangor, with their museums and preserved buildings. You can marvel at the spectacle of America’s largest fleet of historic sailing vessels and experience the thrill of sailing one of the windjammers. And you can dine out on its famous lobsters and other local produce at some of New England’s finest restaurants. There are also vibrant cities to explore and great shopping, from local crafts to outlet store bargains. A trump card for Maine is its four-
season appeal, with something to see and do throughout the year. British visitors are increasingly being
drawn to the Maine attraction. While the state has no breakdown of UK arrivals, it forms a key element in many New England tours with a number of tour
42 March 2011 •
www.sellinglonghaul.com
operators having a strong Maine focus. And visitor numbers to the region are on the up. Sue Norrington-Davies, managing director of Discover New England, said: “Tour operators have been reporting an upward trend in bookings to New England for 2011 and we are very encouraged by this.”
WHAT’S NEW Maine’s annual Restaurant Week takes place from March 1-12 and features special-price meals offered by restaurants throughout the state. Visit
www.mainerestaurantweek.com Portland’s international airport is
undergoing a $75-million expansion that will almost double the size of its existing terminal and improve facilities. The Maine Windjammer Association celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2011 with a series of celebrations and special events featuring its historic fleet of schooners (
www.sailmainecoast.com). Sugarloaf Ski Resort is undertaking a 10-year development plan which will add 655 acres of new terrain when the project is complete, making it the largest ski area east of the Rocky Mountains. A new, waterfront boutique hotel, the Grand Harbor Inn, has opened in Camden with rooms and suites giving views over the harbour.
TOURISM TALK CAROLANN OUELLETTE DEPUTY DIRECTOR, MAINE OFFICE OF TOURISM “Maine is desirable to British visitors because of our unique lodging, natural scenic beauty, and
wide variety of outdoor recreational experiences. Maine’s natural assets and authentic local culture bring to mind a time when travel was simple and relaxing. Our visitors can enjoy everything from a relaxing cruise aboard a historic schooner, or ride the rapids during a thrilling white-water rafting adventure. The British visitor also
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