Expect the Unexpected at the Captain Fairfield Inn and Pomegranate Inn
Settled in the 1600’s and a long time ship building mecca, the Kennebunkport river banks saw five-masted ships and schooners making their way down the river on their way to the sea. Sea captains built fine mansions, many of which are preserved today as lovely inns with antique charm. Over 100 years ago, this part of the Maine Coast first became a resort destination – today it’s “the place to be all year.”
Set in the heart of historic Kennebunkport, Maine, one of these old mansions is now home to the Captain Fairfield Inn. The Inn was designed in keeping with the grand heritage of the 1813 Federal-style mansion but we were excited to see they’ve incorporated bold modern decor and the luxuries a modern traveler desires and expects in a relaxing seaside getaway. Located in a quiet neighborhood overlooking the river green and just one block from the Kennebunk River, lively Dock Square and Kennebunkport harbor, the Inn features beautifully landscaped grounds and gardens where you can relax and enjoy the ocean breezes while enjoying a glass of wine and their fresh-baked, sea salt chocolate chip cookies which were to die for.
Seven guest rooms and two suites, including the vineyard vines® Suite (clothiers to the chic and preppy coastal crowd) and plush Lark Suite (with a dreamy bath) provide guests a tranquil spot to end the day and peacefully drift off to sleep. Upon arrival we were handed our own personal iPad to use during our stay that was already loaded with local restaurants, shopping and activities. What a great idea as usually I’m spending hours scouring the internet to find places to eat and things to do! We stayed in the Parker room, which had a beautiful gas fireplace and an iPod docking station. The room also features a private bath with an old fashioned Revival soaking tub and shower.
Food, wine and craft beer are definitely an essential part of the Captain Fairfield Inn experience. The next morning we were treated to a multicourse breakfast of raspberry scones, fresh fruit and gourmet scrambled eggs. In the evening, the Inn offers an eclectic wine and beer list with small plates (all for purchase), blending local artisan breads with cheeses from the US and Europe and Italian salami, olives and olive oils, and a variety of fruits.
We hated to leave the Captain Fairfield, but we were excited to see our next stop at the Pomegranate Inn, set in a quiet neighborhood in the Western Promenade Historic District. Expect the unexpected is the theme of this hotel collection and the Pomegranate did not disappoint! Sculpture, art, quirky furniture and fabrics create a gallery unlike any other hotel in Portland. The features combine in an eclectic play of color and texture that surprise, entertain, and then encourage you to kick back and unwind. At this upbeat inn the goal is to both charm you and exceed your expectations. There’s also a guest parlor and a chic lounge where local art is showcased.
Eight stunning B&B guestrooms provide luxury and comfort for a romantic get-away, a haven for the business traveler, or a destination for a few days of art, dining and shopping. We stayed in Room 4 which had beautiful high ceilings, a gas fireplace and floor to ceiling windows to allow plenty of light. The walls were decorated with a lovely hand-painted bird motif and it was so unique I couldn’t take my eyes off it! And, of course I was happy to see they offer ecofriendly shower and bath amenities.
One thing I love about staying in B&Bs is the amazing and creative gourmet breakfasts you receive! And it was no exception at the Pomegranate. Our first course was fruit and pastries fresh from the oven. The main course was poached eggs with capers, or blueberry pancakes all made with fresh, seasonal and local ingredients. If the temptation to sleep in wins, they’ll bring a breakfast basket to your door!
Whether you choose to stay in relaxing Kennebunkport or you’re looking for an experience in the vibrant city of Portland, look no further than the Captain Fairfield Inn and the Pomegranate Inn for an amazing stay! Visit www.captainfairfield.com and www.pomegranateinn.com.
ELM™ | Maine
