Town of Belgrade, Maine
Source: Town of Belgrade, Maine Facebook
Belgrade is home to seven gorgeous lakes
Belgrade is located in a regional watershed composed of 7 lakes and many streams and wetlands. These 7 lakes are known as Belgrade Lakes and the many lakeshores of these are shared with 12 other local towns.
When you travel to this part of Maine you will be awed by the beauty and peacefulness of this lake’s region. As was Ernest Thompson, who was inspired by this area when he wrote his play “On Golden Pond.” This play became a hit movie in 1981 and helped attract even more visitors to this town.
Belgrade History
This area was originally settled in 1774 by Philip Snow of New Hampshire. It was known as Washington Plantation at that time. In 1796 the town of Belgrade was established and named for Belgrade in Serbia. The Belgrade Historical Society helps preserve the history of the area and is well worth a visit.
Belgrade was mostly an agricultural town with potatoes being their #1 crop. In the mid-1850s mills and factories started popping up drawing their power from the ponds. It wasn’t until after the arrival of the railroad that Belgrade became a popular tourist area with lakeside cottages.
Exploring Belgrade Maine
Great Pond, Long Pond, and Messalonskee Lake attract many visitors each year with their multitude of lakeside cottages, lake activities, and quaint shopping centers.
During the summer months fishing, swimming, waterskiing, and paddling are very popular activities for the residents and visitors alike. Fishing is probably the most popular of these, attracting visitors from all over to the perfect tranquility and plentiful fish found in these lakes.
And in the winter months ice fishing, ice skating, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing are popular attractions.
Hiking and sightseeing are also popular activities here. The 7 Lakes Alliance Trail System is made up of 7 trails, each with spectacular views of local wildlife and the lakes.
These trails are French Mountain Trail, Mount Philip Trail, Round Top Trail, Sanders Hill Trail, The Mountain Trail, The “A” Trail at McGaffey Mountain, and Fogg Island Trail.
Each of these trails is a little different but all showcase the beauty of this area and were created to encourage exploration and appreciation for this region.
Source: The Village Inn Facebook
The Village Inn offers lakefront views and incredible food.
Restaurants and Lodging in Belgrade
The Village Inn and Tavern is one of these popular tourist destinations and has been for over a hundred years. And it’s conveniently located at 157 Main St making it a perfect spot to stay for access to the lake and shopping, restaurants, and the like.
All of the Inn’s guest rooms have decks that overlook the village of Belgrade and the lakes. Add the lakefront setting and waterfront dining and you have a perfect venue for weddings and other large events.
The dining room is an elegant hunting lodge-style great room that holds up to 100 people and is available to book for daytime events during the summer. The Tavern is cozy and offers a full dinner menu. It can also be rented for events and seats up to 35 comfortably.
The Village Inn and Tavern is known far and wide for its 12-hour roast duck. They also serve fresh seafood and local meats and produce.
Another idyllic spot to stay is in The Red House at the Belgrade Lakes Golf Club nearby. Sadly there is only one small 2 bedroom cottage here to rent so book ahead if interested.
Other places to stay nearby include Castle Island Camps, Lakeside Inn, and many other cottages.
While you’re visiting check out The Village Green on 1203 West Road for live music and local events. There’s also a gazebo, benches, and a walking path on site. A great place to spend a warm summer’s evening. Bring along a blanket and snacks and enjoy the live entertainment. Seasonal events include 4th of July celebrations, a loon calling contest in August, a Harvest Festival in October, and a Holiday stroll through the nearby village in December.
Belgrade is a unique little town with a lot to offer. Once you discover this beautiful area you’ll find yourself coming back year after year like so many others have for generations.
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