Town of Blue Hill, Maine

Blue Hill is located in one of the prettiest, most picturesque places you can imagine. Besides that, it’s tranquil. Life is unhurried unless you want it to be. You can sit and watch the seasons roll by or climb up a bit to get a vantage point where you can look over at Mt. Desert Island. Just think of it! People come from all over the world to visit this quaint, peaceful place we call home. There are lots of reasons for that. And I’m sure ready to fill you in on more than a few.

Why, Blue Hill is special enough that, small as it is here, there was an article in the Huffington Post that listed all the reasons why it’s a good idea to visit here. The short version is that you’ll find a delightful blend of the arts, food, seasonal marvels, and fun.

Your First Down East Destination

Now, depending on what source you read, you’ll find varying opinions about where Down East Maine begins. When you get right down to it, it’s as much a state of mind as it is a destination. So, the first thing is to make any adjustments to your expectations. When you’re longing for quiet, a steady slow pace of life, and long evenings by the fire, indoors or out, you just might be ready!

The next is to be as prepared for surprises as you are for that unharried pace of life around here. Plus, you’re likely to be amazed to learn that a big town like Bangor and a highly featured natural park-like Acadia are each less than an hour away, one sort of to the west and the other easterly. Then again, you may not even get that far when you see what’s right here or within a short distance. So remember, unless you’re stuck in traffic on Route 1, your next 10 or 20-mile drive isn’t likely to take as long as you planned.

The Blue Hill Fair and Coastal Maine Art

Even though you’re coming to a less populated part of the world, it’s still wise to plan ahead. That way you know what’s going on and can then be assured of finding a place to stay that suits your fancy and wallet. More on that later.

For now, let’s take a look at the mingling of country life and coastal art, for the two go hand-in-hand in all sorts of enticing ways. That certainly includes foods and flavors as a delicious meal, even one that’s basic and simple, is a work of art. I’m not speaking about my own cooking here, more that of others who know how to serve up something out of this world.

You’ll find delectable flavors and a load of fun at the annual Blue Hill Fair. Here are examples of what I’m talking about, starting with a question. Where in the world will you find a bigger cash prize for a dessert than for an athletic feat? Answer: Right here at the fair! Yup, you heard me right. That’s because a baker’s first-place prize for a darn good whoopie pie yields a purse of $100. Same for a fantastic first in the blueberry pie contest. Yet, catch this! The top dollar for the winner of the women’s skillet-throwing contest is a mere $50. This is all true, even if my telling of it is a bit tongue in cheek. At least now you have a good idea of how this genuine “Down to Earth” country fair does it upright!

As I mentioned early on, Blue Hill is known far and wide for its art scene, as in the one here has become an international destination point. The combination of art, music, and natural wonders makes sense once a person slows down long enough to really think about it. Plus you don’t have to be an artist to appreciate it as it’s for each of us to learn what speaks most deeply to our core.

Our town, in fact, the whole Blue Hill Peninsula, is a treasure trove of arts and crafts galleries. It’s a good idea to run a search to find those that match your interests or pique your curiosity. Plus, you want to know when each is open, lest disappointment set in if they’re closed off-season or such. One nice thing is that when they’re open, the weather is not an obstacle, be it rain or heat, as your perusing can go on undeterred.

Down the road about a half-hour is the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, a wonderful place for learning and viewing. At the conclusion of each of the school’s summer workshop sessions, the campus is open to the public. It really is worth touring this website to read about the wide range of crafts associated with Haystack!

Water, Water, Everywhere!

You may be one of many who visit here because of our natural splendor and all of the action that awaits you. Yes, that may be watching others in action! One literal beauty of our peninsula, and those that are nearby, is having the enjoyment of both ocean and freshwater options. That might be for selecting the setting where to stay or move to, or places to select for each day’s outings.

Castine Kayak Adventures provides you with overnight kayak and camping adventures as well as lessons and rentals. They have guide services available as well as the right equipment for navigating Maine’s coastal waters. Castine Harbor Tours, just a half-hour from here, offers you a relaxing option for being out on the water for part of your day. The Activity Shop offers kayak, canoe, standup paddleboard, and bike rentals along with guide services, giving you the chance to safely broaden your perspective.

Now, you might be someone who’s dreamed of visiting an island by boat, touring a lighthouse, or watching those puffins you’ve come to love. Plan your day ahead of time and then drive about a half-hour south to Stonington. From there you can take the mailboat to Isle au Haut, a unique island community. The website gives you info about their various tours and rates.

Nearby Beaches & Lodging

There’s so much to do here, on or near the water, including going to the beach. You’ll find several within 15-30 minutes by running a search for “Blue Hill Maine beaches.” Try one or all! You’re likely to eat heartily and sleep well after all of your fresh air and outdoor time. To find something to your liking, turn to the Blue Hill Chamber of Commerce Lodging link as they have a thorough rundown of places to stay. That includes inns, camping, and home rentals. Maybe even one you decide to buy for a longer stay!

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