Cleftstone Inn: Your Dream Bar Harbor Getaway Awaits!
Lost in Lobster Rolls and Luxury: My Chaotic Love Affair with Cleftstone Inn (Bar Harbor!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from Cleftstone Inn in Bar Harbor, and honestly? I'm still trying to unpack it all. Seriously. I’m talking emotional baggage and actual suitcases overflowing with "Maine Thingo" souvenirs (don't ask). This place… this place is a mood and I’m here to spill the (lobster) beans.
First Impressions: A Victorian Fairytale (With a Side of Wi-Fi!)
Let’s be real, my trip planning skills usually involve a frantic Google search the night before. So, stumbling upon the Cleftstone Inn – a grand, Victorian beauty – felt like a total win. From the outside, it’s straight out of a postcard. Inside? Well, it's got that classic, old-world charm, but with some surprisingly modern perks. Finding out there’s Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! was a HUGE relief. Because, you know, gotta post those travel selfies immediately. Also, Internet access – wireless meant I could actually work (sort of… more on that later). The 24-hour front desk was a lifesaver when I arrived a bit frazzled after a surprisingly bumpy airport transfer (shout out to the Airport transfer service!). They even had Contactless check-in/out – genius! Seriously, who wants to fumble with a pen after a long flight?
(Accessibility & Security: A Peace of Mind Situation)
Now, I didn't have any accessibility needs, per se, but I did peek around, and I was impressed. They had Elevators, which is HUGE in a place like this. Plus, and I know this is important, they're serious about safety. CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property gave me a feeling of security. There was a Security [24-hour] presence too, which is always good. And those Non-smoking rooms? HUGE win. (Seriously, people, think of the air quality!)
Rooms: Cozy Nests and Blackout Bliss
My room? Divine! A charming mix of antique furniture and modern comfort. Think Air conditioning blasting (essential!), a super-comfy Extra long bed, and Blackout curtains that were my absolute best friend. I’m talking proper shut-eye, people. The Alarm clock was a nice touch, though I’m usually woken up by the promise of lobster rolls. The Private bathroom was sparkling clean, and they even had Bathrobes! Honestly, I basically lived in that thing. And the Hair dryer? Essential for tamping down my frizzy hair after a day on the ocean.
(Side note: The in-room coffee/tea maker was a G-D send. Needed that caffeine.)
Food, Glorious Food (And Lobster, Of Course!)
Oh. My. Word. The food. Where do I even begin? The Breakfast [buffet] was legendary. Okay, fine, maybe not legendary, but it was pretty darn amazing. I piled my plate high with fresh fruit, pastries, and enough bacon to satisfy a small army. (Okay, maybe a slightly larger snack bar.) The Western breakfast was solid, but the Asian breakfast? Ooh, SIGN ME UP! The A la carte in restaurant option was great for dinner, and the Coffee shop was a godsend to start the day. While I didn’t get to experience the Vegetarian restaurant or Asian cuisine in restaurant, I'm more than convinced that the quality is top notch.
The Restaurants themselves are charming. The Poolside bar was perfect for a casual afternoon cocktail (or three). Sadly, I didn't get to experience Room service [24-hour], because, well, hello! Lobster rolls await! They do offer Alternative meal arrangement though, which is great for dietary restrictions.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: From Lobster Boats to Luxurious Lounging!
Bar Harbor is a playground, and the Cleftstone Inn is a perfect base camp. But first, let's talk about that Pool with view. OMG! Seriously, the view! You can swim while gazing at the ocean. Pure bliss. And then there's the Spa!!!! I opted for a Massage and a Body wrap. Let me tell you, it was pure… YES! I didn't get to the Sauna or Steamroom, but I'm already planning my return trip just to melt into those. And, if I'm being honest… the Fitness center I didn't visit is a minor imperfection.
Outside, the Terrace was perfect for a sundowner. The Concierge was a fountain of local knowledge, pointing me towards the best lobster shacks (obvs) and recommending a sunset cruise. (Seriously, go. Just do it.) They also helped me book a taxi service.
(A Word About Cleanliness & Safety - Because 2024 is Different)
Okay, let's be real. Travel post-pandemic has changed things. I felt totally safe at Cleftstone Inn. They were ON IT. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays. They had Hand sanitizer everywhere. The staff were wearing masks and seemingly taking all the precautions. I noticed Physical distancing of at least 1 meter being respected. Breakfast takeaway service was also available. Safe dining setup. They really went above and beyond, and it made me feel super comfortable. The Sanitized kitchen and tableware items was also a plus.
The "Oh Crap, I Forgot…" Amenities
They have a Convenience store – crisis averted! You can also get Cash withdrawal. Honestly, they thought of everything!
The Hiccups (Because No Place is Perfect)
Okay, I’m being slightly dramatic. The only snag I hit was the Wi-Fi for special events which wasn't the best connection which made it hard to get those pictures posted, but hey, that's me being super picky.
The Verdict: Book This Place! (Unless You Want to Stay in My Room)
Look, Cleftstone Inn isn't just a hotel; it's an experience. It's the kind of place where you feel pampered, relaxed, and completely immersed in the beauty of Bar Harbor. Yes, it’s a little bit higher-end, but you get what you pay for.
Cleftstone Inn Deal: Your Dream Bar Harbor Getaway Awaits!
Ready to experience the magic of Cleftstone Inn?
Book now and enjoy:
- Up to 20% OFF your stay!
- Complimentary bottle of chilled bubbly upon arrival!
- Free breakfast, on your bed!
- Access to our exclusive spa package!
- Early bird access to future promotions
Click here to book your unforgettable getaway! [Insert Booking Link Here]
Seriously, people, book it. You won't regret it. And while you're there? Order the lobster roll with a side of pure, unadulterated happiness. You have my permission.
Seoul's HOTTEST 3BR, 4Bed Haven: Soul Station Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're heading to the Cleftstone Inn in Bar Harbor, Maine! This ain't gonna be your perfectly polished brochure itinerary, folks. This is the real deal. My deal. Prepare for chaos, charm, and maybe a little bit of lobster-induced regret.
Day 1: Arrival, Anticipation, and the Great Lobster Roll Debacle
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at Bangor International Airport (BGR). Ugh, the airport. I'm already getting that travel-induced anxiety. The smell of stale coffee and desperation just… radiates. My rental car is supposed to be waiting, but you know how this goes – it'll probably be a beat-up Corolla with a missing hubcap, or worse, one of those tiny Smart Cars. Pray for a reasonable vehicle, people!
- 1:30 PM: The rental car situation, as predicted, is a nightmare. Okay, it’s not a Smart Car, at least, but it is a car with a distinct personality… let's say it's experienced. After the paperwork, I'm off on the scenic two-hour drive to Bar Harbor. The anticipation is killing me! I check the map a million times, even though I have GPS. Old habits, you know?
- 3:30 PM: Check in at the Cleftstone Inn. This place… it's gorgeous. Seriously, the pictures don't do it justice. That feeling of finally arriving, dropping your bags, and letting the stress melt away… it's pure bliss. I'm in a room with a fireplace (yes!), and a view of the ocean peeking through the trees. Score! But, let's be real, the first order of business? Finding the nearest bathroom.
- 4:00 PM: Wander around the Inn, check out the gardens, and, you know, pretend to be cultured. Okay, maybe I just wanted to scope out the bar. The Cleftstone's bar is legendary, and I'm dying to try their cocktails. The atmosphere is cozy, like a well-worn book, or a comfy old sweater.
- 6:00 PM: Lobster roll hunt initiated. I’ve heard tales of the perfect lobster roll in Bar Harbor. Tonight, I'm determined to find it. I'm thinking Side Street Cafe. I mean, the reviews, the hype… it has to be good, right?
- 7:00 PM: Side Street Cafe. Walk in. The place is absolutely buzzing. The air is thick with the scent of butter, and the happy chatter of hungry tourists. I order the lobster roll with high hopes, and… insert dramatic pause. It's pretty good, I guess. The lobster is plentiful, nicely chilled, and the roll is well-toasted. But… it lacks that wow factor. The magic. My quest continues! (Or maybe I'm just being overly critical because my expectations were sky-high.)
- 8:00 PM: Stroll along the Bar Harbor waterfront. The air is crisp, and the sunset is painting the sky in shades of pink and orange. God, Maine in the evening is magical. Trying to salvage that lobster-less feeling.
- 9:00 PM: Back to the Cleftstone. Fireplace, glass of wine, and a good book. This is what it's really all about. This is why you travel. This and maybe a good lobster roll tomorrow, or even tonight!
Day 2: Acadia Adventures and Lobster Roll Redemption (Hopefully!)
- 8:00 AM: Rise and shine! Breakfast at the Cleftstone. It's supposed to be amazing. Hoping for something hearty, because today's a day of exploration.
- 9:00 AM: Acadia National Park! This is what I've been waiting for. Drive the Park Loop Road. The views are supposed to be absolutely breathtaking.
- 10:00 AM: Stop at Sand Beach. The water is freezing, but the sand is pristine, framed by granite cliffs and pine trees.
- 10:30 AM: Hike up Gorham Mountain. Okay, maybe hike is a strong word. More like a vigorous walk that involved huffing, puffing, and a strong desire to turn back multiple times. Worth it though. The view from the top is unbelievable, one of the best views in the world – Bar Harbor and Frenchman Bay laid out before you.
- 12:00 PM: Pack a picnic lunch and eat by Jordan Pond, where you can get the famous popovers. I am going to ruin this whole trip if I can’t find the perfect popover. I did try to make some the night before (a disaster).
- 1:00 PM: Drive to Bass Harbor Head Light. It's a lighthouse! It's picturesque! Instagram material, folks.
- 3:00 PM: Lobster roll redux. Today, I'm trying Stewman's Lobster Pound. This time, I'm doing my research. I need the perfect roll. I NEED it.
- 4:00 PM: Stewman's Lobster Pound. Place has an outdoor seating area right on the pier. Lobster is a bit more expensive, but I'm in it to win it. Ahhh… perfection! The lobster is sweet, the roll is perfectly toasted and buttery, the view is gorgeous. I could cry (tears of joy, of course).
- 5:00 PM: Relax, breathe, and eat. That’s all.
- 6:00 PM: Stroll through the shops in Bar Harbor, buy some local crafts, and maybe a nautical-themed souvenir I will never use.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at the Cleftstone Inn. Tonight, fancy dining. Gotta treat myself after the lobster roll marathon. I'm gonna need something to soak up all the butter.
Day 3: Sunrise, Solitude, and Departure (with a Heavy Heart)
- 5:00 AM: Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain. Is it worth getting up before sunrise? Yes. The views are incredible. The crowds in the parking lot, though… not so much.
- 6:00 AM: Observe the sunrise. The world is bathed in light. I'm speechless.
- 7:00 AM: Breakfast at the inn, reminiscing about everything.
- 8:00 AM: A final walk through the Cleftstone grounds. One last deep breath of the Maine air.
- 9:00 AM: Pack. I never pack light, even for a short trip. How does anyone do it?!
- 10:00 AM: One last cocktail at the bar, to-go, of course.
- 11:00 AM: Drive to the airport. The same airport I loathed just days ago. This drive will be filled with reflection as the reality sets in that my vacation is ending.
- 1:00 PM: Head to the airport. So long.
- 2:00 PM: Boarding the plane. Saying goodbye to Cleftstone Inn, Maine, and thinking, I'll be back someday.
Important Considerations (Because I'm Always Prepared, Mostly):
- Weather: Layers are key. Maine weather can be fickle, even in summer. Bring a raincoat, a sweater, and prepare to be surprised.
- Reservations: Make them! Restaurants, tours, everything. Especially if you're traveling during peak season.
- Pace Yourself: Don't try to cram everything into one trip. Relax. Enjoy the moment. Be spontaneous.
- Embrace the Imperfections: Things will go wrong. Embrace it! It'll make the adventure more memorable.
- ** Lobster Rolls:** Your quest for the perfect lobster roll may continue even after this trip. That's okay.
- Most importantly, have fun!
- And remember: Don't be afraid to be a tourist!
Okay, Realistically, What are My Chances? Like, Spit It Out.
What's the First Thing I Should Do When the Apocalypse Hits? Seriously, No B.S.
Weapons: What's the BEST Weapon, and Where Do I Find It?
How Do You Even *Bite* a Zombie, Assuming You *Become* One?
Safe Houses: What Makes a Good One?
Cars: Should I Even Bother?
Food: What Do I Eat, And Where Do I *Find* It?
How Do I Deal with Others? Like, *Other* Survivors.
How Do I Get Sleep? I'm, Like, *Terrified*!
Starlight Inns
