What a gem! We are staying at a small inn on Higgins Beach, Maine. The beach is relatively small compared to other beaches in the area but the cottages are very well kept, it is very family oriented (read family oriented to mean no rowdy parties few motor cycles and no low life bars) and the place is low key. The inn is recently remodeled but has kept an old place character.
Higgins Beach even has a shipwreck. The Howard Middletown, a three masted sloop, ran into a submerged obstruction in 1897. During a storm later it drifted to Higgins Beach where it remains. The ship was transporting coal from Philadelphia to Portland when it got into trouble during an intense fog. It is said that one can still find coal on the beach.
Made it to Camden, Maine. At a beautiful and what appears to be fun B+B for a couple days. Tina and I met a delightful couple from southern Connecticut and spent the evening in a truly civilized conversation with them. The couple, originally from Great Britain, were on their way to Mohegan Island. Sounds like a great trip.
We did some exploring around Camden. We drove to the top of Mt Barrie, a great view.
Then we did a hike up Beech Hill preserve. This is a large field of native blueberries. These blueberries are small and close to the ground. They must be a challenge to pick.
One more update in Camden. I do not usually plug particular places but the inn (B+B) we are at is exceptional, the Timbercliffe. The place is beautiful, authentic colonial. The owners great. Had a huge lobster dinner brought in last night. The owners set us up in the dining room, supplied all plates and utensils. They made sure there was a fire in the parlor fireplace for us in the evening. Had conversations with them into the night. Delightful place, delightful people delightful family.
Well, we will be going to Monhegan Island tomorrow. I first heard about Monhegan Island while on a business trip to Bangor. I was seated next to a professional mime on a commuter flight. He extolled the virtues of the place and I have been curious about it ever since. It is a remote artists destination with few amenities other than quiet.
Backpacking Bill 