This charming, historic resort is about the closest you can get to the platonic ideal of a coastal Maine hotel. Perched on a hill overlooking Somes Sound, the circa-1884 property is infused with authentic, lived-in character that’s been given a recent luxurious makeover to bring it into the 21st century. Comfortable chairs on the wraparound patio look out on the water and the majestic Cadillac Mountain. A hill slopes down past a heated swimming pool to a waterside restaurant and dock. Private cottages can be found dotted throughout the nearby forest. With its many nods to the surrounding landscape's beauty, any nature-loving visitor to Mount Desert Island should find exactly what they’re looking for here.
The Claremont is one of the region's most iconic hotels for a reason: the accommodations strike a perfect balance between rustic and luxe. This is a resort for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural world while most likely traveling to said natural world in a BMW. It’s a mix between a classic Victorian grand dame resort and a Nancy Meyers film set. The sense of place extends beyond the 24 guest rooms in the Main Hotel to the two former summer homes of affluent families (available to rent) and the cozy cottages. During our time here, we stayed in a one-bedroom cottage a short walk from the main building. Luxury bedding and Frette linens were balanced with natural wood and a roaring fireplace. Art spoke to the outside wilderness and a private patio overlooked a forested glen.
With its Southwest Harbor location, The Claremont is about 25 minutes from the restaurants, bars and tourist buzz found in the island’s largest city: Bar Harbor. Depending on what you’re looking for, this could be a blessing or a curse. Either way, there are spectacular on-property food and beverage options for those who don't want to travel. Around the corner from reception, the intimate Harry’s Bar’s rich wood and nautical decor create a space crying out for a whisky drink on the rocks. Down at the water’s edge, Batson Fish Camp serves oysters, fish-and-chips and more seafood classics on a private dock overlooking the sound. The resort’s main restaurant, Little Fern, serves traditional Maine cuisine in a formal setting surrounded by twinkling chandeliers and panoramic views. Meanwhile, the casual Buttercup Bakery offers snacks and coffee to-go for those heading out for the day’s adventures.
Rounding out the resort’s offerings are unique activities and programming like a Croquet Court (not an amenity you find at most hotels!), a fitness center—with Pelotons and free weights—in a tiny, whimsical cottage and a spa with treatments ranging from soothing massages to reflexology sessions. Most importantly, the courteous staff is happy to help with any of your Acadia National Park needs such as hiking, mountain biking or reserving a spot on Cadillac Mountain to watch the sunrise.
The Neighborhood
Southwest Harbor has a more laid-back pace than crowded Bar Harbor and see-and-be-seen Northeast Harbor. It provides a welcome respite from the day’s activities while also being just a short drive from the entry gates to Acadia National Park, one of the most popular destinations on the East Coast.
Nearby
Flying Mountain Trail Those who tackle this non-crowded, short hike up Flying Mountain are rewarded with stunning aerial views of the sailboat-dotted Somes Sound.
Bass Harbor Head Light Station Even if you think you don’t know this lighthouse, you do. It’s become an enduring symbol of Maine and is a must-visit for island visitors.
Thurston’s Lobster Pound This family-run restaurant serves (you guessed it) local lobster and other seafood dishes with lovely harbor views.