Maine 2018 - Exploring Camden

Camden, Maine is a sleepy little town with a population of about five thousand. The harbor, shops and people make this place special. The first full day of my trip, I decided to check out this place. I had a great night's sleep at John's house, my Airbnb. In the morning, I talked to him for awhile while enjoying my coffee. He told me I could just walk into town from his place but since I arrived the night before in the pouring rain and the blackness of night, I was not well acclimated yet. I decided to take a drive around town.

I quickly found out that the town is rather quaint and historical.  It was built around a beautiful little harbor that is a jewel on the coast of Maine. I drove through Main St. and found a spot to park beside the library next to the park. It was a perfect morning to explore but I was hungry. In a few steps, I found myself standing outside a local diner, being beckoned by the smell of coffee and a blackboard announcing the morning special as lobster omelet. I was sold. I ordered at the counter and walked to the back of the shop finding a seat at a small table next to a glass wall overlooking the harbor. Now this was vacation! Lobster omelets and coffee on the water, soft music playing in the background and time to make plans for the day.

I loved the look of this little town with all the quaint shops so after breakfast I strolled down Main St. stopping into each shop. I bought a few gifts for the people back home, then found a fantastic wine shop. I asked the proprietor if he featured any local wines and he told me about a winery just outside of town, Cellardoor. I stopped in a few more shops on the way to my car but I knew I just had to go visit this winery.

Barrels of aging wine at Cellardoor Winery, Lincolnville, Maine

It took me about twenty minutes to find Cellardoor Winery. I was pleasantly surprised to find tastings are free. I took four free tastings then selected a full glass of Pinot Noir for only eight dollars. The wine was delicious. Wine tasting is one of my favorite leisure activities, especially in a winery. This winery was special. At two every afternoon, they treat guests to a free tour. I stuck around to take advantage. The grounds were lovely. The tasting room was in an old barn renovated to accommodate not only the bar but also events like weddings and parties. The actual winery was on the other side of the road, up the hill, past the old orchard and in a new metal building. The hostess was informative and the tour was fun. I ended up buying a bottle of wine to take home.

Then I found Camden Hills State Park. For six dollars, I purchased a day pass. Camden Hills is the home of Mount Battie. I drove all around the park then up to the summit of the mountain that overlooks the beautiful town of Camden and Camden Harbor. Excellent views of Penobscot Bay are also to be enjoyed. There is even a tower for viewing this lovely vista, The weather was clear and crisp. I got some great shots of the area. The park also offers hiking trails and other outdoor activities.

Viewing tower on top of Mt. Battie, Camden Hills State Park, Camden, Maine

I ended my day of exploration by dining on the waterfront, sampling the local crabcakes and beer, overlooking the harbor and relaxing beside a fireplace in a local restaurant. I then walked across the street to a bar, had another beer then walked back to my Airbnb. It was a lovely beginning to my Maine vacation. The air was not too cold and the trees were just beginning to change color.