Places to Stay in the Winter

Winter in Maine means snowy forests, quiet trails and the coziest lodging around. Take your pick from bed-and-breakfasts, luxurious inns and even unique winter cabins. Bonus: Many picks also offer incredible on-site hotel restaurants.

Cozy Winter Inns

Bethel Resort and Suites is a historic property in Bethel, located at the foot of the White Mountains on over 200 acres. Cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails begin just outside the back door. Enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating and downhill skiing in town, while the heated outdoor pool awaits your return.

Enjoy the timeless, comforting tradition of a New England Inn with surprising and sophisticated details at OneSixtyFive, located in the heart of Brunswick, right across from the village green. This historic home will enchant you.

Although it’s as far north as you can get in Maine, there’s nothing rustic about this Inn of Acadia, located in Aroostook County. This Madawaska retreat is known for its minimalist decor and maximum luxury. Enjoy St. John Valley’s rich Acadian heritage and miles of cross country ski trails in style, then sit down to a hearty meal in the Voyageur Lounge.

Winter in Greenville means dog sled races, ice fishing festivals and miles of winter trails. The views alone are worth a stay at Greenville Inn overlooking Moosehead Lake. The rooms here are filled with period antiques, as well as modern touches that make it easy to relax after a day enjoying the outdoors.

At Maple Hill Farm Inn in Hallowell, the vintage red barn and fresh snow whisper “quieter, simpler time.” But the solar power panels on the roof say “today and tomorrow.” Add some wind power and it’s a perfect pairing of green-certified country lodging and all the amenities of a full-service hotel. Conveniently located near Augusta, the beauty of Vaughn Woods Nature Preserve and cross-country ski trails of Viles Arboretum say “come out and play.”

The grand Rangeley Inn in Rangeley has been welcoming visitors to explore Maine’s Lakes and Mountains region for over a century. Recently renovated, it retains its historic atmosphere. Especially in the tavern, which serves up sophisticated takes on traditional fare. As for activities, nearby Haley Pond is abuzz with ice skating and pond hockey; the Rangeley Lakes Trails Center offers several miles of Nordic ski trails; and both Saddleback and Sugarloaf are a short drive away.

Sometimes the best winter getaway is one where you stay inside and get pampered. That’s certainly the case at White Barn Inn in Kennebunk. Sumptuous rooms, an indulgent spa and the lauded menu at The White Barn Inn Restaurant makes this the place to go for a romantic weekend escape.

At Wolf Cove Inn in Poland, you’ll find softly falling snow, the fresh scent of pine and romance in the air. This gracious bed and breakfast on the shores of Tripp Lake offers romantic getaway packages complete with lake views, fireplace and spa tub. You’ll also fall in love with the great skiing, snowshoeing and sleigh rides. And the three-course Maine Comfort Breakfast is a lovely way to start the day.

Winter Cabins and Unique Places to Stay

A unique way to see Maine in winter is to cross-country ski from The Forks down to Carrabassett Valley, staying in the boutique eco-huts maintained by Maine Huts and Trails, or along the Appalachian Mountain Club’s lodge-to-lodge trail in the Moosehead Lake region. There are also several fully furnished yurts available for rent in the backcountry. If you’re not sure you want to head out on your own, you can always take advantage of guided tours with a Registered Maine Guide, ranging from half- and full-day outings to extended trips of a few days or more.