Maine

A Little Piece of Heaven

If someone told me there were car-free hidden gems in the United States I would probably think they were lying. We met between 8 and 9 in the morning for what was supposed to be 5 and half hours’ drive but with stopping and the holiday traffic we arrive at the ferry dock located at 76 Commercial Street in Portland a few minutes before 4pm to catch the 4:15pm Casco Bay Line Ferry to Great Diamond Island. Thankfully our Inn offered overnight parking at $40 per night; the city parking was not only hourly, when we arrived it was already at capacity. The ferry took about 25 to 30 minutes to get us across. The first stop was Long Island followed by our destination: “Diamond Cove”. All our worries were lifted as we sailed away and introduced to a world away from our city life. The terrific staff cheerfully welcomed each group from the ferry and later transported us on their golf cart to the only Inn on the island, was at the time in operation for its fourth season.

In the late 19th Century the island was a prominent artist’s retreat community. Fort McKinley was then built remained in operation up until World War II. The Island was then developed in the 20^th Century to what we know now as Diamond Cove gated community. Today it’s divided into two zones since the residents were not so happy with the construction of the resort. They all seem to have a “Private Property” sign on their front lawn; even some beaches, parks, pathways and the community pool had the sign. I would want to preserve it too if it was me. I expected the residents to be mean, but everyone encountered along the way was so eager to help, guide and simply converse. They looked so happy, free and beyond polite.

Right after checking we rushed to Diamond Edge Restaurant for our 5pm reservation. We also had brunch the next morning right on the lawn watching the ferry boats and private yachts come in and out as we ate. The fine dining seasonal restaurant nestled right on the waterfront is managed by talented local restaurant company. We had the honor of meeting the chef Jason and the manager Peter who went above and beyond to make sure we were satisfied. I must not forget to mention how they served us a complimentary bottle of prosecco. There are two other restaurants option while on the island; the onsite resort restaurant and Crown Jewel both great alternatives. The latter is a tapas we had dinner on Sunday evening owned by a New Yorker. The design is creative and chic with great selection of music. Guests can also enjoy beverages on the wrap-around porch.

3 to 4 days are just about the right amount of time to explore the island though we encountered a few Portland resident on day trips. All the residents on this secluded oasis seem to own a bike and/or golf cart as a mean of transport. Serene manicured trails winding through the forest gave access to protected beaches such as sea glass beach covered with glass pebbles. Sunset beach gave way to the most spectacular sunsets. In the evening many of the hotel guests waited on their Adirondack chair on the grass overlooking the harbor mesmerized by natures beauty. Moon Garden was by far my favorite. As they say: “you can take the girl out of the island (Caribbean) but you can’t take the island out of her. Let’s just add that I was right at home sitting on my chair while reading my book, overlooking Casco Bay and the former Quartermaster’s storehouse amid field of flowers and what seems to be like fruits.

The bay encourages a simplistic way of life and forces one to step back in history. Starting from the old barracks who is now a quaint Inn offering large and some bi-level suites with high ceiling, contemporary furniture, spacious rooms, gas operated fireplace, living room and kitchen combo, island tables, full kitchen cabinets, electric cook top, one (1) and half bath and  living room balcony. The cove offers amenities such: duckpin bowling alley, museums, arcade, billiard tables, sheltered beaches, miles of picturesque trails, antique indoor basketball court, tennis court, bicycles, kayaking, art gallery, fitness center, heated pool and jacuzzi. Despite the modern upgrades and amenities, the resort retained its rustic flair. The island novelty made it the ideal place to unwind, unplug and end our summer.

Fin…