Somesville Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to Somesville, its attractions, food, culture, safety, transportation, and recommendations for itinerary and nearby destinations in Maine.


Introduction to Somesville

Somesville is a quaint, charming village located in Mount Desert Island, Maine. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Somesville is a destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. The village is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and natural beauty. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore and highlight the top attractions, things to do, and places to stay in Somesville. Additionally, we will take a look at the local food scene, culture, safety, transportation, and nearby destinations.

List of Places to Visit in Somesville

Somesville has something for everyone, from museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are the top places to visit in Somesville:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Somesville Historical Society - This museum showcases the history of Somesville and Mount Desert Island through exhibits, collections, and programs.
  • Abbe Museum - The Abbe Museum features exhibits on the Wabanaki Indians of Maine and their culture.
  • Asticou Azalea Garden - This Japanese-style garden displays an abundance of azaleas, as well as other flowers and plants.

Natural Attractions of Somesville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Acadia National Park - Acadia National Park is a beautiful national park that covers most of Mount Desert Island, including Somesville. The park is perfect for outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, biking, and kayaking.
  • Somes Sound - Somes Sound is a stunning fjard, located in the heart of Mount Desert Island. Take a scenic boat tour or a kayak tour to experience the breathtaking views of this natural wonder.
  • Beech Mountain Trail - This hiking trail is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The trail leads through beautiful forests, streams, and ends at the mountaintop where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Somesville and the island.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Somesville

Somesville has plenty of trails and paths for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Park Loop Road - This 27-mile road loops through Acadia National Park, offering scenic views and access to many trails along the way.
  • Jordan Pond Path - This easy 3.2-mile trail offers stunning views of Jordan Pond and the surrounding mountains.
  • Mansell Mountain Trail - A more challenging hike but with breathtaking views from the mountaintop.

Best Things to Do in Somesville: Activities and Tours

Somesville offers visitors an array of activities and tours to explore the village and its surroundings. Here are some of the best things to do in Somesville:

  • Boat Tours - Experience the natural beauty of Somes Sound and explore Acadia National Park by taking a boat tour.
  • Whale Watching - Take a whale watching tour from nearby Bar Harbor and catch glimpses of humpback whales and other marine wildlife.
  • Lighthouse Tours - Take a tour of Maine’s famous lighthouses, such as the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, which is only a short drive away from Somesville.

Week-Long Itinerary for Somesville

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long visit to Somesville:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Village: Somesville Historical Society, museums, and gardens
Day 2 Hiking and Biking: Acadia National Park, Beech Mountain Trail, and Park Loop Road
Day 3 Coastal Adventure: Boat tour, whale watching, and lighthouse tour
Day 4 Relaxation Day: Visit local beaches, Somes Sound, and enjoy some local lobster
Day 5 Water Activities: Kayaking, Paddle Boarding, and Swimming
Day 6 Explore Bar Harbor: Explore the restaurants, shops, attractions, and nightlife
Day 7 Day trip to Southwest Harbor: Visit the Southwest Harbor Marina, fly-fishing, and visit the Quietside Cafe

Food and Drink Scene of Somesville

Maine is famous for its lobster, and Somesville offers visitors a wide variety of seafood, as well as local craft beers and other Maine delicacies. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Somesville:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll - A classic Maine dish, lobster rolls are a must-try in Somesville.
  • Blueberry Pie - Maine is famous for its blueberries, so it’s only fitting to try the blueberry pie when in Somesville.
  • Chowder - New England Clam Chowder is a hearty meal that’s perfect on a cold day in Somesville.

Local Beverages

  • Maine Craft Beers - Maine’s craft beers are famous for their unique and delicious flavors. Make sure to try some of the local breweries while in Somesville.
  • Wild Blueberry Juice - Wild blueberries are another Maine specialty. Try some freshly squeezed wild blueberry juice while in Somesville.

Where to Stay in Somesville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Somesville offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s budget and preferences. Here are some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Somesville:

  • Asticou Inn - A historic inn located in Northeast Harbor, just a short drive from Somesville.
  • The Acadia Hotel - A charming hotel located in the heart of Bar Harbor.
  • Somes Sound View Campground - This campground offers campsites with stunning views of Somes Sound.

What to Buy in Somesville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Somesville is a treasure trove of unique and beautiful souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best things to buy in Somesville:

  • Maine Blueberry Jam - Bring home the taste of Maine with some delicious blueberry jam.
  • Lobster-themed souvenirs - Take home a lobster-themed trinket or two to remind you of your time in Somesville.
  • Handmade Crafts - Somesville is home to many artists and craftspeople, so explore the local shops and galleries to find unique handmade souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Somesville

Maine is known for its hospitality and friendly people. Visitors to Somesville can experience this culture and customs through the local festivals and events, such as the Native American Festival and Basketmakers Market and the Acadia Birding Festival, will give an insight into the local way of life.

Best Time to Visit Somesville

The best time to visit Somesville is between May and October when the weather is mild, and the town is abuzz with various festivities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Somesville

Do:

  • Do make the most of Maine’s famous lobster and seafood cuisine while in Somesville.
  • Do explore Acadia National Park and its many trails and scenic views.
  • Do take time to learn about the local culture and customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the natural areas, such as Acadia National Park.
  • Don’t expect a fast-paced lifestyle while in Somesville. Embrace the slow pace and enjoy your time there.
  • Don’t forget to tip at restaurants and bars.

Safety and Health

Safety in Somesville

Somesville is a safe destination, but visitors should always take appropriate precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and locking their cars and hotel rooms. If venturing into Acadia National Park, visitors should take necessary safety measures, such as staying on designated trails and being cautious while hiking near cliffs and waterfalls.

Health in Somesville

Somesville has excellent medical care and hospitals in case of an emergency.

Getting to Somesville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Somesville is easy to reach by various transportation modes. Here are the various transportation options available for visitors to Somesville:

Airports Near Somesville

  • Bangor International Airport - Served by major airlines, Bangor International Airport is located about an hour’s drive from Somesville.
  • Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport - This small airport is located just a few miles from Bar Harbor and Somesville.

Bus Stations Near Somesville

  • Bar Harbor Shuttle - This local shuttle service provides transportation around Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.
  • Concord Coach Lines - This bus company offers service to Bangor from many major cities and serves Bar Harbor and Somesville as well.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars - Several companies offer car rentals from nearby airports and cities.
  • Taxi Services - Local cab services are available in Somesville, Bar Harbor, and other nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Somesville

The best way to get around Somesville is by car or bicycle. Visitors to the town can rent bicycles or cars from various local rental companies. Local shuttle services are also available for transportation to nearby attractions and towns.

Where to Go Next from Somesville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Somesville is located in a region with several other exciting destinations. Some of the nearby places to explore include:

  • Bar Harbor - Located less than 10 minutes away from Somesville, Bar Harbor is a tourist hotspot with many shops, restaurants, and attractions.
  • Southwest Harbor - A quaint and charming town, Southwest Harbor features beautiful natural landscapes, quiet streets, and several cultural attractions.
  • Blue Hill - A friendly and picturesque village located on the Blue Hill Peninsula, Blue Hill offers visitors a mix of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures.

Conclusion

Somesville is an excellent destination for people interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, and scenic views. Visitors to the village can experience Maine’s famous hospitality and culture while accessing various natural and cultural attractions nearby. In this comprehensive travel guide, we have highlighted the top attractions and activities in Somesville, as well as practical information on transportation, accommodation, food, culture, and safety. Whether you’re planning a week-long visit or just a day trip, Somesville has something for everyone.

Walking bridge in Somesville Walking bridge in Somesville