When meeting new people or catching up with old friends, the conversation inevitably turns to occupation. And when we tell people we own a B&B, the next question is (9 times out of 10), why would anyone want to visit New Gloucester, Maine. I don't think folks mean this in any negative way, or at least I choose not to take it that way. I think most people consider the area to be a bit "off the beaten path".
Truth is, it is a bit off the beaten path and . . . in the middle of everything.
Aside from it's historic, country charm and friendly inhabitants of New Gloucester, the Shaker Village offers a slew of seminars on anything from basket weaving to wood working with incredibly talented and very often local cabinet makers. About 10 miles in the opposite direction, Pineland Farms has created cross-country ski and snowshoeing trails that would surpass most expectations. New Gloucester is also the home of lakes, hiking trails and some really fun road biking ranging from beginner to expert routes.
But some folks may want more. Interested in fine dining? shopping? theatre? Don't despair. Freeport, Maine, the home of L.L. Bean, great restaurants and free concerts is just 25 minutes east. Just 15 minutes north, Lewiston offers theatre, fine dining and great local breweries. The Lakes Region is just to our west offering, well . . . lakes and antiquing opportunities among other activities. And of course, Portland is just 30 minutes south where visitors can again enjoy fine dining, theatre, music and shopping.
So when folks ask "Why New Gloucester?"
We tell them, "It's just a nice place to be".
