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The Weekend Guide

Escape the summer heat in charming Waldo County, Maine. Situated on the coast, it’s about 100 miles north of Portland — and a million miles from all your worries.

SLEEP
The Alden House
What:
Rest your head at this historic home-turned-inn run by a trained pastry chef and a former L.L. Bean employee.
Why: The popovers with maple butter are the stuff dreams are made of.
Where: 63 Church St., Belfast (877-337-8151).

EAT
Lobster
What:
It’s easy to eat lobster at every meal here. Papa J’s & the Lobster Bar is a kitschy-cool spot to indulge in a car-size pile of the sweet crustaceans. Local hang Just Barb’s has a lobster roll with your name on it.
Why: For the seafood lover in you.
Where: Papa J’s, 191 Searsport Ave., Belfast (207-338-6464); Just Barb’s, 24 W. Main St., Stockton Springs (207-567-3886).

Blueberries
What: Save room for dessert at Anglers, where you’ll find to-die blueberry pie. Or drink your calories and swill Winterport Winery’s merlot-like blueberry vino.
Why: Unforbidden fruit.
Where: Anglers, 215 E. Main St., Searsport (207-548-2405); Winterport Winery, 279 S. Main St., Winterport (207-223-4500).

DRINK
Three Tides

What: Microbrews, cocktails, and a stand-up tapas menu make this hip watering hole a waterfront delight.
Why:
The tide is high.
Where: 2 Pinchy Ln., Belfast (207-338-1707).

PLAY
Penobscot Bay
What:
Take a tour on the 37-foot sloop Amity or be the captain of a rented kayak. Water Walker offers guided tours amid sailboats and gracious seaside homes.
Why: Sail on.
Where:
Shove off from Belfast Harbor.

Sears Island
What:
Nearly 1,000 acres of undeveloped land are perfect for hiking, bird watching, and searching for shells.
Why: A natural high.
Where: Searsport.