June 26, 2008

The Weekend Guide

What to Do This Weekend

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.