Cradled by Cadillac Mountain, Bar Harbor is a seaside community on Mount Desert Island known for its outstanding natural beauty. A mecca for the senses, Bar Harbor combines its fabulous coastal cuisine with local craft breweries and lush mountain scenery.

Things to do

The best way to experience the magnificent sights of sounds of Desert Island is on foot. For spectacular coastal views, follow the Ocean Trail, which weaves along the rugged coastline before arriving at the Thunder Hole where rogue waves crash against the shore making a thundering noise.

Nature lovers will find peace in Acadia National Park, a 19,800-hectare national treasure where granite cliffs provide a backdrop to pristine forests and pebbled beaches. Cycle the 90 kilometres of carriage trails, ride horses through evergreen meadows or hike up Cadillac Mountain for views of Maine’s coastline.

Looking to unwind? Join a Bar Harbor brewery tour and spend a relaxing day cruising around the island. Meet like-minded connoisseurs and treat yourself to tasting flights at top microbreweries, such as Atlantic Brewing, Bar Harbor Brewery and Main Soact. For insight into the local history, visit the Abbe Museum, where you can glimpse into the lives of the native Wabanaki people.

If you want to witness whales swimming off the coast, join a whale-watching cruise in Bar Harbor to spot humpbacks, finbacks and minke whales splashing about in their natural habitat. You might even be lucky enough to see dolphins, seals and porpoises too.

Getting around

A five-hour drive from Boston or 3.5 hours from Portland, Bar Harbor is easily accessible by car or bus. Bar Harbor is serviced by Hancock County-Bar Harbour Airport, just 12 kilometres from town. The village is walkable, but there are also bicycles to rent and a free Island Explorer Shuttle Bus.