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Bar Harbor, Maine
Finding European Grace in New England
By Julie and Travis Sullivan
Built in 1903 for a Scottish railroad tycoon and his family, each room at the inn offers a unique perspective on Frenchman's Bay, from the personal sauna on the top floor in the main house to a double Jacuzzi tub under a large window in the penthouse, and private decks for most rooms. Each room offers either a Jacuzzi tub or an in-room sauna. In many rooms, looking out on the bay can be done from the comfort of air-adjustable beds amid luscious covers, pillows and 310-thread-count sheets. Indoor exercise facilities are on the premises in the carriage house.
Framing the views are elaborate flower gardens throughout the grounds from the round welcome garden at the inn's main entrance to the bright colors surrounding the veranda and pool areas.
Complementing the views are the food and bar offerings. Full buffet-style breakfasts can be taken outside to tables with all seats facing out to sea. This is Maine's version of a Paris caf窠watching early lobstermen, gulls and pleasure-seekers pass by in the morning light. On the veranda overlooking the pool and ocean, tea starts at 4 in the afternoon, with cake, tea and coffee available for anyone getting ready for an evening out or unwinding from the day's adventure. The patio bar opens at the same time and stays open till 11 p.m., perfect for a late evening glass of wine in the garden under a brilliant and twinkling night sky.
Very much in the European tradition, the staff at Balance Rock is enthusiastic, helpful and quite knowledgeable of off-the-beaten-path hikes and sights to see. Balance Rock is a truly beautiful and gracious place to fully relax and take in the striking beauty surrounding the grounds.
