Kingsleigh Inn – A stately B&B in the heart of Southwest Harbor

As the sun rises, its defused beam is forced through a light layer of fog, enveloping the trees like a spiritual womb. As the dense air dissipates, the nearby fishing vessels moored in Southwest Harbor begin to reveal themselves. The sailboats lie still in the placid harbor as the sun glistens off their masts, while the lobster boats ready themselves for the daily sail out to sea. This is the portrait one sees when waking up, and looking through, the turret of the Penthouse suite at the Kingsleigh Inn.

Southwest Harbor is the more populated village of the “Quietside” of Mount Desert Island in the Acadia National Park area. There are however, no cruise ships or throngs of people from those tourist vessels perusing the streets like in Bar Harbor. Rather, Southwest Harbor is a laid back area full of charm, activities, amenities, and friendly locals.

Located right off Main Street, walking distance to shops, galleries and restaurants is the historic Kingsleigh Inn. It was fortuitous that I happened to be in the area when the Inn had a cancellation (a rare occasion during the peak summer months) of their finest room…the Kingsleigh Penthouse suite. At nearly 800 square feet, there are five separate seating areas, six if you count the private deck providing unobstructed views of Southwest Harbor. With varying roofline shapes dictating the space, the accommodations are unique with a level of elegance that makes one feel a bit like an aristocrat. The seating areas each serve a purpose…one is for playing games, while another is for watching T.V., and yet another is for cozying up to the fireplace. My favorite however…the turret room and adjoining deck. The deck is a spectacular place to enjoy your morning cup of coffee, while gazing out into the harbor.

Built in 1904, the Kingsleigh Inn has been through several incarnations over the years. It was initially constructed for a prominent businessman. The building later become a customs house for foreign ships arriving in the harbor. Many years later it would become the home of the local physician—until finally, in 1984 it was converted into an Inn. The architecture is a bit unique, a cross between a Queen Anne and Victorian, with its steeply pitched roofs, cedar shingles and pebble-embedded stucco siding. The latest renovation took place in 2005, including, individual climate control (A/C and heat) in each guest room—which I have to say is one of the best climate control systems I’ve ever come across…and, it’s extremely quite.

There are eight rooms to choose from at the inn, each with its own style and décor. As with the exterior, the interior is a mixed fusion of contemporary and traditional furnishings, along with fine art and collectibles.

The rooms are spread out over two floors, however the Penthouse has its own flight of stairs taking the occupiers high above the ground below. There is also a wrap-around deck in which guests can enjoy throughout the day while looking out at the water. It’s also where breakfast is served most mornings…and, enjoyed during the early evening wine hour.

Speaking of breakfast, get ready for a gastronomic experience. One thing they do that I’ve not seen at any other inn, is give guests the option of either a sweet or savory breakfast. I really appreciate this because during my travels I feel I consume a few too many carbs. During the prior afternoon, Pamela will post the morning’s menu so guests can choose which style they would prefer. Come morning, your gourmet breakfast will be one you’ll not soon forget. During my stay I was fortunate to be there when Pamela made her signature dish…a baked egg entrée that had fresh lobster, sun dried tomatoes, fresh basil and Fontana cheese. It was superb! Prior to the entrée, we all enjoyed some fresh fruit with yogurt, topped with homemade granola. The entrée was followed by a sorbet fruit cleans. Oh, and I shouldn’t forget the freshly baked mini muffins that went perfectly with my first cup of coffee.

At 5pm, after new guests have checked-in, and, current guests arrive back after a full day of activities; everyone can mingle and get to know each other during the wine hour—while enjoying appetizers, such as salmon pâté on sliced baguette. From my experience, it’s typically the higher-end inns providing a wine gathering. I find the vino hour such a wonderful time to meet new people and get ideas for things to do the following day.

There are also some very spacious common areas of the inn in which guests are encouraged to use. Weather you want to cozy up with a good book from the library, play a board game, or, just enjoy a cup of coffee from the espresso machine, there is plenty of room to do so.

Southwest Harbor, as well as the entire Desert Island that encompasses Acadia National Park, is a very popular place in the summer. The peak months see an influx of 700,000 people per month. Therefore, it’s important to plan and book your vacation as early possible. There are so many memorable things to do, and sights to see…both in, and, around the park. I spent nearly two weeks on the island, so I had a good chance to explore. If you’re an outdoors person like I am, here are a few things you can’t miss.

• Rent a bike at Southwest Cycles (directly across the street from the inn) and head to the carriage road system. With 51 miles of trails, you’ll have a lot to explore, including some very cool stone bridges.
• Grab a picnic lunch from Sawyer’s Market, also across the street from the inn and head toward Bass Harbor to Mitchel Cove to get away from the crowds for a romantic picnic. It’s also a great spot for the kids to play and explore.
• Head over to Echo Lake and hike to the top of the mountain for some great exercise and amazing views. Make sure you enter the trail from the tip of the lake where the public beach is located. You’ll climb up granite boulders; scale rock faces with the help of a series of sturdy steel ladders, and, traverse through the forest on your decent.
• Rent a kayak or a canoe and explore Southwest Harbor…you see some of the many lobster vessels close up, some classic wooden boats, as well as some great New England style homes along the coastline.

Kingsleigh Inn is conveniently located in the heart of Southwest Harbor and provides its guests with a truly memorable experience. Bryan and Pamela are the consummate hosts…eager to assist you with your area plans…or, simply provide you with plenty of suggestions. Kingsleigh Inn is the third B&B the couple has owned, so they know a thing or two about providing an experience that keep guests coming back. Case in point was the couple I met one morning who’d been to the inn 9 or 10 times in the past eleven years.

If you’ve been to the Kingsleigh Inn before, please leave a comment below and share your experience. If you found this post interesting, and/or helpful, please feel free to share it.

Kingsleigh Inn contact information:

Phone: 207-244-5302
Address: 373 Main Street, Southwest Harbor, Maine 04679
Email: [email protected]
Web: KingsleighInn.com
Hosts: Pamela & Bryan
Rates: $145-$315 depending on time of season and accommodation level.