Luxury Hotels: Maine's Charming Hidden Pond

Cloistered within 160 acres of seaside forest off a country lane about 10 minutes from the village center of Kennebunkport, Hidden Pond is a captivating  world unto itself. Sixteen two-bedroom cottages are arrayed around the Adirondack-style main lodge and are individually decorated, with themes ranging from farmhouse modern to elegant contemporary.

Full of character, they offer screened porches, outdoor showers, stone gas fireplaces, full baths for each bedroom and full kitchens. Those with two single beds in the second bedroom are ideal for families. Twenty bungalows, recently added to the enclave, are charming one-story structures spaced for privacy and separated somewhat from the original cottages.

Cozy and well-designed, they come with screened sitting areas, great rooms with cathedral ceilings, river-stone gas fireplaces and baths with large showers and adjacent outdoor showers. As with the cottages, a canvas tote is left at the door every morning, stocked with baked goods, jams, a big thermos of fresh coffee and that day’s New York Times.

With the rustic new restaurant, Earth, nearby, as well as the pool and fitness center, the bungalows are well-suited to couples. The restaurant, under the direction of highly regarded Boston chef Ken Oringer, offers alluring selections prepared in an open kitchen. The adjacent* Farm Bar* overlooks the well-tended vegetable gardens.

Just beyond an inviting pool with chaises longues and umbrellas is the delightful Tree Spa, where catwalks lead to three tree house-style treatment rooms. One of the most beautiful beaches in Maine, Goose Rocks Beach, is a short drive or a pleasant bike ride away. There, Hidden Pond can arrange for beach chairs and umbrellas.

Its sister property, the charming Tides Beach Club, set in a pretty yellow four-story Victorian, has an excellent restaurant and bar. Shuttle service can be arranged between the two properties. We relished every moment we spent at Hidden Pond. The integration of its design and layout, and the friendly staff impressed us greatly. -A.H.