It’s late July in DC and we’re in the middle of a scorching heatwave. How I wish we were back in Maine where the temperatures are cooler!

As mentioned previously, Tom and I spent a part of our recent Maine holiday discovering, exploring and enjoying Mount Desert Island. By the way, Mainers generally refer to it as MDI or Mount de-ZERT (dessert).

MDI is where majestic granite mountains rise up to meet the sky. It is also where mighty ocean waves collide with steadfast rocky coasts. And, it is where verdant forests gently give way to historic seaside villages and towns – some bustling and touristy, others a bit time-forgotten but genuine.

We absolutely fell in love with the authentic landscape: powerful and raw, yet quiet and atmospheric. There were, indeed, many special moments.

One morning with a bright sunrise ahead . . .
. . . another with the island enveloped in dense fog.
We passed through the small village of Somesville frequently. Dating from 1761, it is Mount Desert Island’s earliest village. Shown above is the Somesville Historical Museum, and below is the library. Charming, right?
The Bass Harbor lighthouse perched on a jagged cliff.
Welcome to Acadia National Park!
Birches, ferns, moss, and lichens growing profusely in the woodlands.
We arrived early to hike around Jordan Pond (which looks more like a lake). Those twin mountains are known as “the Bubbles.”
Tom and I worked up quite an appetite after completing the loop around the pond. We sat down for a yummy lunch of Maine lobster stew and warm popovers with fresh strawberry jam and butter at Jordan Pond House. Simply deeeee-lish!!! 🙂
Many guests sat outside to enjoy the view of the pond and the Bubbles. As the restaurant tends to get busy during July – August, make a reservation or get in line around 11:00 AM. I thought an early morning hike while temperatures were cool and lunch later worked out really well.
On another day, we took the 27 mile drive on Park Loop Road. I highly recommend this meandering drive with its many scenic stops and breathtaking vistas.
 Make
sure to hike or drive up to the top of Cadillac Mountain for the most
incredible panoramic view of Bar Harbor and the islands.
A gift from John D. Rockefeller, the 45 mile network of crushed stone carriage roads, complete with 17 rustic stone bridges, are open to hikers, bicyclists and horse drawn carriages.
 Pleasure boats and lobster boats sharing this quaint harbor. I thought these colorful row boats were really fun.
On our last day, we visited Garland Farm, the final home and garden of prominent landscape architect, Beatrix Farrand (1872-1959). I am saving Garland Farm for a future post. Stay tuned for more!
So long, MDI!  ~ Loi