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PET-FRIENDLY WESTERN MAINE BETHEL
Situated in the Androscoggin River valley surrounded by some of the highest mountains in Maine, Bethel was first settled in 1768. Now a quiet resort town, it is full of quaint shops and tranquil streets where visitors can enjoy a casual stroll to experience its New England village charm. Year round recreation abounds with the likes of hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and golf in the spring and summer. The fall foliage in the area is among the best in Maine. The Bethel area offers many choices for accommodations and eateries. You’ll find many B&B Inns that offer an intimate, home like setting and there are plenty of choices from among the locally run restaurants, lounges and pubs. The Sunday River complex offers hotels and lodges with accommodations such as health and fitness centers, saunas, swimming pools and spa services. Camps, cottages, vacation rentals and campgrounds round out the available places to stay. Grafton Notch State Parks offer wonderful opportunities to commune with nature. Nearby and convenient access will bring you to areas around the Appalachian Trail for hikes and bird watching. And you can literally find gems in 20
Bethel. There are places that offer mining excursions in search of mica, beryl, quartz, and tourmaline, Maine treasures that are plentiful in the area.
BRIDGTON
Bridgton is surrounded by lakes and rolling hills and is a haven for outdoor recreation. Long Lake, Highland Lake and Moose Pond are well known stops for boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and other water sports. You’ll find plenty of public beaches and public access to these Maine treasures. If hiking is your interest, take a jaunt to the top of Pleasant Mountain where you’ll get a choice view of the natural beauty of the surrounding area. You’ll enjoy a stroll downtown where you’ll find gift shops, antique and craft stores, restaurants and specialty shops. Walk through Pondicherry Park, a 66 acre nature preserve in the center of town. The wood chipped pathway leads you deep into the park where there are signs of beaver, deer, mink, woodpeckers, and spotted salamanders. For accommodations, you’ll find excellent choices including cottages, motels, inns and extended vacation rentals.
petMAINE 2016: The Ultimate Guide To Enjoying Maine With Your Pets