Ringing phones, gridlock traffic, sometimes the stresses of modern life are just too much to handle. Wouldn't it be nice to be able to get away from it all? No phones, no traffic, just you and nature and all the time in the world to enjoy it.
Yes, in this time and age it is very difficult to truly get away. In fact, it seems that everywhere you go the pressures of modern life are sure to follow.
But a true getaway is indeed possible. Consider a trip to a tiny little island called Monhegan off the coast of Maine. Accessible only by passenger ferry, this quiet escape forces visitors to leave their cars behind as they step back in time. The rock-bound harbor and tiny village are home to a mere 75 permanent residents. Local residents avoid vehicles and scorn modern amenities such as ATMs and television, preferring to enjoy the quiet charm of their island.
Despite its quiet setting, Monhegan Island can get quite busy, especially on summer weekends. It is a popular stop for families who come to enjoy its rustic charm and hang out at the simply named Swim Beach. To truly experience the island it is essential to stay a while and get a feel for the gentle flow of time through the sleepy village and surrounding regions.
Monhegan Island was first settled in the 1870s. Many of the earliest residents were artists who sought a getaway where they could refuel their imagination with its unsullied natural beauty. Notable residents included Rockwell Kent, Robert Henri, and George Bellows. Even now, 150 years later, it is clear why artists choose this quiet island to house their studios.
The island boasts over 200 species of birds. The peaceful Cathedral Woods is an excellent site for birding. Along the shoreline you can enjoy the spectacular view over the 160' cliffs that are the highest sea cliffs in New England. Even the village itself is an artistic haven with rustic wood frame buildings with character and charm to spare.
For an enjoyable side trip, take the time to climb up Lighthouse Hill to visit the 1824 lighthouse and enjoy the ocean view with its spectacular sunsets. Beside the lighthouse stands the Monhegan Museum (open July-Sept), filled with a clutter of exhibits detailing the history of the region. Nearby you will find an art museum where reproductions of island art are displayed for all to see.
Interestingly, Monhegan Island has the son of one of our most famous inventors to thank for its untouched charm. Theodore Edison visited the island in his youth and decided to purchase much of its land in the 1950s, setting it aside as a nature preserve. So settlement was limited to the handful of cottages near the village.
Visitors to the island can enjoy their stay at rustic locales such as the Victorian Island Inn, the Monhegan House, or the Trailing Yew. Ferries to the island launch from Boothbay Harbor, New Harbor, and Port Clyde. The inns have in-house restaurants, although you will likely want to visit the Barnacle Cafe which is a local favorite. Just be sure to bring enough cash with you for your stay as banking is somewhat limited on the island.
While Monhegan Island may not be for everyone, it is a great getaway from the modern world. Art-lovers and nature lovers will love the chance to escape and experience life in the slow lane.
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