Bed and Breakfasts: Breaking down the myths

Does the thought of a bed and breakfast stay conjure up the imagery of frayed lace doilies, the smell of musty attics, and the nightmarish thought of no privacy? Have you always assumed that sleeping at a small inn would mean sharing a bathroom with a line of weary guests waiting in the hallway while you tried to flush quietly? Or that you’d be looking for some much-needed alone time with your partner while practically sharing a bedroom with the owner of the property?

A private, updated bathroom at the Saltair Inn

You’re not alone. Through television shows, movies, and personal but rare horror stories, the true nature of bed and breakfasts has faded away only to be replaced by American lore. While it’s true that the owners usually live on site, a majority of inns have ample privacy, including en suite private bathrooms. In fact, B&Bs provide a much more romantic stay than the average hotel or motel, with cozy, homey bedrooms, beautiful views, and unique surroundings that innkeepers create. Whether it’s oceanfront, in the middle of a well-tended garden, or just a short distance from the busy downtown and Acadia National Park, bed and breakfasts in Bar Harbor have options for anything you’re looking for in a vacation stay. Best of all, you’ll be greeted by friendly owners who can’t wait to provide you with the affordable and customizable trip you’ve been dreaming of.

Holbrook House - Modern renovated rooms

But owning a bed and breakfast isn’t all fun and games. Innkeeping is a full-time job with year-round demands, even in a seasonal community. The upkeep, renovating, recipe perfecting, and management issues are a constant source of work for innkeepers. While television shows like The Bob Newhart Show may make it seem like the work of an innkeeper involves more socializing and zany antics than it really does, hardworking and knowledgeable innkeepers actually are the key to a personalized and satisfying stay. You can rest assured that you are in the company of people who want to provide you with the suggestions that will meet all of your vacation dreams. Who better to provide local recommendations for food, festivities, drinks, scenic hikes, boat rides, and more? When you're a guest at an inn, you’re also paying for the added bonus of the advice of an area expert that wants to see you have the stay of a lifetime. They’ve tried the restaurants, browsed the shops, and even shared some of your same concerns while living here, and they are more than happy to help you round out your vacation or work-related stay with some customized meals or activities that suit you best.

Attention to detail- beautiful floral arrangements make the

Coach Stop Inn feel like home, while offering privacy.

Starting morning off right at The Elmhurst Inn

Saltair Inn's dining experience is unique, creative,

and bound to delight guests.

The bottom line: you’re not going to feel like you’re staying in the attic bedroom at your crazy Aunt Mabel’s house when you choose a bed and breakfast for your Bar Harbor vacation. Inns, while they are sometimes built from sprawling, beautiful old homes, are updated and maintained for your comfort, privacy, and satisfaction. You can expect staff that goes above and beyond to make you feel welcome and at ease in your temporary dwelling, your own personal space for romance or R&R, and suggestions to make your stay, whatever the reason, into the best and most memorable trip possible.