Cape Elizabeth Weekend Getaway!
Hey guys! I hope that each of you had a wonderful Mother’s Day weekend and were able to spend some time with those you love most! My sister and I treated my mom to a weekend getaway at the beautiful Inn by the Sea in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. I decided to take Bear along for the trip while Rich watched Knox and Harper back at home in Boston.
It took us a short 2 hours to arrive at the charming Inn by Sea. When we pulled up and entered the lobby, I laid eyes on their six-year-old hound mix foster dog, Swink! I was overwhelmed by the Inn's initiative and partnership with the Animal Refuge of Greater Portland as they have placed 88 dogs over the past two years in permanent homes after being fostered at the Inn! After meeting Swink and looking around at all the dogs enjoying the property I knew we were in for a treat.
Our two-level Spa Suite with a wet bar kitchenette, balcony and a lofted bedroom was nothing short of impressive. Our room overlooked Crescent Beach and the gorgeous gardens of the inn. The staff left Bear his own LL Bean bed mat, an adorable paw printed towel, doggie bowls, a dog menu (you read that right!) and peanut butter dog treats! There was also information on their pet massages, dog walking and doggie day care services as well as a comprehensive list of nearby walking trails, pet-friendly beaches, and free-range parks. Needless to say, he was instantly in doggie heaven!
We spent most of Saturday walking the parallel paths of Crescent Beach as dogs are not allowed on the beach from April 1 – September 30. That didn’t stop us from our exercise as there were plenty of paths down the boardwalk of the hotel to explore. The Inn is an easy 10 minute drive to Portland where there are plenty of options for dining and shopping.
At dinner time Bear tried out the doggie menu. He definitely could not have enjoyed it more. He ordered the bird dog which consisted of grilled chicken on top of rice, peas, and carrots topped with a LARGE organic peanut butter cookie. He also licked up their probiotic frozen yogurt in under a minute. Two paws up from this guy!
After his yummy doggie room service Bear had cocktails with us in the lounge area. He sat by our feet and the kind bartender gave him belly rubs, cookies and a water bowl of his own. While Bear was not allowed in the dining room due to obvious food related laws the three of us enjoyed a fabulous three-course meal prepared by Chef Chadwick in the stunning Sea Glass Restaurant with spectacular ocean views.
As many of you know, when traveling with our dogs we typically rent private homes, but with the ease of this luxury Maine property and having our well behaved Bear we were relaxed, extremely content, and at home. Needless to say Bear now has some extremely HIGH expectations for his next hotel vacation. The doggie room service, constant attention, unlimited supply of doggie biscuits and many dog pals around the hotel made the stay an A+. We look forward to returning!
