Ideas for value-filled winter fun at New England inns

couple - winterWinter has finally arrived in New England and the Distinctive Inns of New England (DINE) innkeepers are officially stoked for some winter fun.   The nine DINE inns offer everything from skiing and riding to sleigh rides, winter hiking, skating and so much more.  Of course, every day spent in the outdoors of DINE country is followed by relaxing by the fire or in perfectly appointed rooms.  Burn calories enjoying winter in New England and then return to the inn to enjoy a cup of tea or adult beverage by the fire.  There’s so much to do at our nine beautiful New England inns, and we hope to share ideas in the coming weeks on the DINE blog.

Today, we’ll start with a deep dive into some of what’s in store for your next winter getaway to the Inn at English Meadows in Lower Kennebunk Village, an easy stroll from downtown Kennebunkport.

Top Four Ideas for Winter Outdoor Fun at Inn at English Meadows

Ice Skating at the Waterhouse Center: Located right on Main Street in Kennebunk, this special location is a short drive from the inn. Bring your own skates and warm clothing and get ready for a little celebrity watching.  Celebs like Patrick Dempsey  have been known to pop over for some skating now and then.

winter hikingHiking or snowshoeing the many trails at Laudholm Farm: This special preserve is located in nearby Wells, Maine. Laudholm offers varied landscapes to its visitors from open meadows to woodland trails, to a trail that crosses lovely marshland leading to dramatic ocean views. Kennebunk Land Trust also maintains many trails for winter hiking and snowshoeing.  Be sure to bring the right equipment and clothing, and ask Elizabeth, your innkeeper at the Inn at English Meadows, for a map and directions.

Batson River Brewing Ice ShackEnjoy a drink in an ice shack:  A short walk from the Inn will bring you to Batson River Brewing Company or The BoatHouse, two popular Kennebunkport restaurants which have built some cozy “ice shacks” and firepits on their patios.  Here you can continue to enjoy the fresh winter air while you refuel and quench your thirst after all that exercise! It’s the best of both worlds!

Hearts on the beachA winter stroll on the beach: Kennebunkport’s beaches have a totally different vibe in the winter.  A sense of peacefulness on uncrowded beaches add to the lure of the sea in the winter months.  No matter what time of year, a hand-in-hand stroll on the beaches around Kennebunkport is a perfect place for quiet conversations or even a proposal!

Extra Savings Package from Inn at English Meadows

Kennebunkport Paint The Town Red treeKennebunkport celebrates Valentine’s Day through the entire month of February with its renowned Paint The Town Red celebration. The scenic little seaside town of Kennebunkport decks the halls with twinkly red lights and huge red hearts. Add in many special dinner menus and dining experiences, cozy winter activities and events, and the romance of the Inn at English Meadows, and the focus is decidedly on love in February.

To add to the reasons to stay in February, the Inn at English Meadows has created their Paint The Town Red Package. Book this package and save 50% on your third night during applicable times. Go ahead, plan a three-day getaway and enjoy one more of the inn’s wonderful gourmet breakfasts, one more cozy evening snuggled by the fire, one more romantic dinner at your favorite restaurant, one more sunset walk on the beach. Visit EnglishMeadowsInn.com to check for availability.

Throughout February, sleep a little later and show up at breakfast as late as 10AM. Take advantage of the inn’s noon-time checkout all month.

For a complete list of Outdoor Fun packages offered by DINE inns, click here.

Now that the snow has arrived in New England, it’s time to book a romantic getaway at your favorite DINE inn.  We’ll spend some time in the coming weeks exploring all the fun in the outdoors available at all of the nine DINE inns.  Remember, when you plan your stay, don’t forget to book directly with the inn either online at their website or by calling.

In Maine:  Inn at English Meadows in Kennebunkport.

In Vermont:  Rabbit Hill Inn in Lower Waterford & Grafton Inn in Grafton

In New Hampshire: Manor on Golden Pond  in Holderness & Chesterfield Inn in West Chesterfield

In Connecticut: Inn at Harbor Hill Marina in Niantic

In Massachusetts:  Harbor Light Inn in Marblehead, Deerfield Inn in Historic Deerfield and Captain’s House Inn in Chatham on Cape Cod

Top photo: Credit: Elizabeth Arruda