Joy of Wandering Alone
A Note From Rachel
One of my favorite parts of traveling might surprise you.
Even when I travel with my husband, we almost always split up for a little while.
Not because we don’t love spending time together—we do. But because we’ve learned that some of the best adventures happen when nobody else gets a vote.
The last time I did this was on Monhegan Island. I wandered the trails without looking at a map. Stopped to watch artists painting on the cliffs. Sat on a rock overlooking the ocean much longer than I planned. Grabbed lunch when I was hungry—not because it was “time.” I don’t think I looked at my phone for hours.
It wasn’t exciting in the traditional sense. There were no bucket-list moments. No checkmarks. No itinerary.
Just a really good day. I think that’s why I loved it so much.
Maine has this incredible way of reminding us that we don’t always need to be entertained. Sometimes all we need is a quiet trail, salty air, and permission to slow down.
So while you’re here, whether you’re traveling with your favorite people or flying solo, I hope you’ll steal an hour just for yourself.
I have a feeling it’ll become one of your favorite memories.
Worth the Detour
The places that don’t always make the travel guides
Can I tell you a secret? Some of my favorite places in Maine aren’t famous.
They’re the roads where I lose cell service.
The tiny fishing village that makes you wonder why you don’t live there.
The roadside farm stand with an honesty box.
The bookstore that somehow eats an entire afternoon.
The beach without a sign.
If everyone else is turning left…
Maybe turn right.
A few of my favorite detours
The Bold Coast
Everyone talks about Acadia. Keep driving. Maine’s easternmost coastline feels wonderfully wild — dramatic cliffs, quiet trails, working waterfronts, and some of the most spectacular ocean views you’ll ever find.
Monhegan Island
Not because it’s famous. Because once the ferry leaves, everything slows down. Bring good shoes. Leave your agenda behind.
Route 32
Take Route 32 instead of Route 1. Or skip GPS altogether. Some of Maine’s best discoveries happen by accident.
The Best Memories Usually Aren’t Planned.
Whether you’re dreaming of Boothbay Harbor, Camden, Rockland, Acadia, Moosehead Lake, or somewhere wonderfully off the beaten path, we’d love to help you find the perfect place to stay.
Rachel’s Challenge
Here’s your assignment before you head home.
Take one hour.
Leave your phone in your pocket.
Walk somewhere you’ve never been.
Sit on a bench.
Order dessert.
Watch the tide instead of your notifications.
I promise…
Maine will do the rest.
And if your wandering leads you somewhere unforgettable, I’d love to see it. Tag us on social media or reply to this email with your favorite hidden discovery. Your recommendation just might inspire someone else’s next adventure.
Concierge Corner
Want to wander like a local?
That’s our favorite kind of itinerary.
Tell us what kind of day you’re hoping for, and we’ll take it from there.
Looking for a hidden beach? The lobster shack locals actually love? A scenic drive with almost no traffic? A tucked-away bookstore? An artist’s studio? The perfect harbor to watch the sunset?
Or maybe you’re looking for something a little more hands-off—a private chef, lobster bake, grocery delivery, boat charter, picnic, massage, or restaurant reservations waiting for you when you arrive.
That’s what we’re here for.
Some of the very best vacation memories begin with one local recommendation.
Still Time for One More Maine Getaway
Summer may be winding down, but Maine certainly isn’t.
Our newest offers are designed to help you squeeze in one more escape before the year ends.
Current Offers
Midweek Maine Escape
- 15% Off Sunday–Thursday stays
- Early check-in or late checkout (when available)
- Concierge planning assistance
New England Resident Rate
- 15% Off for guests from Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Connecticut
Offer Details
- New reservations only
- Stay by December 31
- Participating homes only
- Offers cannot be combined
Rachel Recommends
A little something I can’t stop thinking about this week…
Buy the pie. Seriously.
If you pass a roadside farm stand with homemade pies sitting on a little wooden shelf and an old coffee can for payment…
Stop.
I don’t care if you weren’t planning on dessert. Future You will be very grateful.
Have a favorite roadside pie stand or hidden Maine gem?
Reply to this email and tell me about it.
I’m always looking for my next adventure, and your recommendation might just appear in a future issue of Gather.
Until Next Time…
Life moves pretty fast. Maine doesn’t.
And maybe that’s exactly why we keep coming back.
Whether you’re planning a last-minute summer escape, dreaming about fall foliage, or simply collecting ideas for another visit, we’ll be here when you’re ready.
See you down a side street, on a harbor bench, or somewhere that wasn’t on the itinerary.
Gather Here. Wander Here. Belong Here.
Warmly,
Rachel
and the Tides to Pines Team
