The 1774 Phippsburg Inn, Phippsburg, Maine

Historic Bed and Breakfast Lodging on the Kennebec River of the beautiful Maine Coast....Wake up to a glorious Maine morning in a home with a history that is almost as old as America itself. The 1774 Inn at Phippsburg is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as the McCobb-Hill-Minott House. It was built by Isaac Packard in Phippsburg for James McCobb, who prospered during his lifetime in both lumber and commerce. Mark L. Hill, the first U.S. Congressman from Maine, lived in the house from 1782 to 1842. It was purchased in 1854 by Charles V. Minott, who became one of Maine's best-known shipbuilders. Reflecting its Colonial era origins, this New England home sports heavy window shutters with peep-holes and strong bars, defenses against Indian prowlers. Paneled wainscoting, ceiling mouldings, fluted columns and wide pine floors recall an artisan-age long past.

There is no need to hurry to get out of bed, although a freshly brewed pot of coffee or tea is available for early risers. Enjoy a hearty breakfast of juice, fresh fruits, home-baked muffins, breads, yogurts, whole-grain cereals and homemade granola or a hot entree such as Maine blueberry pancakes with fresh bacon or sausage.

High ceilings and breezes off the Kennebec cool the Inn in summer, while winter sunlight floods through the windows and five fireplaces augment modern heating. If romance is in the air, the postcard-perfect 1802 Congregational Church is a short walk, making the 1774 Inn ideal for wedding guests. The Inn's vistas invite you outdoors to walk, hike, bird watch, fish, swim or canoe just a stone's throw away in Center Pond, or simply to sit and read or write. The inns' surrounding areas provide several full days' activities. Bath, the "City of Ships" and home of the Maine Maritime Museum, crowns the offering of commerce, antiques, crafts, and memorable dining. Freeport is the home of the L.L. Bean store, while Brunswick has the Maine Summer Music Theater at Bowdoin College. Take a ride out of town on a day trip to Camden, Rockport, Boothbay Harbor or Maine's Acadia National Park.

Guest rooms are furnished with antiques and traditional furnishings, queen-sized beds and private baths; some have fireplaces. Most of the eight rooms also have views of the Kennebec River.

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