Just steps from Main Street in Rockland, Maine prides itself on being a true gem, The Captain Lindsey House on Lindsey Street. We have published stories and recipes from hundreds of hotels and inns around the world. There is a common thread that is woven through the most successful establishments at all times. It doesn’t matter if it’s an old fisherman’s cabin on a remote island or the best hotel in Paris, it’s all about the people, the people who own and run the inns.

Captain Lindsey’s House is very special. Built in 1832 by Captain George Lindsey, the current inn has been lovingly restored by the current owners, Ken and Ellen Barnes. You by name with Ken and Ellen, the moment Ellen meets her Cape Air flights in Rockland. They have spared no expense or detail to make their inn the most welcoming we have ever experienced. During your stay, Ken and Ellen will show up in the mornings to make sure you are comfortable and well fed.

It felt like happy old England walking into this elegant, yet homey, home of the Maine ship captain. The hall blazed with a warm fire on a rainy June afternoon. The scent of freshly picked roses and something sweet and loving from the oven filled the room. The innkeeper, Patricia, greeted him with a warm cup of herbal tea in an English china mug, with a plate of homemade oatmeal raisin cookies. Before or after unpacking, you can sink into the comfortable feather sofa with a book from your well-stocked library. You will feel at home.

Around the corner from the inn are many award-winning restaurants, charming shops, galleries, museums, golf courses, lighthouses, a spa, and a beautiful harbor filled with lobster boats, schooners, and windjammers. Yet we were happy to snuggle up and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the finest European-style hospitality. Another surprise awaited us when we entered our charming sanctuary filled with antiques and the most modern comforts, such as Egyptian cotton towels. It’s not like home at all, much better.

The next morning we meet for breakfast. After fresh local fruits, juices and aromatic coffee, you can devour the special baked egg made by the innkeeper, Patricia. This breakfast was completed with country ham and fresh asparagus. Every morning, Patricia happily offers a homemade sweet and savory dish, like French toast stuffed with real maple syrup and homemade rhubarb-strawberry jam.

Captain Lindsey House is one of four historic inns in Rockland, Maine. You can visit the other three historic properties. Each one is unique, with delicious cuisine and a story to tell. You can spend time in the kitchen with each innkeeper, tasting their homemade dishes and learning about history.

Rockland and The Captain Lindsey House, is a place for all seasons. Even though our travel writing program rarely requires a second visit, we know that we will return as often as possible, for a wind cruise or to sample more cakes at the annual “Cake Parade” in January of each year. We would love to say that we have rediscovered the City of Rockand and all it has to offer. However, since Bobby Flay and Rachel Ray were also at Rockland recently, we guess word got out!

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *