#onalark: captain fairfield inn

At the end of April, Lark Hotels hosted a handful of bloggers at one of their most historic properties in Kennebunkport, Maine. I brought my dear friend, Lindsay, for a weekend of girl talk, good food, and gorgeous sights. We spent two glorious nights at the Captain Fairfield Inn, a charming spot nestled in the heart of this seaside town. I had never been to Kennebunkport (or Kennebunk) before, so I was so excited for a chance to explore — all while having an unforgettable stay in a cozy room at the Captain Fairfield Inn. As with the other Lark Hotels properties I have visited, the Inn was meticulously decorated, yet still retained its historic charm. Each guest room is unique, which makes the suspense when you first open your door even better.

WHERE WE ATE

• Arriving a bit later on Friday evening, we found that some restaurants don’t keep the same hours in the off season as they do when tourists abound. Thankfully, David’s KPT served up a delicious meal despite our late arrival. I had the pepper crusted sushi tuna and still dream about it. Beyond their incredible dishes, they also served up an amazing sunset. It was too cold to sit outside that night, but in the summer, this spot has to be an absolute dream. New England charm at its finest!
• Since the wonderful innkeepers at Captain Fairfield Inn make a tremendous breakfast spread, we did not venture out much for breakfast. Every morning, they switch things up a bit. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy in their beautiful breakfast displays. They also have a drink station available all day, along with “cookie o’clock” in the afternoon… when fresh baked chocolate chip cookies (with a dash of sea salt) are shared in the dining room. AMAZING.
• We had one delightful brunch in Kennebunkport at Salt & Honey. I had a lobster frittata, which was more than appropriate when you’re on the coast of Maine. (My bar for frittatas was forever raised — it was delectable.) This sweet spot is only a five minute walk from the Inn, adding even more to its appeal.
• After a day of running around on Saturday, we chose to make ourselves at home at Old Vines Wine Bar for dinner. It is just a short walk over the bridge in Kennebunk, which we still found walkable from the Captain Fairfield Inn. (It also helped to walk off all the amazing — and I mean amazing — tapas we ate that night.) It turned into quite the hot spot later in the evening, with phenomenal live music and great outdoor seating.
• Since Lindsay and I both enjoy a good beer, we enjoyed the spring sunshine and sat on the deck at Federal Jack’s. It is the original home of Shipyard, which perennially produces my favorite pumpkin beer. I didn’t have a pumpkin beer in the spring, but we both enjoyed the view with a brew in hand.
• Two places came highly recommended to us on the Kennebunkport side, but we didn’t have time to make it there: Bandaloop and Rococo Ice Cream. Food for thought if you make it to KPT!

WHAT WE DID

• Lark Hotels set up a marvelous floral arranging class for the bloggers who attended. I had never attended an Alice’s Table class, but I found the class super informative and super fun. (One of their classes would be great for a bachelorette party or a fun girls’ night!) Lindsay and I were in charge of the foxgloves!
• When I don’t have children in tow, shopping is infinitely more enjoyable (go figure!). I adored both Daytrip Society and Daytrip Jr., both a short walk from Captain Fairfield Inn. I snagged an adorable dress and a Hazel Village kitty, just in time for Rosie’s birthday. I lusted over all the cards and fun goodies — and just enjoyed being able to take it all in, without being pulled in ten directions.
• It took a short car ride to make it to Farm + Table, but boy… it was worth it! We made it there on their opening weekend for the season. Lindsay and I both could have spent hours in there, chatting with the owners and hearing about all the wonderful American-made goods. It is a must-visit, in my book. We both took home those huge totes, filled to the brim with kitchen goodies and more.

WHEN YOU GO

• Choosing where you lay your head matters. You can park your car for the weekend and not drive until you make your exit, if you stay at a place like Captain Fairfield Inn. This was my third stay at a Lark Hotels property — and I’ll say it again: they do not disappoint. Other hotel guests were there during our blogger weekend; it was clear they received the same focus and attention as we did. Their service is top notch and they think of everything. (I mean, everything.) If you make it to Kennebunkport, I would highly, highly recommend a stay at Captain Fairfield Inn.
• Bring your walking shoes! There are SO many beautiful vistas and walks, so take advantage of the seaside and smell that salt air on a nice long walk — possibly walking off all the fabulous food you consume during your visit.
• Ask a local. Most everyone in Kennebunkport (and Kennebunk) were quick to offer recommendations on things to see and do. The staff at Captain Fairfield also had an amazing pulse on all that was happening in the area.

A HUGE thank you to the Lark Hotels team for including Lindsay and me on this dreamy weekend! I’m already aching to get back — and only wish it were cookie-o’clock every day 😉 Did I miss any of your favorite spots in Kennebunkport? Let me know where I should go the next time I’m in town!

One note: I was not compensated for this post. However, my accommodations were provided by Lark Hotels. They did not require a post for our stay, but I enjoyed it so much that I wanted to share!