Uncovering the Area's Hidden Gems

One of the fun parts of moving to Bath has been finding some of the really terrific hidden gems of the area. We know we’ve just started to scratch the surface, after five years here – but we thought we’d give you a head-start by sharing just a couple of our favorites.

The “Narrows Trail” at Thornehead Preserve. Most people go straight up the wide, easy path to the overlook (with a nice view of Merrymeeting Bay), but the Narrows Trail is a lovely walk that brings you right to the river’s edge (bring a picnic!) and then to a set of fabulous (and steep) stone stairs heading up to the overlook. Picture opportunities abound.

Morse Mountain and Sewell Beach. Head down the peninsula to Small Point, and eventually you’ll come to Morse Mountain, a preserve owned by Bates College. It’s a two mile hike (up the mountain, then back down) to Sewell Beach, accessible only by foot. This is a dog-free preserve, but it’s perfect in every other way.

Sewell Pond is a rare (for this region) freshwater swimming hole in Arrowsic. Head over the river and turn on 127 down to Arrowsic. You’ll see the pond and parking just a couple miles down on the left. Bring your towel and a peanut butter sandwich, because a swimming hole demands a peanut butter sandwich.

The Doubling Point Light Station – our namesake! This charming little lighthouse is visible from the Bath side of the river, very near to the Cottage. But you can hike in to it from the Arrowsic side. It’s a fun and easy walk, and you’ll get the chance to see the river from a different angle.  

If you make it down to Popham Beach, bypass the crowds visiting Fort Popham, and check out Fort Baldwin, just a stone's throw away. This Fort includes a short uphill hike to a series of hilltop battlements, with a lovely view and a sense of spying on the bay as well as history (our favorite part are the little officer's quarters and private fireplaces!)

We know there are many more - let us know what you find, and tag your pics #doublingpointcottage, or @doublingcottage - we can't wait to see what you uncover!

I hereby dub thee "picnic point", of the Thornehead Preserve Narrows Trail. 

The "Stone Steps", headed up to the overlook at Thornehead Preserve. Be warned! (But they're beautiful!)