Just steps off of Main Street in Rockland, Maine, proudly sits 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 one common thread that weaves through the most successful establishments every time.
It does not matter if it is an old fishing shack on a remote island or the finest hotel in Paris, it is all about the people - the people who own and run the inns.
The Captain Lindsey House is very special.
Built in 1832 by Captain George Lindsey, the present inn has been lovingly restored by the current owners, Ken and Ellen Barnes.
You on a first name basis with Ken and Ellen, the minute Ellen meets your 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 pop in mornings to make sure that you are comfortable and well fed.
It felt like merry old England as enterine this elegant, yet homey, Maine sea captain's home.
The parlor glowed with a warm fire on a rainy June afternoon.
The scent of fresh picked roses and something sweet and loving from the oven filled the room.
The innkeeper, Patricia, greeted you with a warm cup of herbal tea in an English china cup, with a plate of homemade raisin-oatmeal cookies.
Before unpacking or after you can sink into the comfortable down couch with a book from their well appointed library.
You'll feel right at home.
Just around the corner from the inn are many award winning restaurants, charming shops, galleries, museums, golfing, lighthouses, a spa and a lovely harbor filled with lobster boats, schooners and windjammers.
Yet, we were content to nestle in and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the finest in European style hospitality.
We were in for another surprise when we entered our lovely sanctuary filled with antiques and the most modern amenities, such as Egyptian cotton towels.
Not like home at all--so much better.
The following morning, we met at breakfast.
After fresh local fruit, juices and aromatic coffee, you may devour the special egg bake made by Innkeeper, Patricia.
This breakfast came complete with country ham and fresh asparagus spears.
Every morning, Patricia cheerfully offers both a savory and a homemade sweet dish, such as stuffed French toast with real maple syrup and homemade rhubarb and strawberry jam.
The Captain Lindsey House is one of the four Historic Inns of 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, sampling their homemade dishes and learning about the history.
Rockland and The Captain Lindsey House, is a place for all seasons.
Even though our travel writing schedule rarely calls for a second visit, we know that we will return as often as possible, for a windjammer cruise or to sample more pies at the annual "Pies On Parade" in January every year.
We would love to say that we rediscovered the town of Rockand and all it has to offer.
However, since Bobby Flay and Rachel Ray were also in Rockland recently, we guess the word is out!