The Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport, Maine

Turning “welcome into welcome back”

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Kennebunkport, being a short 1.5 hour drive north of Boston, is a wonderful place for a quick getaway. I had the pleasure of visiting in the off-season and recently returned at the beginning of the high season to have a peek at the contrast. While I believe Kennebunkport is a fantastic place to go in any season, summer is the BEST season. Even better is discovering one of the town’s nicest resorts, The Nonantum Resort, which is perfectly matched with the casual elegance of this great town.

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I was thrilled to be invited by The Nonantum Resort to come check out their beautiful property in June and enjoy a bit more of the Maine coast. One of the largest of resorts in Kennebunkport, The Nonantum has 110 rooms ranging from the classic & historical in the Carriage House to the recently added more modern rooms in the Portside Lodge. The Nonantum’s atmosphere is hip yet relaxed and is an ideal place to stay for couples, families or even a getaway with friends. With a range of activities from swimming pool fun to sailing & sport fishing to stand up paddle boarding & kayaking, there is plenty to keep you busy at The Nonantum. Also a short walk from the property are the popular shops and restaurants all around Dock Square in Kennebunkport.

Portside Lodge (2)

The Nonantum Resort is open from mid-April to mid-December but just because the doors are closed doesn’t mean work isn’t getting done. This is a historical property that’s 128 years old which means upkeep and also bringing new life to the place. For example, to celebrate the 125th anniversary, the resort added Heckman’s Pub, named after the original family that opened the Inn back in 1884. Continuously operated as an Inn, the Ginn family took over ownership in 1996. Today, The Nonantum is still family owned and run. It is everything you could hope for in an ideal family operation. The care and compassion that ownership has for the property, staff & guests is immediately felt as soon as you enter through the doors. There is a warmth about The Nonantum that is seen in the smiles, welcomes and enthusiastic interest in making sure you are having the kind of stay you planned.

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During my visit I was greeted by the friendly reception, of course, but had been invited up by the Director of Marketing, Kyle, to enjoy the grand opening of their restaurant, 95 Ocean. Not only was I welcomed by Kyle but also Owner & Innkeeper, Jean, as well as Tina, General Manager of The Nonantum Resort. I honestly couldn’t imagine nicer hospitality. All made sure to introduce me to the Executive Chef of 95 Ocean, Steve, as well as other invited guests. During the grand opening party of 95 Ocean, the hors d’ourves were spectacular but, to me, the gracious welcome extended from the staff is something I will never forget. Once the party ended, all three wanted to show me a newly opened hotspot in Kennebunkport. It was like meeting old friends so I can see how they turn “welcome into welcome back”. The next morning, I had a brief meeting Jean who greeted & said goodbye to me with a hug. WOW! This endearment definitely makes me want to return to The Nonantum Resort.

chairs and lighthouse photo

A big notable aspect is The Nonantum Resort’s concerted effort toward being environmentally friendly and going more green over the past 2 years. This project is still being continued as they have a long-term plan and their efforts can be seen all over the property. Also noteworthy is the resort’s participation with ‘Clean the World’ who takes bath amenities and sends them to 3rd world nations in need. I really enjoyed learning about the property’s commitment to their community as well by having several fundraisers throughout the year to support various initiatives and charities.

View From Portside Lodge

Some of the events you can look for are the weekly wine dinners offered throughout the season. The Nonantum Resort’s Executive Chef customizes every menu on a weekly basis taking into consideration the freshest and most creative ingredients and wine parings all at a tremendous value. This year, The Nonantum put on their first annual Paddle Battle, an outdoor paddle festival done by kayak, canoe, stand-up paddle board or any vessel without a motor, that races down the Kennebunk River. Look for this to be a summer highlight in Kennebunkport from here on out! And, in the off-season, the very popular fundraiser, Fire & Ice is hosted by The Nonantum. 2013 dates are December 13-14th. Held the second weekend of Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude, Fire & Ice is a holiday celebration featuring themed ice bars, a huge bonfire (thus Fire & Ice), several live bands and delicious food from 95 Ocean and other local food vendors with a portion of the proceeds going to charity. Who couldn’t love a fun party for a good cause?!

If you haven’t discovered The Nonantum Resort for yourself, consider making a quick trip up to Kennebunkport, Maine for a wine dinner, special event or a long weekend stay. I think you’ll be as impressed by this fabulous family run property as I am. I look forward to my “welcome back” to The Nonantum and hope it’s sooner rather than later!

32 Comments

Filed under Kennebunkport, Maine, travel

32 Responses to The Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport, Maine

  1. Lauren,
    This resort looks fabulous and in line with my expectations of “Lola’s” stays. Hope all is well and please keep these wonderful posts coming! Safe Travel mi amiga!!!
    Mike

  2. Oh, this looks just like I would hope it would. Maine is one state I’ve never visited. This is such a pretty place. How could I not go?
    Leah Travels recently posted…Six Simple Amenities that all Luxury Hotels Should OfferMy Profile

  3. Meredith

    The Nonantum is hands down the nicest and friendliest resort in KBPT. I was lucky enough to have my wedding reception there last year and from the moment my planning began they were right there beside me helping all the way. All the staff is so pleasant and it truly is a hidden gem. Defiantly a place worth trying out and worthy of multiple returns!

    • i can only imagine how wonderful they must have been in assisting to plan the perfect wedding reception for you. The Nonantum staff takes incredible pride in everything they do and it shows!!

  4. We went to Maine two years ago, and absolutely love the landscape and the food. Although we stayed in Wells, we ended up driving to Kennebunkport everyday. Next time we’re in Maine, hopefully soon, we will take a look at Nonantum.
    TheDessertEngineer recently posted…Sunflower Farm FestivalMy Profile

  5. Have been wanting to go to Kennebunkport…have a group of friends who cycle down ever summer! A little luxury time at the Nonantum looks perfect to me!
    Anita Mac recently posted…Teased by Cottage Country on Otter Lake with Sunny Point Resort and CottagesMy Profile

    • The Nonantum would be perfect for a group of friends too. they offer larger accommodation situations for such an occasion. you all would have a ball.

  6. this is exactly how i picture Maine in my head

  7. Where are the bikini pics???

    Nice pics though 🙂
    Captain K recently posted…Some Pros and Cons of a Rail PassMy Profile

  8. Your timing with this post is good for me personally. Been thinking about different New England getaways for the fall. We’ve been to Kennebunkport, but just for a day trip up from Boston. I definitely can see why the Bush family has their compound there. It’s so beautiful.
    Lance | Trips By Lance recently posted…Nashville Hotel Review: Home2 Suites by Hilton Nashville VanderbiltMy Profile

  9. this looks fab! mrs o needs to go to maine!
    @mrsoaroundworld recently posted…A perfect day in BostonMy Profile

  10. This is beautiful! I’ve been to Maine, but still not Kennebunkport. These are a few reasons why I need to get my butt there!
    Erin – The World Wanderer recently posted…Exploring with Santiago Adventures.My Profile

  11. It’s a good place for families, you say? We’re always looking for some place new to explore… maybe it’s time we put Maine on the (immediate) radar!
    Francesca (@WorkMomTravels) recently posted…Meet our newest little traveler!My Profile

  12. Maine is very similar to northern Michigan and Minnesota. I definitely want to check it out someday soon. This Nonantum Resort looks like a great place to do it all.
    Traveling Ted recently posted…This is your life at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame MuseumMy Profile

  13. love the decor of the room! take me there!
    thelazytravelers recently posted…no travel required: #frifotosMy Profile

  14. This looks absolutely beautiful and relaxing. I could go right now… But seriously, I need to explore more of New England.
    Pola (@jettingaround) recently posted…Photo Essay: Kitsilano Beach Park in Vancouver [video]My Profile

  15. Owner and the GM came out to welcome you? OK, that’s rock star…
    D.J. – The World of Deej recently posted…Early Morning at Disney’s California Adventure – Random Picture of the WeekMy Profile

  16. Looks lovely. I used to live on the East Coast but haven’t been back in ages.
    Jenna recently posted…California Wine Country Find: Lodi WineMy Profile

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