Lighthouse hunting…

Filed under: Uncategorized — arlenet at 11:03 pm on Saturday, July 11, 2009

 

Staring at a lighthouse conjures unexplainable feelings. You get a certain sense of happiness, peacefulness, and danger. Historically lighthouses were constructed to protect the boats coming into port and provide direction.

 

The first lighthouse that we visited was The Nubble Lighthouse in Cape Neddick ME. After seeing the site, the scenery, and this majestic structure it’s hard not to fall in love with lighthouse hunting.

 

Our search for lighthouses continued to the Plum Island Lighthouse in Newburyport MA. This was probably the least attractive lighthouse in my opinion. The setting was not typical of a lighthouse. One expects a rocky shore, a cliff, or crashing waves. Sadly none of these were present near or around the lighthouse.

 

Lucky for us the third light house had all the characteristics that we were expecting to see. This was the Annisquam Lighthouse in Gloucester MA. The structure sits atop of a small peninsula of boulders at the tip of Annisquam. Getting there was quite a challenge because it was located at the tip of a residential area… but getting there is half the fun. Driving thru the oldest fishing port in the country, Gloucester, takes you through a scenic fishing village filled with bars and restaurants.

 

The fourth and fifth lighthouses were located in the Portland ME area. The Bug Light lighthouse is located in South Portland ME. Although it wasn’t a large structure it was the by far the CUTEST!. It’s overlooking Portland harbor and situated on a small park. The area was great because there was ample parking and the site was well maintained. It’s an ideal place for picnic or to go fishing.

 The Bug Light - Fourth lighthouse

The fifth lighthouse was just a few miles down the street at Fort Williams Park. Like the fourth lighthouse this was also situated in a public park. The view was unforgettable. Sitting on a cliff overlooking Casco Bay, this lighthouse is still in use today. The setting was so beautiful that it’s a highly coveted wedding scene. In our 30 minute visit we witnessed four wedding parties. We walked around the estate and took in the beauty of the scenery.

 

Portland Head Light - Fifth Lighthouse

Portland Head Light - Fifth Lighthouse

 

After every lighthouse we end up venturing in the local surrounding area, looking for a good place to eat.  Sometimes this leads to shopping and sometimes it leads to a few drinks. Like every unique lighthouse, every town has their own local appeal.

 

Who knows where would be our sixth lighthouse. The hunt continues…