Off Season Splendors at the Cliff House in Maine
The Wintertime Magic of Maine
Let’s talk about why we are really in Maine—food. Okay, I was hosted by the property for TRAVELLUSTRE’s annual team retreat; the food was just a much-added benefit. There are multiple restaurants (some seasonal) on the property, and of course, they feature in-room dining. The Cliff House is sometimes best known for its world-class restaurant, The Tiller. The style is upscale and modern but still feels cozy and welcoming. It’s a smorgasbord of Maine’s signature culinary scene (hint: a lot of seafood) but also has other offerings.
For more casual dining, Nubb’s Lobster Shack is a fantastic option. If you don’t like shellfish, they also have other delicious options. In the winter, Nubb’s also offers Cliffside Igloos (transparent dome-like tents) from where you can dine al fresco with an unparalleled view, but without the chilling wind.
If the cold doesn’t bother you or you find a warmer day at hand, you can take a winter hike or stroll along the resort’s scenic walking trail along the cliffs. It’s a large resort, so you’ll get in some steps walking from place to place, but they have the property styled like an art gallery, so everything you pass by pulls you in and engages you.
On those days where you’d rather enjoy the outside from within, you might want to take advantage of the Seaside Sanctuary spa. There’s something for everyone here, offering a wide choice of treatments such as massages, manicures, hydra facials, and more, all surrounded by spectacular ocean views.
The Cliff House is perfect for a wide variety of experiences. I can picture multigenerational families enjoying the many activities on the property and exploring the world beyond. The Cliff House is located in Cape Neddick, about 15 minutes from York, and an hour from Portland. If you are looking for the charm of small-town Maine, you are in luck. Ogunquit is about five minutes by car from the resort, and it’s absolutely worth a venture. The small town of just under 1,000 residents is home to multiple art galleries and craft shops, many found in the picture-perfect downtown. If the weather permits, take a walk along Marginal Way. This 1.25-mile path winds along the cliffs, with breathtaking views of the ocean and beaches below.
Back at the resort, you won’t ever get bored. You’ll find a movie theater, which I took advantage of one night, taking in Out of Africa. There’s a discovery center, a resource for local information that helps you navigate your stay. They also have classes, some seasonal, others often all year. They range from mixology to sea glass to painting to photography to pickling, and so much more. They also have fun classes for kids. The Gallery is an accessible year-round art gallery with exhibits changing every trimester. During summer, they have a resident artist working there.
You’ll also be able to take a warm plunge year round. The property includes three pools—one indoor, one outdoor + hot tub, which is heated and open year round, and one outdoor family pool (seasonal).
While the Cliff House is perfect for couples, families, and individuals looking for an extraordinary getaway, it’s also perfect for corporate events or retreats. With 25,000 square feet of event space, it’s an unrivaled meeting and event destination. The Atlantic Ballroom has double-height panoramic windows for that extra ocean experience, and the executive boardrooms and meeting rooms also feature ocean views and natural light. From personal experience, I found the meeting rooms well-equipped, and the banquet-style food was surprisingly tasty (if you’ve been to a lot of conferences, you know where I’m coming from here). For groups looking for exclusivity and fully private use of the property, the resort offers customized options from December through April annually.
If someone suggests January in Maine, take them up on it! But of course, I recommend the Cliff House any time of year. There is something special about each season at this enchanting place.
