Machias River Inn

We nearly needed a late check-in, and they contacted us. The service was five-star, and the staff were friendly, attentive, and very personable. The place is updated and cozy, with a beautiful view of the Machias River. The remote was harder to figure out than a Rubik’s cube, but I’d rather watch the river anyway.

The room was tastefully decorated, comfortable, and had a great river view. I booked it for my elderly parents’ Thanksgiving visit because my mom has mobility issues. They gave them a lovely ground-floor room with a walk-in shower. It worked well with her cane, though there was a small ledge, a couple of inches high, to step over, so it might not suit someone using a wheelchair. Otherwise, the space was perfect. The hotel also has a wonderful gift shop with a wide selection of fun items. We’ll definitely use it again for out-of-town guests.

We arrived on a Friday night without a reservation, just hoping to find somewhere to stay in the area, and got the sweetest room overlooking the water. The sunrise and sunset were beautiful, and we could sit in comfy chairs and watch the wildlife. Having a fireplace in the room was the perfect extra touch. The gift shop is wonderful too, and I bought a few Christmas presents there. My only complaint was the outdoor lighting: the lights at the front and back doors of each room stay on all day and night, and the one behind our room shone in all night. I’m sure there are rules and regulations about it. I’d definitely stay again if I’m ever in Maine.

We spotted seals, ducks, cormorants, blue herons, and bald eagles on the river in the mornings. Bring binoculars. It’s a lovely renovated hotel with comfortable rooms, most of them looking out over the river.