4-Night Solo Traveler Itinerary for Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor
Traveling alone, or solo traveling, has become popular as people look to escape the busy schedules, tight itineraries, and outside influences that come with group travel. Solo travel has many advantages, but when paired with nature it can further enhance one’s experiences and overall wellbeing.
Maine is a perfect place to take your first or tenth solo vacation for several reasons. The abundance of nature surrounds the state, quaint communities are welcoming to travelers, and mouthwatering restaurants and eateries abound. Even more, U.S. News cited Maine as the #1 Safest State in 2023, highlighting its low crime and the lowest ranking in violent crime out of all 50 states.
Not sure how to start planning your Maine solo escape? We have you covered! Below is a perfect four-night itinerary for your solo travel trip to Acadia National Park.
Day One:
Fly into Portland and rent a car. Be sure to download your favorite podcasts or create a playlist for your three-hour drive to Bar Harbor, Maine. Need a recommendation? Check out Terramor’s Spotify Playlist to put you in a relaxed mood for your drive.
Plan your flight early and take the scenic route on Hwy 1 up the coast of Maine. Plan stops at quaint seaside villages like Camden, Bath, and Brunswick. Spend some time in Freeport where you will find amazing shops like LL Bean’s Outlet Store, Toad & Co., Dooney & Bourke, or one of our favorites, Freeport Market.
After your day on the road, check-in to Terramor Outdoor Resort and get settled in your refined tent. No need to jump back in the car, the Lodge at Terramor offers a delicious dinner experience with a selection of local craft brews or signature cocktails. Unwind at dinner while you listen to a live musician or take your cravings outside and enjoy a s’more at your own private campfire experience.
Day Two:
The second day is all about adventure and finding solace in nature. Wake up early (really early!) to be one of the first to watch the sunrise over North America. Head up to Cadillac Mountain while the stars are still out to see the sunrise over the Atlantic. It’s a can’t miss event. You’ll want to plan this early and purchase your Cadillac Park Pass from Acadia National Park before embarking on your trip.
Afterwards, head back down to Terramor for an elevated hot breakfast. You’ll need your energy to tackle the day on the trail. Choose to join a small group guided hike with Terramor’s Outfitter or ask for a recommendation to explore alone. Trails in Acadia National Park can be as easy or as strenuous as you desire. Solo hiking in Acadia is wonderful as all trails are marked and well populated.
Once your hiking legs are tired, head back to Terramor and clean up for an evening out on the town. You can leave your vehicle at Terramor and hop on the Island Explorer, a free shuttle ride with a stop at the resort. This way you do not have to worry about parking in Bar Harbor or having one drink too many to drive back.
Bar Harbor is full of cute shops, delicious eateries, and beautiful views. We recommend dinner at The Loft Raw Bar and Sushi Bar for a nice dinner. The second-story restaurant offers great ambiance in a small setting and has some of the best meals around.
Day Three:
Day three is all about relaxation. Wake up in your comfy, king-size bed, and join the Terramor Wellness team for a morning yoga session. Afterwards, stroll down to the Lodge for a complimentary breakfast and café drink. May we recommend the Vanilla Cardamom Latte.
Schedule yourself for a late morning massage or body treatment at Terramor’s Wellness Tent. Treat your tired feet to an Ocean Shore Foot Scrub using Maine farmed kelp and a sea salt scrub.
Now that you are all relaxed choose to either stay around the resort and cuddle up with a good book or head over to the Jordan Pond House for their famous afternoon tea and popovers. The best time to beat the crowds at the Pond House is 11:30am to 4:00pm. No reservations are required.
You can stay at Terramor for dinner and enjoy a seasonal special or a delicious menu selection from our Kitchen 207. Afterwards, head back to your tent, and cuddle up by campfire with your favorite book and bottle of wine from the Terramor gift store.
Day Four:
Unfortunately, all good solo trips must come to an end. Check out of Terramor and head up the road to Mother’s Kitchen for a quick coffee and an amazing breakfast sandwich before embarking on your journey home. Reminisce on the wonderful solo trip you experienced and leave feeling refreshed and recharged, and ready to plan your next solo vacation.
Opportunities abound for solo travel in Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. No two trips are alike. Talk to our friendly Outfitters to help plan your next solo adventure with us.