On Tuesday, the fourth day of our trip, the sun came out and it was a beautiful, bright cool day. We took the opportunity to drive over to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens to enjoy nature in all her splendor. The drive there was scenic in itself, though I was mostly occupied with paying attention to driving on the narrow, windy two lane roads. But we arrived, just in time to join a guided walking tour focusing on native Maine plants. Our guide was a volunteer with the botanical gardens who was obviously very knowledgeable about Maine's native plants. I learned more about ferns than I ever thought there was to know. And before the day started, I couldn't distinguish a fir from a spruce...but now I can! It was an extensive tour and hike, as the gardens encompass over 350 acres, ranging from open manicured lawns to forest trails with rugged slopes, to breathtaking waterside paths. Along the way, we encountered some of the botanical garden's giant trolls. These are huge wooden art installations by the Danish artist Thomas Dambo. It was an enjoyable and educational visit.
After the hike, we were ready for a hearty meal, and headed to nearby Damariscotta where we found a restaurant that had been recommended to us by a friend. The King Eider's Pub lived up to the promise, and we had a delicious meal of pub food- bangers and mash, and fish and chips. Our timing was perfect, as we arrived for a late lunch/ early dinner, and managed to get a table quickly at what can be a very busy restaurant. The drive home was a quiet one, and we reflected on all the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of the day.
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| Guided walking tour of the botanical gardens |
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| One of Thomas Dambo's giant trolls |
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| Bangers and mash |
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| Fish and chips |
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| King Eider's Pub- highly recommended |
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