It was late afternoon when Sarah and her husband pulled into the circular driveway of Cliff House, Maine. As soon as they stepped out of their car, they could hear the crashing waves of the Atlantic below and smell the salty sea breeze that swept across the craggy cliffs. After months of hectic work schedules and the chaos of city life, they had come in search of tranquillity—and the sight before them, with its sweeping ocean views and the historic hotel perched on the edge of a cliff, made them realize they had found it. Nestled between the rugged coastline and the endless blue sky, Cliff House Maine was everything they had imagined: a serene escape where time seemed to slow, and the stresses of daily life could melt away with each passing tide.
For over a century, Cliff House Maine has been a destination for travellers seeking solace, luxury, and the natural beauty of Maine’s southern coast. From its humble beginnings to its transformation into a premier resort, this historic property continues to captivate visitors with its breathtaking views, world-class amenities, and deep-rooted connection to the land and sea.
The History of Cliff House Maine
Cliff House Maine’s story begins in 1872 when Elsie Jane Weare, a determined and visionary woman, founded the original Cliff House. At the time, it was a modest family-run hotel with 16 rooms, catering to those seeking a peaceful coastal retreat. Perched on the edge of Bald Head Cliff in Ogunquit, Maine, the hotel quickly gained a reputation for its stunning views, which stretched for miles along the Atlantic coast, and its proximity to the charming fishing village of Perkins Cove.
Over the years, the hotel has survived two world wars, the Great Depression, and various ownership changes. It even served as a military base during World War II when the U.S. Army requisitioned it for coastal defence. However, despite the challenges, Cliff House Maine has remained a beloved destination, evolving from a simple hotel into a luxurious year-round resort.
Today, the hotel boasts 226 rooms and suites, modern amenities, a spa, several dining options, and a renewed focus on connecting guests with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. It has become one of the top resorts in New England, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience the pristine coastline, gourmet dining, and calming ambience that defines Cliff House Maine (Cliff House Maine, 2023).
Statistics:
- Year founded: 1872
- Number of rooms: 226
- Annual visitors: Over 100,000 guests annually (Cliff House Maine, 2023)
Reference:
- Cliff House Maine. (2023). History and Overview of the Resort.
Location and Natural Beauty
One of Cliff House Maine’s greatest draws is its location. Set atop Bald Head Cliff, the resort offers uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Ocean, with 70 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds hugging the rugged coastline. Located just a few miles from downtown Ogunquit, the resort is easily accessible yet feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Guests at Cliff House can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking along the nearby Marginal Way, a scenic coastal trail that connects Ogunquit Beach to Perkins Cove. For those who prefer the water, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular activities in the summer months. The resort’s proximity to nearby beaches also offers opportunities for swimming and sunbathing during Maine’s warm summer season.
In addition to outdoor activities, Cliff House Maine is an ideal spot for those who appreciate the changing seasons. In the fall, the area becomes a canvas of vibrant red, orange, and yellow as the leaves change, drawing in visitors who want to experience New England’s famous autumn foliage. The winter months, while quieter, offer cosy seaside getaways, complete with roaring fireplaces and snow-covered cliffs (Visit Maine, 2022).
Statistics:
- Distance to downtown Ogunquit: 3 miles
- Property size: 70 acres of coastal landscape
- Average summer temperature: 70°F-75°F (Visit Maine, 2022)
Reference:
- Visit Maine. (2022). Explore Ogunquit and Maine’s Southern Coast.
World-Class Amenities: Combining Comfort and Luxury
While the natural beauty surrounding Cliff House Maine is awe-inspiring, the resort offers guests a blend of modern luxury and traditional New England charm. Its renovation in 2016 transformed the property into a full-service spa with updated amenities catering to relaxation and adventure.
- The Spa at Cliff House: One of the resort’s highlights is its luxury spa, where guests can enjoy treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate. The spa offers ocean-inspired therapies, from seaweed body wraps to saltstone massages, which exploit Maine’s natural resources. The spa’s floor-to-ceiling windows allow visitors to soak in the views of the ocean while unwinding, enhancing the overall experience of relaxation (Cliff House Maine, 2023).
- Dining Options: Cliff House Maine is also known for its farm-to-table dining. The resort features several restaurants, including The Tiller, which serves dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Seafood is a menu highlight, with offerings like Maine lobster, oysters, and locally caught fish, ensuring guests get an authentic taste of coastal Maine.
- Event Spaces and Weddings: The stunning backdrop of Bald Head Cliff makes Cliff House a popular destination for weddings and special events. The resort offers indoor and outdoor event spaces, including a 2,200-square-foot ballroom with ocean views that create a breathtaking setting for any celebration.
Statistics:
- Spa treatment options: Over 20 ocean-inspired therapies
- Wedding and event capacity: Up to 250 guests (Cliff House Maine, 2023)
Reference:
- Cliff House Maine. (2023). Spa and Dining Information.
The Economic and Cultural Impact
Beyond its status as a luxury resort, Cliff House Maine significantly impacts the local economy. Tourism is a primary industry in Maine, contributing over $9 billion annually to the state’s economy, with southern Maine being one of the most popular regions for visitors (Maine Office of Tourism, 2022). As a year-round destination, Cliff House supports the local workforce, employing hundreds of people in various roles, from hospitality to dining and spa services.
Additionally, the resort is deeply committed to sustainability and supporting local businesses. Many of the ingredients used in the resort’s restaurants come from local farms, fisheries, and artisans, helping to sustain the region’s agricultural and fishing communities. Furthermore, Cliff House has implemented environmentally friendly practices, such as reducing waste and sourcing materials locally for renovations and operations (Maine Office of Tourism, 2022).
Statistics:
- Tourism revenue in Maine: $9.2 billion annually
- Cliff House Maine employment: 200+ staff members year-round
Reference:
- Maine Office of Tourism. (2022). Economic Impact of Tourism in Maine.
The Future of Cliff House Maine
As Cliff House Maine looks toward the future, its focus remains balancing luxury with environmental stewardship. With increasing demand for eco-friendly travel, the resort continues to explore ways to minimize its ecological footprint while offering a high-end experience. This includes plans to invest in renewable energy, reduce plastic waste, and continue sourcing food and materials from local vendors (Cliff House Maine, 2023).
As the resort attracts new visitors, it maintains its commitment to providing a serene escape for those looking to reconnect with nature, celebrate special occasions, or relax by the sea. For those who visit, Cliff House Maine offers more than just a place to stay—it provides an unforgettable experience rooted in the natural beauty and history of Maine’s southern coast.
Statistics:
- Future investment in sustainability: 20% increase in eco-friendly initiatives by 2025 (Cliff House Maine, 2023)
Reference:
- Cliff House Maine. (2023). Sustainability and Future Plans.
Conclusion: A Timeless Coastal Retreat
Cliff House Maine stands as a testament to the power of nature and the beauty of Maine’s coast. For over 150 years, it has provided travellers with an unforgettable retreat, offering luxury, comfort, and a deep connection to the land and sea. Whether it’s the sound of the waves crashing below, the smell of fresh sea air, or the warmth of a fireside evening, Cliff House continues to be a serenity and rejuvenation for visitors worldwide.
