Maple Hill Farm Inn and Conference Center

For those seeking a distinguished lodging experience that harmonizes the tranquility of a country inn with the comprehensive facilities of a conference center, the Maple Hill Farm Inn and Conference Center stands as an exceptional choice on the "Hotels Near Of Me" platform. Located at 11 Inn Rd, Hallowell, ME 04347, USA, this establishment offers a unique blend of historical charm, modern comfort, and a strong commitment to sustainability, making it an ideal destination for various types of travelers. The Inn can be reached directly at (207) 622-7777 or +1 207-622-7777 for inquiries and bookings.

The environment of Maple Hill Farm Inn is one of its most compelling features. Nestled on 31 acres of picturesque rolling hayfields and woods, the Inn provides a serene and quiet countryside escape. Guests consistently praise the "beautiful location" and the overall "relaxing vibe," which allows for easy unwinding and finding comfort. The property itself features expansive buildings, including a beautifully renovated Victorian gambrel farmhouse dating from 1906, complemented by numerous additions and improvements over the years, with a major renovation in 2004. The grounds offer ample opportunities for relaxation, with comfortable outdoor seating on the front porch, Adirondack chairs under 120-year-old sugar maple trees, and bricked patios. For those who enjoy nature, the property connects to extensive hiking trails, including the Jamies Pond Wildlife area, perfect for walks and exploring the natural beauty of Maine.

Despite its rural setting, Maple Hill Farm Inn is conveniently situated just a short drive from downtown Hallowell, a bustling historic district on the banks of the Kennebec River, known for its variety of popular restaurants, bars, antique and boutique shopping, a community theater, and art galleries. It's also just four miles from the southernmost I-95 exit for Augusta, Maine's state capital, providing easy access to attractions like the Maine State Museum and State House. This strategic location offers guests the best of both worlds: a peaceful retreat with urban conveniences within reach, and easy access for those traveling to or from destinations like Bar Harbor or Baxter State Park.

The services and features at Maple Hill Farm Inn and Conference Center are designed to provide a comprehensive and luxurious stay. The Inn offers eight individually decorated and furnished guest rooms in the main building, each with private baths. Some rooms elevate the experience with "HUGE private double whirlpool tubs," gas fireplaces, and/or private decks, offering a truly indulgent escape. Beds feature premium bedding, and accommodations include separate sitting areas and dining tables, ensuring a comfortable and functional space for guests. Complimentary wireless internet access (with excellent speed of 500+ Mbps) is available throughout the entire Inn, both in rooms and public areas, catering to both leisure and business travelers. Each room also includes a 32" LCD Cable TV and DVD player. Daily housekeeping services ensure that rooms are consistently fresh and tidy.

A standout amenity that guests frequently highlight is the year-round outdoor hot tub and an adjoining sauna building. Reviews consistently mention the "so clean and enjoyable" hot tub, providing a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. While one guest noted a "clothing optional hot tub," the general experience emphasizes the cleanliness and enjoyment of these spa facilities. Onsite spa services, including Swedish massages, are also available for guests seeking further pampering. The common guest kitchen provides 24-hour complimentary coffee/tea/cocoa and home-baked goodies, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that encourages a "home away from home" feeling. Guests appreciate the ability to use the fridge and microwave for leftovers and enjoy shared spaces. There's also a small pub offering full bar service, including beer, wine, and cocktails featuring Maine microbrews and draft options.

Beyond the private rooms, Maple Hill Farm boasts a variety of inviting common areas. These include a living room with a cozy wood-burning fireplace, a dining room also featuring a fireplace, and a "Gallery" showcasing works of local artists for sale, adding a touch of local culture to the Inn's ambiance. These spaces contribute to the overall relaxing vibe and allow guests to mingle or find a quiet corner to read or work.

Breakfast at Maple Hill Farm Inn is an experience in itself and is consistently praised as "delicious" and "fantastic." Included with the stay, guests can expect a full menu choice featuring farm-fresh, free-range eggs laid by the Inn's own chickens. Options typically include buttermilk or wild Maine blueberry pancakes with pure Maine maple syrup, French toast, hot slow-cooked oatmeal, and eggs cooked to order, served with bacon, sausage, farm-fried potatoes, and a choice of toast or English muffin. Fresh fruit cups, homemade fruit muffins, just-ground organic coffee, and a selection of teas are also part of the generous spread, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients where possible. Breakfast is served daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM.

As a "Conference Center," Maple Hill Farm offers versatile facilities for meetings, special events, weddings, receptions, and retreats. With over 2,966 sq ft of total event space across three primary meeting rooms, it can accommodate groups from two to over 200 people, with seasonal expansion options using an attached tent to host up to 300 guests. The main event spaces include:

• The Gathering Place: 1,800 sq ft, with a soaring ceiling and innovative lighting, capable of hosting up to 200 for theater style and 150 for banquets. It features state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, including drop-down LCD projectors and screens, wireless microphones with a quality sound system, and controllable lighting.

• Carriage House: 672 sq ft, a self-contained private building with its own bathrooms, connecting to the main inn via a porte cochere. It can accommodate up to 75 for theater style and 50 for banquets.

• Gallery: 496 sq ft, showcasing local artwork, suitable for smaller gatherings with a capacity of up to 40 for theater style and 30 for banquets.

Additional smaller spaces like the Living Room and Dining Room can also be utilized for intimate meetings or breakout sessions. Full custom food and beverage services, including full liquor service, are provided in-house for all events, ensuring a seamless and professionally managed experience. The Inn also features ample paved and lit parking, with overflow grassed parking for larger events, capable of accommodating up to 84 cars.

A distinctive feature of Maple Hill Farm Inn is its strong commitment to sustainability, making it Maine's first certified “Environmental Leader” green lodging and conference facility (certified in 2005). This dedication is evident through visible amenities such as a wind turbine on top of the hill, Maine's largest solar electric array, solar hot water heating, and four electric vehicle charging stations. Smaller eco-friendly touches include 100% LED lighting throughout the facility, a wood pellet boiler, and the use of shower dispensers instead of individual bottled amenities. They also use Maine-roasted coffee and locally-produced real maple syrup, along with eggs from their own chickens. This focus on environmental responsibility appeals to guests who value sustainable travel and has earned the Inn recognition, including being named one of "The Best 5 Green Hotels and Inns in New England" by Yankee Magazine in 2017.

The staff at Maple Hill Farm Inn consistently receives high praise for being "exceptional," "warm and hospitable," and going "above and beyond" to ensure a pleasant stay. The owners, Scott Cowger and Vince Hannan, are often mentioned for their personalized service and dedication to guest comfort. The presence of friendly farm animals, including llamas and cats, adds to the unique charm and homely feel of the Inn, creating memorable interactions for guests.

While specific seasonal promotions are not detailed in the provided information, the Inn's status as a top-rated destination with a loyal returning clientele (guests often "plan to return soon" and have been returning for "several years") suggests competitive pricing and value for the high quality of service and amenities offered. As a unique boutique alternative to larger hotels in Augusta, Maple Hill Farm Inn provides a distinctive experience. Prospective guests are encouraged to contact Maple Hill Farm Inn and Conference Center directly at (207) 622-7777 to inquire about current rates, availability, and any special packages, particularly for events or longer stays. Their official website, , also provides additional information and booking options. It is important to note their "no pets allowed" policy in the main guest rooms, although there is a separate "Sunset Chalet" with a private hot tub that is pet-friendly, available for rent by the same owners. Also, while one review mentioned a "clothing optional hot tub," it is generally implied that guests should respect the comfort of others in common areas, and direct communication with the Inn for specific policies on this matter is advised.

In conclusion, the Maple Hill Farm Inn and Conference Center truly stands out as a unique and highly recommended destination on "Hotels Near Of Me." It offers a picturesque and serene countryside setting near Augusta and Hallowell, providing a perfect blend of peaceful relaxation and convenient access to local attractions. With its comfortable and well-appointed rooms, luxurious hot tub and sauna, delicious farm-fresh breakfast, versatile conference and event facilities, and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, it caters to a diverse range of travelers. The exceptional staff and welcoming ambiance ensure a memorable and delightful stay, making guests feel "at home" and eager to return.