The Appleton Retreat

For individuals and families searching for "Hotels Near Of Me" with a desire for a truly immersive and tranquil natural escape, The Appleton Retreat offers an exceptional experience in rural Appleton, Maine. Located at 1396 W Appleton Rd, Appleton, ME 04862, USA, this resort hotel isn't a single large building but rather a collection of unique, thoughtfully designed accommodations spread across a vast and beautiful property, promising a "glamping" or luxury nature retreat experience.

The environment at The Appleton Retreat is its most defining characteristic. Spanning 120 acres of private land, it is bordered by a 1,300-acre Nature Conservancy reserve to the north and the Pettengill Stream, a resource-protected area, to the south. This extensive natural setting ensures total privacy and silence, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature. Guests can expect to be surrounded by glorious trees, boulders, and abundant wildlife. The property features wooded trails perfect for hiking and cross-country skiing in the winter. Reviews consistently highlight the feeling of being "very connected to earth" and the "beautiful" surroundings, emphasizing the peaceful and unpretentious wilderness setting. Guests can enjoy views of Appleton Ridge, explore trails leading to a secluded pond perfect for swimming, or kayak on the Pettengill Stream, with two kayaks provided for guest use. The distinct accommodations are strategically placed to maximize privacy, with some, like the 'Breeze' treehouse, offering the unique experience of being "alone in a tree," providing windowed walls that overlook treetops and glimpses of the ridge.

The services at The Appleton Retreat are designed to enhance the independent and nature-centric stay while providing modern comforts. Each of the unique retreats – including various yurts (like Snow Sweet and Summer Rose), cabins (like Smitten), and a treehouse (Breeze) – comes equipped with full amenities. This typically includes a well-stocked kitchen or galley kitchen with appliances like gas ranges and refrigerators, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. Most units feature air conditioning and heating (often via heat pumps and gas fireplaces), ensuring comfort in all seasons. Fast fiber Wi-Fi is available in many units, allowing guests to stay connected if desired, although one unique unit (Breeze) may require proximity to another unit's Wi-Fi for access. A significant service highlight, available at an additional charge and by reservation, is the private use of a wood-fired cedar hot tub and a sauna, located on the property. These wellness amenities offer a luxurious way to relax amidst nature. For longer stays, some units provide laundry facilities (washer and dryer) at no additional charge. Self check-in is also a standard service, providing flexibility for arrivals. The hosts, Toby and Peter, are frequently praised in reviews for being "very kind people" and "attentive hosts," ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience, often leaving welcoming muffins for guests.

The features of The Appleton Retreat are diverse, catering to a range of preferences for a unique stay. The different retreats are named after apple brands, each offering a distinct experience. For instance, 'Braeburn' is described as feeling like a treehouse with expansive windows, a private therapeutic year-round hot tub, a gas fireplace, and lightning-fast fiber Wi-Fi. 'Breeze' is a literal treehouse, situated over 20 feet high with a sleeping loft at approximately 40 feet, offering total privacy and unique arboreal views, though it's accessed by steep "ship's ladders" and is not suitable for young children or dogs. 'Snow Sweet' and 'Summer Rose' are spacious wooden yurts, complete with private hot tubs, well-stocked kitchens, and stunning ceilings, with Summer Rose featuring a "Hideout" screened-in sanctuary. Many units boast private decks or screened-in porches, propane grills, and fire pits (with firewood available for a charge). Pet-friendly accommodations are available in some retreats (excluding Breeze), with a small additional fee for well-behaved dogs under 50 lbs. The property also offers recreational features like access to kayaks for the stream, and proximity to a large secluded pond for swimming. The overall commitment to sustainability is also noted, with a large ground-based solar array installed in early 2025 to service the retreats.

Promotional information for The Appleton Retreat heavily relies on its unique offerings and glowing customer testimonials. As evidenced by reviews, guests "highly recommend" the place and declare it the "best place I have ever stayed." The hosts, Toby and Peter, are "Super Hosts" on platforms like Airbnb, with over 500 five-star reviews, indicating consistent guest satisfaction. The official website and listings on vacation rental platforms highlight the "glamping in Maine" aspect and the "perfect getaway winter, spring, summer & fall" messaging. Promotional emphasis is placed on the quiet, unpretentious wilderness setting, the opportunity to relax and enjoy Mother Nature, and the convenience of being just 1 hour 45 minutes from Portland and 50 miles from Acadia National Park. The property's proximity to charming Midcoast towns like Belfast, Rockport, Camden, and Rockland (all within a 30-minute drive) is also a key selling point, offering guests the chance to explore local breweries, restaurants, galleries, and seasonal farmers' markets. Activities like hiking on extensive trails, cross-country skiing, kayaking, swimming in the pond, stargazing, and enjoying private hot tubs and saunas are actively promoted as part of the experience. The unique architecture of the retreats, such as the newly constructed Red Barn, which blends contemporary design with a monitor barn style, also serves as a promotional draw. The presence of friendly resident dogs, as mentioned in customer reviews, also contributes to the welcoming and charming atmosphere promoted by the retreat.

In conclusion, The Appleton Retreat is not a conventional hotel but a destination in itself, offering a diverse array of high-quality, private accommodations in a serene natural setting. For those searching for "Hotels Near Of Me" with a strong inclination towards outdoor activities, relaxation, and a unique, personal touch, this resort hotel provides an exceptional option. The positive guest reviews underscore the beauty of the environment, the comfort of the accommodations, and the welcoming nature of the hosts, Toby and Peter, making it a highly recommended choice for a memorable retreat in the heart of Maine.