The White Barn Inn and Spa is a small conogloameration of homes and small cottages on the edge of the Kennebunk River. I had heard about it in the past and was anxious to see it as Relais and Chateau Hotles and Restaurants are few and far between here in the USA.
The White Barn and it's Chef, Jonathan Cartwright, have won countless awards and now I see why.
What a spectacular place. From the moment we arrived, I was in heaven. Our "cottage" was in reality a 1000 sq foot dwelling complete with living room, giant king bed, secondary living area complete with fireplace and two giant cozy chairs and one huge bathrroom with a double rain shower as well as a deep soaking tub both big enough for two. Best of all,we were overlookng the river which was filled with wonerful yachts and day sailors wtih a view to downtown Kennebunkport. Even our minibar was stocked with champagne, beer and cokes and there was a special bottel of Argentine Malbec waiting for me as my host knew that is one of my favorites.
Best of all, Katie at the reception desk could not have been more welocoming and helpfufl. As a mater of fact, every employee that we met, knew us by name and went overboard (joke in this waterside town)...to do what they could for us.
Our days were spent wandering the wonderful Maine coast from Portland to the outlet shopping malls (read L.L Bean) in Freeport to the light houses and rock outcropings of Cape Porpoise. What would a visit to Kennebunkport be without following the tour buses to former President Herbert Bush's compound complete with guard houses and security. Tour busses circulate this area daily as not only the Bush compound but Kennebunkport are high on the list of shore excursions for the ships that dock in nearby Portland.
October is a beautiful month in Maine, and even by the coast, the colored leaves are spectacular when viewed from the reflections of nearby ponds and marshes. What was more unbelievable were the fall displays outside the dining room of The White Barn Inn. My favorite table was right under an amazing display of huge orange pumpkins mixed with brightly colored chrysanthemums and other green plants.
But what really set off the the White Barn Inn and Spa were the offerings of Chef Jonathan Cartwrite.
I have had had several spectacular meals in my life, however my anniversary dinner of foie gras appetizer then an intermezzo of lilac Hibiscus and Lemon Verbena Sorbet , then an entree of steamed lobster over lenguini with a cognac coral butter sauce interminguled with several chef's amuses....and topped with finale of a blueberry mousse with choclate message of "Happy Anniversary" written on the white plate.
Again, I cannot say enough about this wonderful hotel which saved my anniversary trip and the wonderfuul staff members such as Sarah and Alfred in the restaurant, and Meg in the Spa. All were what makes this hotel one for the record books and a very special place for any celebration. It is no wonder that it has won so many awards..... from it's food to it's service. Thank you all for saving the day and helping me to really get to know a beautiful part of Maine .
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