Maine is already a fantastical place to be, but the state gets extra points for some of the more obscure spots. The one we're talking about today is one of those! Hidden on an island (that's actually not really an island) this beautiful spot is great for hikes, walks and simply taking in the fresh air coming off of Casco Bay. But, dig a little deeper and you'll find a special little village for some very tiny new friends!
To find special little Mackworth Island and the fairy village that exists here you’ll head to Falmouth, which is just north of Portland. Since it’s not actually an island, you don’t need to worry about any ferries or boats. Simply take a short causeway at the mouth of the Presumpscot River off of Route 1.
Back in 1946 Governor Percival Proctor Baxter donated Mackworth Island to the State of Maine to be used for state public purposes and "as a sanctuary for wild beasts and birds."
Mackworth Island is about 100 acres with a 1.25-mile trail circling the perimeter. The walk around should take about an hour, but plan for more time if you’d like to visit the small beaches and skip stones!
On weekends things get busy, which means the cars will be backed up along the roadway. If that’s the case, you’ll need to head home and come back another day. To avoid this try a morning or late afternoon visit. If things are clear, head in and you’ll pass the guard gate, which doesn’t actually have a guard. Find a space and start your walk!
And while we love the walk, it’s the fairy village we always take extra time to see! You can reach it by walking about 10 minutes from the parking lot.
There’s a small sign designating where the village begins and reminding folks to be careful with the meticulously built tiny homes.
Another good way to be sure you’ve arrived is seeing children and adults huddled near the ground visiting with the fairies and helping to build their homes.
A big part of the fun is that each home is constructed entirely using natural elements found on the island. From feathers to seashells, bark to pine cones you’ll find lots of different building elements.
And, folks love to get creative, making long driveways and even trees surrounding the homes.
Kids can spend hours here, but adults love it too. Which is why this is always a fun weekend stop!
Mackworth Island is a beautiful place to visit and you can learn more about it on the Maine Tourism website. And for more lovely ways to enjoy a day out in Maine, consider heading to a lake! Here are 7 lake beaches in Maine that will make you feel like you're at the ocean.
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