When the summer rolls around here in Maine, folks get excited for all the opportunities to enjoy daily life outside. Of course, that includes hiking and outdoor endeavors, but for a lot of us, that means eating and drinking in the sunshine. While we love that about the warmer months here, what if we didn't have to wait for that to enjoy things we typically associate with summer? A great example is this spot hidden in Oxford County!

We often write about places and begin by saying "if you don't know what you're looking for, you just might pass it by!" But in this case, the red and black sign towering over the side of Route 26 is pretty unmissable.

The fact that this beer garden is here at all sometimes surprises us.

This Oxford County outpost of the popular brewery sits inside a 200 year old farmhouse and next to a huge Nordic skiing trail system once known as Carter’s XC Ski. Visitors have access to these trails surrounding Oxbow for skiing, fat biking and snowshoeing.

And our favorite Portland nonprofit, Portland Gear Hub, offers equipment for rent here too.

But let's get onto the reason we drove all the way out here. The food and drinks in a beautiful space that is airy, bright and cozy throughout the year.

The pizza here is wood-fired and naturally-leavened and uses Main grains and local, estate-grown toppings.

And in addition to the pizza they've got farmhouse ales, housemade sodas and even some natural wines.

This pizza isn't just an "extra" to get people in the door for tastings. This is the real deal, made to satisfy.

This is also one of the few places open year round that has true benefits for each and every season. Love winter sports? Check out those trails? Love eating under the stars? Come in the summer and enjoy an outdoor fire.

This special place is an ideal day trip from spots closer to the close, both north and south. And with so much to do in the area these days, it's a great destination and excuse to spend the weekend in western Maine.

The Oxbow Beer Garden is open Tuesday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from noon to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. They're closed on Monday. You can learn more about them on their website, where you can also get information about the locations in Newcastle and Portland. Or, check them out on Facebook. The Beer Garden can be reached on 207-539-5178.

To make a weekend of it, consider staying at this completely amazing tiny house in Waterford, which is also in Oxford County. There's no house in the world like this one in Maine!