Did you know that hiding in the beautiful state of Maine, Mackworth Island is host to a community of fairy houses? Fairies. They're so lovely and mystical and strange and... unproven. But, for a moment let's pretend that they are as prevalent as deer. And, let's appreciate the idea of fairies like they deserve to be appreciated. If you love the idea of fairies as much as we do, you'll want to head to Mackworth Island. The home of the most wonderful fairies in Maine, Mackworth Island will entertain for as long as you can find building materials to help build their tiny, natural fairy houses. Let's take a look...

Just North of Portland, in the town of Falmouth, lies Mackworth Island. Not actually an island at all, the small bit of land can be accessed via a causeway at the mouth of the Presumpscot River, just off of Route 1. You'll know if it's a busy day on the island if cars are backed up along this roadway. If you see this, you may need to plan your Fairy Village visit for another day - parking is pretty limited and only so many cars are permitted to enter at one time. Once you arrive, you'll pass the gate house, which is formidable only in looks. We've never been greeted by anyone there. Simply drive on through and find parking and you'll be on your way.

The island itself is about 100 acres and a 1.25-mile trail circles the entire thing. A leisurely walk around will take about an hour. But, we've always spent significantly more time looking out over Casco Bay skipping rocks on the shore. Plan on spending some extra time simply enjoying the quiet on any of the swings and benches located along the trail.

The inner areas of the island are quite wooded - perfect for fairies who are looking to take a small vacation from everyday fairy life. They have Governor Percival Proctor Baxter to thank for this area. In 1946, he donated Mackworth Island to the State of Maine to be used for state public purposes and "as a sanctuary for wild beasts and birds."

To reach the small neighborhood of fairy homes, walk about 10 minutes from the parking lot around the island to the north side.

Encouraging loving use is one of the hallmark's of those who care for this important village. The written reminder for all to see reads: "The village provides fairies with cottages during their visits to the island. We invite you to visit the village and admire the creativity of the builders. If you are so inclined, you may use your own imagination to expand the village or provide needed maintenance to the existing cottages. Thank you for treating the island with care and respect.

This helps to keep the fairies coming back!"

You'll know you've arrived when you see children huddled down near the ground helping the fairies build their homes.

They come in all shapes and sizes and are made of a variety of materials. The only rule is that they must be constructed of natural materials. Anything from feathers to seashells, bark to pine cones are fair game. While it's fun to walk around and see what other people have created, the real fun is in making your own. Remember that fairies love nice, natural homes but they also love curb appeal. So, you might consider a nice walkway or front porch. That being said, the inside is just as important. Remember the beds, kitchen tables and rugs!

Here are a few wonderful examples seen on a recent visit:

There are so many wonderful things about Mackworth Island, not just the fairy houses -- the views and the Fairy Village are just two of the enchanting things in store when you visit this glorious island in Maine. The real beauty is in allowing both children and adults the experience the world around them from a truly tactile perspective. Watching people of all ages hunt for the perfect materials reminds us that we are all creative and curious - it just takes a little bit of opportunity to bring it out.

Looking for more fairy tale places to visit in Maine? We might know of a few... including another place in Maine that's home to another real-life fairy house!