Explore the Summer 2023 edition
Editor’s note
SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME to slow down, reflect and renew outside of our normal routines.
Have you ever enjoyed a moment of pure mindfulness watching a colorful butterfly fluttering in the garden? For me, this is one of the leisurely joys of summer. I was familiar with monarchs and swallowtails but surprised to learn that Maine is home to 120 different species of butterflies. To get to know our native butterflies and the important roles they play in our ecosystem, flip to Living jewels.
Beyond our own backyards, this issue also provides ample inspiration for getting outdoors in Maine. DownEast of Eden teases the 900 acres and 20 parklands that comprise the remarkable oasis of Cobscook Shores. Going the Way of the Wabanaki follows an immersive four-day canoe excursion on the Penobscot River with Penobscot guides. And Exploring the mid-Midcoast takes us through the picturesque region from Woolwich to Nobleboro characterized by off-the-beaten path attractions, art and exceptional food.
If that makes you hungry for more, this issue also features some of the best plant-based eats around the state in Sample summer at Maine’s newest vegetarian restaurants; along with where to find local tempeh, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso and more in Fermented foods are bubbling up all over Maine. Add the finishing touch to your kitchen with a hand-smithed cutlery set or skillet from one of Maine’s accomplished metalworkers–read about six of these artisans in Art & craft of working with fire.
If these warm days have you longing to get out on the water, but you could do without the exhaust and noise of an outboard gas motor, you’ll enjoy Electric boats: The wave of the future (which includes where to rent one!).
Finally, if you want that summer feeling to never end and have a cabin that you’d like to use year-round, you’ll find some pro renovation tips in From camp to comfort. Find all of this and more in this guide to summer in Maine. Enjoy!
Heather Chandler
Editor & Publisher
On the cover
In far DownEast Maine, the parklands of Cobscook Shores protect 16 miles of pristine shore front on Cobscook Bay, as well as its tributary arms of Dennys, Whiting, Straight, South, and Johnson Bays.
The name "Cobscook" derives from the Passamaquoddy word "Kapskuk," or "place where the water looks as if it is boiling." Spend some time in these parts with incredible rushing and roiling 24-foot tides, and you'll surely see why.
Photo: Chris Shane