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by Jo-Anne Jarvis-Jordan
Located just east of Bangor along the Atlantic Seacoast between Ellsworth and St. Andrews is Machias, Maine. The seat of Washington County, this area was originally known to the Native Americans as "Mechises" or "a bad run of water," (named for the river that runs through the town) this Neighborhood includes several neighboring towns and communities in Eastern Maine.
The people of Machias eked out an existence for themselves from the surrounding forests and the Machias River. This way of life helped the area to become known as a leaders in lumbering, fishing and in the shipbuilding industries. Although many Native tribes once inhabited the area, today the Passamquoddy and the Penobscots are the only two that remain.
The Machias Bay area is an outdoor enthusiasts delight and scores of vacationers visit the area annually to participate in activities such as sea kayaking. Many enjoy the boating excursions to Machias Seal Island which is home to the largest Atlantic puffin colony on the Maine coast. In addition to touring the scenic coastline, these boating tours offer the opportunity to view seals, eagles, lobster fishing and salmon farms.
The area also boasts several incredibly scenic and well- maintained trails making this area ideal for the hiking enthusiast. Winter does not slow down the level of outdoor activity in Machias as ice fishing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are favorite activities.
Located in Washington County just across the river from St. Stephen, New Brunswick is Calais (pronounced "CAL-us") Maine. Considered an ideal location for a "two nation vacation" Calais highlights this by hosting an "International Festival" each August. This festival offers travelers a variety of activities and reflects the harmonious relationship shared by both sides of the border. With 30 lakes within the 40 miles of Calais, fishing enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Calais. From lakes and ponds to streams and the Atlantic Ocean there are many chances to "catch the big one."
The Moosehead Wildlife Refuge is a must see in Calais. Located on 23,000 acres of woods, fields, streams and ponds and home to 190 species of birds the refuge is a bird lovers dream come true. With 50 miles of trails and roads to explore this is a nature lovers paradise. The Refuge Headquarters is located on Charlotte Road in Calais.
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Many visitors will embark on a tour of the "Quoddy Loop." Derived from the native word "Passamaquoddy" or "plenty pollock place" this stretch encompasses the areas from Machias, Maine in Washington County to Lepreau, in Charlotte County, New Brunswick, Canada. This region is a photographers delight. With a spectacular natural scenery that includes towering cliffs, lighthouses, and enchanting fishing villages, there are many opportunities to snap a great photo. |
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Eastport, Maine is alive and exciting every year in September as the Salmon Festival celebrates the history and future of the Atlantic Salmon Aquaculture industry. With activities such as barbeques, architectural walking tours, boat rides, craft sales, musical entertainment, celebrity guests, kayak paddling and races for children there is something to be enjoyed by everyone.
For an experience never to be forgotten visit the Old Sow Whirlpool! It is situated in Western Passage between Deer Island, New Brunswick (Canada) and Moose Island, Maine (USA). Considered the largest whirlpool in the Western Hemisphere and the second largest in the world, this phenomenon has fascinated and captured the attention of many worldwide. With its variety of whirlpools, boiling fountains and the vast array marine life that reside within it, the Old Sow has prompted the creation of an Old Sow Survivors club, with the only criteria being that one has survived it.
The Machias Bay area provides an opportunity to experience a vacation like you’ve never vacationed before. Whether your wish is to discover the puffins, tour the area, relax on one of the quiet beaches or challenge the "Old Sow." the Machias Bay area is waiting to fulfill your desires.
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