Meadowmere Resort

"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe?Walking into The Meadowmere, the sheer number of warm 'hellos' and 'welcomes' is dizzying. By the time you've checked in, you realize you've told the associate handing you a key all about your kids, and you know a little about hers, too. And by the time you're halfway to your room, you start to realize why regulars (and in particular, families) come back here year after year. What's the backstory?An independent property owned and run by the Cavaretta Family since 1983, The Meadowmere is a longtime fixture in the Ogunquit community. The fanciest inn around, it's not. But on vacation, that can be an attribute. It's staff is friendly as can be, and its handsome and well-kept rooms, plethora of amenities (from the spa to its indoor/outdoor pools) have made it an annual favorite of families visiting the area. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?Resort rooms (those located in the West Meadow, East Meadow, and South Meadow and Main sections) are hotel-style with interior hallways and balconies/patios. They're available year round, and are neatly appointed with country wooden furniture pieces, cotton bedding, velvet bedspreads, wingback chairs, wrought iron lighting fixtures, and walls hung with framed original photography. Meanwhile, rooms in the Country Squire section are motel style and are available May through October, with shared patios. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?Wi-Fi is included in resort room fees and quality is good, but is not included in the Country Squire rooms. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?The West Meadow Pub serves continental breakfast (included in the stay for all guests at the resort), and offers lunch, and dinner, plus drinks and bar snacks later in the day, to the public. It centers around a field stone fireplace and offers a pretty outdoor deck in warm weather. And the service?Service is exceptionally friendly and helpful: staff and servers make thoughtful conversation with guests, are happy to grab you more towels for the pool, or offer suggestions for the best stores and eateries around Ogunquit. The concierge knows how to direct guests to the best local lighthouses or beaches for surfing, give tips on visiting craft breweries, and get tickets to local playhouse productions and museums. Meanwhile, the entire property is kept noticeably tidy and clean. What type of travelers will you find here?In summer high season, families with young (toddlers to school age) kids are the bulk of The Meadowmere's business. They've come from the area, but also Canada and Europe, and they gather around the pools, the game room, the jacuzzi or on-site movie theater. Some even take to grilling dinners together. It should be said that watching the gaggles of tykes make instant friends with their poolmates is one of the most joyful unofficial activities offered here. In fall, the families are largely replaced by more couples, here to stay in the resort area and take advantage of the spa treatments, Roman baths, and massages. What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in?It's a 4-to-5-minute walk from downtown Ogunquit's gifts shops, art galleries, restaurants, so the Meadowmere blends in with those commercial stretches. It also fits nicely into the town's community, having been a part of it for going on four decades now. Ogunquit has a legendary art and theater scene, which The Meadowmere supports by making sure guests are aware of the productions and exhibits happening around town, partnering with the arts institutions, and helping guests get tickets. And while there are more formal places to stay in town, the sense of welcome and community at The Meadowmere as well as its proximity to everything are tough to pass up. Is there anything you'd change?The abbreviated menu at West Meadows Pub may be fine for lunch or midday snacks, but at dinner we could have used a few more entree options. Any other hotel features worth noting?The resort is a ten-minute walk from the beach, so guests can essentially just walk out their front door and be on the beach without having to re-park their car. Bottom line: Worth it?Yes—for total convenience, reasonable prices, and the sense of warm hospitality."