Rockwood
The Birches Resort
What it is: A New England resort on the western shoreline of Moosehead Lake with 15 rustic waterfront cabins, 6 private-home rentals, Kozy Kabins, wilderness yurts, and rooms in the main lodge and at the Riverview.
The rooms: Rustic cabins are available in one-, two-, and four-bedroom floor plans. Most have stoves and refrigerators, as well as areas for outdoor cooking. The private rental homes each have their own floor plan and personality, the largest of which can sleep at least ten people comfortably. Three of the four bedrooms available in the main lodge can sleep at least three people, with an added cot, and have restaurant, family bar, and resort amenities within easy access. The Riverview offers three separate suites with fully equipped kitchens, dining and living rooms, and separate bedrooms and bathrooms. They each include TV/VCRs, cable, stereo systems, outdoor furniture, a guest canoe, and an on-site hot tub. Wilderness yurts are outfitted with a wood stove, gas lights, an outdoor burner, bunk beds, a table, and benches. Or sleep in a Kozy Kabin for a stay reminiscent of a summer-camp cabin.
Amenities: The resort offers meal plans and maid service, most offering three meals a day. There's also a large hot tub, dry sauna, and a small fitness center with free weights, weight machines, a stationary bike, and an elliptical machine.
Activities: In the warmer months, there are moose cruises, whitewater rafting, guided kayak or mountain-bike eco-tours, plane rides, Jeep tours, hiking, and nature watching. You can also take a guided canoe or mountain-bike trip. Guests can rent boats to explore Moosehead Lake or try their luck at fishing. In the winter, try snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing.
Details: Route 66 and the Moosehead Trail, from $226 per night for a Rustic cabin, from $300 for a two-bedroom home rental, from $242 for a two-bedroom suite, from $35 per person per night for a Wilderness yurt, and from $141 for a three-person Kozy Kabin.
