Deer Isle has a reputation for being "real Maine," a large island (actually two islands) in Penobscot Bay with several small villages, year-round and seasonal residences, and a traditional Maine ambiance. Stonington, the island's southernmost town, is iconic for being scenic and unspoiled.

Little Deer Isle

Head south from Bucksport or Blue Hill toward Brooksville, eventually following ME Route 15 to the Deer Isle Bridge spanning Eggemoggin Reach, taking you to Little Deer Isle.

Just after you cross the graceful humpback bridge over Eggemoggin Reach onto Little Deer Isler, you'll see a little Chamber of Commerce information office, open in summer.

Shortly after passing the booth, you'll enter the village of Deer Isle.

(Big) Deer Isle

Turning east, ME 15 leads across a causeway to Scott's Landing on (big) Deer Isle. Another ten miles (16 km) south along ME 15 is Stonington, still truly a fishing village, summer resort, and former granite-quarrying town. More...

Beyond Stonington is Isle au Haut, part of Acadia National Park. A mail boat (tel 207-367-2468) will take you from Stonington over to Isle au Haut in less than an hour, and you can hike along the park trails—with no crowds in sight.

—by Tom Brosnahan

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