Discover relaxed Newcastle
Nestled against the western bank of the Damariscotta River, and just a 45-minute drive from Maine's capital of Augusta, Newcastle offers a relaxed setting for getaways in New England's vacation state. Life here rolls at a gentle pace, with meandering hikes through the 500-acre Dodge Point Preserve and lazy lunches at family-owned seafood shacks firmly on the agenda. Looking for the perfect vacation home? Whether traveling with family, friends, or both, you'll find Newcastle vacation rentals fit the bill. With many homes offering lake views, taking full advantage of your blissful surroundings should prove no problem at all.
Endless attractions near Newcastle
Just a short drive from Newcastle vacation rentals, you'll find an array of attractions to keep the whole family entertained. You might pay a visit to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, a 270-acre site that counts woodland trails and spectacular ornamental gardens among its highlights. Nearby, the Boothbay Railway Village, with its vintage automobile museum and antique steam train, is an easy way to squeeze in a little culture. Before heading back to your rental, be sure to swing by Boothbay Harbor where you'll find idyllic views of rocky coves and island lighthouses provide a memorable backdrop for a lobster dinner.
Make a splash in Newcastle
Adventure on the water is part of the package here, and you'll likely catch sight of many kayakers exploring the area's waterways and lakes. If you want to join them, you'll find rentals easy to come by from May through October, although if you'd prefer a local to lead the way, tours set off from Muscongus Harbor. Young paddlers are welcome, and the chance to see eagles and porpoises means they'll have plenty of fuel for their postcards home. Traveling without kids? Add a dash of romance to your stay by savoring local oysters and sipping cocktails on a Damariscotta River cruise.
Unique landscapes near Newcastle
Beautiful natural landscapes can be found around every corner, but there are some particularly interesting spots to look out for. On the eastern side of the Damariscotta River, the remnants of the toil of Native Americans can be seen at the Whaleback Shell Midden State Historic Site, while the nearby Damariscotta Lake is a popular spot for bird watching and wildlife photography. Perhaps most surprising to travelers is the chance to visit a desert. The Desert of Maine, around 50 minutes' drive from Newcastle, is not really a desert but its otherworldly landscape sure presents a surprise amid the otherwise strictly coastal surroundings.
Traveling to and around Newcastle
The nearest airport is in Augusta, ME (AUG-Augusta State), located 23.2 mi (37.3 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could book a flight to Rockland, ME (RKD-Knox County Regional), which is 22.1 mi (35.6 km) away.