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With approximately 89% of its land covered in forest, Maine has the highest percentage of forested area of any US state. Scattered across this vast, sparsely populated landscape are some of the quietest and most laid-back towns in the country. While places like Boothbay Harbor and Isle au Haut see more visitors in the summer, many remain remarkably peaceful throughout the year. Whether you are hiking a stretch of the Appalachian Trail, kayaking through Penobscot Bay, or sampling smoked mussels from a local seafood market, these seven quiet towns offer a rare kind of quiet that fosters a deep connection to nature and a slower way of life.

Isle au Haut

Accessible only by boat, Isle au Haut is home to less than 100 residents year-round, the majority of which work in the fishing industry. About half of the island is part of Acadia National Park, which offers about 18 miles of trails that wind through wooded uplands, rocky shorelines, bogs, marshes, and a freshwater lake. Travelers can also visit Isle au Haut Light, a historic Victorian lighthouse dating back to 1907 that continues to serve as a point of navigation for boats. Although there are not a lot of shops on the island, travelers seeking a souvenir can stop by Shore Shop Gifts, which sells island memorabilia, artisan-made goods, and other unique gifts.

Lubec

Lubec, the easternmost town in the country, is home to just 320 residents and has 97 miles of shoreline. There are numerous parks nearby to explore, with Quoddy Head State Park being one to add to your itinerary. This 541-acre state park lies on the country鈥檚 easternmost peninsula and features a historic 19th-century lighthouse, five miles of hiking trails, and tranquil picnicking areas. Because of its remote coastal location, Lubec is also the perfect place to go whale watching, with travelers able to explore the waters with a charter like Downeast Charter Boat Tours. In addition to whale watching, passengers on the charter will have the chance to spot porpoises, seals, and eagles. For a memorable night in Lubec, consider staying at one of its cozy inns. The Eastern Beacon Inn, a five-room bed and breakfast, provides an authentic Lubec experience, offering ocean views from the rooms.

Monson

Monson, in central Maine, is a relaxed town on the Appalachian Trail known for its close-knit art community and galleries. The Monson Arts Gallery is the perfect starting point for those eager to explore the town's art scene. With three to four shows each year, it showcases works by local artists, ranging from high school students to renowned professionals like Alan Bray and Berenice Abbott. Another must-visit is Monson Pottery. In addition to showcasing ceramic pieces by artist Jemma Gascoine, it offers visitors the opportunity to create their own pottery during one of its hands-on workshop sessions. In the warmer months, Monson becomes the perfect hiking destination. Travelers interested in hiking a part of the Appalachian Trail can start their journey at the Monson Appalachian Trail Visitor Center, open in the summer, which will guide them through the different trails that they can take.

Stonington

Stonington, a coastal town in central Maine, is known as the gateway to the Merchant鈥檚 Row archipelago, one of the country鈥檚 largest groupings of islands. Visitors can explore these islands through charters or tours, with Deer Isle Ocean Tours, a local operator for over 30 years, offering sunset cruises, island picnics, and coastal wildlife tours, among other experiences for those eager to explore the waters. Stonington is also situated near eight lighthouses, which visitors can explore along the Deer Isle Lighthouse Trail. This self-guided trail includes lighthouses like Pumpkin Island Light, Mark Island Light, and Eagle Island Light. Make sure to stop by one of Stonington鈥檚 fresh seafood markets before leaving town. Coldwater Seafood Market is a town favorite, selling seafood products like smoked mussels, fresh crabmeat, and lobster.

Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor lies at the end of a peninsula in the Gulf of Maine. Although it becomes more popular in the summer months, it is a relatively quiet town the rest of the year with a population that hovers around 1,000 residents. It is a perfect destination for a weekend of hiking, home to the Boothbay Region Land Trust, a network of free public nature reserves. This land trust, beginning at Oak Point Farm, features 35 miles of wooded and coastal trails, passing by rocky shores, rugged islands, estuaries, meadows, and lush woods. The community may be small, but it still has a lively arts scene. Make sure to check out the calendar for the Opera House at Boothbay Harbor, a historic theater that dates back to 1894. In addition to opera performances, the theater hosts live music and other performances throughout the year. Near the harbor, there is also a charming shopping district to explore, home to local shops like Enchantments, a gift shop, and Boothbay Harbor Artisans, a local craft store.

Castine

Castine is a historic seaside town whose earliest European settlements date back to the 17th century. This quiet town, home to a population of just under 1,000, continues to preserve its maritime traditions and history through places like the Wilson Museum, which was established over a century ago to showcase the region鈥檚 natural and archeological history. Travelers can also explore Penobscot Bay and surrounding islands by renting a kayak through an agency like Castine Kayak Adventures, which offers both self-guided rentals and group tours. During both the chilly winter nights and long summer days, it is not uncommon to find residents in one of Castine鈥檚 cozy pubs or bars, such as Danny Murphy's Pub, an eclectic pub with brick walls and traditional drinks.

Bethel

Bethel is a small mountain village in western Maine with outdoor recreational activities year-round. In the winter, Sunday River, a nearby ski resort, attracts Nordic skiers, snowshoers, and ice climbers. Even if you are new to skiing, you can sign up for a class with the resort鈥檚 SnowSports School. The summer, meanwhile, promises plenty of hiking. The Mahoosuc Land Trust is one of the best places to hit the trails, home to farms, forests, mountains, rivers, and waterfalls. Many of the artists in Bethel are inspired by the area鈥檚 beauty. Visitors can check out some of this art, which represents the area and the state, at Elements Art Gallery, which showcases artwork and crafts made by local artisans.

Final Thoughts

It becomes increasingly more difficult to disconnect from the stressors of life, especially with so much technology at our fingertips. If you find yourself in need of some time to recharge and recuperate, these seven towns are a great starting point. Not only do they offer some of the state鈥檚 most incredible natural beauty, but they are also home to tight-knit communities that promote local art and live performances, giving you the chance to unwind the way that best fits your interests.