Coastline & History Tour with At Your Service Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; primarily a seated tour with short stops for photos
Overview
Discover Bar Harbor’s rugged pink granite coastlines, historic Victorian mansions, and the unique fjord of Somes Sound on a dynamic 3-hour tour with At Your Service Tours. Perfect for those who want a rich blend of nature and history in one captivating trip.
3 Hour: Coastlines, Fjord &Victorian Mansions
Mount Desert Island outside of Acadia National Park
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 3-hour tour through Bar Harbor's historic district and stunning Acadia National Park. Experience breathtaking views of pink granite coastlines, lush pine forests, and charming summer mansions. Discover the rich history of Somesville and enjoy the vibrant fall foliage along Eagle Lake Road, making unforgettable memories.
Duration
3 Hour Tour
About
Start your island tour by driving through the historic district of Bar Harbor extending from Eden Street to Billings Avenue, it encompasses a well-preserved concentration of summer “cottages” built during Bar Harbor’s heyday as a resort for the wealthy in the early 20th century. The district was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
Drive into Acadia and see the famous Park Loop Road. See Sand Beach, Thunder Hole and Otter Cliffs. See the pink granite coastline and the dense pine forests.
We will then turn out of the park to explore Peabody Drive to see the mansions of the “Summer People” and stop at breathtaking harbors. See Seal Harbor Beach and the beautiful yachts and picnic boats moored there. Spend time in the summer colonies of Seal and Northeast Harbor, including the Asticou Gardens and a drive up Somes Sound (the only fjord of the eastern seaboard).
We then head over to historic Somesville, the oldest community on the island. The village was established by Abraham Somes who was the first European settler on the island. Stop and take a picture on the famous bridge built by his ancestors in his honor.
We then head back to Bar Harbor through the center of the island to see the spectacular fall foliage on Eagle Lake Road.
Adventure Tips
Dress for Variable Coastal Weather
Layers are essential as temperatures can shift quickly along the coastline, especially near the water.
Bring a Camera with Zoom
The tour offers distant views of wildlife and architectural details best captured with a zoom lens.
Pack Snacks and Water
Though the tour includes scenic stops, having water and a light snack keeps energy up for the entire 3 hours.
Plan Fall Visits Early
Peak foliage draws crowds; book and arrive early in autumn to avoid parking delays on Eagle Lake Road.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer
- Harbor seals
History
Somesville, founded in 1761 by Abraham Somes, is the oldest settlement on Mount Desert Island and reflects early European colonization of the area.
Conservation
Acadia National Park and local communities actively promote Leave No Trace principles to protect fragile coastal and forest ecosystems, especially during high visitor seasons.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bangor, Maine
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windbreaker or Waterproof Jacket
Protects against coastal breeze and spring showers during the tour.
spring specific
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Needed for brief walks and photo stops along uneven terrain.
Camera with Zoom Lens
Captures detailed shots of wildlife, coastlines, and historic mansions.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the warm summer months of the tour.
summer specific