A glorious morning at Morning Glory

Four centuries of architecture are represented in the Morning Glory Inn, in York, but you wouldn’t know it. Enter the spacious cape with additions, and the sense is simply one of calmness, quietude, and spaciousness. At its core is a 17th-century cape barged over from the Isle of Shoals. Each century since has seen additions and alterations, but owners Bonnie and Bill Alstrom (previously of Tanglewood B&B, also in York), have sewn it together seamlessly (although that took a full year of renovations and the foresight to see the possibilities). The result is one of the most comfortable B&Bs I’ve experienced.

The decor is inviting, carefully chosen but with an emphasis on comfort over fuss. Within only three spacious guest rooms and expansive common rooms—a loft library, large living room with fireplace, a post-and-beam great room with woodstove—there’s more than enough space for guests to spread out. That is, if they want to leave their rooms.

Each of the three (yes, only there), air-conditioned guest rooms  has a sitting area with TV/DVD, mini fridge, Wifi, as well as a private exit to private patio area. And the gardens? Worthy of any garden tour.

Few rules here and no excessive hovering, although Bonnie and Bill are available at the touch of a buzzer. Guests recevie keys to both the front door and their room, so they can come and go as they please. And the hot breakfast—fruit, baked goods, hot entree—is served buffet style, so you can come and go as you please, dine inside or out or even on your private patio.

Although hidden on a back road, Morning Glory is convienent to all of both York’s and Kittery’s attractions. Its location provides convenience as well as seclusion and quiet. You can hear the birds sing, the rain pitter patter, the wind whoosh, and that’s about it. Truly, it’s a magical and healing place. Wish I were there right now.

Tags: B&B in southern Maine, Maine inns, Maine travel, Morning Glory Inn, York Maine