$150–250

In Freeport, just steps away from L. L. Bean, Brewster House Bed & Breakfast (180 Main St., Freeport, 207/865-4121, www.brewsterhouse.com, $150–190) is replete with Oriental carpets, antiques, and paintings of seascapes. Owners Lester and Nikki Evans cook up a full breakfast every morning. (Note to any who aren’t at their most social or chipper in the morning: It’s served at individual tables, so you can slurp your coffee and wake up in peace.)

The Percy Inn (15 Pine St., Portland, 207/871-7638, www.percyinn.com, $130–210) takes a renovated 1830s Federal-style brick house as its setting, and makes the ten suites cozy with queen beds, private baths, and wet bars. Snuggle up with a book in the library near the fireplace or a hot chocolate in the 3rd-floor common room, known as Poet’s Corner.

Designed to evoke a Spanish patio, The Eastland Park Hotel (157 High St., Portland, 207/775-5411, www.eastlandparkhotel.com, $190–210) is a chic enough spot to lay your head. The hotel’s rooftop lounge is a swanky hangout, and rooms are stocked with plush bathrobes, hair dryers, free wireless Internet, and ironing boards. Meanwhile, poster beds, velvet chairs, and leather couches keep things cozy.

Over $250

Old Port’s grandest stay is the sunny Portland Harbor Hotel (468 Fore St., Portland, 207/775-9090, www.portland harborhotel.com, $260–320). Complete with views of the city and bay, soaking tubs, bathroom sound systems, down pillows, and luxury linens, the rooms leave little to be desired. There’s also a garden-cum-restaurant for lunch and dinner and a sleek fitness center. Freeport’s Harraseeket Inn (162 Main St., Freeport, 207/865-9377, $185–295) rolls out the luxury wagon in its 84 rooms, with whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and an indoor pool. It’s also easy walking distance (just a few blocks) to the most popular outlets.

© Michael Blanding and Alexandra Hall from Moon New England, 2nd Edition