We spent two nights at 5 Lakes Lodge in late August, 2004. Next year we plan to return for a week, that is if we can get a reservation because once the secret is out this place is going to be booked!
5 Lakes Lodge has everything a deluxe hotel has to offer and more, far more. As far as amenities are concerned, the innkeepers, Rick and Debbie, provide their guests with an experience to rival that of any Four Seasons or Ritz Carlton hotel. That's not to say the atmosphere is formal. It's not. Nonetheless, the guests' comfort and privacy have been given top priority. The mattresses are so comfortable that you won't want to get up in the morning, although the excellent breakfasts do motivate. I've been in Jacuzzis before, but the ones at 5 Lakes Lodge simply have to be experienced to be believed, and every guest room has one! Some of the other features of the beautifully decorated guest rooms are gorgeous king-sized beds, huge bathrooms with custom-made granite vanities, cable TV and small refrigerators. Every need has been anticipated.
The lodge building itself is incredibly beautiful. Just about everything is made of wood with the notable exception of granite windowsills - an exquisite touch. The outside walls are constructed of enormous spruce logs, and there is a huge hearth made of locally collected granite river rocks. I have never seen anything like it anywhere. Make sure you check out the online 360 degree tour of the lodge, but nothing can take the place of seeing it with your own eyes.
Luxury notwithstanding, what makes 5 Lakes Lodge truly unforgettable is its location. The breathtaking beauty of Mt Katahdin, seen across the lake. can be viewed from every bedroom window. Moreover, this uncrowded wilderness region is a sportsman's paradise, offering all manner of fun, including fishing. kayaking, snow mobiling, hiking, cross country skiing, sailing, water skiing, swimming (for the stalwart) and more. As natives of the Maine North Woods, Rick and Debbie are exceptionally knowledgable and helpful. They are more than willing to share with their guests the joy they experience in living there.
Unfortunately, this time our stay was short. We enjoyed a beautiful hike and spent some time fishing from the beach right in front of the lodge. We saw an eagle flying overhead and heard the loons calling morning and evening. Had we known how amazing 5 Lakes Lodge is we would have budgeted our vacation time differently. Next summer won't come too soon.
Date: 9/10/2004
