About the Bethel Area
Situated in the heart of the Western Maine mountains, Bethel is a quintessential New England village. Known for its picturesque setting, Bethel is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and the gorgeous Androscoggin River. It’s near the border of New Hampshire, and around 50 miles from Canada as the crow flies. You’ll find trails upon trails in this bucolic setting, groomed for just about anything you can think of: walking, hiking, biking, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and more.
Visitors are drawn to Bethel for its charming village center, lined with historic buildings, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. Think Hallmark movie! When we’re in Bethel, we can’t seem to stop saying “It is sooo beautiful here.” It’s a laid-back place, where fleece and boots are just fine, just about anywhere (even fancy restaurants). In short, it’s the perfect place to retreat and recharge.
Outdoorsy folks flock to Bethel for its endless recreational opportunities. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and paddling in the summer, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this outdoor paradise.
As the backdrop to your adventure, you’ll see some wonderful architecture ranging from classic New England style barns and homes, Victorian mansions, and modern builds designed by some of Maine’s top architects.
Whether you're exploring the town's museums, attending a local festival, or simply taking in the stunning mountain views, Bethel offers a wonderful year-round escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Don’t just take our word for it though…
From Trip Savvy, Best New England Ski Town
From Trip Savvy, Best Fall Foliage in Maine
From Downeast Magazine, Best Place for Cross Country Skiing in Maine
From Downeast Magazine, Bethel is Experiencing a Restaurant Renaissance
From The Boston Globe, Bethel, Maine’s Idyllic Skiing and Snowshoeing Village
For the design-minded, several features in Maine Home + Design Magazine about Bethel: