Coastal Acadia: tonic for the soul by Zoë Power

Before 2013 draws to a close, I wanted to share the last instalment of my wonderful USA trip with you. Back in October, I was very fortunate to go on a special trip for my 40th birthday. I've already blogged about

This post takes you on a tour of some coastal highlights of the absolutely stunning Acadia National Park in Maine, to complement those gorgeous fall leaves.

First up, we have Sand Beach. One of our first stops on the Park Loop Road and very accessible. We were so lucky to have a day of glorious sunshine on our last day.

One of the lovely things about Acadia National Park is that there are so many places to stop, so you can literally pull over and jump out your car whenever you want (which for us, was very often!). Below are some beautiful view points looking back over to Sand Beach.

Another beauty spot was Monument Cove. This wasn't so well sign-posted, but I'm so glad we found it. Just so many different vantage points to explore and some fabulous rocks. I could sit and watch the waves crashing for hours, listening to the seabirds. So peaceful.....

The coastline was fascinating - I loved all the rock formations - I named the one below "Crocodile Rock" - can you see it? We really enjoyed soaking up that sunshine too.

And last, but not least, we have Boulder Beach. I adore those giant pebbles! We had this place completely to ourselves and it was pure magic, just sitting in the sunshine listening to the waves. Ahhhh take me back!