The Cleftstone Inn, also known as Cleftstone Manor, is a Victorian bed and breakfast on Eden Street, a short distance from the village center and the bay. Like many of the guest houses along this stretch, it occupies a large shingle-style house from the Gilded Age summer colony, with a front porch, a lawn and individually decorated rooms. Staying in a house like this is a different experience from a hotel: a host to greet you, a shared breakfast, antiques and period details, and a quieter, more personal atmosphere. Rooms vary in size and style, and some have fireplaces, private porches or soaking tubs, which makes the inn popular with couples and anniversary trips. The grounds and sitting rooms provide places to relax after a day on the trails, and the neighborhood is leafy and residential, a contrast to the busy village.
What to expect
Breakfast is usually a highlight, often a multi-course meal with local ingredients such as blueberries, eggs and baked goods, served at a set time in the dining room or on the porch. Because a bed and breakfast has fewer rooms than a hotel, bookings can fill quickly, and many inns require minimum stays on weekends and holidays.
Policies on children, pets and cancellation vary by property, and some inns are adults-oriented, so check the details. Ask whether rooms are on upper floors without an elevator, and request a quiet room if you are a light sleeper.
Location and getting around
Eden Street is within a walk of about fifteen to twenty minutes from the village center, and the Island Explorer stops nearby in season. The inn is also a few minutes by car from the Hulls Cove entrance to the park and Cadillac Mountain. Parking is typically on site and free. Evenings are peaceful, and the hosts can often recommend restaurants, hikes and tour operators and help with reservations, which is one of the advantages of staying in a small inn.
Who it suits
Couples, solo travelers and anyone who enjoys historic houses and a home-cooked breakfast, and visitors who prefer a quiet base to a busy resort. It is less suited to families with young children who need a pool and room service, or to travelers who want an on-site restaurant. Book early for summer and October, check the season, since many inns close in winter, and read the house rules before you arrive.
Pair a stay with an early morning trolley tour or a sunset sail, and ask the hosts about their favorite walking routes, quiet beaches and places for a casual lobster dinner away from the crowds.
Why stay here
- ✓Victorian house with period details
- ✓Full breakfast
- ✓Front porch and lawn
- ✓Individually decorated rooms
- ✓Rooms with fireplaces or soaking tubs in some cases
- ✓Free on-site parking
- ✓Hosts who share local tips
- ✓Short ride to the village and park entrance
Good questions
What kind of lodging is Cleftstone Inn?+
A Victorian bed and breakfast on Eden Street, with individually decorated rooms and a hosted breakfast.
Can I walk to downtown?+
It is a walk of roughly fifteen to twenty minutes, or a short ride by shuttle or car.
Is breakfast included?+
Breakfast is typically part of the stay at a bed and breakfast, but confirm what your rate includes.