Last Updated on December 27, 2024
Do you like the extra space of vacation rentals, but not all the extra fees? Are you looking for the upscale amenities and security of a luxury hotel with the privacy and comforts of home?
The Docent’s Collection in Portland, Maine specializes in curated stays for discerning travelers. These sophisticated loft apartments are booked just like a hotel with all the benefits of a rental home.
Located within the historic Old Port blocks from the water, this hotel alternative provides the perfect home base for exploring Portland, Maine’s popular coastal city.
Luxury Lofts in the Old Port
There are 26 lofts in the collection, including studios, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, each with a different floor plan. When booking online, you can view the unique characteristics of each, and select the loft you want to book based on your preferences.
For example, choose options like “washer and dryer” or “view of the Old Port,” along with desired number of bedrooms, and even location in the building. Then the units which match the criteria will pop up, with plenty of photos. What a great booking tool!
Wood floors, natural fibers and white walls gave my one bedroom loft a sleek, sophisticated feel. Each unit has design elements inspired by Portland’s historic architecture and coastal setting. Pieces from over 15 artists with strong ties to Maine were selected for the loft interiors.
From throw pillows on the sofa to accent lamps on thoughtfully placed side tables, the furnishings give an upscale, luxury feel to the loft.
Starter packs of locally roasted coffee, a package of Coastal Popcorn, and olive oil from a nearby shop welcome guests with Maine hospitality. I especially loved browsing the beautiful selection of coffee table photography and history books about Maine. A copy of “Good Night Portland, Maine,” is a special touch for those traveling with kids.
You’ll find umbrellas in the closet and an electric kettle to brew a cup of complimentary Bar Harbor tea. There are plenty of extra towels and fluffy robes. These thoughtful details made us feel like welcome guests in someone’s home.
Access to Bay Club Fitness, a five-minute walk away, is included with your stay.
High Tech in the Historic Harbor
Unlike traditional hotels, there’s no lobby at the Docent’s Collection. That doesn’t mean there’s no service, however. I arrived early, and a staff member met me to store my luggage. On one rainy morning, a rack of umbrellas magically appeared by the hotel’s front door.
Everything you need is at the tip of your fingertips. A few days before my stay, I received a text with guided instructions for check-in. With a simple tap, I downloaded an app to store my room key, and personalized digital guide to the city.
Guests can decide how much interaction they want with the hospitality team. Choose not to be disturbed, or chat with the “on-call” concierge via text. I loved getting personal restaurant recommendations on demand.
“We want something close by for lunch. I’m a vegetarian, but my husband eats meat,” I texted shortly after we arrived. I got a quick, helpful reply from the concierge who even shared her favorite dish at each recommended restaurant. We used the personal concierge service several times during our stay.
A Chef’s Kitchen
Each unit is equipped with a full kitchen with high-end smart appliances. A complete set of good knives, cookware, and serving dishes mean you could really prepare a full meal. The Cuisinart Coffee maker did just about everything except roast the beans.
Simple things like comfortable dining chairs and an elegant fruit bowl made our loft feel more like our own sophisticated home than a cheap, short-term rental. I could have easily settled in for a longer stay, cooking up some fresh Dover sole or Maine lobster and chilling a bottle of bubbly in the marble wine bucket.
Exploring the Old Port
I loved being nearby the historic wharfs and shops of the Old Port. We explored cobblestone streets filled with art galleries, small cafes and upscales boutiques. For a unique shopping experience, visit HeritageSeaweed. This retail shop with ocean-based food and gift items will give you a whole new appreciation for seaweed.
There are plenty of restaurants within easy walking distance. Try Duckfat for grilled sandwiches, scratch-made soups, and the Belgian-style frites for which this restaurant is known.
CellardoorWinery’s tasting room is right next door, making it convenient to stop in for a tasting flight or pick up a bottle of made-in-Maine wine to take home. We chose a red blend and picked up some cheese and crackers to enjoy in our loft. A fully equipped kitchen was a nice bonus – no need to hunt for a corkscrew or drink out of plastic glasses.
To explore Portland’s beaches and famous lighthouses, it’s easy to catch an Uber for the 15–20-minute ride. Getting out on the water is easy too. The CascoBayLines ferry offers multiple tours a day, and the dock is only a five-minute walk from the Docent’s Collection.
Whether you’re visiting Portland for a quick work trip, or planning a relaxing family vacation, why settle for a traditional hotel? The Docent’s Collection offers the space, style, and service that will make your Maine trip memorable.
