We all know that Maine is a magical place. It’s easy to experience this side of the state during a quick trip outside at the right time of day – think foggy mornings and purple sunsets. But, there are some corners of the state that offer an extra-special dose of whimsy. You’ll find one of them on this island just off-the-beaten path in southern Maine.

This wonderful fairy village is hiding out on Mackworth Island which, strangely, isn’t an island at all. It’s actually a section of land that can be reached by driving on a small causeway near the Presumpscot River off of US 1.
daveynin / Flickr
In the summertime, this area can get pretty busy. If you see cars backed up onto the causeway you’ll know that parking will be hard to find. In that case, you’ll want to have a backup plan and come back another day.
The first step to meeting the fairies is entering through the gatehouse.
catchesthelight / Flickr
Mackworth is about 100 acres and features a 1.25-mile trail that goes around the entirety.
nhoulihan / Flickr
It might take about an hour to walk while enjoying the sights, but two hours is usually best if you want to spend some time helping the fairies build their homes.
On the inside of the island, you’ll find mostly forest.
daveynin / Flickr
This is where the fairies make their home! The island is the work of Governor Percival Proctor Baxter, who in1946, donated Mackworth Island to the State of Maine to be used for state public purposes and "as a sanctuary for wild beasts and birds."
The fairy homes can be found about 10 minutes down the trail from the parking lot on the north side.
samm4mrox / Flickr
Remember to be loving to this area. As the written reminder says: "The village provides fairies with cottages during their visits to the island. We invite you to visit the village and admire the creativity of the builders. If you are so inclined, you may use your own imagination to expand the village or provide needed maintenance to the existing cottages. Thank you for treating the island with care and respect. This helps to keep the fairies coming back!"

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Most of the fairy homes are close to the ground. A good indication that you’ve arrived is when you see children excitedly crouching and scurrying to help the fairies make their homes!
bywaters / Flickr
They come in all shapes and sizes and are made of a variety of materials.
lagasa / Flickr
The only rule is that they must be constructed of natural materials. Anything from feathers to seashells, bark to pine cones are fair game.
Remember that fairies love nice, natural homes but they also love curb appeal.
kanner / Flickr
So, you might consider a nice walkway or front porch.
Michelle Starin
The Fairy Village at Mackworth Island gives everyone an opportunity for play. Watching people of all ages hunt for the perfect materials reminds us that we are all creative and curious – it just takes a little bit of opportunity to bring it out.
Michelle Starin

For directions to Mackworth Island from your own location, click here.

You know what else is absolutely magical? Ice cream! And at this shop in Wells you’ll find the most massive cones you can imagine.

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