So, for $80 a night you could be in a Super 8 in Bangor or an EconoLodge in Augusta.....or you could have your own cottage over-looking the Moose River in Rockwood Maine in the heart of moose country and a minute or so from Moosehead Lake!

Our choice this year and for many years past is Maynard's, no contest. So what to expect? A clean cottage with basic amenities. Don't expect designer furniture and hot tubs, Sealy mattresses and big screen TV's, ours was aboiut 20 inches or so, but the beds are comfortable, and the local geese won't keep you up!

Bring your dog(s), they'll love it but don't let them chase Billy Maynard's chickens that produce the eggs with the most orange yokes you'll ever see at breakfast!

If you have a boat, then there are docks, no extra charge and your boat will be out of the wind and a 15 minute ride at headway only speed down the Moose River to the Lake. Once at the lake, you're only minutes from the spectacular view of Mount Kineo that is best enjoyed from a boat.

Meals in the dining room are excellent. No bar but you can bring whatever you like. Usually there are 2 entree choices each night. We went Thursday and had the roast pork dinner and scallops, both superb with generous toppings and homemade desserts. You're looking at less then $50 for dinner including tip for 2 people. Maynard's also offers a meal plan if you want to do all your meals there. Lunch is a bag lunch deal.

So what do you do? Take a ride in you car around the lake, about 140 miles. You'll see moose, deer, fox, eagles and maybe another car or truck every 30 miles or so.

So if you want "fancy", don't book at Maynard's but if you want cozy, clean with accomodating owners at a great spot with terrific food, give this place a try. My wife and I spent our honeymoon here, not our first visit at that time but a wonderful spot to honor the big event!