15 Best Hotels in Portland, Maine for Historic Mansions, Chic Boutiques, and Plenty of Sea Views

A 10-minute boat ride from Portland, and you might as well be in another country. And in some respects, you are: You’re on a 16-acre, eco-spectacular glampground built on a private island so stunning, it makes almost all other glamping look and feel like normal camping. You’ve also, it turns out, gone back in time. There are countless historic military forts dotting the islands of Casco Bay, but Fort Scammel on House Island is the only one to have ever seen combat. It was built of granite in 1808 and then upgraded significantly during the Civil War—an enormously impressive site filled with underground tunnels and stunning architecture. Fast forward to 2014, and you have the creation of eco-glampround Fortland. Seven yurts or cabins—sleeping from between two to four—decorated in Scandi-inspired patterned rugs, quilts, pillows, and footrests. That’s all set against hardwood flooring, daybed trundles, queen or king beds, some with a private deck. There are private yards and so, so many views to be had—of the sunrise over the harbor, lighthouses, the beach, and the city’s skyline. All bedding and towels are included in your stay.