A splendid solitude envelops Wiscasset when the flurries fly. Gone is the summertime traffic that turns Route 1 into a parking lot — replaced by the peace of mind that one nearly has this Sheepscot River settlement to oneself. At the town’s entrance, a sign reads “The Prettiest Little Village in Maine,” and it just might be true, especially in winter. Wiscasset may lose some of its historic attractions in the offseason but none of its appeal, with some inspired choices for those willing to venture north to this coastal gem.

STAY