Cape Ann, nature and a breath of sea air north of Boston

First of all, you don't have to go far from downtown Boston to reach this more relaxing place. The Cape Ann and its charming villages are just 40 kilometres from the metropolis. After passing through Salem (famous for its witches) you can start to enjoy the villages and this wild coastline.

Your first stop is Marblehead. This famous marina is full of charm and is well worth a visit. Self-proclaimed the sailing capital of the world, the village is also home to a number of listed mansions and manor houses, cottages and golf courses, making it a rather elitist place, but the charm is still there. There are plenty of shops in the town centre.

Then head for Manchester-by-the-Sea (immortalised in a famous 2016 film of the same name). Nearby, don't miss the pretty Singing Beach.

Continuing on, you pass through the village of Magnolia and arrive at Hammond Castle Museum. This astonishing castle, the brainchild of a local inventor, dates back to 1929. Admission charge.

After this stop, you arrive in the city of Gloucester. This busy fishing port is the oldest in the United States. The East Gloucester district is home to a number of art galleries, antique shops and workshops.

While exploring the small town, make a stop at the Cape Ann Museum. This small structure houses a collection of art and history.

For lovers of seafood and lobster, head for The Gloucester House. This restaurant specialises in locally caught North Atlantic seafood, prepared to perfection!

Finally, the last fishing port before the northern tip of the Cape is revealed. Welcome to Rockport, a small town with an artistic soul! Here too, workshops, galleries and antique shops attract many visitors in summer. And to top it all off, the village is home to several beaches!

The tour ends on the rocky coastline of Halibut Point State Park. A perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy the ocean views...

Here's a selection of the many activities available, to enjoy with family, friends or on your own!

• Cruises from coastal ports (whale watching in summer)
• Bike, kayak or paddle hire
• Guided tours on a variety of themes from the tourist offices
• Fishing trips

👉 When to come to Cape Ann, north of Boston?

The ideal period is from June to August. Summer is in full swing and there's plenty to do. All the little villages are bustling with activity, and there's plenty to do on the water. In autumn, the atmosphere changes and the trees take on incredible colours. Yellow, orange and red, it's Indian summer. It's a photographer's favourite season! Inwinter, the snow and ice paint a different picture, and the region is much quieter.

🚌 How do I get to Cape Ann?

• The car remains the most efficient way to discover the region. That way you can take in the sights at your own pace.

• The southern part of the area, detailed here, is accessible using Boston's public transport network. It is managed by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, which has information on its website.

• The area is accessible by train from a number of stations. Stops at Gloucester, Rockport and Marblehead stations.

• There is also a good bus network, with various routes criss-crossing the countryside and coastline. However, there are virtually no services on Sundays.

In summer, finding a parking space can be a real headache. Traffic is heavy and tourists flock to the area. The most popular beaches and sites attract large numbers of visitors. There are no limits to the prices you can pay for parking - up to $30 a day!

⭐ Le Motel Cape Ann Motor Inn

The Motel Cape Ann Motor Inn is ideal for a stay with family or friends. The rooms have two double beds or one double bed and a sofa bed. These configurations are ideal for a family of 4. Some rooms have a sea view. The hotel also has its own private beach. Parking is available for guests.