For the first time ever, I spent several months of this past year away from my home in Maine. Yes, I missed the rapturous fall followed by the epic cold and snow while spending my winter where it was warm and sunny. However, my heart was here every minute of every day.

As I pined away for Maine, I got to thinking of all the special places that I’m so fond of, some of which I discovered when I first arrived here over three decades ago, and some that I’ve come upon more recently. I’ve returned to these spots again and again because they’re woven into the fiber of my being and are the stage for my family’s story. Because these places are so close to my heart, I want to share them with you.

So grab your camera, some snacks, and saddle up. This eclectic mix of off-the-beaten-path destinations include a seaside inn or two, canoeing and kayaking, fishing, camping, hiking, scenic drives, a sail, a swim, island visits, a lighthouse, herbal remedies, a rainy day activity, purchasing picnic provisions, a motorcycle monument and even tasting Maine from a bottle. Some of these adventures take a bit of planning; some can be done on a whim. A few of them are even free. And, yes, all of them are worth it.

* The Driftwood Inn: Want to be transported back in time to a bygone era on beautiful Bailey Island? Like me, if your idea of a vacation is sitting on a porch by the ocean watching the lobster boats dock, reading a good book, napping while being caressed by sea breezes and taking a leisurely stroll along Casco Bay’s rocky shore, this iconic coastal Maine inn near the famous Giant’s Stairs is just the place. In operation for more than 100 years, The Driftwood, with its spectacular views, salt water pool and delicious seafood dinners is just one of Maine’s “heaven on earth” locales. FMI: thedriftwoodinnmaine.com; healthymainewalks.com

* Crescent Lake and Panther Pond: One of my best days ever was spent among the diamond-studded waters of these two serene pools connected by the Tenny River in Raymond. I was a kayaking novice and this was the day I not only got it down, but felt like I was flying. This perfect place to paddle also holds the promise of fish for dinner. Cast a line in the shimmery water and you may be rewarded with a catch of salmon, bass, trout, perch or pickerel. Put in at the Crescent Lake launch off Route 85, where you’ll also find a small sandy beach. FMI: maine.gov/ifw/fishing

* Step Falls: In Newry, a short, easy hike is rewarded with a stunning feast for the eyes amid the Mahoosuc Mountains. This is the Nature Conservancy’s first Maine preserve and one of my family’s most-loved places. The falls cascade over slopes of granite, creating pools and rivulets to cool off in. Fun times can be had sliding around on the slippery rocks and building fairy houses in the forest. Prepare to be amazed. FMI:mainetrailfinder.com

* Somes Sound: My trips to Acadia always include some quiet moments in Somesville, a small, picture-perfect town on the west of this “fjard”. There’s an extensive art gallery near its grassy banks and a footbridge across the way. Even though this is a popular spot for photographers, there’s never a crowd. If you want to pull away from the madness on a summer day in Bar Harbor, this scenic drive will calm your spirit and help you recalibrate. After seeing Somesville, drive around the top of Somes Sound and begin going down the east side of the sound on Route 3, then veer right onto Sargent Drive, which is the back way to Northeast Harbor. When there, if you’re feeling adventuresome, launch your kayak or reserve a seat on a Sea Princess cruise. FMI: acadiamagic.com

* CE Reilly & Son Grocery: When I take the scenic drive down the Pemaquid Peninsula, I pack a cooler with ice just so I can make a stop at this down-home market with its oiled wood floors, dewy produce, fresh meats and outstanding seafood. I love everything about it — the staff in their white aprons, the wheels of Cabot cheddar cheese, the delectable fragrance of fresh baked bread. After I’ve stocked up, I park alongside Leeman Hill Road where a wooden sign designates a path that passes through a forested area and through a lupine meadow. There’s a footbridge over the narrowest part of Back Cove where I’ve been known to spy on plein-air painters while munching on a crusty roll and a hunk of cheese. Shhhh . . . don’t tell anyone. FMI: pemaquidbeach.com

* Chain of Ponds: Becoming acquainted with Natanis, Long, Bag and Lower ponds in northern Franklin County encompassed my first canoeing/camping adventure in Maine. These ponds are joined by winding water thoroughfares to form the “chain.” On the ponds’ shores are remote campsites, each with a fire ring, a flat surface to pitch a tent and all the blueberries you can eat if you go in late summer. I hadn’t camped since I was a teenager but I caught on quickly and had the time of my life, sighting moose, deer, a frisky raccoon and plenty of feathered friends. Wake up to loons calling, then take time to cook up breakfast over a wood fire. Ahhhh. FMI: visitmaine.com

* Matinicus Island: I firmly believe you haven’t seen all of Maine until you’ve ventured out into the gulf and set your feet on the most remote inhabited island on the Atlantic seaboard. Take plenty of provisions because there are currently no stores or restaurants. There are, however, a few B&Bs and rental properties. The Maine State Ferry “Everett Libby” leaves from the Rockland terminal at high tide only, providing an uncomfortable and long (2.25-hour) ride — and that doesn’t happen every day, so check first. The sprightly “Robin R” can also be reserved for a trip that takes half the time. The quickest way to go? Book a flight with Penobscot Island Air and fly from Owls Head; you’ll be on the island in less than 15 minutes. Unfortunately, when the fog rolls in nobody is going anywhere, but that’s part of the charm . . . if you can handle it. FMI: matinicusexcursions.com, maine.gov/mdot/ferry/matinicus, penobscotislandair.com

* Peacock Beach and Main Street Dairy Treat: A former state park, Peacock Beach on Pleasant Pond is now cared for by the town of Richmond. With its shady banks and warmer water, it’s the perfect place for families with little ones. I discovered this delightful spot my first summer in Maine and have been swimming there ever since, most recently with my grandchildren. How do I get the kids from the beach to the car at the end of the day? I bribe them with ice cream at Main Street Dairy Treat. Look for the giant ice cream cone statues in downtown Richmond. FMI: facebook.com, richmondmaine.com

* Bartlett Maine Estate Winery and Distillery: If you want to experience Maine in a bottle, a trip to Gouldsboro on the Schoodic Peninsula is in order. Not only will you be surrounded with some of the most spectacular scenery our fair state has to offer, but you’ll be rewarded with sweet sips of red wine pressed from none other than Maine blueberries and blackberries. Apples and pears are pressed for white wine. And if you’ve never tasted honey mead or made-in-Maine rum, now’s the time. FMI: bartlettwinery.com

* Blessed Maine Herb Farm: One magical Sunday I drove to Athens to learn all there is to know about sea roses from Gail Faith Edwards, who started this certified organic herb farm over 25 years ago. Not only did I return home with a head full of new knowledge and my spirits lifted, but with rose water, rose oil, honey/rose water mead and a necklace made of rosebuds. Spending time with this maiden of the earth truly blessed me. Herbs and products are sold online and at the Skowhegan farmers’ market. Workshops and classes, including becoming a certified herbalist, are offered at the farm as well as on the Web. FMI: blessedmaineherbs.com

* Fort Edgecomb State Historical Site: Do you remember what it felt like to roll down a grassy hill when you were just a small child? That’s what we do the minute we tumble out of the car at this octagonal blockhouse on Davis Island in the town of Edgecomb in Lincoln County. This is one of my children’s first memories of Maine, cemented in their brains as a primo picnic spot. There’s plenty of room for a game of catch or Frisbee, too. FMI: visitmaine.com

* Four Corners Park: Once upon a time I did something extremely spontaneous. For one glorious week, I toured throughout Maine on the back of a Honda Gold Wing. This is why I want to give a heartfelt wink and a smile to the only park in the world that honors long-distance motorcyclists. This park in Madawaska, created largely from volunteer efforts and donations, is the northeast point of the Four Corners Tour, a journey aspired to by accomplished motorcyclists. Don’t do motorcycles? You’re still most welcome. FMI:madawaskafourcorners.org

*The Bowling Bowl: Yes, it rains in Maine in the summer, sometimes for days. No matter. When we all meet at Dunlap Street in Brunswick for a crazy, quirky hour of family freestyle candlepin bowling, we make our own sunshine. We slip on those dorky shoes, place our bets and laugh our heads off. The grandkids, who like to celebrate their birthdays here, can also practice their math skills while keeping score. Got a bowling alley closer to you? Go tie one on (a bowling shoe) and get rolling! FMI: bowling-bowl.com

* The Sarah Mead: My pal, native Mainer Nate Jones, was baptized in saltwater and has been sailing longer than he’s been walking. He co-captains “Sarah Mead,” a fully-restored, 42-foot wooden Friendship Sloop, Maine’s last and only sailing lobster boat. “Sarah Mead” is also the first-ever commercial vessel in the state — and possibly in New England — to go to zero emissions. And because she’s so quiet, the vessel can get up close to seals and porpoise. This, along with the lively lobster lessons, makes for an extraordinary excursion. Jones and his dad, Randy, offer two-hour tours of Boothbay Harbor, sailing from the dock of Spruce Point Inn Resort and Spa. FMI: sailmuscongus.com

* Quoddy Head State Park and Light: Have you ever wanted to be one of the first people to be kissed by the rising sun on a summer morning? Get yourself to Lubec, the easternmost town in the contiguous United States — not to be confused with the easternmost city, which is Eastport. Depending on the time of year, this is one of the spots where the sun rises first. Be sure to bundle up, and to take time to enjoy the nearby hiking trails. Don’t let this candy-striped lighthouse be something you’ve only seen in a picture. FMI: westquoddy.com