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December 2023 by Stephen Walker
Perhaps the worst property I have stayed in over 40 years of personal and business travel. Our room looked like a drunk cheap uncle had tried to convert his basement in the 60s. Whoever owns/runs this “hotel” quite clearly has made no attempt whatsoever to update or maintain the place and is simply cash cowing the location for all it is worth. Beds and linen look and feel 40 years old, ditto the bathroom complete with stand in shower tub, suicidal shower curtain and towels from the 1950s. Baseboards were simply nailed on plywood and left unfinished and unpainted, TV electric cord descends from a hole in the plastic ceiling tile. The walls and ceilings are paper thin, outdated heating and a/c noisy enough to keep one from sleeping. Nylon bedding has not been renewed for decades. The entire experience is as depressing as it is painful. Even “cheap” hotels today have to set way better standards than this. In it’s current state the Franciscan Guest house should be more honestly described as a hostel or dormitory. The owners should do the right thing and close this place for a gut renovation or simply demolish it and leave the hospitality business altogether.
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November 2023 by Debbie Terranova
No frills hotel. Clean & has all you need for your stay. Grounds are beautiful & location is excellent. Only about 1/2 mi walk to the beach and 1/2 mile walk into town. It was wonderful not having to worry about parking in town. We stayed in the main building on the second floor. Note there are NO elevators so you must be able to carry your bag upstairs. Bed was comfortable, could have used fluffier pillows they were a bit flat. Coffee, tea & hot chocolate were available in the morning. We would stay here again.
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November 2023 by Lynn Lee
Absolutely loved my stay! The staff went above and beyond with their friendliness, making me feel right at home. The location is also lovely— very walkable to the beach and the town. Don’t forget to visit the monastery nearby!! Every moment was enjoyable, and I can't recommend this place enough.
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November 2023 by Joanne McCormick
Such a disappointment! We have stayed here many times over the course of several years- never again! The building inside &out have deteriorated with only absolutely mandatory maintenance since it’s conversion from a school for Lithuanian boys to a “resort.” Historically the $179 per night included a very basic breakfast. When we went to grab a muffin and coffee at the tail end of dining hours we were immediately rudely attacked by the self identified “chef”- saying we could not eat if not part of the group staying on site. We apologized about the possible misunderstanding- as we were going on past experiences. After she returned with 1 of the 4 employees on site (supervisor?), he apologized for her “militant, abrasive attitude” (his words), we left the food and checked out. The gentleman sighed and said,”things have really changed over the years. “ Unfortunately I couldn’t agree more! Only positive here is the location. ?Walkability: Easy walk to town.
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November 2023 by b k
Truly the best place to stay. Wholesome and peaceful.. thank you Lithuanians ??❤️
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August 2023 by Ellie
Best location in Port. Walking distance to beach and town. Peaceful walking paths through the woods to an unspoiled estuary. Great for families.
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February 2023 by J M
If you are looking for an affordable, low key, quiet, peaceful, quaint and charming place to stay while in Kennebunkport then look no further! It’s also within walking distance of town so no need to drive and look for parking. The grounds contain the monastery with gift shop, plenty of walking trails and wildlife along the water, and shrines to pray at. The staff were absolutely wonderful and a big part of why I’ll be staying there again in the future. They were very accommodating to me and my service dog and truly made you feel safe and like family. That’s important for a solo traveler like myself. I highly recommend them!
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January 2023 by Linda Wilson
In the gift shop the monk who lives there was a bit on rude side.He was on the phone & apparently important.But he didnt need to yell.He was blocking the exit & I simply asked him to move to get out.He Snapped at me.We are from Ct & most likely wouldn't come again.
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January 2023 by Robert Rogers
Sometimes you come across something so plain and unassuming which surprisingly takes your breath away. I can’t begin to describe the wonderful memories your family will experience at the Franciscan Guest House.The compound is situated on the most prime real estate in Kennebunk, ME within short walking distance to the beach and Dock Square. Families, and especially kids, are free to roam and explore the nature filled boundaries of the property.Pack a picnic, stow some wine and hike the extensive walking trails along the river. Take in the view and share the moment with that special loved one.The Guest House accommodations once served as a boys high school under the Franciscan order. The staff is over the top polite. The accommodations are simple and very clean. If high-end is more your style, there is a renowned luxury inn and spa directly across the street.The Franciscan Guest House is that special place which enables you to connect with nature, decompress, simplify your life, reflect, and reconnect with your family or loved one. I guarantee you’ll be back. Also, please say hello to a Friar; they are very cool individuals.
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January 2023 by Clark Thompson
If you are of meek and humble heart, you should consider this as an alternative to the resorts in the area. Very simple accommodations but good, considerate people staffing the office. Great experiences booking on the phone, during our check in, and while asking for accommodations in our check-out process. Very easy walking distance to shops and restaurants was a big plus. At the height of vacation season they were only half booked on late notice (assumingly due to the nature of the rooms which provide a college dorm-type feel). Our party was very happy but we are also admittedly Catholic blue-collar (meaning we like the best deals, fairly given). Folks expecting a 5-star type experience would be dissatisfied but Saint Francis loved both Jesus and Lady Poverty so what should you expect? Simple hospitality, which was given in abundance. It is not a fancy resort but we were very happy we chose to stay.
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January 2023 by Michele
Very friendly helpful staff. Rooms are comfortable with heater or air conditioners depending on the season. Complimentary coffee or tea. Very close to town and beach. Perfect for seniors who want to walk the religious grounds.
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January 2021 by Chelsea B
While I have never attended services or stayed at the guest house, my family and I love visiting to walk the grounds and the trail that goes through the woods and along the water. It's a beautiful, quiet place to experience.
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January 2021 by Roger Miller
We love this place! Always a pleasurable and blessed stay anytime of the year! Breakfast is always a treat. Staff is terrific. A short stroll across the peaceful grounds to Church. Close to downtown and the beach??????
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January 2020 by Larry Wurst
Quaint place to stay.There was many room options including rooms in a school like building and houses. Salt water pool and statues throughout the many acres. There are multiple services available if you choose. They offer cold breakfasts and for extra $4.00 you can get something hot. We had dinner there too which is offered a couple nights a week. Also has a trail to walk around the property and by the river. Our room was small but they have many options. It is 1/2 mile from beach and Kennebunk town center.
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January 2020 by Linda Valvo
Wonderful place to stay. Quiet, clean, affordable. Pleasant staff. Great customer service. Breakfast included. Walk to town or beach.
