Staff Writer
CHAPMAN – Tired of lodging where the most you can see from your window is a parking lot? Looking to get away but still want the option of cooking your own meals? Want to enjoy a little outdoor recreation or perhaps a luxurious evening in with that special someone?
Planning a family gathering or special event where everyone can share the same accommodations without having to worry about renting adjoining rooms? The Pines at Chapman is your answer, offering a view to die for and so much more, located at 3815 West Chapman Rd.
“The view is really what I’m trying to sell,” said Alden Swanson, the co-owner and master craftsman responsible for designing and building the post and beam structures.
The two spacious ‘homes’ come complete with all the amenities, providing a great escape from everyday life.
“Each unit has two bedrooms downstairs with queen-sized beds, one bedroom upstairs with four twin beds. Each can accommodate eight people quite nicely,” said Kathy Swanson, co-owner with her husband.
The structures are located on the Swansons’ property but privacy is not an issue, since the buildings are located down a private road beyond their home, with trees adding an added bit of peace and quiet. Each unit has a gorgeous view of field and trees, with wildlife known to make an appearance from time to time.
“We have a beaver pond close by. Folks can fish in the area,” said Alden.
“Our land abuts state land. That means no one will be building on the adjoining property,” said Kathy.
The Pines is also a great location to make ‘camp’ during hunting season, within easy access to some of the best spots Aroostook has to offer just minutes and a few miles away.
“A family can relax here. We have direct access to ATV and snowmobile trails. If parents don’t want to go out on the trails with the kids, there’s 120 acres of field the kids can ride snowmobiles or have fun on without having to get on a trail,” said Alden.
Alden said this has always been his dream. Now it’s a reality.
“I’ve been here since 1974. I had a feeling I could make a living here. I had drawings I made over 20 years ago. This is basically what I had for an idea,” said Alden. “I finally decided now was the time to build them.”
The accommodations aren’t what one might expect for ‘cabins.’
“I really tried to raise the bar on lodging in Aroostook County. I’ve been considered a high-end builder. Over the years, I’ve helped raise the bar on the quality of housing in the area,” he said.
Alden said a lot of thought went into creating The Pines.
“I went to school for architecture. I’m been in the planning stage for 25 years,” he said.
The units, according to Alden, are identical. Each sleeps eight, comes complete with a full bath downstairs and a half bath upstairs, a dining and living room area, as well as a complete kitchen.
“The kitchens have microwaves, ranges and refrigerators, so guests can prepare their favorite dishes right here,” said Kathy. “The countertops are soapstone. Alden handcrafted – designed everything.”
The Swansons noted that the porch was designed for comfort as well.
“The porch is heated too. When snowmobilers come, they can hang their gear out there to dry. When the weather’s good, they can enjoy their morning coffee or watch the evening sunset in the comfort of the porch,” said Kathy.
“Heat is provided through radiant floor heat, both inside and in the porch,” said Alden, adding, “we also have underground service for electricity, so you don’t see wires.”
Theresa Fowler, executive director of the Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce, joined members of the Chamber at the site for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 11.
“The Pines offers a luxurious alternative to lodging in the area. It’s the perfect destination for anyone who enjoys outdoor recreation – mountain biking, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ATVs and so much more,” said Fowler.
“Whether guests want to go out and play or just want to spend an evening in, I designed the units to be enjoyable whatever the situation,” said Alden.
“Each cabin comes with satellite TV and Internet access available,” added Kathy.
Whether out enjoying what nature has to offer or kicking back on the sofa, taking in the view from the inside, accommodations are designed to please just about every interest.
For those who prefer to eat out or go shopping, the facility is only about four miles from downtown Mapleton and a dozen miles from downtown Presque Isle. Both communities are also accessible year-round via the trail system, for those wishing to make the trip by snowmobile or ATV.
“Maps for the trail system are available,” said Alden.
A one-night stay for a couple runs $250; for three people, the cost is $300.
“Rates go up at $30 increments per each additional person from there. It tops out at $450 for eight occupants,” said Alden.
Fowler said that was reasonable, when you do the math.
“That’s just over $50 a night if you have eight people renting a unit,” said Fowler, noting The Pines offers so much more than just a room rental.
The Swansons are hoping others will come enjoy The Pines and the beauty of the county.
“We hope folks will come, have a good time and go home and tell all their friends,” said Kathy. “Whether you’re from the area just looking for a night away from home or traveling from out of state, we welcome everyone to spend a night or more.”
“I love it here,” said Alden. “I think it’s the place to live. I wanted to share that with others. That’s why we created The Pines at Chapman – to share the experience with others.”
For more information or for reservations, visit www.thepinesmaine.com, call 764-3881 or e-mail mail@thepinesmaine.com.
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
THE PINES AT CHAPMAN was the site of a ribbon-cutting ceremony, hosted by the Presque Isle Area Chamber of Commerce, on Saturday, Oct. 11. The event took place on site at 3815 West Chapman Rd., with guests enjoying refreshments and touring the units prior to the ribbon being cut. Pictured, from left: Nola Farley, PIACC Board member; Leah Buck, PIACC Board member; Alden Swanson, co-owner; Aaron Swanson, Alden and Kathy’s son; Kathy Swanson, co-owner; Billie Brodsky, PIACC Board member; and Theresa Fowler, executive director, PIACC.
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
LUXURY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS – From queen-sized beds to a fully-equipped kitchen, The Pines at Chapman provides all the amenities to make any stay a pleasant one. Each unit sleeps eight, with two bedrooms like this one downstairs, and another with four twin beds upstairs.
Staff photo/Kathy McCarty
RELAXING with one of the guests at Saturday’s open house at The Pines at Chapman is, seated at the table, co-owner Kathy Swanson. The picture was taken from the second-floor loft area. The units provide all the comforts of home, including a fully-equipped kitchen, and recreational opportunities for outdoor enthsiasts abound.
