The actor recently returned to ‘Vacationland’ with Poland Spring Origin.
Patrick Dempsey, the famed TV doctor from Grey’s Anatomy and real-life cancer advocate, knows the state of Maine like the back of his hand. It is noteworthy that Dempsey — who recently confirmed he’ll be returning in the sequel to “Enchanted,” — was born there.
To show his love for his home state, the actor teamed up with Poland Spring Origin, the premium 100% natural spring water from Maine, to share a glimpse into his own origins. Dempsey, who now lives in Los Angeles, returned to Maine to film a TV commercial for the water brand, where he reconnected with the state’s natural beauty by exploring the woods.
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To celebrate Dempsey’s partnership with Poland Spring Origin, iBestTravel connected with the actor and race car driver by phone to discuss why Maine is a unique place, his insider tips for what to see and eat, and why we should escape north to disconnect.
iBestTravel: Why is Maine such a special state to you?
Patrick Dempsey: “Maine is remarkable [because of] its natural beauty… and the beautiful wildlife. To get out into nature it’s gorgeous, so breathtaking, and it constantly changes. I think Maine is very special. I mean, there’s a rawness to it. There’s an individualism to it, but yet there’s a strong sense of community as well, you know?”
How was it returning home to film with Maine’s own Poland Spring?
“With Poland Spring and Origin—that story coming from Maine—to be able to share their story nationally for the first time is really special to be able to come home and do that.”
What makes Poland Spring Origin as special as the state it comes from?
“It’s crisp and it’s refreshing, and it’s really good. And I love the fact that it’s a recycled bottle and where they’re going with the company is really exciting to me. I started off with my father in the late seventies, in the eighties working in a redemption center when recycling just started to come into vogue and sort of importance in the state of Maine. And my father saw that. For me, it’s about the preservation of our wilderness and our environment.”
What’s the first thing someone should do on a trip to Maine?
“Well, first of all, definitely you want to read ‘The Woods of Maine’ by Henry David Thoreau—and Northern Maine is very much like that still in so many ways. You can still have that journey.”
Is there somewhere you’d recommend visiting in particular?
“Northern Maine and Greenville, that’s where we shot. That whole area. It’s really nice to be able to be in nature, to let go of all your electronics, and just take a walk and be out there. I think that’s the most important thing.”
Do you have any food recommendations in Maine?
“There are some great restaurants—a lot of sea-to-plate movement. A must-visit is Lost Kitchen up in [Freedom], Maine, which has a great story. Many who grow up in Maine leave, then return with new insights, contributing to the sustainability movement. There’s a real push for consciousness throughout the state, as both big companies and restaurants focus on sustainability, recognizing the value of protecting our land through conservation.”
With so much to do in Maine, when’s the best time to visit?
“Oh, I mean, any time is great to visit because it’s constantly changing, but spring, certainly when lilacs are in bloom, is special. In summer, enjoy fresh lobster and chowder at the beaches, while fall brings stunning foliage. Winter offers skiing at Sunday River and Sugarloaf. Each season presents unique opportunities to explore and capture the beauty, which is why it’s called Vacationland on the license plate for a reason.”
Editor’s Note: This interview was lightly edited for length and clarity. Tanner Saunders is an editor at iBestTravel who is in love with Maine.