ROCKPORT – A venerable hotel and resort is closing its two restaurants for the most part and laying off workers for the winter.

Samoset Resort manager Connie Russell said Friday that he is planning to keep Marcel’s restaurant open for Sunday brunch but close it for dinner. Brunch will remain open to the community.

The Breakwater Cafe will be open occasionally based on business levels, he said.

Russell cited the national economy as a reason for his downturn in business.

“It’s hard when you have only five room bookings a night,” he said.

The Samoset will continue to serve special events, including holiday parties and scheduled conferences.

“We’ll keep the fitness center open seven days a week at the usual hours,” Russell said.

In a press release, Russell said the resort would continue to serve local civic groups and organizations that are already on the books.

“We are welcoming future new groups and business opportunities,” he said. “We are awaiting the start of our planned restaurant and day spa renovations scheduled to begin this winter.”

The resort will begin selling its traditional holiday packages for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, featuring the band Roundabout. Gift certificates and packages are available online at 800-341-1650 or at the front desk at 594-2511, he said.

gchappell@bangordailynews.net

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