You can feel it in the soft sands of Wingaersheek Beach, hear it in the thundering waves of the Back Shore, and smell it in the crisp, salty air that permeates the region. It's the heart of Cape Ann. Gloucester, Rockport, Essex, and Manchester-by-the-Sea are the brilliant gems that make the treasure of New England sparkle. From the historic fishing industry to the creative art colonies, Cape Ann is a place like no other. And with its traditional festivals, incredible seafood, overflowing antique shops, and scenic splendor, it's no wonder the area draws thousands of visitors each year.

Photographer Alan Murtagh has been capturing the beauty of this unique place for years. His images evoke the spirit of Cape Ann in a way that stirs the viewer's imagination— you not only see it, you can actually sense it.