Magnificent Views - Oceanside Cottage

We enjoyed our stay at this very peaceful location, but there were some disappointments, and due to the high cost of renting this cottage compared to other cottages we have rented in Maine, we can only give it a 3 star rating. It is indeed a wonderful location right on the water with gorgeous views. We walked to Clark Island, had delicious dinners at the local inn ($$$), and took naps on the hammock. We appreciate that we were able to bring our dogs, too, and they loved it. The cottage is small, but the expansive living room gives it a more open feeling and the screen porch adds to the old Maine charm. The two front bedrooms were very comfortable. The bedroom with the twin beds was acceptably comfortable, but the bunks were not. The living room furniture is very comfy. However, the large screen TV dominates the open living room, which can be a problem if everyone in your party isn't like-minded about watching TV. We found the interior a bit musty and always damp, even on the sunny days, and the kitchen is very old fashioned, although workable. I had asked the owners if we could launch kayaks from out front and they assured me that others have done so. I am an experienced paddler and there is no access into the water without slipping and sliding over wet rocks and boulders. Compared to other waterfront homes we have rented in Steuben, Acadia, Owls Head, Deer Isle, and Lamoine, the total amount we paid for an August week was too much for this quaint little cottage with a very pretty view.

Three weeks ago I discovered its possible to go to heaven without dying. I know, I was there with my husband and our two dogs. We have rented homes throughout Maine in Bath, Damariscotta, Blue Hill, Owl’s Head, Castine and have traveled throughout Maine for more than two decades. But when we got to Jim and Linda’s place, we realized where we truly were. No choral chants, no clouds, no angels, no majestic man with a white beard; we just knew. And so will you, the moment you set foot on this very private, pacific paradise. We have rented homes that belonged on magazine covers . . . some that were mini estates. But NOTHING in our prior travels gave us the feeling we got from the magical environment nature has carved out on this particular spot. As appealing as all these pictures are, they don’t begin to communicate the sensation you will feel when you are physically there. This is not something you can duplicate at twice or even three times the price. Now, I could have been selfish and kept all this to myself. But that’s not who I am. So I am sharing this with you all, counting on your kindness and asking you all not to rent this home for the last two weeks in September, which was when we plan to return. If you have a shred of decency, you will oblige this request.
I have left all these other reviewers to tell you about the beauty of the area, the wonderful sights and sounds and food you will find in any direction you go. I will also give you this final piece of advice: when you go, plan on buying enough provisions for all your meals except two. Go out for one lunch and one dinner. But common sense says when you’ve found paradise, make the most of it. So, I could tell you about all the other places we’ve stayed which were quite wonderful, but this place embellished by the beautiful home Jim and Linda have created is where you want to come. For those of you traveling with dogs, they will not want to leave. A few tips: The best lobster roll/best value is at Time Out Pub in Rockland. I suggest you avoid the expensive lobster roll at The Dip Net in Port Clyde, owned by Linda Bean. Save your money and buy a Fiat 500. Also, Sweets & Meats, in Rockland makes absolutely delicious scones, muffins and fresh breads daily. Grab a sandwich, go sit by the harbor, blocks away. Fresh lobster? Go over the causeway and just as you get to the other side, STOP. Just allow the beautiful Katie to guide you and trust her advice. Soft shells were sweeter, meatier, cheaper.

We had a wonderful week. We were only blessed with two and a half days of nice weather, but we enjoyed the amazing view from inside on the other days. The cottage itself is lovely: beautiful and well apportioned but not at all ostentatious. We thoroughly enjoyed the technology afforded amidst the otherwise simple environs. Who knew we had a Wii bowling addict among us?! The screened-in porch was also much appreciated given the thriving mosquito crop (which is inevitable that time of year). The only trouble we had was an uncomfortable bed, but the owner says that replacing it is in the plans. We feel so fortunate to have had this home open to us and our four-legged friends.