PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home | Cottage in Harpswell

9.6 (62 Reviews) |   3 Bedrooms  2 Bathrooms  6 Guests  Stay&Play
Bailey Island Cottage | PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home

3 Bedroom Cottage in Bailey Island, Harpswell

HISTORIC ISLAND COTTAGE
Built in 1918, The Gills is an original summer cottage perched above the sea at the very end of Bailey Island. Secluded far from the road, nestled in a grove of pine and spruce, the house is pure tranquility. Each beautifully appointed room is both comfortable and authentic.
Enjoy naps on the porch swing or walk to nearby beaches, restaurants and shops. Explore tide pools along the rocky coastline. Go sailing or kayaking. Fish for striped bass from the rocks, just steps from the porch. Enjoy fresh lobster pulled from the ocean that morning by one of the local lobstermen.
Whatever you choose to do, it all comes back to the view. Clear and calm one day, misty and grey the next. Sit back and watch the sea and sky change with the weather. Hour by hour. Minute by minute. Always beautiful. Always different.
The Gills will give you the opportunity to slow down, and remember how good it feels to do nothing at all, surrounded by friends and family.
THE GILLS sleeps 6 - with two queen beds and two twin beds.
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THE GILLS GROUP
THE GILLS GROUP is a collection of oceanfront cottages that can be rented together for larger groups or intimate events. The cottages are adjacent, each with its own spectacular ocean views.
For larger groups - please check out the other GILLS GROUP cottages (Jaquish Lane and The Red House).
Jaquish Lane sleeps 12 (VRBO property # 733483) and The Red House sleeps 4 (VRBO property # 1063510). Renting two (or more) of THE GILLS GROUP cottages together is the perfect way for larger groups to be “together” while still having a space of your own.
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BAILEY ISLAND
25 minutes from Brunswick and Bowdoin College. 40 minutes from Freeport and L.L.Bean. 50 minutes from Portland - Bailey Island is the perfect place to unplug, relax and recharge.
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THE OWNER
My name is Carter Smith and I am the owner of THE GILLS GROUP (The Red House #1063510, Jaquish Lane #733483 and The Gills). I was born on Bailey Island and after traveling the world I know that this little island is special. As both a photographer and filmmaker, I travel quite a bit and I've furnished the houses with things I've collected from around the world (and around Maine). These are not just "rental properties"to me . These are houses I've designed and furnished with love and attention to detail - places where I spend time with family and friends whenever I get the chance. Places that I love sharing.
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FROM THE GUESTBOOK
"We fell in love with the cottage as soon as we climbed the steps to the porch and saw the expansive ocean views."
Julia K.
"You have created a beautiful retreat that captures a time when life was slower and the focus was on what is truly important - those we love."
Cynthia M.
"Walking into The Gills was like taking a step back into another time. Every room feels like it has a story to tell."
Alison C.
"There are special touches in every room, and the owner has gone above and beyond with great mattresses, linens and towels"
Aja M.
"We loved starting each day on the porch with our coffee - watching the lobster boats, seabirds, and the changing colors of the ocean"
Kelly B.
"The location is breathtaking, with wonderful sunrises and sunsets."
Kim F.
"This place has stolen our family's hearts."
Michelle K.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
This cottage is perfect if you're seeking an authentic Maine experience and love historic homes - BUT - The Gills is over 100 years old and has all of the quirks of an old home. There are changes in the level of the floor at several of the thresholds between rooms. The original horsehair plaster in the upstairs bedrooms and hallway is intact - and imperfect in places. The original canvas floor runner on the stairs is still in place - and shows it's age with the wear of the many people who have enjoyed this magical cottage. As the owner - and lover of historic homes - I have chosen to keep these original details intact. If you are expecting something glossy and perfect and new - then The Gills is probably not the cottage for you. If you love the authentic charm of a truly historic home - the quirks and odd details that can't fully be shown in a photograph - then you just may fall in love. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact our property manager David Johnson - Dave@thegillsgroup.com
Keywords: Private, Oceanfront, Family, Cottage

PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home is located in Bailey Island. PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home provides accommodation, featuring Ocean View, Bedding/Linens, Wellness Facilities, among other amenities. This Cottage features Ocean View, Bedding/Linens, Wellness Facilities, to make your stay a comfortable one.

PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home has 3 Bedrooms , 2 Bathrooms, and max occupancy of 6 people. The minimum rental for this property is 1 nights, but this can change depending on the season you plan on staying. Previous guests have given good rated it, and VRBO labeled it a top-rated Cottage because of the excellent services rendered by the owner or manager of this Cottage, and has consistently provided great experiences for their guests. Most families or guests that use it recommend it to their friends and some of them are repeat guests. Cottage has a friendly neighborhood, and the Bailey Island has interesting places to visit. If you want to learn more about the Cottage in Bailey Island, such as places to visit and things to do nearby, you can check below to learn more.

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Unique Amenities

  • Parking
  • TV
  • View
  • Ocean View
  • Balcony/Terrace
  • Security/Safety
  • Sports/Activities
  • Bedding/Linens
  • Wellness Facilities
  • Fireplace/Heating
  • Guest Services
  • Entertainment
  • Barbecue/Outdoor Cooking
  • Child Friendly
  • Internet
  • Kitchen
  • Laundry
 
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Policies

Check-in Check-in time starts at 4:00 pm contactless check-in available minimum check-in age: 25
Check-out Check-out before 10:00 am
Child Policy Children are welcome.
Pet Policy Pets not allowed (service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees)
Other Policy Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property note from host: event fees apply and require additional insurance parties and events (including family gatherings and birthday parties) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 12 safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed this property is managed through our partner, vrbo. you will receive an email from vrbo with a link to a vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
 
Harpswell, 04003, USA

What Our Guests say 500 + Reviews

Aug 8, 2024 10:33:53 PM
Summary: Dating from 1918, vacationing in this cottage was a quiet visual delight. The view from the front porch, overlooking the evergreen trees and blueberry bushes, out to the ever-changing ocean will stay in my mind throughout the year. The house itself is much the way it has always been, simple, rustic and quiet; off the beaten path, a retreat with few conveniences, a great place to look and contemplate, to read and draw. For us, it was perfect.
Jane S. Jane S.
Jul 21, 2024 01:35:51 AM
Summary: The location and view were wonderful! The home Itself is deteriorating. The rot on the columns holding up the porch was concerning, There was standing water outside the back porch. It needs work.
Kathy A. Kathy A.
Jun 6, 2024 08:24:51 PM
Summary: This is the perfect spot to just relax, forget about time and what day it is. Just sit and watch the water, fish off the rocky coast, play games and eat lobster. The house is magical, a quirky old cottage with fantastic aesthetic feel. We enjoyed every moment and will consider a return.
David M. David M.
Jun 1, 2024 09:00:11 PM
Summary: Oh my, where to start?? This is THE Maine house to stay at when you want peaceful, hidden and right off the cliff side of the ocean. The fireplace was so enjoyable for us coming from Texas and being on the colder side during a small storm haha. Carter the owner gave us such good recommendations on everything! The beds were very comfortable, we had all of the cooking utensils we needed and the wifi was strong throughout the house. I will admit I tried to buy the house from him but he politely declined. The history of the house is neat too and you can tell the years of love it had! We will be back!!!
heather D. heather D.
Oct 10, 2023 11:01:33 AM
Summary: The perfect escape; private, the sound of the ocean crashing on the rocks, my wife and our dog Gus. The 4 days we just spent here were rejuvenating. Thank you for making it so seamless Dave. We will be back!
Sep 4, 2023 09:33:15 PM
Summary: Pretty much the perfect Maine coastal cottage.
Howard S. Howard S.
Aug 30, 2023 06:44:04 AM
Summary: We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Gills. Dave, the property manager was very responsive and gave us great tips on kayak rental and where to put in. He was incredibly quick to reply with any questions we had and was very welcoming. The properly was clean and well maintained for an old home. The location can’t be beat and I could live on the porch overlooking the ocean- so comfortable and plenty of comfortable seats for everyone. I will remember that porch swing as my happy place for a long time to come. We look forward to coming back!
Leslie C. Leslie C.
Aug 17, 2023 10:23:04 AM
Summary: My family of four stayed at this beautiful property for a week and my only regret is that we didn’t stay longer. It’s like going back in time in a good way. Very peaceful property right on the water. Every detail was well thought out as far as anything you need. Bailey island and surrounding small towns have so much character and charm. We would love to come back!
Spencer S. Spencer S.
Aug 6, 2023 10:43:18 AM
Summary: Would love to have had more of a 180° view of the ocean but the view we had was terrific and the 1918 home exuded charm and great style. Large living room fireplace was comfy and warm especially when we had some rain our first week. Walking down to the rocks was enjoyable and gave us wonderful memories.
Gary N. Gary N.
Jul 21, 2023 05:43:43 PM
Summary: We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Gills! The view was beautiful! The house was amazing and perfect for our family. We spent a lot of time on the porch swing, and fishing off the rocks. We explored the island on bikes and did some sea kayaking and hiking nearby as well.-
Courtney W. Courtney W.

FAQ's

Is this Bailey Island cottage pet-friendly for guests?

No, pets are not allowed at this property. Check the guest reviews to learn what guests had to share.

Does the Bailey Island cottage have a swimming pool?

No, this Bailey Island cottage does not have a swimming pool. Check the Facility Overview section for details about the pool and other available facilities.

How much does it cost per night to stay in Bailey Island cottage?

Best-rates for the Bailey Island cottage starts from $564 per night with includes Wellness Facilities, Guest Services, Barbecue/Outdoor Cooking, Laundry, Parking, Security/Safety, Fireplace/Heating, Entertainment, Child Friendly, TV, Balcony/Terrace, Sports/Activities, Internet, Kitchen, View, Ocean View, Bedding/Linens StayAndPlay offers fully equipped golf villas, golf hotels, golf resorts, luxury golf cabins, and exclusive golf retreats, making it easier than ever to find your perfect golf escape — ideal for families, peaceful getaways, or pet-friendly retreats with the whole crew.

Is Bailey Island cottage a family-friendly place to stay?

Based on the information we have received from the owner or our partner, this is considered to be a family-friendly property. Families have rated this cottage Good or guests have recommended them suitable for families. As reported by the owner or manager, the cottage has specified that children are welcome. Please see details about suitability for your family or inquire with the property to learn more.

Is the Bailey Island cottage wheelchair accessible or offer services for disabled guests?

Based on the information received from our partner, the Bailey Island cottage has not specified they are wheelchair accessible. Likewise, there is not an elevator specified as being available at the property. Specific accessibility details may be addressed in the property details section of this page.

What is the minimum night stay policy for the Bailey Island cottage?

Based on the information reported by the owner or manager, the Bailey Island cottage indicates 1 day stay policy at this cottage. Guests are cautioned that the minimum stay policy may differ based on seasonality or availability and may be at the discretion of the owner or manager.

What cancellation policy is in place for Bailey Island cottage?

Based on the information reported by the owner or manager, details for the cancellation policy for the Bailey Island cottage are as follows: Cancellation policy Guests are cautioned that the cancellation policy may differ based on seasonality, availability, or current travel restrictions. Guests should also be aware that this policy may be subject to change and should be confirmed prior to booking. More details may be available on this page in the property description. However, early check-in or late check-out can sometimes be negotiated between the guest and the owner or the manager of this property.

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