Title: THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room Reviews, Deals & Photos 2026 - Expedia.co.uk [See all properties](http://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?regionId=&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) Entire home # THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room Beachfront cottage for sun and fun ## Photo gallery for THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room ![Property grounds - THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room (Harpswell)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/26000000/25120000/25115100/25115038/3878873a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Interior - THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room (Harpswell)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/26000000/25120000/25115100/25115038/2a8095a2.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Interior - THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room (Harpswell)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/26000000/25120000/25115100/25115038/9fafb1d6.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Spa - THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room (Harpswell)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/26000000/25120000/25115100/25115038/w5989h4105x11y0-72e99757.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Interior - THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room (Harpswell)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/26000000/25120000/25115100/25115038/546b7f62.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Location - Amenities - Policies Welcome to The Red House, a 100-year-old haven at the head of Mackerel Cove. Feel the ocean's presence throughout this enchanting property, with its private pebble beach perfect for launching kayaks and exploring Casco Bay. Unwind in the steam room overlooking the ocean or indulge in luxury beds and bedding. ## Reviews 10 Exceptional ### Entire home 2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4 ## Popular amenities - Ocean view - Kitchen - Pet-friendly - Outdoor space - Parking available - Barbecue grill ## Add dates for prices Check-in Check-out Travellers ## About this property ### Entire place You'll have the entire cottage to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party. ### THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room THE RED HOUSE The 100 year old Red House at the head of Mackerel Cove was built when most of Bailey Island was wild and undeveloped - and once you've spent time here it's clear why this spot was chosen to build. You FEEL the ocean just steps away wherever you are on the property - and each night the sun sets directly in front of you across the water. This place is magic. A house where no matter what you are doing - cooking dinner with loved ones - reading a book on the porch - spending a lazy day in bed - the sea is always present - steps away or right outside your window. \* \* \* THE BEACH The private pebble beach is the perfect place to launch kayaks at any tide. Exploring from the water is one of the best ways to experience Casco Bay. The tide pools in front of the house are something kids (of all ages) love. \* \* \* THE RENOVATION Everything in The Red House has been updated during the 2017 renovation. From plumbing to heating it's all brand new. Luxury beds and bedding in the two upstairs bedrooms. All new appliances in the fully equipped kitchen. But it all started with the bathroom. Built to accommodate 4 - the STEAM ROOM looks directly out to the ocean with the same magnificent views as the rest of the house. The upstairs "secret" half-bath is hidden behind a custom built rotating bookcase inspired by my 9 year old niece and her fascination with all things magical and mysterious. The living and dining spaces all have views of the ocean and have been furnished with a mix of local antiques and art. \* \* \* THE VIEW Spending time here always comes back to the view. Clear and calm one day, misty and grey the next. Watch the sea and sky shift with the weather. Hour by hour. Minute by minute. Always beautiful. Always different. \* \* THE BIRDS From heron and gulls to Eider and even bald eagles, this sheltered spot is a birdwatchers dream. I watched a pair of sea ducks guide their ducklings along the shore. Herons fishing in the tide pools at low tide. A bald eagle at the end of the wharf. Whatever you see, you can be sure that it's going to be beautiful. \* \* \* THE GILLS GROUP The Red House is part of THE GILLS GROUP - a collection of oceanfront cottages that can be rented together for larger groups or hosting intimate events. The cottages are all a short walk from each other and are the perfect place to be "away" while still being "together". The other GILLS GROUP cottages are Jaquish Lane (property 733483) which sleeps 12 and The Gills (VRBO 318909) which sleeps 6. \* \* \* EVENTS The Red House (along with Jaquish Lane and The Gills) is uniquely set up to host an intimate wedding or family reunion. With open ocean views of the sunrise on the east side of the island (Jaquish Lane and The Gills) and spectacular sunsets on the west (at The Red House). Event fees vary depending on the size of the gathering and number of guests. Contact the property manager for more information. There is not a television at The Red House - but there IS high-speed internet for streaming/watching on your own devices. \* \* \* THE OWNER My name is Carter Smith and I am the owner of THE GILLS GROUP (The Red House, Jaquish Lane 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. \* \* \* LOCATION Mackerel Cove - Bailey Island - Harpswell - Maine. There are many other properties in the area - but there are very few that rise above the (sometimes crude) comfort that passes for acceptable in a "summer island cottage". That is not the case here. I have tried to think of everything a guest could want - from luxury mattresses topped with featherbeds to copper cookware to that oceanfront steam room. This is a rental for people who appreciate the details. BAILEY ISLAND 20 minutes from Brunswick and Bowdoin College. 40 minutes from Freeport and L.L.Bean. 55 minutes from Portland. PETS Pets are welcome at The Red House and will incur a fee of $60 per night per pet. This is non-negotiable. Everyone says, "My pet would never damage anything," but sadly, experience has proven that's not always the case. BOOKING A booking using the "ONLINE BOOKING" feature is ONLY considered confirmed once you have communicated with the property manager. ## Property amenities ### Beach - On the beach - Beach towels ### Pool/Spa - Massage ### Internet - Available in the cottage: WiFi ### Parking and transport - Car recommended - Parking on site ### Kitchen - Blender - Coffee grinder - Coffee/tea maker - Cookware, dishware, and utensils - Electric kettle - Hob - Lobster/crab pot - Microwave - Oven - Paper towels - Refrigerator - Spices - Toaster ### Dining - Dining table ### Bedrooms - 2 bedrooms - Bedsheets provided ### Bathroom - 1.5 bathrooms - Hair dryer - Soap - Toilet paper - Towels provided ### Living spaces - Dining table - Living room - Separate dining area ### Entertainment - Books - Games - Stereo ### Outdoor areas - Barbecue grill - Garden - Outdoor furniture - Patio ### Laundry - Laundromat nearby ### Comfort - Heating ### Pets - Pet friendly - Welcoming dogs only - Up to 23 kg per pet ### Suitability/Accessibility - Smoke-free property - Note from host: 500$ fee if cleaner thinks indoor smoking occurred ### Services and conveniences - Iron/ironing board - Phone ### Location highlights - Near a hospital - Near an outlet shopping centre - Near the marina - Near the ocean - On the waterfront ### Things to do - Boat - Golf - Kayak - Birdwatching nearby - Cycling nearby - Ecotours nearby - Fishing nearby - Golfing nearby - Hiking/biking trails nearby - Kayaking nearby - Motor boating nearby - Sailing nearby - Surfing/bodyboarding nearby - Whale watching nearby - Wildlife walks nearby - Winery tours nearby ### Safety features - Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector) - Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property) - First aid kit - Fire extinguisher ### General - Garden ## Similar properties ![Outdoor dining](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/84000000/83030000/83024500/83024448/07fd5cc5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Bay-View. 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For multi-week rentals, the property must be cleaned each week at an additional $ For multi-week rentals, a property fee of $139 will be charged for each additional week (partial or full) of your stay. ### Pets Pets are allowed Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees Welcoming dogs only 1 total (up to 23 kg per pet) Note from host: $60 /night ### Children and extra beds Children are welcome ### Events Events allowed Special rates / requirements apply for all events ### Smoking Smoking is not permitted 500$ fee if cleaner thinks indoor smoking occurred ## Important information ### You need to know This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. 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 Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed Parties and events are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 4 Note from host: Special rates / requirements apply for all events Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit 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 If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. ### We should mention A car is recommended for transport to and from this property ### Property is also known as This IS Place Intimate Luxury w Massive Oceanfront Steam Room ## About the area Located in Bailey Island, this cottage is on the beach. Freeport Historical Society and Clay Play are cultural highlights, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Maine Street and LL Bean Flagship Store. Land's End Gift Shop and Paddleworks are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching. [Visit our Bailey Island travel guide](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Bailey-Island.dx6046825) [View more Cottages in Bailey Island](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Bailey-Island-Cottages.d6046825-aaCottages.Travel-Guide-Accommodation) ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6¢er=43.71964,-70.001015&zoom=13&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&path=color:0xFFFFF|weight:2|fillcolor:0x005AEB7F|enc:yzziGhagjL%3FS%3FU%3FU%40U%3FU%40S%40U%40U%40UBU%40U%40SBSBUBUBSBSDUBSDSDSBSDUDSFSDQFSDSFQFSFQFQFQFQHSHOFQHQHOHOHQHOHOJMHOJOHMLOHMJMJMLKJMJMJKLKJKLKLKJILKLILGLKLGLINGLGLGLGNGLENGLENCLENCNELCNCNCNALCNANANANAN%3FL%3FN%3FN%3FN%3FN%3FL%40N%40N%40N%40NBL%40NBNBNBLDNBNDLBNDLFNDLFLFLFNFLFLHLFLJLFLHLJLHJJLJLJJJLJJLJLJJJLJLJLJNJLHNJNHLHPHLJPHNHNFPHPFNHRFPFPFPHPDRFPFRDRFPDRDRDTDRBRDRDRBTBRBRBTBTBRBR%40T%40T%40T%40T%40T%40R%40T%3FT%40T%3FT%3FR%3FT%3FTAT%3FTATARATATATATARCRCTCTCRCTCRCTERERCRERETERERGPERGRGPERIPGPGPGPIPGPIPGNIPINKPILIPILKNINKLKNKLKJKNKJKLKLMJKJMJMJKJMHMHMJMFMJMFMHMFOFMFMFMFODMFODMBODOBMBODOBOBM%40OBO%40O%40O%40M%3FO%40O%3FO%3FO%3FM%3FOAO%3FOAOAOAMCOAOCOCMEOCOCMEOCMEOGMEOGMGMGMGOGMIMGMKMGMKMIKIMKMKKKMKKKKMKMMKKMKMIMMOIMKOIOKMIOIOIQIOIQIOGQIQIQGQGQGQGQGSGQESGSEQGSESEUCSESESCSEUCSCUCSCUCSAUASCUAUAUAUAS%3FUAU%3FU%3FU%3FU&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=tID3f8lSJM98fn4W98GyJ4_rKNs=) Harpswell, ME ### What's nearby - ![Breathtaking sunrises and views of the Atlantic, a wonderful lighthouse, and a huge beautiful park, what else can you ask for? We went there very early on a cold September morning and it was worth the effort. The place is in the middle of a big park with plenty of parking spaces. #MyBackyard](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/55620/cf4eb35d-3d45-4152-989a-53d7277bd0ed.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Casco Bay 1 min walk \- 0.0 miles - ![Bowdoin College showing a park](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6186042/b02eed5f-153a-46f2-971d-efc68fabd24d.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Bowdoin College 35 min drive \- 18.7 miles - ![LL Bean Flagship Store showing outdoor art and signage](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6180409/a11db0bc-14bb-481a-9e43-1872a589f697.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) LL Bean Flagship Store 47 min drive \- 33.0 miles - Mackerel Cove 1 min walk \- 0.1 miles - Land's End Gift Shop 5 min walk \- 0.3 miles ### Getting around - Brunswick Station 34 min drive - Portland, ME (PWM-Portland Intl. Jetport) 62 min drive ### Restaurants - Cook's Lobster & Ale House 5 min drive - Erica's Seafood & Lobster Shop 35 min drive - Dolphin Marina & Restaurant 35 min drive - B.I.G.S. Bailey Island General Store 2 min drive - Allen's Seafood 21 min drive ## Frequently asked questions ### Is THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room pet-friendly? ### How much is parking at THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room? ### What time is check-in at THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room? ### What time is check-out at THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room? ### Where is THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room located? ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room Reviews ## Reviews ### Exceptional All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative. [More information](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/b/content-guidelines) 10 - Excellent 53 8 - Good 1 6 - Okay 1 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 ### 9.4 Cleanliness ### 10 Location ## Reviews ### 10/10 Excellent #### Michelle H. 24 Jun 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Peaceful retreat Beautiful views from a charming cottage with kind neighbors. Eclectic styled home which we enjoyed. Would stay again!! ##### Michelle H. Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Aloise L. 20 Aug 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Breathtaking What a lovely home and stay! Beautiful view. Beautiful location. Home had everything we needed. One funny thing: I guess I didn’t read the home details clearly because we found the second bathroom 3 days in. :) highly recommend visiting the driftwood inn. Enjoy! ##### Aloise L. Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Matthew M. 16 Oct 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Exactly as advertised. Amazing property We were sold on the Dog Friendliness of this property but we will be coming back for the views. This is literally a slice of heaven. We stayed with our two labs and our 3 year old son and everyone had a blast. The house is beautifully renovated to fit the modern lifestyle with the quaint beach house theme. The dogs were able to run free on the beach front and roll in the tall grass. The lack of television was the best pet of the trip. Games, books, music and conversation fill the space and allow you spend time with the ones you love. Highly recommend this home to anyone looking to visit Maine. ##### Matthew M. Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Natalie M. 2 Jul 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Relaxing time on Bailey Island ... This was our 3rd vrbo stay in Harpswell and our first on Bailey Island. We went for part of the week on our own and cousins joined us there for a couple of days. We were thrilled to bring our Boston Terrier along, too! The house is rustic yet elegant in some ways (amazing steam room, well equipped kitchen, comfortable beds & bedding). Like many other reviewers, we spent tons of time on the lovely porch relaxing and enjoying the always beautiful view of the water, birds, boats, and sunrises and sunsets. When we did venture out, we loved eating at Sundrenched on Bailey Island, buying yummy treats at the Wild Oats Bakery in Brunswick, enjoying lobster rolls from Bailey Island General Store, or walking for 5 minutes to Lands End and Bailey Island Beach. The house was pleasant and comfy and had everything we needed. We really appreciated that the owner cared about the environment (unbleached paper towels, recycling, encouraging water conservation, use of Mrs. Meyer's soap). The neighbors and property managers were nice and helpful, too. We were sad to leave but were so happy we chose somewhere so amazing to stay. Bailey Island had a lovely magic of its own, and seemed to stay cooler with a pleasant breeze most of the time than some other parts of Harpswell! Thanks for sharing this lovely home with our family! ##### Natalie M. Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Elizabeth M. 18 Sept 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy No complaints. As advertised. Rustic, immaculate, beautiful home, with a view to die for. Locals are friendly and wildlife is abundant. Will be returning! ##### Elizabeth M. Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Andrew H. 15 Oct 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy My partner and I desperately needed a full reset getaway and this couldn't have fit the bill more. We also had our dog with us. This was (as described and intended) isolated and quiet and tranquil. The house is also incredibly designed on the interior. At first blush, you could look past it, but every inch of this home is designed with intention and mindfulness to the vibe: oceanside, secluded, rustic, authentic. It's awesome. Highly recommend. ##### Andrew H. Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Danielle C. 19 Jul 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Serenity and Peace with a View! This is a stunning place to stay. Every detail has been well thought out and you cannot beat the view. The cottage is a great balance of luxury and rustic charm and we so enjoyed our stay. ##### Danielle C. Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Olivia J. 24 Jul 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### a very special spot absolutely loved our dreamy week at this magical property, with a view that can't be beat. every detail in the house was so thoughtful and we felt right at home. we hope to come back very soon. ##### Olivia J. Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jenn P. 30 Jul 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Relaxing vacation home We couldn’t wait to return to this home for our second trip to Bailey Island. The home is very comfortable with everything you could need, including books, games, and every necessary kitchen gadget. We spent every evening watching the sunset from the porch and had a wonderful time exploring the bay in our rented kayak. We also took advantage of the amazing steam shower. The property manager was very responsive and friendly. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect place to spend the week! ##### Jenn P. Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Matt B. 20 Jun 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### The Perfect Spot We thoroughly enjoyed our stay on Bailey Island! The house was perfect for our trip. We loved the unique characteristics of the home and the steam shower was an added bonus. Our son had fun looking for sea glass and exploring. We could have stayed on the back porch the whole trip. We recommend checking out Giant’s Stairs Trail, Lands End, Stover’s Beach, and Portland Lighthouse. Fishnet Cafe, The General Store, Cook’s, Salt Cod Cafe, Dolphin Marina & Restaurant, & Royal River Grillhouse all had great food. We can’t wait to come back! ##### Matt B. Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jennifer P. 18 Jul 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Perfect relaxing getaway The perfect relaxing getaway… the house is exquisitely decorated and ready for a very comfortable stay. The waterfront view and evening sunsets were perfect and made the whole trip worth while. The steam shower was as added bonus!! Great location for several restaurants, not far from shopping and sightseeing. We rented a kayak for the week and had an amazing time exploring the harbor and neighboring islands. Will definitely be back! Minor details- Kitchen could definitely use some wine glasses, Tupperware, and a can opener! ##### Jennifer P. Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Morag W., Boston 21 Jul 2020 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Cove side jewel box What a delightful home! From the perfectly distressed exterior to the thoughtful and creative interior. It totally encapsulates the feeling of being in coastal Maine. Handpicked antiques and fabrics abound in the living area and the bedrooms. The house is small but feels spacious due to well planned lighting and open areas. The addition of the steam shower room with a window overlooking the cove is inspired. What better way to view those gorgeous sunsets! The dock at the house is the perfect spot for morning coffee watching the lobster boats come and go from Mackerel Cove. Brunswick is not too far away for grocery shopping and the occasional visit to the laundromat. All questions, problems, discussions about the house, Maine, New England sports or Chocolate Labradors can be directed to and answered by the wonderful property manager Dave Johnson, who is an invaluable resource. We have loved it here. ##### Morag W. Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020 ### 6/10 Okay #### Reed H. 20 Sept 2021 Liked: Check-in, communication, location Disliked: Cleanliness #### Great Location, Lousy Water We loved the house and the location. Great walking distance to Lands End and the General Store. Wonderful ocean views and the dogs had a blast swimming and investigating the tidal pools. The house was well appointed with books and utensils. Unfortunately, there were a number of problems with the place. First was the water. It has hydrogen sulfide gas which is highly toxic. We complained and the manager had someone put in a filter which didn't solve the problem. They gave us some water and we bought more but taking a shower and washing dishes was a noxious process. Many of the dishes and pans were dirty. The upstairs screens were torn to shreds by the winds and let in mosquitos, which we were surprised to see. We don't mind paying high fees and rents but this place just didn't justify the expense. ##### Reed H. Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021 This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Nancy B. 16 Jul 2017 #### The absolute best of Maine coastline This little house is all that you'd expect from a Maine coastline experience plus a little more. The exterior is mostly original....mossy roof, peeling paint, large flat yard with jutting rocks. The porch on the back is westward facing and open to the bay. It has a very large, extremely comfortable sofa where you can watch indescribable sunsets from start to finish. The location is perfect for kayaking. You can easily launch from the stony beach at both low and high tide. We had a blast trying to catch fish from the kayak. We're completely inexperienced ocean fisher(wo)men but managed to catch a couple. The shoreline is littered with beach glass tiny crabs. The interior is newly renovated and straddles the line between original woodwork and floors and charming Pottery Barn style. The new downstairs bathroom is beautiful with a double vanity and tiled rain shower and steam room. The tiny upstairs bathroom is a complete surprise hidden behind a hallway bookshelf. We've been vacationing on the Maine coastline for several years in different areas. We're thinking Bailey Island and the Red House are our favorite to date. ##### Nancy B. Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2017 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Sue Ellen S. 17 Oct 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Brilliant! A perfect holiday. Stunning. The Red House must be seen to be believed. Unbeatable on the water location with views to die for. ##### Sue Ellen S. Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### William S. 9 Sept 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### A Special Place The red house is in the most beautiful setting and was a lovely stay for a family getaway. We’d love to come back! ##### William S. Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Nicole D. 27 Aug 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Relaxing week on Bailey Island Our family had a wonderful stay at this picturesque cottage. We will greatly miss the beautiful view from the porch. Our girls loved collecting sea glass out front and watching the wildlife. Very relaxing week in Maine with great location and accommodations. ##### Nicole D. Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Rory P. 18 Aug 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Lovely experience The property was lovely with well maintained amenities. This was not an issue just a note: the keys were not in the lock box when we arrived. The door was unlocked and keys were on the counter. When we tried to leave, it appears the box may have been broken but we put them in there anyway as that is what was requested. Views were amazing. We left behind a map of the island for the next guest with a bunch of things we did. We hope to come again. ##### Rory P. Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Brian F., Tivoli, NY 18 Jul 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### The Perfect Setting On Mackerel Cove My husband and I spent a glorious week at The Red Cottage. The restoration of the cottage has clearly been a labor of love. Our experience felt authentic, yet we were not lacking for conveniences and amenities during our stay. The cottage provides the perfect setting to watch Mackerel Cove, an active harbor. We enjoyed watching the boat traffic. The porch is a cool, breezy place to reach, and to watch the ocean and skies shift shape throughout the day. In fact, I think we spent more time on the porch than we did anywhere else in the house! Do not miss sunset on the dock. Dave was the consummate host, attentive to every detail during our stay. We cannot recommend The Red Cottage highly enough. We look forward to returning. ##### Brian F. Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Mariana N. 24 Jun 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Honeymoon Heaven We spent a dreamy week at the Red House in mid-June for our honeymoon. Highlights were the views of the water from every room, watching ducklings and herons, the glorious sunsets, the comfiness of the bed, and the charming furniture and decor (the lady lamp in the living room was my favorite!) Bailey Island is a special place, and the Red House is a perfect rental to experience it from. Would love to come back again some day! ##### Mariana N. Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Brian H. 12 Aug 2021 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### August 2021 We had a fantastic stay. The house was all we hoped it would be in terms of comfort and space. We enjoyed Bailey Island and the surrounding area but spent so much time just relaxing at the house, on the porch overlooking the water. Cozy and comfortable. The kids loved it too. ##### Brian H. Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jordan F., Austin 4 Aug 2021 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Most peaceful little escape Loved the island and loved the property. Kids were happy expiring the tide pools, the dock, and playing on the lawn. Such a special place! ##### Jordan F. Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jason F. 10 Jul 2021 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Beautiful properties in a very special place Beautiful properties in a very special place ##### Jason F. Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Amy P., Kinderhook, NY 20 Jun 2021 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Beautiful home and location Carter’s gambrel roofed “Red House,” nestled at the mouth of Mackerel Cove in the charming and historic Bailey Island was a welcome respite from the confines of the last year and a half. Neither I nor any of my family members could have imagined a more comfortable and beautiful place to regroup. The beds were so comfortable, the porch a magnificent spot to relax, nap, read, breathe in the marine air and wave to lobster boats and the Schooner Alert as they breezed by. Carter’s extensive recommendations for fun, relaxing family activities came in very handy and we took up his advice exploring local beaches , restaurants and shops. As a lover of historic houses I was especially happy to be able to live in a very stylishly and comfortably appointed older house.. truly a beauty insyde and out. We had amazing views from every window.. and loved exploring the tide pools just outside his charming home. We hope to return soon.. perhaps even in the fall. Oh lastly, his property manager David was a delight and at the ready to provide assistance and great conversation at the slightest request. In sum my family had a wonderful time reconnecting with nature and one another in this peaceful, historic, and supremely comfortable home. Thank you SO much! I miss it already. ##### Amy P. Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Scharmen C., Winchester, MA 16 Nov 2020 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Another Gills Group Gem This was our second stay at a Gills Group property on Bailey Island and it did not disappoint. All of the reviews about the Red House are spot-on with regards to the design and coziness of the house – everything from the furnishings and artwork to lighting to the bedsheets and towels are perfectly curated to give the house the look and feel of a cozy well-appointed coastal home (Restoration Hardware towels and lighting in the bathroom, Riedel wine glasses and Cuisinart coffee machine in the kitchen and the list goes on…), not a soulless sterile rental house that lacks personality and charm. We spent a month in the fall during the pandemic to get away from Boston and work in a different setting with a view. The views are truly spectacular (and you have this view from the living room, shower/steam room, master bedroom and kitchen)! The house is waterside with plenty of places to sit and watch the water and sunsets – Adirondack chairs, a covered porch with a massive couch and a private pier (make a point of knowing when the sun goes down and plan on being home!). Essentials are covered sufficiently at the Red House. The house was spotless when we arrived with weekly cleaning during our visit. WiFi worked perfectly and the kitchen is well-appointed with everything one needs to prep and cook meals. The location is a short walk to the very end of the island where there is a large gift shop and even more views of the water and coastline that shouldn’t be missed. Also a short walk to the Giant Stairs coastal trail (more views….). The caretaker, Dave Johnson, is a local and was always available to answer questions, offer assistance or chat about island living. I highly recommend the Red House or any of the Gills Group properties. ##### Scharmen C. ---