--Review by account-holder's wife--
This was the most relaxing vacation I’ve had for as long as I can remember. The moment you step onto Camp Galashiels’ wraparound porch and see the ocean, all the troubles melt away and your vacation has truly begun.
Located well away from the hustle and bustle, this place is not for excitement-seekers, but rather those who want a simple, no-fuss family vacation.
The generations-old structure, lovingly maintained and preserved, is rustic, warm and cozy, yet surprisingly breezy and open, a perfect mix of refuge and lookout. Full of little treasures and wonders (like a corner porch swing facing the sea and a vintage copy of a Will Rogers diatribe against prohibition which had my husband laughing out loud), Camp Galashiels welcomed us with a fully-stocked games corner, comfy couch and window seats overlooking the ocean, plenty of extra bedding and all the intriguing nooks and crannies you would expect from a great old house. This is a place where generations of families have made happy memories, a place with a soul.
Though secluded, there are ample opportunities to stay connected, whether by meeting friendly locals during your explorations or by chatting with whoever happens to be enjoying the small beach below. Though there are never more than a few people there at any time, my young daughter had no difficulty making a new friend each day or finding a new niche to explore.
The kitchen is very well equipped with every cooking utensil known to man (three different cast iron pans, mixing bowls galore, innumerable lobster shears…), including a good selection of pantry basics as well as plastic wrap, aluminum foil and parchment paper. You literally need only to bring your own food. I found an antique mezzaluna, pointy forks (a high prize in my family), and an instrument of indeterminate use that turned out to be a vintage egg slicer. Everything here is in good condition, albeit used.
Hosts Betsy and Steve are gracious and friendly, yet discreet. Betsy didn’t insist when we showed only modest enthusiasm for lobster (though we could tell she was a bit disappointed). We capitulated, however, and bowed to local Maine tradition on our last evening, going down to the docks to buy 4 big lobsters right off the fishing boat. I have to say, this is one of the best vacation memories we are likely to ever have. Thank you, Betsy and Steve, for sharing your lovely summer home with us. This was just what the doctor ordered.