Entire home

Elegant Boothbay Waterfront Estate-15 acres/Gardens, Trails, Wildlife

Photo gallery for Elegant Boothbay Waterfront Estate-15 acres/Gardens, Trails, Wildlife

The Elegant waterfront Farmhouse
Sailing on the Back River. View from the Farmhouse
Lupines run wild near the pond, turtles and frogs
On-Site Gallery, Jewelry, Paintings, Photographs
The Farmhouse from the freshwater pond

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
5 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 11325.2 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Boothbay, ME
  • Boothbay Railway Village
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Boothbay Harbor Marina
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Wiscasset, ME (ISS)
    ‪32 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

5 bedrooms (sleeps 11)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 5

1 Queen Bed

4 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 3

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 4

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 5

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

Elegant Boothbay Waterfront Estate-15 acres/Gardens, Trails, Wildlife

Come away from it all....catch your breath.

Six miles from the bustle of Boothbay Harbor is a peaceful waterfront retreat, called Bold Colorful Life, set among rolling fields, meandering stone walls and richly colored perennial gardens........imagine a place that evokes your fondest memories....and brings your vacation dreams to bold colorful life....
The Bold Colorful Life estate consists of four New England-style buildings: Farmhouse and historic, 200 year-old Homer Jones barn; a centrally-located garden shed; a charming, renovated 1800s Cape and the Gallery Barn.

The Farmhouse combines new convenience with historical flavor, with exterior porches and dormers, and a new deck with fabulous river views, all surrounded by gardens.
Inside, the first floor holds a large, fully-equipped kitchen, dining area and Great Room, built and furnished with 200 year-old barn-boards and timbers. These rooms face the river, the sunsets and the pond. A cozy media room with current technology and a handicap-accessible King bedroom and bath face the courtyard. On the second floor are four additional bedrooms with private baths; two facing the courtyard, two facing the river, and a Gathering Room above the Great Room.

Wake to birdsong in the apple trees and early morning fog on the Back River....then make yourself delicious coffee and a hearty, healthy breakfast in the fully-equipped kitchen in the elegant Farmhouse.

Wander 15 acres of gardens and woodland trails....borrow a sit-on-top kayak to paddle with local seals....enjoy games, meet our friendly bald eagles and other critters.....watch the Maine painted turtles or listen to frogs on the freshwater pond......wander the park-like grounds.....enjoy our 'forest bathing' invitations on site...wander our Enchanted Trail and our Fairy Walk...take a cool dip or a sail on the river....

Refreshed, venture out into the Boothbay region to join a tour boat to see whales or puffins, or to go lobstering, shop, view our many art galleries, try some local restaurants and generally have a memorable visit. The Coastal Maine Botanical Garden is only 4 miles away! So is the world-class Boothbay Harbor Country Club golf course! Or try hiking at any of the 13 preserves within 10 miles of this home.

At the end of the day, imagine coming ‘home’ to a snack and drink on the front or new back deck....a good book in the hammock.....a sunset through the windows....and a long, delicious sleep in one of your five lovely bedrooms with four private baths, colorful bedding, paddle fans, cable TV, WiFli.

Or come home to a peaceful evening in one of your five charming bedrooms with four private baths, colorful bedding, paddle fans, cable TV, WiFli....in the Cape house across the courtyard. Listing# 325241.

Renewed again, live your bold and colorful life! Both buildings (the charming historic Cape #325241and the elegant Farmhouse #229721) are available year-round.

It's the perfect destination for a personal retreat, family or school reunion, wedding or other gathering event.

Property manager

Melissa Thornton, Owner

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 3–17
Children 6+ welcome, under parental supervision.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Please see our Policies and Information manual on our website at bold...color...life. Thanks!
Children age six and above are welcome at this property under parental supervision.
Guest groups with 4 star host rating or above are welcome to book this property.

Important information

You need to know

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
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 not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Boothbay

Located in Boothbay, this holiday home is near theme parks and on the waterfront. Dolphin Mini Golf and Boothbay Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those in the mood for shopping can visit Boothbay Farmers' Market and Damariscotta Farmer's Market. Boothbay Railway Village and Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Boothbay, ME

What's nearby

  • Boothbay Railway Village - 10 min drive - 5.5 km
  • Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens - 11 min drive - 5.5 km
  • Boothbay Harbor Marina - 15 min drive - 10.4 km
  • Opera House at Boothbay Harbor - 15 min drive - 10.5 km
  • Burnt Island Living Lighthouse - 15 min drive - 10.6 km

Getting around

  • Brunswick Station - 50 min drive
  • Wiscasset, ME (ISS) - 32 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬29 min drive
  • ‪Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Bath Ale Works - ‬29 min drive
  • ‪Pinkham's Gourmet Market - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬29 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Elegant Boothbay Waterfront Estate-15 acres/Gardens, Trails, Wildlife pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Elegant Boothbay Waterfront Estate-15 acres/Gardens, Trails, Wildlife?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Elegant Boothbay Waterfront Estate-15 acres/Gardens, Trails, Wildlife?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Elegant Boothbay Waterfront Estate-15 acres/Gardens, Trails, Wildlife located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 0.3 mi (0.5 km) from Ovens Mouth Preserve and within 6 miles (10 km) of Boothbay Railway Village and Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. Dolphin Mini Golf and Hodgdon Island are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 69 out of 72 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 72 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 72 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 72 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 72 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jayne and Darrell S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Colorful week in Maine

Super location. Lots of room to spread out in house. Very unique and quirky resident that made us feel instantly at home. Beautiful property with so much to do and so much space for kids to run and play. Perfect for bike rides and runs and water fun. Super close to town. Owner extremely helpful with a wealth of knowledge and recommendations for fun in the area.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Suzy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome property!

We had a delightful stay at this home! Melissa was a gracious host and greeted us to review the grounds and property! She kept in constant communication throughout our week and gave us great recommendations for local restaurants and activities. My children and grandchildren enjoyed using the kayaks. The setting was peaceful and quiet. The house was equipped with anything you might need! The layout worked perfectly for our multigenerational family. I would definitely recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Barbara T.

Girls' Weekend Getaway

Our stay was absolutely wonderful! Melissa made our time at her retreat feel like home. She was very hospitable and by the time we left, I felt like I had known her for years!

10/10 Excellent

Taylor B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great week in Boothbay

Melissa is a superb host and took the time to walk us through everything about the house and the area. Great spot with beautiful views and the great room is truly a great place for everyone to gather. It also helped that the weather cooperated for almost the entire week. Highly recommend.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth D.

Wonderful, off the beaten path

Off the beaten path but close to everything in Booth Bay. Great for a large group. Melissa greeted us and answered all of our questions. The house had everything we needed. We would stay there again!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Leslee B., Sebago Maine

A wonderful time, enjoyed every minute.

Melissa couldn't have been a better host, her warmth, wit and respect for our needs were all that we wished for. She is such an interesting person, passionate about her artfully restored farmhouse. She shared her love of the area and gave us a lot of good suggestions. Breakfast the next morning was delicious.

10/10 Excellent

Jamilah T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great experience

The property is conveniently located on the river and not far from town. Our host was very accommodating and provided all of the resources we need to enjoy or stay. It’s a definite do over for us. We hope to bring a bigger group next year.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2020
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Richard P.

a wonderful place to stay

The farmhouse is a spacious nicely decorated relaxing vacation spot. It is well equipped with comfortable beds and clean through out. The farmhouse in a beautiful setting overlooking a tidal inlet. We were a large group in town for a wedding. Our time at the farm house was very enjoyable. There was plenty or room for all of us, we had a great time sitting around the giant table and laughing the night away. Just be careful of the family airlooms that adorn the place.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

David G.

Georgia Dawgs

The house was brightly colored and inviting from the moment we stepped inside. There were plenty of supplies throughout the beautiful home, and Melissa had thought of everything we might need during our stay. When we had questions or needs came up, Melissa was available immediately to do whatever was necessary to make it happen. The grounds are beautifully manicured and there is plenty of yard space for children to run and play. We especially enjoyed the rocking chairs on the front porch and the ones on the back deck.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017

10/10 Excellent

Lisa U., Jacksonville, Florida

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful haven in Boothbay!

My father , who will be 90 soon, grew up visiting his cousins in Maine. He wanted the whole family to go again and stay in one big house! There were 12 of us and one, my mother, is physically disabled and can’t do stairs. This house worked perfectly for us! There was a handicapped accessible bedroom and bathroom on the first floor and lots of space to gather in. We were able to have all 12 people eat meals together at the huge dining table. The grounds are beautiful and there are several kayaks you can borrow. There is a view of the river from the back deck and we saw deer and a groundhog out back! It is very peaceful and secluded, but still not far from town. Melissa was great to work with and very communicative! We would definitely stay there again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brian R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Had a great time here!

Just back from 8 nights at Bold Colorful Life and had a total blast! We were a party of eight — four adults and four 9- and 10-year old girls — and everything about this place was great. The kitchen and dining area are spacious and well-equipped, the deck large with a great view of the river (and some occasional pesky mosquitoes), the bedrooms comfortable and quirky. The property itself is fantastic — tons of places to explore, a pond to catch endless frogs in and a lovely river to kayak in during high tide. Melissa, the owner, is charming, responsive and had many great recommendations. The house is close enough to Boothbay (~10 mins), yet far away for some privacy, which we appreciated. And there are so many great things to do nearby: hiking, swimming at Knickerbocker Pond (highly recommended!), lighthouses, Pemaquid Beach, Ocean Point, Monhegan Island. It was a bit too far from Acadia NP for a day trip, but a quick hour to Camden State Park for some good hiking. All in all, it’s a perfect place for a group getaway. Highly recommended and we’d happily stay here again.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Susie T.

Large place needed for large party

We had to find a place for 7 adults and 3 children for a family reunion for the memorial for my mother. Places that can accommodate parties that large can be difficult to find. From the moment I began to communicate with Melissa (and mind you this was a very emotional time), I felt her kindness and her enthusiasm for our reunion at her farmhouse. I was BLOWN AWAY upon arrival to the property and even more so when she gave us the tour of the grounds and the home. We never felt crowded and the kitchen was SPECTACULAR! Lots of tears, lots of laughter and LOTS of great meals filled 802 Back River Road during our week. The place is absolutely MAGICAL both inside and out. The price may sound high at first but when split it up it was quite reasonable. You will not regret it! Thank you, Melissa, for everything!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Marian H.

Super Vacation Home with all the right stuff!

We are a family of 10. Last year we stayed in the Cape House which was lovely. This year we decided to stay in the bigger Farmhouse. It is a fantastic house. Truly a home away from home. My teenage daughter exclaimed "this place is awesome!" Everyone was very comfortable and happy having their own rooms and bathrooms. My 86 year old mother was very happy with her bathroom which was handicap equipped. The kitchen is well equipped and the large barn door kitchen table is a masterpiece! There is plenty of room for everyone and plenty of play space inside and out to keep our two toddlers happy. We also love the location. It is quiet and woodsy with a great view of the water. It is also minutes to downtown Boothbay. Melissa is a pleasure and very accommodating. We have already booked our return trip for next summer. Thanks Melissa from a very happy family!

10/10 Excellent

Sarah R.

Coming back— Soon!!!

We couldn't have picked a better spot to recapture and share with family & friends our memories of Down East Maine. First the all important tour— nice touch because there was so much there. It was Father's Day, so for the fist day we decided to make a Lobster feast (Pinkhams for Lobster) at the Farm. Everything was accurate down to the last detail. There really was so much to do right there, with all the trails, and gardens (the girls adored the fairy-gardening, kayaking, etc... but as far as outside activities, the Cabbage Island tour was the all-around favorite, with Botanical Gardens coming in a close second—oh, and the Royal River Grillhouse in Freeport on our way back to Portland was Fabulous. Still, for me, another week at home at Bold Colorful Life Farm, listening to the night frogs, smelling the peonies, and cooking up more lobster would have been just fine. Thanks for making everything so perfect, Melissa.

10/10 Excellent

Sharon Z., Beverly, Ma USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family gathering in Boothbay at the rainbow house.

Three generations stayed with 4 grandchildren ranging in age from 3 - 11. The grandchildren were immediately enthralled with the collection of stuffed animals, games, musical instruments and interesting artifacts in the library and the TV room. They nicknamed the house, the rainbow house because of the vivid colors in each bedroom. It was perfect for us having 5 bedrooms and each bedroom having its own bathroom. The kitchen is well equipped and the grounds are a pleasure to stroll around and explore. Unfortunately due to Covid we were not permitted to entertain other members of our family, not staying at the house, but it would be perfect for a large gathering with a fabulous fire pit and lots of space. My husband and I used the kayaks the first morning and enjoyed going out, but the access is tricky for young children. We have stayed in Boothbay Harbor over many years, so this was a different location for us, but very easy to get into Boothbay Harbor and also convenient to the playground and The Maine Coastal Gardens. I would highly recommend it as a place to stay for a large group.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kelli C.

A beautiful spot for a wedding!

My fiancee (now husband!) and I, along with our families, rented both the farmhouse and cape house on this property for a week in early September. At the end of the week, we had a small wedding in the back yard, overlooking the beautiful Back River. We simply could not have asked for a better setting for our wedding!! The property is absolutely lovely, and the view of the Back River from the farmhouse is breathtaking. The houses are bold, colorful, and beautiful, as is the proprietor, Melissa! With 9 bedrooms between the two houses (5 in the farmhouse and 4 in the cape), each with a private bathroom, this place would be perfect for any large group! Finally, the location of this property is perfect- close enough to Boothbay Harbor to easily pop into town for shopping or dinner, but far enough out of town to get away from the hubbub and enjoy some peace and quiet! Melissa is warm and welcoming, and makes you feel like family from the moment you arrive. What a beautiful place for a vacation, and a wonderful way to start our married life! Thanks Melissa!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Linda M., Goffstown, NH, USA

Wow what a great place!- Linda,Goffstown,NH

My 3 sisters and all of our spouses spent a long weekend at this fabulous farmhouse from 7/10-7/13/09. All 8 of us had a fantastic time. The farmhouse is a gorgeous creation by Melissa Thornton. She has taken pieces from the barn that once stood on the property and built this beautiful farmhouse with a spectacular view of the river that is surrounded by acres of wonderful wildlife of all kinds. The house has 5 beautiful colorful bedrooms all with their own baths. The kitchen is enormous with everything you need. Fully stocked and a table that seats 14 easily. The greatroom is full of windows and more windows that also look out over the river. Lots of space in this very large cathedral ceiling room. It's the perfect place to hang out together and read, do puzzles, play games or just talk and laugh Just awesome! So much to offer right on-site and if you are looking to get out and about, the beautiful botanical gardens and Boothbay Harbor are only minutes away. I can't say enough about the property and Melissa was a fantastic host. She was very accommodating and attentive to her guests. Would definitely return for another stay!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Brian K., Westford

Big, Spacious - Perfect!

This is a fantastic spot! Between the Farmhouse and the grounds, a lot of space to unwind and relax and enjoy Boothbay. We had a group of 8, split evenly among adults and kids. The kids had plenty of choices for where to play inside and do their thing, and that didn't compete with what the adults wanted to do. The Library/Study on the main floor is an especially cool space. Love the large Kitchen and Dining Room. Easily handled the 8 of us when making meals and fixing snacks & cocktails. The outside and backyard was really nice. Lots to explore. The kids loved the various hammocks! We made good use of both the kayaks and the outside games/toys (wife ball, etc.). So many options; easy to keep the day rolling without anyone saying they are bored! Nice view of the tidal river from both inside the house and from the back deck. Just the right amount of water view to help you appreciate the area and set the right atmosphere. Very convenient location. It's just 15 minutes to downtown Boothbay Harbor and the all the restaurants and shopping. You don't have to over-plan the day in order to get into town. We really enjoyed our stay and Melissa was more than accommodating. Not that we needed anything but she was available if we needed her. I'd definitely go back!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Perfect rental for group of friends!

A group of 8 ladies rented this farmhouse for a weekend getaway in June. We live in New Hampshire and found the rental online. Boothbay Harbor was fun to explore for a day. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is a MUST visit. Spend at least 3 hours there. Great for the family and any garden lovers. This was a perfect rental for our group! Plenty of private space for everyone and great community rooms: kitchen, porch and living area. The kitchen was a highlight with the long table to enjoy meals and games after dinners. The large living room with the wall of windows was relaxing to sit, read, listen to music and enjoy the view. We enjoyed coffee on the deck seeing a deer in the field and listened to many birds singing beautifully every morning. The house is decorated with beautiful vibrant, fun colors. The kitchen is well stocked with plenty of dishes, drinkware & serving pieces which all feel new - not worn as some rentals. Great rental for a group - we felt like we were in someone's country home Melissa was attentive to any need we might have and responded so quickly as we corresponded planning our weekend away. The rooms were so clean as were the bathrooms. The color coordination of all the rooms was so creative.. definitly planned by an artist! This is a special rental that would be wonderful for family or small group - comes highly recommended!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

marianne Z.

Great Family Vacation State

The "Bold Colorful Life Inn" we rented for 7days was the best choice I had ever made for my family reunion. We were 8 adults and 2 infants in a 5 suite mansion. Each room had its own bath and theme colored. Plush robes were provided, which we all wore every morning for breakfast. The space in the kitchen and dining area easily sits 20 people and with plenty of counter space for self serve meals. The house was large enough that we could all be doing separate activities at the same time without disturbing each other or those who preferred to sleep in the bedrooms on the first or second floor. The green lawn in front of the house provided a safe heaven for the little ones to crawl or run around while the adults played freesbe, BBQ or simply sat on the porch. The house was 10minutes by car from "downtown" Boothbay, were we rented kayaks and went on several tours like whale watching and "lobstering". A big and nice playground was between the house and downtown, a great location to allow the little ones to play while the adults rested. Melissa, the owner of Bold Colorful is a great hostess. She provided maps, information regarding tours and also had several items in the fridge we could use as a start up upon our arrival. The kitchen as well as each room were complete, with anything you needed from blenders to waffle makes. The bathrooms and bedrooms with linens, pillows, blankets, towels, hair dryers and more. When our vacation was over, we also left some left overs for the next renters and also new items they would need like coffee filters and sugar. Last but not least, Melissa was always close by not only to chat, but in case of emergency. Luckily we had no emergencies despite the wide range of ages from 9 months to 87 years old gread grandparents. If you plan to go to Maine and have a good time in a great place, go to Bold Colorful Life Inn. I am sure you won't regret it. How did I find it? It's the best well kept secret in Maine.

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing retreat with private rooms and baths for everyone

Beautifully decorated home in beautiful setting. Everyone enjoyed their stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lorri B., ESSEX, MD

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A fabulous experience.

We arrived to find the most amazing Estate ever. The grounds are beautiful, the house exceptional and the owner Melissa the perfect hostess. She gave us the grand tour, plus a whole lot more. She gave us tips on where to dine, shop and sight see. Booth Bay is the perfect getaway. We all returned rejuvenated and ready to march on. Five stars is not a high enough rating in our book. We will definitely be booking another stay at The Bold Colorful Life Estate.

10/10 Excellent

Angela B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Serenity in Boothbay

We just spent a week at Bold Colorful Life an idyllic property in Boothbay. Five of us, former ski buddies, chose this beautiful farmhouse for our reunion. The interior boasts five colorful bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom, a soaring library, a large well equipped kitchen and dining room and a loft area with additional seating. Outside, we were provided with lots of room to spread out. There are large decks that overlook magnificent grounds and the ever changing tide of Back River, which is easily accessed by the mowed paths that intertwine the property. I spent a lot of time reading on the back deck and watching the many varieties that frequent the feeders. Also placed throughout the lovely landscaped grounds are benches where one can find solitude and serenity. Melissa was the perfect host; welcoming, considerate and very helpful. I would not definitely recommend this beautiful home to anyone who enjoys getting away from it all.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Glenn D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property, great location, warm and engaged host

Rented the farmhouse for our extended family of seven for a week during the COVID summer of 2020. The entire process, from pre-contract discussion to check-in through check-out was easy, thoughtful, and safely accomplished. Melissa, the property owner and host, is near-enough to interact with when needed (and also to provide fresh garden vegetables!), but never intrusive on her guests' use of the house and the property. The home is fully equipped, from the kitchen with its myriad appliances, utensils, plates, pantry staples, etc., to the colorful bedrooms, each with a clean and fully functional bathroom. The library is a wonderful place to relax, read, play piano, or take a nap, the porch is great for watching the river over a morning cup of coffee or evening glass of wine, and the walking paths, hammocks, pond, fire pit, and river all provide ample opportunity to enjoy being outdoors in the pleasant Maine weather. Outdoor activities are abundant, both on the property and off, and Melissa provided many useful suggestions for how we could take advantage of all. All in all, it was a great week at a great location, and we all agreed that we would love to do it again.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Alexis L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Boothbay getaway

Lovely location and view, large house, well equipped kitchen/grill. Love the library! Host was very gracious. Good location near activities in Boothbay as well.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2020

About the host

Hosted by Melissa Thornton, Owner

Host profile image
I’ve been saving for my ‘dream house’ for 40 years....and I fell in love with kayaking about 12 years ago. After a five year search through waterfront properties in CT, the Adirondacks, MA, NH and finally ME, this was the property that offered the combination of things I'd been seeking. And it was perfect for building vacation rentals so that the awesome environment could be shared.

The setting is idyllic...with fields, woods, many perennial gardens, apple trees, lilac trees and old stone walls wandering down to the Back River. There are 15 acres of land, facing west for sunsets, on the protected waterfront of Maine and with a big freshwater pond and woodlands. The whole estate sits atop Maine ledge, which is sculpted to fall gently towards the water.

It's in an area where I am able, in the 'off-season', to offer weekend and week-long retreats that combine personal growth, spirituality and 'back to nature' events, including hiking, paddling and exploring the nearby Botanical Gardens. And I want to share this beauty with as many people who love Nature and the wild, wonderful aspects of Maine as possible...so vacation rentals are the perfect answer.

Why they chose this property

Mother Nature has shaped this property to be both elegant and beautiful...the buildings are on the plateau at the top of the estate and the lawns and gardens, stone walls and woodlands slope gently down and down to the Back River. A great Blue Heron often visits the freshwater pond; then flies off towards the river. Our local pair of bald eagles are seen wheeling overhead regularly as the tides change. A huge porcupine was seen at the south end of the property recently and we have visits from foxes and deer, ospreys and hawks.
The property has a healing energy which most people feel the moment they step onto it. A visit here fills the vision with color, the spirits with hope and the body with calm and peace.

What makes this property unique

The Boothbay peninsula offers the perfect getaway. The area is naturally breath-taking, with forests and fields, farms and gardens, brash rocky coastline and gentle coves and lakes.
Boothbay Harbor is a charming town with lots of engaging activities and it’s just six miles down the road. This is the area to go shopping, visit galleries and craft fairs, sample local fare at great restaurants, enjoy deep water activities like whale watching and lobster-boating.

And there are natural bonuses: 13 nature preserves for hiking within 10 miles---5 within 5 miles---one within 1/2 mile; a world-class Botanical Garden within 4 miles; kayaking possibilities in rivers and lakes and the Atlantic. We also have a world-class golf course 4 miles away.
The Rockland/Camden area and Freeport shopping are within an hour's drive in either direction; and my favorite Maine park, Acadia National Park is just under three hours away. Nova Scotia and Prince Edward island, both favorite parts of Canada, are nearby too…
The Bold Colorful Life Estate is also a Retreat Center in the off-season, so plan to join us for a Retreat for personal growth, renewal and spiritual centering...The Bold Colorful Life Gallery offers colorful elegant jewelry, stunning natural photographs, and dramatic works of art in oil and pastel to our rental guests...when it's open.

Languages:

English