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Waterfront Cottage Compound Near Acadia National Park

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3 of the 5 cabins from the dock.
Mums, Main, Nans cabins on left.  Bunk hidden by trees. Grandather's on right.
Main Cabin (Sleeps 6, 2 bathrooms and has the kitchen and dining rooms)
The kitchen in the Main cabin.
Upstairs Living Room in the Main Cabin. Indoor dining table off to the right.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
6 bedrooms6 bathroomsSleeps 16

Popular amenities

  • Barbecue grill
  • Dryer
  • Hot tub
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Pool

Explore the area

Map
Pretty Marsh, ME
  • Acadia National Park
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Acadia National Park's Visitors Center
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Cadillac Mountain
    ‪35 min drive‬
  • Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor)
    ‪21 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

6 bedrooms (sleeps 16)

Bunk Cabin

4 Single Beds

Grandfather's Cabin

1 King Bed

Main Cabin - Downstairs

4 Single Beds

Main Cabin - Upstairs

1 Queen Bed

Mum's Cabin

1 King Bed

Nan's Cabin

1 King Bed

6 bathrooms

Bunk Cabin

Toilet · Shower only

Grandfather's Cabin

Toilet · Shower only

Main Cabin - Downstairs

Toilet · Shower only

Main Cabin - Upstairs

Toilet · Shower only

Mum's Cabin

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Nan's Cabin

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Waterfront Cottage Compound Near Acadia National Park

The perfect place for a large family or group of friends to vacation in a very private setting. With 5 acres of beautiful water views from each of the 5 cabins, this is the ideal place to enjoy nature and outdoor adventures during the beautiful Maine summer. Unlike other properties, the 5 separate cabins give you the opportunity to have your privacy while coming together for meals and other common activities. Please note that this listing is for all 5 cabins and we cannot rent them separately.

Our camp was built over 50 years ago by our Grandfather and is the pride and joy of our family. We have 5 acres on on the water on Mount Desert Island and the natural setting is something you have to see to believe. The kayak tours from the local towns go right by our dock! Just this summer alone we have seen seals, dolphins, kingfishers, loons, bald eagles, deer, hummingbirds, chipmunks (that eat out of your hand!), foxes, a woodchuck, and more within 10 feet of our cabins/kayaks. We are about a 10-15 minute drive from Acadia National Park which is an incredible national park where you can hike, bike, walk, rock climb and enjoy the outdoors. We are also 20 minutes from Bar Harbor and 15 minutes to SouthWest Harbor which is a picturesque fishing village and a favorite of our Mom's.

The camp still has the rustic charm that it did when it was built, but we have updated it for the comfort of our family and guests. We have had many families who stay here year after year (one family is on their 25th consecutive year with us!) and they all marvel at the serene beauty and natural setting. Many favorite activities include looking at the stars from the beach, cookouts, and lobster dinners.

Our camp has 5 different cabins, each with a water view, large balcony, and bathroom. Additionally, we have a dock (closed for May rentals), and 5 kayaks (per day these cost over $300 to rent in town) that you have access to during your stay.

We have an unheated salt water pool - please safely enjoy it!

The first cabin is what we call the Main Cabin and this is where the kitchen is for the entire property. This two-story cabin was built in 2003. Upstairs has one bedroom (queen sized bed), a bathroom, a study, a living room and large dining areas both inside and outside. Downstairs has a room that has 4 twin beds (they can be partitioned off for two separate rooms), a bathroom and another dining table. There is also a laundry room with washer and dryer downstairs.

Three of the remaining cabins have a king-size bed with Franklin Stove while the 4th cabin has a set of bunk beds and 2 twin beds - perfect for a family who wants to stay with their children. The two sides of this cabin can be partitioned off to create a more private stay if that is preferred.

If you are looking for a place to be able to have a wonderful vacation in nature with a group while also having your own space, this is the place for you!

Guest Access

You will have access to the entire property with the exception of a few closets where we keep our personal items. Please note that the dock is closed in October and reopens in June.

Interaction with Guests

We have a full time caretaker who you will have access to should there be any issues during your stay. We additionally will be available by phone or email.

The Neighborhood

We are at the end of a private one lane road and our neighbors are friendly if you see them, though you may not! Please drive slowly down the road however so as not to disturb them.

Getting Around

You will need a car to get from our camp to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, SouthWest Harbor and other local attractions.

Other Things to Note:

We have satellite internet at the camp. Due to our remote location, it is not fast nor reliable. It is usually okay for basic needs, but not guarantees. Additionally, many cell phones can access internet via 3G/4G/5G. Recent guests with AT&T service have had good coverage while other providers are spotty. There are several cute coffee shops and libraries within 15 -20 minutes if you need more consistent and reliable access.

Property manager

Christiana

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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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

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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Mount Desert

Located in Mount Desert, this cottage is on the waterfront. Bar Harbor Whale Watching is a popular attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Acadia National Park and Acadia National Park's Visitors Center. George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History and College of the Atlantic Natural History Museum are also worth visiting. Sailing and swimming offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and mountain climbing nearby.
Map
Pretty Marsh, ME

What's nearby

  • Acadia National Park - 8 min drive - 5.3 km
  • Echo Lake Beach - 19 min drive - 15.1 km
  • Acadia National Park's Visitors Center - 20 min drive - 17.3 km
  • Bar Harbor Whale Watching - 26 min drive - 22.8 km
  • Cadillac Mountain - 35 min drive - 27.3 km

Getting around

  • Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor) - 21 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Shell - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Atlantic Brewing Company - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪The Travelin Lobster - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Mother's Kitchen - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Brrrr! Harbor - ‬16 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Waterfront Cottage Compound Near Acadia National Park have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool.

Is Waterfront Cottage Compound Near Acadia National Park pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Waterfront Cottage Compound Near Acadia National Park ?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Waterfront Cottage Compound Near Acadia National Park ?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Waterfront Cottage Compound Near Acadia National Park located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within 6 miles (10 km) of Acadia National Park, Long Pond and Seal Cove Pond. Acadia Repertory Theater and Maine Granite Industry Museum are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 15 out of 15 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 15 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Trevor C.

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

Private family retreat to escape and reconnect

This was our first trip with our adult children in several years. It was also their first visit to Maine and MDI. The property had plenty of room to give everyone their "Space"and at the same time allow for reconnecting and sharing this beautiful property. We actually didn't even use 2 of the cabins on the property. Check-in was easy as the doors were not locked and didn't need to be locked the entire stay. It is located essentially at a dead end road with really no neighbors. Wildlife was abundant and had deer walking within 20 ft of the main cabin. It's as though a family friend shared their home with all of their own family memories of the last 50 years. While the house has a couple TVs and DISH. We didn't turn them on. WiFi is supplied by satellite and was fine for our needs. We didn't stream but the speed would have supported it. We enjoyed the supplied Kayaks and touring around the coast shoreline and visiting John Island. Plenty of hiking at Acadia and some time at Bar Harbor which were a short drive away. If you are looking for a great place to get away with family or friends to unplug and reconnect, this is your destination. Highly recommend to any large family or group of friends!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Thomas K.

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

A perfect week on the coast of Maine!

The property was a perfect fit for our active family. Access to Acadia N.P. was just a short drive away, and evenings were filled with lawn games, group dinners and enjoying the abundant wildlife sightings. Highly recommend this property.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura B.

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

Tranquil beauty and functional space

This property is amazing. It is secluded but close enough to Acadia and other sights on Mt Desert Island. Each cabin was clean and had everything we needed for our group. It had more supplies than we had even expected. Our group kayaked every day and enjoyed the yard and wildlife and beautiful sights. The main cabin was the hangout area for the group and the kitchen was well supplied. Stacey, the caretaker was so friendly and helpful. We enjoyed meeting him. Christiana was really helpful answering all of our questions through the booking/prep process. The whole experience was such a good one and we loved our stay and will have great memories of our stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Barb S.

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

Amazing

There were 16 people from our family and we could not have had a better time. The houses were everything that you said they would be. The views were absolutely amazing.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

David M.

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

Spectacular

A truly unique property, with four separate cabins in addition to the main house. This arrangement afforded us both family time and privacy. The view and setting are magnificent. We hope to return next year.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Devon P.

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

Incredible Place!

I got married in Acadia last year and my family and my new in-laws rented this property for the week leading up to the wedding. My family and I have stayed in hotels near downtown Bar Harbor in the past, and I do not think we will ever go back after staying here! The Welles Camp was the perfect place to unplug, relax, and celebrate our marriage with our family. The weather was absolutely perfect, and we had so much fun kayaking every morning, hiking on some trails new to us on the "quiet side" of the island, and so much more. The Welles Camp is an amazing place and we could not have imagined it being any better. We look forward to staying again in the future!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Melinda S.

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

relaxing retreat

Very quiet and perfect for a large family! Love the location!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen M.

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

Amazing week!

Just home from an amazing week at the Wells Camp. As a three generation group of 16 family members we all loved it. The house and cabins were immaculate and the main house had way more space than pics give justice. The room dividers truly allowed us to make separate rooms for people. It was neat to read a little about the family history of the Wells. The grounds are also so well kept and the caretaker was so pleasant and attentive. We had great adventures out and about on Mt Desert Island but we loved hanging at the camp too. We kayaked a lot - headed out to both the islands to explore, said hello to seals nearby and watched the porpoises swimming. We got to see the fishermen pulling in their lobster pots - so exciting! Our weather was amazing and having the pool made for some relaxing late afternoons...only a few in the group were brave enough to jump in the waters from the dock given how chilly the water is! The water was great to walk in and explore the differences at low and high tide - we even found several star fish. The lawn was great for all sorts of lawn games too. We really could not have been happier with the location. The accommodations, the activities available at the camp (having 5 kayaks was such a huge plus for us) and just wondering about the shores and woods were great. It was a simple drive to go hiking, biking, out to eat and to Bar Harbor and the rest of the island. This is truly a great place for a larger group with space for all. Thank you for sharing it with us!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Danielle R.

Exceeded all expectations! Highly recommend.

Our family stayed in these beautiful cottages for a week this September. There were plenty of activities to keep us all entertained, grandparents and toddlers alike. We kayaked, fished, swam to the islands, collected mussels, read by the pool, played lawn games, and enjoyed the stunning views in every direction. Bar Harbor is a quick drive away, as is Acadia National Park, where we went to hike and explore. Be sure to explore the large property and surrounding Mt Desert Island, as there are plenty of hidden gems to discover. The kitchen in the main cottage is extremely well-stocked with plenty of tools, dishes, and serving-ware to cook for a large group. All of the cottages were extremely clean, with plenty of fresh linens and towels (and laundry on-site). We loved having private space for everyone to sleep, allowing everyone to maintain their own schedule. This is such a unique, special place. We look forward to making many more memories here in the years to come.

10/10 Excellent

Aubrey D.

A Slice of Heaven in Maine

Our family had one of the best vacations we've ever had. The property was unbelievably beautiful, with amazing views overlooking the ocean. Each of the cabins were wonderfully decorated and cozy - perfect for the overall experience and our family. Our typical day began by waking up watching the sun rise from the foot of our beds, then cooking a delicious breakfast before going for a hike in Acadia National Park (a short drive away). In the afternoon we'd go kayaking from the properties private dock, or stroll around the beach looking for mussels to cook for dinner. One night we had a barbecue on the beach and a huge campfire - let's just say it was awesome. We obviously ate a lot of lobster and other delicious seafood as well. I obviously loved this vacation and can't recommend it enough. We can't wait to go back!

10/10 Excellent

Daniel N.

Loved staying at the Compound

What a great experience we had at the Wells Compound/Camp. We chose this place for the fifth annual Frasher/Nagy/Stephenson reunion. With 10 adults and 5 children this was the perfect place to take advantage of the great Maine weather and the beautiful surroundings of Mt Dessert Island, Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. What made this visit so memorable was the ability to use five kayaks to tool around the bay and visit the neighboring islands and having access to a salt water pool to "cool" off at the end of the day. All in all as we compare it to our stays in Lake Tahoe, the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Steamboat Springs and others we would have to rank this at the top of our list. It is a fabulous place and having Lobster around every corner isn't bad either. I think it is safe to say that we will be back Dan Nagy
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Peter N.

Coastal Maine Heaven

Our large family has been renting coastal properties on Mt. Desert Island for twenty years. There cannot be a lovelier spot on the Maine coast! The main house is modern and spacious and the cottages are comfortable and private. The grounds and property are very well maintained and in good condition. The view from everywhere is spectacular. In addition to the view, the first thing you notice is the quiet. This is the perfect property to get away from it all and relax. We enjoyed the use of the kayaks everyday and saw seals, porpoises and many types of birds. There is easy access for the boats no matter the tide. At Acadia, we typically hike, bike the carriage roads and golf. This year, I was more interested in staying at the property than anything else. We will be back next year.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2018

10/10 Excellent

Chantal T.

Incredible Property, Views, Activities!! LOVE!!

We have been coming to this property for 6 years now and absolutely love it every year. The cabins are wonderful and it is great to be able to stay in your own individual cabin and then meet up with the rest of your family/group and hang out in the main cabin. You can walk out of your door and see beautiful 360 degree views of the water and mountains. The private pier is also gorgeous and you can take out the kayaks and paddle around the water and spot dolphins and seals along the way. We go fishing, hiking, swimming in the pool, looking at the stars, eating lobster, and just enjoying the nature around us. You are a short drive to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Will keep coming back here year after year. You will LOVE it!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

ena p.

Cozy Waterfront Cabins, breathtaking views daily

We spent our 2017 family vacation at Camp Weasel in Maine, next to Acadia National Park on Mt. Dessert, near Bar Harbor. Three generations of our family were comfortably housed in the property, due to the separate cabin layouts we all enjoyed our privacy, yet it gave us an intimate feeling of all being together. The view from the property is captivating, located right on the water. We went to Cadillac Mountain, east coast’s highest mountain, did the 20 mile heartfelt Park Loaf Road, had delicious popovers at Jordan pond seated outside on the lawn, and loved hiking carriage road, built by the Rockefeller family. The bikes and kayaks that are including with the property are such a lovely addition, and great way to really enjoy the property, right on the water. The grand finale was a lobster bake at the camp. We highly recommend Camp Welles, and we plan to return again, for sure!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Naomi N., Cincinnati

Amazing idyllic retreat on the quiet side of the island

This spot was perfect for our family reunion of 16 people. Well-stocked kitchen had everything we could have wanted and easily accommodated us for meals. Having the kayaks and the pool made our stay perfect as they was always something for our active families to do in between hikes and site seeing. We saw seals from the dock and even found a stranded giant jellyfish. Visitors will appreciate a little slice of history as they learn about the Welles family and enjoy the camp that family has created over the generations.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017

About the host

Hosted by Christiana

Host profile image
Our camp was built over 50 years ago by our Grandfather and is the pride and joy of our family.

Why they chose this property

We have 5 acres on on the water on Mount Desert Island and the natural setting is something you have to see to believe. The kayak tours from the local towns go right by our dock! Just this summer alone we have seen seals, dolphins, kingfishers, loons, bald eagles, deer, hummingbirds, chipmunks (that eat out of your hand!), foxes, a woodchuck, and more within 10 feet of our cabins/kayaks. We are about a 10-15 minute drive from Acadia National Park which is an incredible national park where you can hike, bike, walk, rock climb and enjoy the outdoors. We are also 20 minutes from Bar Harbor and 15 minutes to SouthWest Harbor which is a picturesque fishing village and a favorite of our Mom's.

What makes this property unique

Unlike other properties, because ours has 5 separate cabins, you and your family can each enjoy your privacy while coming together for meals and other common activities.