Entire home

Rattlesnake Island Retreat (Boat Required)

Photo gallery for Rattlesnake Island Retreat (Boat Required)

Sandy bottom swimming area
Exterior
Swim raft is generally available during rental.  Mooring ball just beyond raft.
Property grounds
Aerial view

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 883.6 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Pet-friendly
  • Dryer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Washer
  • Outdoor space
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Alton, NH
  • Lake Winnipesaukee
    ‪38 min drive‬
  • Gunstock Mountain Resort
    ‪46 min drive‬
  • Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion at Meadowbrook
    ‪49 min drive‬
  • Laconia, NH (LCI-Laconia Municipal)
    ‪50 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 2

2 Queen Beds

Bedroom 3

2 Double Beds

Master Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Rattlesnake Island Retreat (Boat Required)

Island Property: Renters Must Have Their Own Boat To Access.

Island living with 100 feet of shoreline facing the broads of Lake Winnipesaukee. This private retreat is a fully functional home. There is electric service, full plumbing, and hot water. The kitchen is stocked with all the essentials for your stay, along with all linens and towels.

At the water, there is a breakwater, and dock space for 1 boat up to 26 feet. There are also steps for entry into the gradually sloped, sandy bottom swimming area. From the dock, you have incredible views of the Whites, and Ossipee mountain range to the north, and can watch both sun up, and sun down.

There are about 40 steps from the dock to the property that may be difficult for elderly visitors. The steps lead you to a large deck that stretches the length of the home and is perfect for entertaining guests. The deck contains a gas grill, picnic table, additional dining table, and a modern semi-circular couch and gas fire pit which is sure to be a welcoming place to relax at the end of the day.

There are 3 bedrooms. While one bedroom has access by walking through another, each has their own sliding glass door for access to/from the deck.

The main living space has an entertainment center with TV/DVD, couches, and games for your enjoyment. There is now internet, and the main cellular services provide excellent service.

Out the back of the property, there are miles of hiking trails. Deer can often be spotted as you climb to the top of the tallest island on the lake. Once at the top, there are panoramic views of the lake, and is the perfect place to watch the sun go down.

This property is located on the broad side of Lake Winnipesaukee and inclement weather may make for difficult boating. It is recommended to be an experienced boater when renting this property. Parking and launching available through local marinas.

Property manager

Rob LaRocque

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Mountain view

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 28
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Under strict adult supervision
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: limit 3 total
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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 indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Alton Bay

Located in Alton Bay, this holiday home is in the mountains and on the waterfront. Wolfeboro Abenaki Ski Area and Ellacoya State Park are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lake Winnipesaukee and Wentworth State Park. Travelling with kids? Consider Hampshire Pewter Co. and Libby Museum. Discover the area's water adventures with jet skiing and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain climbing and hiking/biking trails.
Map
Alton, NH

What's nearby

  • Sleepers Island - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Lake Winnipesaukee - 38 min drive - 33.6 km
  • Ellacoya State Park - 42 min drive - 39.2 km
  • Gunstock Mountain Resort - 46 min drive - 42.0 km
  • Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion at Meadowbrook - 49 min drive - 45.6 km

Getting around

  • Tilton Station - 57 min drive
  • Laconia, NH (LCI-Laconia Municipal) - 50 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Marker 21 - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Panorama Pub Top Of Gunstock - ‬55 min drive
  • ‪Harvest Market - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪The Inn on Main - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Saka Japanese Restaurant - ‬15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Rattlesnake Island Retreat (Boat Required) pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 3 total).

What time is check-in at Rattlesnake Island Retreat (Boat Required)?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Rattlesnake Island Retreat (Boat Required)?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Rattlesnake Island Retreat (Boat Required) located?

This family-friendly Alton Bay holiday home is located on the waterfront, within 2 mi (3 km) of Sleepers Island and Carry Beach. Lake Winnipesaukee is 2.8 mi (4.5 km) away.

Reviews

9.8

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. 33 out of 36 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 36 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 36 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 36 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Paul M.

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

Lake Stay

Incredible island property. Owner was wonderful and extremely responsive. House exceeded all expectations.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

David L.

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

Great Island living

We've stayed on many different islands over 30 years vacationing on Lake Winnipesaukee and this place is great. Beautiful views, good swimming area and dock. You can see the neighbors but everyone keeps to themselves so you have privacy. The stairs (41 of them) can be challenging if older guests or people with leg problems come to visit. Everything worked properly and there are all the little necessities you will need there. Fire pit and all the ingredients to make smores!! Great place to hike w amazing views of the lake. If you have a boat the launching at (nearby) West Alton Marina is easy and they are very accommodating there as well. GREAT VACATION
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrea J.

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

Rattlesnake retreat

Wonderful stay on Rattlesnake. Highly recommend this spot. The inside is the perfect size, outside has multiple hangout spots with gorgeous views. Hiking trails are excellent. I was pleasantly surprised to find the sandy bottom swimming area. Kitchen has all the essentials and the owners are super helpful and responsive.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

Tom D.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness

Beautiful Lake Views & Great Fishing

The check-in instructions provided by the owner were informative. The dock didn't have the house number on it as described in the instructions, but I recognized the house by the pictures in the listing and found it no problem. The aluminum dock fit our 22 ft boat no problem. Accessing the locked house was easy using a passcode. The entry door opens into the kitchen/living room. The kitchen had everything needed. We were disappointed on arrival to find the cleanliness in the kitchen and bathroom wasn't up to standards we've experienced at many other VRBOs. Every room has a slider with a great view of the lake. The sliders lead to a huge gated deck which was great for dogs and kids. This amazing deck has a gas grill and fire pit, outdoor furniture, and 2 dining tables. The water tasted good, and there was always plenty of hot water. The bass fishing during our week at this property was AMAZING! We were catching smallmouth bass one after the other, and all very good size! Instead of the marina recommended by the owner (West Alton), we used Roberts Cove Marina. The fees for launching and parking are much less, and it's family owned/operated. The boat ride is a few minutes longer to that marina, but the cost savings make up for it.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

myles h.

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

Rattlesnake island

This island property was very clean and well maintained. Dock fit my 25' boat with ease , and there was a nice area to swim. Nice and quiet too.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer B.

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

Great vacation

House was perfect, weather was great. We will be back next year!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rick K.

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

Great location

Happy to have stayed in the past and look forward to an August stay coming up. Location is great on the lake. Convenient use of West Alton Marina (POC is now Nathan). Rob has / is very helpful with any questions. This year, WiFi was added that kids enjoyed. Love the WiFi authentication passphrase chosen. Hope to continue stay in 2023.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

8/10 Good

Nicole B.

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

Lovely location with nice family touches

Our family stayed at the Property the last weekend of July. The location was great and the Cabin did not disappoint. The beds were very comfortable and there were plenty of blankets and linens. Despite the lack of A/C the temperature was very manageable with the box fans provided. The dockage was exceptionally easy to get in and out of, even on days with unusually windy weather. We hiked to the top of the summit of the island and saw white tailed deer upon our path. We had a lovely time. I only give the property four stars because the deck could use a good power washing. I would have loved to have been able to use the outdoor furniture more. Unfortunately the furniture was covered in spiders and debris. We made due, but the outdoor area was so amazing that it’s a shame not to be out there all the time! We still loved every minute of our stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Rick K.

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

Wonderful week

The location can’t be beat! We all loved the swimming which included the walk in stairs, the newer metal dock, the floating swim platform, etc. This was the first trip to the lake where we never traveled to a place to go swimming, we always stayed at the house. The house itself was very clean and well appointed. Having a whole house water filtration system made it great, and easy for water usage. Enjoyed the propane table top fire pit for s’mores a couple times and was able to use the propane grill for burgers and steaks. The location, on Rattlesnake Island is great for our family in its proximity to Wolfboro and Alton Bay, two family favorite towns to dock up and visit, especially for ice cream treats. Definitely worked well to arrange our visit with West Alton Marina, in regards to launching, retrieving, and parking the truck and trailer during our stay. Ask for John at the Marina,. Next visit to the island we plan on exploring the trails and hopefully catch a sunset or just the views from the top. The weather worked out well for us during our stay which was a great plus! While there is a fan in each bedroom, the only item that would have improved the stay would have been perhaps a single centralized Air conditioning unit that the fans could then move around as a couple nights were tough given the level of humidity. Rob was very responsive to any initial questions we had and the welcome basket of s’mores ingredients, roasting sticks, etc. we’re great! All that said, the fact we’ve already booked a visit in July and August of 2022 says it’s all, we enjoyed it! Already looking forward to next year! Thanks
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Dorinda M.

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

Living Lake Life

We tremendously enjoyed our stay. Everything was as described in the listing. Thank you for the welcome basket! We especially enjoyed the swim raft and even had a little “rafty hour” party on it to watch the magnificent sunsets! Sooo relaxing! We have already booked our return for next summer. Can’t wait!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Arik A.

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

Great Quiet Getaway

We had a great time. The property was exactly as described, so there were no surprises. Loved the view from the Huge deck. There are neighbors, but the property is tucked away in a way that makes you feel like you are in your own private retreat. This was our first time on one of the islands, but we loved it. Would love to go back.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Elisabeth T.

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

Relaxing week.

Great spot. Beautiful views. The house was very comfortable and had everything we needed. Would definitely recommend this to others.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Abby P., Westborough

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

Great stay!

We had a wonderful family vacation on Rattlesnake! Rob was an amazing host, and very easy to communicate with. The property was very clean & quiet, and the welcome basket was a great touch! We lucked out with great weather most of the week we were there, and on the one day we couldn’t take the boat out due to wind, we hiked the beautiful trails out behind the property and watched the sunset from the summit. The views from both the house, and the summit, were amazing! I’d recommend this rental to anyone!
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Kerry L.

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

Beautiful retreat

My friends and I returned here this summer after our visit last year. We sailed over and moored our boat and rowed our dingy into shore. The weather was perfect. The house has everything you could need, and the owner is always quick to respond with questions. My dog and I loved our daily hikes to the top of the island. We definitely plan to return again!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Kristy L.

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

Best Place on the Lake!!!

My husband and I have been vacationing on Lake Winnipesaukee for 20+ years and this is the best place we have stayed in. The house is very clean and very well supplied with everything you need for your stay. The house is cozy and beautifully decorated with Lake themes in every room. The deck is huge and amazing!! We loved the fire pit and enjoyed making s’mores. My son and I took an adventure on the hiking trails on Rattlesnake right outside the back door. The view from the house and the dock were perfect. There’s not a better place on the lake. We didn’t even feel the need to venture out in our boat because this home and location has everything you need! If you’re looking for a place to stay on the lake that has it all, this is the place! Thank you to Rob and Melissa for being great hosts and sharing your home. We’ll be back next year!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Leslie H.

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

AMAZING!

If you are looking to escape the world with all the comforts of home this is a fantastic choice! Booking and check in was a breeze, Rob is very informative, honest, and accommodating! Myself, husband, and our 4 children ages 23, 9, and 6 were looking to enjoy our Annual Winni Vacation with a bit more adventure than years past! We wanted to give island life a try, It did not disappoint we all enjoyed every minute! Boating, swimming, board games, family meals at the giant table on the deck, sunset, Super Mario Brothers on the old school Nintendo, relaxing in front of the fire, loons, watching the boats go by, sunrise, and sunset.... there was something for everyone! The home is very clean, well stocked, and offers charm with pride of ownership throughout! Rob is such a wonderful host! We can’t wait to return next year!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Heather Q.

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

Perfect family vacation + dog

We loved every minute of our trip! We rented a panting boat from Faye’s Boatyard. 20 minute boat ride to the property. Awesome float in the lake perfect for swimming and relaxing. The lake water is crystal clear. Tons of fishing, boating and swimming. Sally’s gut is amazing. The property is clean and comfortable with everything you need. Beautiful hiking right out our back door. Spent as much time as we could on the expansive and comfortable deck. Rob is gracious and available. A great host. Highly recommend!!

10/10 Excellent

Stephen B.

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

First time on an island on the broads. Great views great accommodations

Would definitely come back. We had a great time and the weather was all New England from 51’ one dat to 94’ the next.

10/10 Excellent

Mike S.

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

Short vacation

My wife and I had a great time relaxing this property looking at the lake on for swims walks in I do a lot of birdwatching and had good numbers of species. Just a really great experience crystal clear water great spot
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Kendra F., Barrington Nh USA

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

Another Great Stay!

Rob actually did some great upgrades to the property since last year. They again go out of their way to try and make vacationing at their home seem like your home away from home. Did have some rain time and they have games and some movies to keep us entertained. For us it is perfect! Ages 14-59 ALL had a great time and would absolutely come back. Rattlesnake offers a great hike and amazing lake views from highest point on the lake. Thank you!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Greer B.

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

Island living

Great relaxing spot with all the touches of home. Island location is close to Wolfeboro for trips into town for food and groceries. We can’t wait to come back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Kendra F., Barrington Nh USA

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

Perfect Island Home!

House is setup with everything to make you feel at home, perfect! sound system, towels (beach and bath) great full kitchen, waterfront, hiking trails. Ages 13 to 67 all enjoyed! We had many in and out during our stay and with beds, couches it suited us all. Used Libby Museum launch and parking for free. Owners are great communicators and friendly. THANK YOU! Looking to book next year and it will be like going home.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Rattlesnake!

We enjoyed being in middle of lake, saw Wolfboro, Gilford, Laconia, Meredith. Enjoyed water sports, saw a concert. Place was better than described. Rob has done some upgrades! The rock break water protected our boat. Having a grill and fireplace were perfect. The deck is jumbo. Saw sunrise every morning from master bedroom. Nice welcome basket!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

David H., Westford

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

Have Boat, Will Travel

If you want a reason to use your boat for more than just joyrides, rent a place on an island. Your boat becomes your car. Visiting friends, food shopping, and ok, joyriding. Ron's place on Rattlesnake Island is very well supplied, has a modern kitchen and bath, comfortable beds, nice dock and breakwater, and right now, warm clear lake water. Beautiful sunrise and sunsets. Hiking, blueberries, views. If you are a good skipper, and would rather take the stairs where you work rather than the elevator, this place is a great choice. The owner, Rob, was very helpful and attentive. If you can stay thru your second weekend and leave on a Monday, the drive back to reality will be a little more relaxing. Two thumbs up for the Rattlesnake retreat.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Heidi F.

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

Excellent island get away

Rob and Melissa’s home is exactly as described. They took care to leave instructions, a welcome basket and pet friendly. Nice neighbors too. Quite and relaxing. A wonderful get away.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019

About the host

Hosted by Rob LaRocque

Host profile image
I am a New Hampshire native- born and raised. After graduating from the University of New Hampshire in 2004, I began my career in Finance. While I am not working, I generally spend my time enjoying one of my many favorite hobbies which include hiking, boating, skiing, SCUBA diving, and BBQing. Basically anything outdoors.

When the property is not being rented, I am generally there throughout the summer months enjoying with friends and family. As I am new to renting and the property, I have been putting the majority of my time, and rental income back into the property and making improvements as I go. Often times, these improvements are based off of my renter's input to ensure I consistently improve on the experiences my guests have.

Why they chose this property

For as long as I can remember, I have always wanted a place on a lake. A good friend of mine got me turned on to the island life as he originally purchased land on Rattlesnake, and gradually built himself a beautiful home. I would visit every summer and eventually decided to take advantage of a property that went up for sale.

What makes this property unique

The benefits that I see for this property are numerous. Personally, I prefer the island life as time seems to move a little slower and tends to be more relaxed. Being on an island ensures you plan ahead, take only what you need, and not be distracted by the mainland noises and traffic. While the property is waterfront on one of the busiest lakes in NH, you would never know it once the sun goes down and the noises from the daily grind drift away. There is an enhanced sense of privacy. The neighbors on the island are by nature very friendly, easy-going, and helpful. This specific property provides easy access to a number of attractions around the lake. Unlike other lakes, each town allows for free, public docking to run your errands, or enjoy a night out on the town. I am yet to receive a mosquito bite while at the property... the moving water and breeze tends to keep them all away. The property affords all of the comforts of mainland living, yet offers the ability to have as much enjoyment as you want whether that comes in the form of blending up your cocktails with some good tunes, or sitting back, reading a book, and staring at the mountains.

Languages:

English