Harpswell, Maine
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.
The historic wharf at this property DOES NOT HAVE A HANDRAIL.
It was repaired to match what was originally built - a working wharf without any sides or railing. CHILDREN NEED TO BE WATCHED AT ALL TIMES while on the wharf.
BAILEY ISLAND
20 minutes from Brunswick and Bowdoin College. 40 minutes from Freeport and L.L.Bean. 55 minutes from Portland.
BOOKING
A booking using the "ONLINE BOOKING" feature is ONLY considered confirmed once you have communicated with the property manager.
1
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
A perfect holiday. Stunning. The Red House must be seen to be believed. Unbeatable on the water location with views to die for.
The red house is in the most beautiful setting and was a lovely stay for a family getaway. We’d love to come back!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
Your dates are Available!
Total
Includes taxes and fees