Entire home

THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room

Choose dates to view prices

your current months are December, 2024 and January, 2025.
December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room

Terrace/patio
Interior
Miscellaneous
Interior
Exterior

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Pet-friendly
    Pet-friendly
  • Sea view
    Sea view

Explore the area

Map
Harpswell, ME
  • Casco Bay
    1 min walk
  • Land's End Gift Shop
    5 min walk
  • Bailey Island Bridge
    3 min drive
  • Portland, ME (PWM-Portland Intl. Jetport)
    62 min drive

Room options

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room

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.


BAILEY ISLAND
20 minutes from Brunswick and Bowdoin College. 40 minutes from Freeport and L.L.Bean. 55 minutes from Portland.


PETS
Pets are welcome at The Red House and will incur a fee of $60 per night per pet. This is non-negotiable. Everyone says, "My pet would never damage anything," but sadly, experience has proven that's not always the case.

BOOKING
A booking using the "ONLINE BOOKING" feature is ONLY considered confirmed once you have communicated with the property manager.
During your stay at this cottage, you're just a quick walk from Casco Bay. Enjoy your stay with amenities like a kitchen and 1.5 bathrooms in the cottage.
  • The cottage offers a kitchen, 1.5 bathrooms, and a patio
  • Steps from Casco Bay and 5 minutes by foot from Land's End Gift Shop
This cottage offers its guests barbecue grills and a garden. The front desk is open around the clock.

This Bailey Island cottage is smoke free.

Property manager

Carter Smith

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach
  • Beach towels

Pool/Spa

  • Massages

Internet

  • WiFi available

Parking and transport

  • On-site parking
  • Car recommended

Kitchen

  • Fridge
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Blender
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Paper towels
  • Coffee grinder

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 1.5 bathrooms
  • Hairdryer
  • Towels provided
  • Toilet paper
  • Soap

Living spaces

  • Living room
  • Dining room

Entertainment

  • Games
  • Books
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Patio
  • Barbecue
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Near a laundromat

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 1 total (up to 23 kg per pet)
  • Welcoming dogs only

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: 500$ fee if cleaner thinks indoor smoking occurred

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • Near the ocean
  • On the waterfront
  • Near a hospital
  • Near outlet shopping

Things to do

  • Fitness facilities nearby
  • Kayaking on site
  • Boating on site
  • Golf on site
  • Power boating nearby
  • Golf nearby
  • Hiking nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Whale watching nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Ecotours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 1 (weight limit: 50 lbs per pet)
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Note from host: $60 /night

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
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
Parties and events are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 4
Note from host: Special rates / requirements apply for all events
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 there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account which will enable you to manage your booking.

Property is also known as

This IS Place Intimate Luxury w Massive Oceanfront Steam Room

THIS IS THE PLACE - Intimate luxury cottage w massive oceanfront steam room Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 50 out of 52 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 52 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 52 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 52 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 52 reviews" "

9.4/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Natalie M., Cary, NC

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing time on Bailey Island ...
This was our 3rd vrbo stay in Harpswell and our first on Bailey Island. We went for part of the week on our own and cousins joined us there for a couple of days. We were thrilled to bring our Boston Terrier along, too! The house is rustic yet elegant in some ways (amazing steam room, well equipped kitchen, comfortable beds & bedding). Like many other reviewers, we spent tons of time on the lovely porch relaxing and enjoying the always beautiful view of the water, birds, boats, and sunrises and sunsets. When we did venture out, we loved eating at Sundrenched on Bailey Island, buying yummy treats at the Wild Oats Bakery in Brunswick, enjoying lobster rolls from Bailey Island General Store, or walking for 5 minutes to Lands End and Bailey Island Beach. The house was pleasant and comfy and had everything we needed. We really appreciated that the owner cared about the environment (unbleached paper towels, recycling, encouraging water conservation, use of Mrs. Meyer's soap). The neighbors and property managers were nice and helpful, too. We were sad to leave but were so happy we chose somewhere so amazing to stay. Bailey Island had a lovely magic of its own, and seemed to stay cooler with a pleasant breeze most of the time than some other parts of Harpswell! Thanks for sharing this lovely home with our family!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful retreat
Beautiful views from a charming cottage with kind neighbors. Eclectic styled home which we enjoyed. Would stay again!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matthew M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Exactly as advertised. Amazing property
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.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Aloise L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Breathtaking
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!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jenn P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing vacation home
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!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Danielle C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Serenity and Peace with a View!
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.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Matt B.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Perfect Spot
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!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sue Ellen S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Brilliant!
A perfect holiday. Stunning. The Red House must be seen to be believed. Unbeatable on the water location with views to die for.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

William S.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Special Place
The red house is in the most beautiful setting and was a lovely stay for a family getaway. We’d love to come back!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nicole D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing week on Bailey Island
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.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rory P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely experience
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.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Olivia J.

Liked: Cleanliness
a very special spot
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.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brian F., Tivoli, NY

Liked: Cleanliness
The Perfect Setting On Mackerel Cove
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.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect relaxing getaway
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!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mariana N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Honeymoon Heaven
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!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

6/10 Okay

Reed H.

Disliked: Cleanliness
Great Location, Lousy Water
We loved the house and the location. Great walking distance to Lands End and the General Store. Wonderful ocean views and the dogs had a blast swimming and investigating the tidal pools. The house was well appointed with books and utensils. Unfortunately, there were a number of problems with the place. First was the water. It has hydrogen sulfide gas which is highly toxic. We complained and the manager had someone put in a filter which didn't solve the problem. They gave us some water and we bought more but taking a shower and washing dishes was a noxious process. Many of the dishes and pans were dirty. The upstairs screens were torn to shreds by the winds and let in mosquitos, which we were surprised to see. We don't mind paying high fees and rents but this place just didn't justify the expense.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Brian H.

Liked: Cleanliness
August 2021
We had a fantastic stay. The house was all we hoped it would be in terms of comfort and space. We enjoyed Bailey Island and the surrounding area but spent so much time just relaxing at the house, on the porch overlooking the water. Cozy and comfortable. The kids loved it too.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jordan F., Austin

Liked: Cleanliness
Most peaceful little escape
Loved the island and loved the property. Kids were happy expiring the tide pools, the dock, and playing on the lawn. Such a special place!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jason F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful properties in a very special place
Beautiful properties in a very special place
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Amy P., Kinderhook, NY

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful home and location
Carter’s gambrel roofed “Red House,” nestled at the mouth of Mackerel Cove in the charming and historic Bailey Island was a welcome respite from the confines of the last year and a half. Neither I nor any of my family members could have imagined a more comfortable and beautiful place to regroup. The beds were so comfortable, the porch a magnificent spot to relax, nap, read, breathe in the marine air and wave to lobster boats and the Schooner Alert as they breezed by. Carter’s extensive recommendations for fun, relaxing family activities came in very handy and we took up his advice exploring local beaches , restaurants and shops. As a lover of historic houses I was especially happy to be able to live in a very stylishly and comfortably appointed older house.. truly a beauty insyde and out. We had amazing views from every window.. and loved exploring the tide pools just outside his charming home. We hope to return soon.. perhaps even in the fall. Oh lastly, his property manager David was a delight and at the ready to provide assistance and great conversation at the slightest request. In sum my family had a wonderful time reconnecting with nature and one another in this peaceful, historic, and supremely comfortable home. Thank you SO much! I miss it already.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Scharmen C., Winchester, MA

Liked: Cleanliness
Another Gills Group Gem
This was our second stay at a Gills Group property on Bailey Island and it did not disappoint. All of the reviews about the Red House are spot-on with regards to the design and coziness of the house – everything from the furnishings and artwork to lighting to the bedsheets and towels are perfectly curated to give the house the look and feel of a cozy well-appointed coastal home (Restoration Hardware towels and lighting in the bathroom, Riedel wine glasses and Cuisinart coffee machine in the kitchen and the list goes on…), not a soulless sterile rental house that lacks personality and charm. We spent a month in the fall during the pandemic to get away from Boston and work in a different setting with a view. The views are truly spectacular (and you have this view from the living room, shower/steam room, master bedroom and kitchen)! The house is waterside with plenty of places to sit and watch the water and sunsets – Adirondack chairs, a covered porch with a massive couch and a private pier (make a point of knowing when the sun goes down and plan on being home!). Essentials are covered sufficiently at the Red House. The house was spotless when we arrived with weekly cleaning during our visit. WiFi worked perfectly and the kitchen is well-appointed with everything one needs to prep and cook meals. The location is a short walk to the very end of the island where there is a large gift shop and even more views of the water and coastline that shouldn’t be missed. Also a short walk to the Giant Stairs coastal trail (more views….). The caretaker, Dave Johnson, is a local and was always available to answer questions, offer assistance or chat about island living. I highly recommend the Red House or any of the Gills Group properties.

10/10 Excellent

Natalie C.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Slice of Heaven!
The Red House is truly something special. You feel like you're traveling back in time but also have all of the comforts of modern times. The beds are like sleeping on a cloud! Carter's attention to detail and knack for design are felt throughout the entire house, from the neat lighting fixtures to the incredible steam room. This was our second time visiting Bailey Island (we have previously stayed at Carter's Jaquish House, which I also highly recommend), and we can't wait to go back again. I visited with my husband and two young boys (ages 4 and 1.5). We spent most of our days playing in the yard, lounging on the front porch taking in the view, and skipping rocks along the two private beaches. The views are incredible... you won't want to leave! I know we didn't! The property manager, Dave, is wonderful and available to help with whatever you need. He brought us charcoal when we ran out and couldn't find any on island as well as lobsters. Thanks so much, Carter and Dave! We can't wait to visit again soon!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Renee F., Boston, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Lived in luxury and delightful touches
The Red House description and photos don't do the experience justice. It's as if you are living on the most well appointed and curated boat, without the seasickness. You see the changing tides, lobster and sail boats from every room in the house. We spent hours playing games outside, waving to the boats, watching the birds from the lovely dock and grilling while watching the sunset. The beds are incredibly comfortable and, not to be crude, but I've never had a better view while using the toilet. Our children found the hidden bookshelf bathroom to be the coolest thing they've ever seen! They were also impressed with the lobsters 'blowing bubbles' that caretaker Dave delivered. Speaking of Dave - what a delight! Quick to respond but never intrusive and he went out of his way to show me the other Gills properties (in a COVID safe way) even in torrential rain. We're already planning our next trip for later this year and looking to rebook for next summer.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Morag W., Boston

Liked: Cleanliness
Cove side jewel box
What a delightful home! From the perfectly distressed exterior to the thoughtful and creative interior. It totally encapsulates the feeling of being in coastal Maine. Handpicked antiques and fabrics abound in the living area and the bedrooms. The house is small but feels spacious due to well planned lighting and open areas. The addition of the steam shower room with a window overlooking the cove is inspired. What better way to view those gorgeous sunsets! The dock at the house is the perfect spot for morning coffee watching the lobster boats come and go from Mackerel Cove. Brunswick is not too far away for grocery shopping and the occasional visit to the laundromat. All questions, problems, discussions about the house, Maine, New England sports or Chocolate Labradors can be directed to and answered by the wonderful property manager Dave Johnson, who is an invaluable resource. We have loved it here.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020

8/10 Good

Becca P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Gorgeous house with the perfect sunset views
This house is a beautiful gem on the sleepy and sweet Bailey Island. We brought our friends along and had a wonderful week with good wifi for checking work emails and gorgeous nights BBQ'ing outside while watching the sunset. The steam shower is such a treat and the decor is endlessly intriguing. The copper cookware is lovely but a bit hard to clean and we would have liked to be able to wash our towels mid-way through the week. Other than that, the property manager Dave is warm and helpful, so we would definitely make it back.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2019