Skip to main content

Nature lovers Paradise your own island

Photo gallery for Nature lovers Paradise your own island

A wooden deck with a table and chairs overlooking a lake.
A cozy room with a large window, a patterned sofa, a red pillow, and a small shelf with a decorative item.
A rustic kitchen with a wooden counter, a window with a view of trees, and a metal bucket.
A secluded cabin by a lake, surrounded by dense trees.
A wooden cabin bedroom with a bed, two windows, and a sign above the bed.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Top-rated comfy beds
    Guests liked the comfy beds here.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Close to Cobbosseecontee Lake
Sleeps 3•1 bedroom•1 bed

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Barbecue
  • Refrigerator
  • Non-smoking

Explore the area

View map
West Gardiner, ME
  • Place, Cobbosseecontee Lake
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Bowdoin College
    ‪45 min drive‬
  • Place, LL Bean Flagship Store
    ‪49 min drive‬
  • Airport, Augusta, ME (AUG-Augusta State)
    ‪27 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 3)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Nature lovers Paradise your own island

Your own island! Who has not dreamed of having one? This little gem of an island can be yours for a week. Little Diamond Island is a 1/4 acre island located in Lake Cobbossee in West Gardiner Maine. Just 20 minutes from the capital city of Augusta you are close to restaurants and shopping but in a setting that is private and close to nature.

Little Diamond Island in Lake Cobbossee is a unique lake front vacation rental. Rustic 3 room cabin with lake views from every window. The lake is just steps away in any direction. Sandy bottom swimming areas and the lake is great for boating, canoeing, kayaking or jet skiing.

Island vacationing is not for everyone. If you love camping (not the same as RV'ing) you will love this. It is a lot like camping except you have a real bed to sleep in. Rustic in nature there is no electricity or running water. We do provide a composting toilet, propane stove, refrigerator and solar campers shower. Many refer to it as "glamping", glamorous camping. We provide a canoe, life vests and paddles. Its a short 5 minute paddle from the shore where you park your car. Please note we do not have a cleaning service and everyone is expected to clean before departure.
This is a peaceful spot for anyone who loves nature. Except for the occasional boat the only sounds you hear are the young osprey begging for food in the nest above the cottage and the mournful cry of the loons as they float past the island. You can see nesting osprey, pileated woodpecker and more.

Add dates for prices

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

Living area
Freshly Renovated 2 Bed 1.5 Bath near Downtown Augusta
Augusta
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (7 reviews)
Freshly Renovated 2 Bed 1.5 Bath near Downtown Augusta

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 229387
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

About the area

Gardiner

Located in Gardiner, this cabin is on the waterfront. Governor Hill Mansion and Old Federal Building are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Peacock Beach State Park and Cobbosseecontee Lake. Kennebec Ice Arena and Maine State Museum are also worth visiting. Looking to get your feet wet? Jet skiing, waterskiing and windsurfing adventures can be found near the property.
View more Cabin rentals in GardinerOpens in a new window
Map
West Gardiner, ME

What's nearby

  • Cobbosseecontee Lake - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Augusta Civic Center - 26 min drive - 28.9 km
  • Bates College - 36 min drive - 42.1 km
  • Bowdoin College - 45 min drive - 65.8 km
  • LL Bean Flagship Store - 49 min drive - 79.5 km

Getting around

  • Augusta, ME (AUG-Augusta State) - 25 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Grateful Grain Brewing Company - ‬24 min drive
  • ‪Cumberland Farms - ‬24 min drive
  • ‪White Duck Brew Pub - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Circle K - ‬25 min drive
  • ‪Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen - ‬21 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Nature lovers Paradise your own island pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Nature lovers Paradise your own island?

As of 17 August 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Nature lovers Paradise your own island on 17 May 2027 start from NZ$1,210, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What time is check-in at Nature lovers Paradise your own island?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Nature lovers Paradise your own island?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Nature lovers Paradise your own island located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is steps from Cobbosseecontee Lake and within 9 mi (15 km) of Cobbossee Colony Golf Course and Sand Pond. Maple Ridge Island and Little Cobbossee Lake are also within 9 miles (15 km).

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. 64 out of 74 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 74 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 74 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 74 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 74 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Maureen C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a peaceful staycation. The views and falling asleep/waking up to the sounds of the water and wildlife make it worth it! The cabin had many more amenities than we anticipated (except large towels). That being said, we would love to visit this escape again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Bridget M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Super cute cottage on a lovely little island. Vintage features and decor and old diner coffee mugs were the sprinkles on this gem of a place.The deck is just right with Adirondack chairs and a big picnic table. Views out onto the lake with trees full of birds. The Osprey nest was an extra special treat. The cottage is clean and comfortable.The composting toilet was easy to maintain and was fine as outhouses go.We'd love to come back.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Timothy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing place to get away and reset. I only wish I could’ve stayed longer.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Gretchen P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing little spot! Very private, shaded island with beautiful views and great swimming. Comfy bed with views of the water from the moment you wake up.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Emily H.

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

Bare bones in a great way!

Amazing property!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Gabrielle B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We absolutely loved our stay here! This cottage is a peaceful gem — pure bliss from start to finish. We enjoyed paddleboarding every day and the canoe was perfect for exploring the water. The cottage itself was cozy and charming, with unique touches that made the space extra special. We especially appreciated the privacy, it felt like our own little retreat.The only thing to note is that the bees and mosquitoes can be a bit active, so just come prepared for that.Overall, it was an amazing stay and we’ll definitely be coming back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

James J. L.

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

Wonderful escape from the world

Total peace and quiet.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Chapin L.

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

Perfect!

This is our third summer staying here for a week and it was perfect as usual! Thanks Deb!
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Eliza A.

Very nice!

Stayed for 10 days from late August into early September. Weather good, lake nice. Cottage was lovely, and owners very kind and attentive.
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2018
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Regan S.

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

Unique and Wonderful Experience

It's not often that you get to paddle out to a little cottage on its own small island to stay for a couple days. This place was perfect for us to disconnect and relax. It was so very peaceful. We'll definitely be looking to come back here.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Laura B.

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

Perfect respite

The cabin is perfectly located, just a short canoe ride to total privacy. We especially enjoyed watching the 2 baby ospees with their mamma. We enjoyed the swimming off the deck and fishing from both the dock and canoe. Everything you could possibly want was provided. Looking forward to a return trip.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Alexis D.

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

Peaceful & Lovely - in need of TLC

The perfect place to unplug, recharge & relax! Falling asleep to the sound of the loons and the gentle waves of water restores the soul!!! The cabin is so cute and just the right size. The only disappointment was the gas fire pit still didn’t work (it didn’t work last year), the kitchen drain was completely blocked so it backed up into the sink and onto the floor and the screens are in need of repair so a lot of bugs get in. We were hoping to make this an annual stay …….
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Aimee P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was such a fun experience. My husband and I had a road trip up the east coast. We aren't big campers and this was a great way to get a bit more of a rustic experience without a tent. But yes, you take a canoe to the island. It takes 5 minutes. No electricity, so be prepared for a camp stove and electric lanterns. Loons added a lovely evening sound track. Google map directions worked fine. Mexican restaurant was good. Took a day trip to Camden to hike and have lunch which was lovely. So fun to do something different. Would highly recommend as long as a few spider webs, an outhouse/composting toilet, and no electricity don't phase you.Again, so refreshing to have a unique experience for a few nights!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

4/10 Poor

Theo Z.

Liked: Communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness

Neglected property

Pros: beautiful setting, osprey nest right off the back deck (incredible!), cute property, responsive owner. Cons: the best word to describe the property is neglected. It looks like the owner hasn't been there in a very long time. It was extremely dirty inside and out. Hit or miss trying to figure out what worked and what didn't. Full of clutter; e.g. we had to rearrange shed to be able to to get to the composting toilet. Stove doesn't work; fridge instructions incorrect. It could have been an amazing retreat, but we left feeling like we had been taken advantage of.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 20 July 2022
The issue with the fridge is on us, we swapped it out and forgot to send the new directions right away. For anyone looking to book this home, one of the oddities of the property is that the previous guest is the only person cleaning before you arrive. Generally, it works out well, but my instructions very specifically say that if you arrive and it's particularly dirty, I want to know. I don't live very close, but I also don't mind making the drive up for certain situations. I was out on the island a few weeks before and shortly after this guest. One thing I did notice is a guest had moved many things into the shed from the house. Mostly items that use propane (like heaters) and my guess was that they were concerned about sleeping with them in the home and moved them. If you do come to stay, we do appreciate you not cluttering up the shed, feel free to move things out there if you want but please also move them back when you leave. This guest never reached out with concerns during his entire stay. Please remember I can't fix an issue for you if you don't communicate. Also, this is a rustic cabin experience, we are not priced as a luxury home and your expectations should be slightly above camping.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Paul A.

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

The best place

I have visited this idyllic spot about 10-12 times, and each time I am reminded of why I love it so much: the feeling of isolation on your own private island, the company of the cheerful small birds, the magnificent osprey family in the tallest tree (their nest is a few feet from the cabin), the view down the lake from the porch and living area, the curtain of trees surrounding the cabin, the warm water for swimming, the calm quiet at night, and the parade of ducks and loons nearby. And I confess to the sense of independence (pride?) that I can go without electricity and running water for a few days! I also like the new canoe - sturdy and stable. For first timers, the guest's guide tells you everything you need to know and bring. I did bring a fully-charged USB battery pack to recharge my phone, but never needed it - or called anybody or checked my emails. I did not WANT to! This place is perfect for setting yourself free for a few days.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Gina D.

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

A Great Escape

My sister and I enjoyed our 3 days on the island. It is exactly as described. The directions are great and communication was quick and very helpful. We experienced rain and hard winds but that only made our time more magical. Watching the osprey above and listening to the loons just added to the experience. There was plenty of cleaning supplies, directions, lighting, pans, and all the supplies needed besides bringing additonal propane, sheets, food and clothes. We did bring a lot of water but there was plenty of potable water already there. We ended up using the cooler available instead of the refrigerator. But the directions looked easy enough. The water was clean and refreshing. Swimming was so refreshing. We felt far away from it all yet it didn’t take us long to canoe over. Waking up without getting out of bed and seeing the sun rise on the water was something I will always look back on. We both commented that the queen size bed was extremely comfortable. We both slept great every night. The deck was the perfect spot to have your coffee while listening to the baby osprey getting their breakfast. My sister and I had a hard time leaving our own little paradise. We both recommend staying here.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

6/10 Okay

Deanna G.

Disliked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful lake but the cabin wasn't as described

The lake was beautiful, but the cabin was a disappointment. What was described as a remote getaway turned out to be a rundown place in the center of very busy motorized boats that passed by day and night. The guests are expected to clean for the next guests, which never happened to us. The cabin had to be thoroughly cleaned, the compose toilet was even worse. When we tried to communicate this to the owner, there was no response; the only communication I received was a list of what should be cleaned for the next guest; we left a list of how we not only cleaned but serviced the toilet and raked and cleaned the outside. Still no response from the owner, not even a "thank you," very disappointing. Nothing worked, including the grill, fireplace, and shower. We brought our own, but this wasn't communicated either. Even the directions were faulty; construction was going on, so we had difficulty finding the dock, etc. This wasn't communicated before our arrival. Again, I am very disappointed.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Pamela G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A little piece of paradise on earth. What a beautiful and relaxing spot to enjoy nature and spend some time away. Birdwatching, canoeing, sitting on the deck with coffee in the morning and enjoying the sunset in the evening. We hope to return to this awesome and very private spot.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Tiffany P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Staying on a private island was a nice adventure! Paddled in by their canoe. Fishing was wonderful! Property itself was rustic with some nice touches. The bed was comfortable but we got cold at night w all 4 provided blankets, we also slept in clothes and winter hats- but temps in 40s at night. We used the yeti cooler it worked great for food! The cabin could definitely use a battery operated charging station to charge phones in case of emergency. I was disappointed by the shower/ bag shower on front wood balcony that needs to be redone. We loved all the windows in the cabin could hear the birds and water! So nice to wake up to them in the morning! I used the compost toilet twice although it was clean the shed itself felt like I was going in a dark dungeon a window w screen would be great in there! So overall nice pretty clean stay, just needs a few upgrades/ tlc. If we book again it will be mid summer when warmer.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

John C.

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

As advertised, your own island with great views and privacy

This is a total gem of a place. The island is so cool and quaint--it's a 2 minute canoe ride from the shore but once you're on the little island, you're definitely alone, except for the ospreys, humming birds, and all kinds of other flora and fauna! We took the canoe out a lot to watch the birds,and look at the other islands. We'd also run into town during the day to pick up fresh fish and veggies to cook at the house at night, plus all the fresh blueberries that grow on the island! Just a really special stay and a really special place. Also Deb, the host, was super communicative and very helpful. 10/10 recommendation. One note--I gave it a 4/5 on cleanliness simply because this IS camping to a large extent (nicer than true camping but short of "glamping"). The house is perfectly well-suited and keeps out the elements, but just understand that you're going into nature with no electricity or running water, so expect bugs and critters and the like. If that doesnt bother you, this is your place.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Katharina L.

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

Amazing island cabin

As the tenants are responsble for cleaning you shouldn't expect this cabin to be as clean as your usual vacation home. Apart from this, the cabin and especially the location are picture perfect: it's cozy, private, quiet and the views are amazing. We enjoyed in particular swimming every day in the lake and also paddling with the canoe was great fun. We loved the ospreys nesting on the island and the blueberries.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Sarah S.

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

Great getaway, peaceful

Beautiful spot
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Darrell R.

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

Gorgeous location with amazing nature

Loved our two-day stay here - very romantic. As soon as we arrived we saw otters swimming around the island. The lake was like a giant swimming pool - shallow waters for long distances and mostly sandy bottom. It was a truly unique experience that we won't forget.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Candice C.

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

The perfect place to get away and unwind!

My husband and I rented this cabin for 3 days and absolutely loved it! We enjoyed early morning coffee on the deck, watching the sun rise over the lake.. and days filled with canoeing, swimming, fishing, birdwatching. The evenings were perfect for s’mores around the fire pit, while listening to the wildlife sing their songs (the loons were our favorite!). Such a peaceful little island, and the host has put so much thought into the amenities provided, you honestly almost forget that there’s no electricity or running water. We will definitely be returning!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca O.

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

Great

Amazing
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022

About the host

Hosted by Deborah Dolan

Host profile image

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback