Charming 5BR Waterfront Historic Cape on 15 acre estate
Come away from it all....catch your breath...
Six miles from the bustle of Boothbay Harbor is a peaceful waterfront retreat, called Bold Colorful Life, set among rolling fields, meandering stone walls and richly colored perennial gardens........imagine a place that evokes your fondest memories....and brings your vacation dreams to bold colorful life.... The Antique Cape combines new convenience with its historical heritage, with an exterior wrap-around porch and dormers, and a private back deck with great views of the shady woodland, home of the reclusive Lady Slipper, the apple orchard and the Gallery Barn. Inside, the first floor holds a comfortable, fully-equipped kitchen, dining room and living Room, all set off with the original pumpkin pine flooring, and furnished with antiques. There is also a first floor bedroom, the Garnet which has a Full-sized bed, and private bath. The Garnet and living rooms face the courtyard, the Farmhouse and the river. A cozy computer nook at the top of the stairs also faces the courtyard and is one of the best spots to pick up the WiFli. On the second floor are four additional bedrooms with three private baths. The Ruby Peridot suite, a Queen bed in the Ruby room, with a privacy-shaded French door leading into the Peridot, twin room, share the Ruby Peridot bath. The Turquoise, with a Full oak sleigh-bed, facing across the Back River Road to nine acres of woodlands, also with private bath. And the third, the Butterscotch Amber bedroom, with two twin beds, its own sitting room and with the unique bath with both clawfoot tub and shower.
Wake to birdsong in the apple trees and early morning fog on the Back River....then make yourself delicious coffee and a hearty, healthy breakfast in the fully-equipped kitchen in the recently renovated 1800s Cape.
Wander 15 acres of gardens and woodland trails....borrow a sit-on-top kayak to paddle with local seals....enjoy games, meet our friendly bald eagles and other critters.....watch the Maine painted turtles or listen to frogs on the freshwater pond......wander the park-like grounds.....enjoy our 'forest bathing' invitations on site...wander our Enchanted Trail and our Fairy Walk...take a cool dip or a sail on the river....
Refreshed, venture out into the Boothbay region to join a tour boat to see whales or puffins, or to go lobstering, shop, view our many art galleries, try some local restaurants and generally have a memorable visit. The Coastal Maine Botanical Garden is only 4 miles away! So is the world-class Boothbay Harbor Country Club golf course! Or try hiking at any of the 15 preserves within 10 miles of this home.
At the end of the day, imagine coming ‘home’ to a snack and drink on the wrap-around porch....a good book in the hammock.....a sunset through the windows....and a long, delicious sleep in one of your five lovely bedrooms with four private baths, colorful bedding, paddle fans, cable TV, WiFli.
Or come home to a peaceful evening in one of your five elegant bedrooms with five private baths, colorful bedding, paddle fans, cable TV, WiFli....in the Farmhouse across the courtyard.
Renewed again, live your bold and colorful life! Both buildings (the charming historic Cape #325241 and the elegant Farmhouse #229721) are available year-round.
It's the perfect destination for a personal retreat, family or school reunion, wedding or other gathering event.
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Boothbay
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Please see our Policies and Information manual on our website at bold...color...life. Thanks!
Children age six and above are welcome at this property, under parental supervision.
Guest groups with 4 star host rating or above are welcome to book this property.
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
Note from host: Please see our Policies for event fees. Thanks.
This property uses solar energy
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
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the area
Boothbay
Located in Boothbay, this holiday home is near theme parks and on the waterfront. Boothbay Railway Village and Boothbay Region Historical Society Museum are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Ovens Mouth Preserve and Whaleback Shell Midden State Historic Site. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens and Dolphin Mini Golf are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens - 10 min drive - 6.4 km
Opera House at Boothbay Harbor - 16 min drive - 12.1 km
Boothbay Harbor Marina - 16 min drive - 12.5 km
Bowdoin College - 53 min drive - 59.5 km
Getting around
Brunswick Station - 50 min drive
Wiscasset, ME (ISS) - 32 min drive
Restaurants
Circle K - 14 min drive
Circle K - 29 min drive
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens - 13 min drive
McDonald's - 29 min drive
Kitchen Garden Cafe - 13 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Charming 5BR Waterfront Historic Cape on 15 acre estate pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Charming 5BR Waterfront Historic Cape on 15 acre estate?
As of 3 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Charming 5BR Waterfront Historic Cape on 15 acre estate on 4 April 2026 start from NZ$857, 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.
How much is parking at Charming 5BR Waterfront Historic Cape on 15 acre estate?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Charming 5BR Waterfront Historic Cape on 15 acre estate?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Charming 5BR Waterfront Historic Cape on 15 acre estate?
Checkout is at 12:00 PM.
Where is Charming 5BR Waterfront Historic Cape on 15 acre estate located?
Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is 0.3 mi (0.6 km) from Ovens Mouth Preserve and within 6 miles (10 km) of Boothbay Railway Village and Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. Dolphin Mini Golf and Hodgdon Island are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
The owner was great, told us about the place and what there was to see in the area. The kitchen had just about everything. There are 5 bedrooms, every bedroom had its own bathroom. It’s a beautiful property with plenty of room to roam around. And it’s not far from restaurants, sightseeing, and shopping.
Karen K.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 September 2025
This was a great family group...full of interest and curiosity...great communicators...a pleasure to have here. And they took wonderful care of the house, with the motto "always leave things better than when you arrive". They are most welcome to return!
We had a small family weekend at this beautiful retreat. House was pretty, spacious, clean, and well stocked. Grounds were awesome to explore with kids. The host was very helpful before and during our stay.
Brandon P.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 29 June 2021
I knew right away that I liked this family...they were good communicators, very friendly and helpful and willing to work things out, like late arrivals and unexpected developments. They were interested in learning about the area, explored as much as possible and enjoyed the site and amenities. They brought three adorable children with them...the kind of children that you know will make great human beings. It was a pleasure to have them here and I do hope they return again and again.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Amy W.
8 July 2016
The most charming place for a Maine getaway!
Absolutely wonderful stay in the Cape! Beautiful and peaceful setting with so much to do right on the property. My family thoroughly enjoyed our visit! The house was clean and comfortable and so charming. It felt like home. I highly recommend!
Amy W.
Response from VrboOwner on 20 March 2020
It was a pure delight to have you all here...what a wonderful extended family group!! And your parents' 50th wedding anniversary was such a great reason to gather everyone in Maine. Every interaction...with every member of the family...was enjoyable and it was clear that you were enjoying the site and the peninsula and beyond. Hurrah!!
Thanks for taking good care of the home too!
...as I said before, you're just the kind of guest family that we love to see return again and again .I love your idea of coming back in the winter to experience the awesome beauty and snow-related/Nature-related activities that Boothbay offers then...I hope that you do!!
Warmest wishes, Melissa
Verified
6/10 Okay
Catherine E.
14 August 2024
Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Listing accuracy
Peaceful Beautiful Property
The grounds offer the beauty of the Maine woods along side the tidal river with many nooks to relax. The house would benefit from new furnishings.
Catherine E.
Stayed 13 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 20 August 2024
Thanks for taking the time to review the property, Cathy. Your 3 star review was a surprise though, since your email said "We enjoyed the property very much. The house was cute."
It is, after all, an antique Cape with antique furniture, so new furnishings would likely detract from that ambiance. But if you have specific items that you think would benefit from an update, please email me directly. I'd appreciate your thoughts.
Here’s the way we advertise it on VRBO: “The Antique Cape combines new convenience with its historical heritage, with an exterior wrap-around porch and dormers, and a private back deck with great views of the shady woodland, home of the reclusive Lady Slipper, the apple orchard and the Gallery Barn. Inside, the first floor holds a comfortable, fully-equipped kitchen, dining room and living Room, all set off with the original pumpkin pine flooring, and furnished with antiques.”
As you know from first-hand experience, all of the equipment is up-to-date and fully functioning.
The grounds are breathtaking. If Melissa offers you a tour - take it! The gardens and trails/fresh water pond, flowers and carefully placed…everything- is worth seeing and hearing about. You’ll enjoy it more when you walk it later on your own and appreciate this labor of love which is welcoming, relaxing and just beautiful. We stayed in the cape which is thoughtfully decorated and had everything we needed. Melissa was very helpful leaving us with some recommendations when we met upon check in. She is lovely. We would recommend and certainly hope to be back.
Nancy H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 September 2025
This is one of my top 5 guest families of all time (16 years in vacation rentals) They exuded love and appreciation...for each other...for the home and property and fun things to do in the area...for being on vacation. It was a joy to interact with them all along the way. Fingers crossed that they can return!
There were 8 of us (all seniors) and the location could not have been better for exploring Mid-coast Maine. Located on a river away from the hustle and bustle of Boothbay Harbor, the Cape house and grounds were a relaxing oasis allowing us to both enjoy the peace and quiet of the property and go off in many directions to see the sites up and down the coast. The historic renovated Cape house was clean, well-equipped. and charming. There is one downstairs bedroom, but of note, because it is an old house, the narrow and steep stairways to the upstairs bedrooms and to the basement are challenging for seniors. The kitchen had everything needed for cooking. The spacious decks were great for relaxing after driving the winding roads. Our host, Melissa, was gracious and friendly and was available for questions and assistance whenever needed. We had a great time at Bold Colorful Life.
Carol & Bob R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 September 2025
I'm delighted that you had a great time, filled with peace and relaxation when on site and with adventures on the roads as you wandered to see more of Maine. Thanks for taking good care of the house!
There's so much to do at this property! Hiking trails, fairy walks, kayaking, a frog pond to enjoy, and more all nestled on a quiet dead end street. The house was very comfortable for all eight of us and we could not have had a better time. Melissa is a lovely woman and a wonderful host! Anything we needed she did all she could to help us. Very happy we stayed with her at Bold Color Life!
Elizabeth B.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 10 June 2021
And the enthusiasm is completely shared by the host! Elizabeth and her family were an absolute delight. They traveled 14 hours in a single day to get to Maine to enjoy their vacation and every interaction was friendly, collaborative and kind. It was fun to see them explore the property and go out on adventures in the area, always full of appreciation and positive energy ...and they treated the house as though it were their own. I cannot wait to have Elizabeth and her lovely family visit again!
We had a wonderful stay at Bold Colorful Life! From the moment we arrived to such a warm welcome from Melissa, we felt so relaxed. There is so much attention to detail and the amount of care that Melissa puts into the house and grounds is truly impressive. She gave us great recommendations for places to go and restaurants to eat. The location also can’t be beat. It is close to all of the attractions but in a wonderfully quiet place to relax at the end of a busy day. We enjoyed walking down to the river multiple times and exploring the other trails on the property as well. Thank you for a fantastic stay, Melissa! We will certainly be back.
Megan E.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 July 2023
This was a most delightful trio-every interaction, from planning emails to personal interactions, was a pleasure. Their curiosity and enjoyment of the property and its features was great to see and they took good care of the house. They also kept in touch during their stay and tried out several recommendations. They will be most welcome to return...again and again!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Jessica W.
18 July 2015
I couldn't have asked for a better experience!
We take an annual family vacation back to N.E. to see my family. This year I wanted to spend time on the coast of Maine and spent quite some time looking for a place that was suitable for my immediate family, my dad, brother, sister-in-law and nieces. In my wildest dreams I couldn't have found a better spot.
The Cape was beautiful. The property was breath taking. And Melissa, our hostess, was welcoming and awesome. She gave us an overview of the area, as well as recommendations of where to take family hikes, eat lobster rolls and get the best ice cream in town!
The property was peaceful, impeccably maintained and well thought out. And my kids were thrilled with the fire-pit, as they got smores every night!
I highly recommend this beautiful estate.
Jessica W.
Response from VrboOwner on 20 March 2020
I get the biggest thrill from hosting groups and families who spend time enjoying the property, as well as the greater Boothbay region...and this family was that kind of wonderful guest family. They came all the way from Arizona, where the temperatures were 117 as their plane took off...and they landed in Maine on the hottest week yet...in the 80s, with cool overnights in the 60s. They soaked up the weather, the estate, the environs. They enjoyed the new kayaks and the Back River cove, the many local hikes and Botanical Gardens, and the Harbor restaurants and shops.
Thank you J and family, for coming and visiting and bringing your bright spirits and wonderful family here...and for taking such good care of the house...please come back and stay longer next time!!
I wanted to take a few moments to share a unique and rewarding experience we encountered at the Bold Colorful Life Inn in Boothbay, Maine. Fifteen acres of pristine forest, a shoreline of unmatched majesty, and an1850’s vintage home with period antiques adorned us. Our wonderful hostess, Melissa, took the time to meet us as we arrived and shared a friendly waive and an orientation that prepared us to enjoy every detail of this incredible place and region.
The home offered every nuanced convenience while accentuating the holistic period of significant historical value.
Whether guests enjoy kayaking, swimming, hiking, experiencing beautiful wildlife while wandering the forest, picking berries or simply exploring the region, it all awaits.
Quiet, peace, rest and uninterrupted sleep were all added experiences we encountered, as our hostess even scheduled maintenance around our quiet times.
Our stay was more than a rental, it was home and a fascinating home at that. Melissa’s 18 years personally caring for this incredibly beautiful site at one with nature, shows at every turn.
Well done,Melissa.
Thanks for everything.
Wayne and family.
Lillian B.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 23 August 2024
Dear Lillian and Wayne, I think serendipity is the word for our connection. The right place at such a significant time in your family's sojourn...a place that reminded you of joyous holiday getaways to the house of your dear relative...and the right guest family for this site...a caring, loving, well-connected and warm and appreciative group...resulted in a bit of magic. You are an important part of the history of this place and I do hope that you return again and again! Warmest, Melissa
Verified
4/10 Poor
Joseph D.
14 July 2024
Liked: Check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness, communication
poorly managed
With the extraordinary number of house rules given to us by the owner we expected a clean well organized property but the owner did not confirm to her own rules.
there were a dozen or so filthy mold ridden cups stacked in a basket under the coffee stand.
There was a container on the kitchen island that contained utensils dirty with old grease .
While cooking dinner on the outside grill the propane gas ran out after 6 minutes and everything needed to transferred into the kitchen oven.
All outdoor seats had accumulated grime on them.
The inside rooms were clean so it is a mystery how such unsanitary conditions went undetected in the kitchen and that the outside furniture was left uncleaned.
I was able to reach the owner by phone once in 6 days but she did not return my other 3 calls.
I would not return nor would I recommend anyone rent this property
Joseph D.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 July 2024
This inconsiderate, angry, critical group showed up unannounced an hour before check-in. When I greeted them, they were not friendly, but I spent an hour orienting them to the house, to the 15 acre waterfront property & to the fun things to do in the area-something I do for every guest group.
I told them that if they had questions, I was reachable via texts from 9am to 9pm & warned them that Spectrum was not good at forwarding voicemails, so texting was best.
Joe called three times-two went to voicemail & disappeared & one I was able to pick up. He told me that they had found dirty cups under the coffee machines. I apologized & offered to take care of them, but they had already done that.
Next, I got an angry message, the day after it happened, that the propane tank had run out. Joe said he had read the manual, but clearly had not or he would have known that there are always two full propane tanks a minute's walk away, behind the garage. They could have continued cooking with a new tank minutes later.
I waived his $50 fee for the a.c. unit in thanks for cleaning the cups & the propane situation.
I offered 3x to take their group photo on the last day. Joe did not reply. When I went over to offer in person, they had gone. The house was not left in tidy order with the linens washed, dried & folded, as agreed in the contract; one rug was ruined with bleach stains & they had moved an end table, rested something heavy on it & scratched it badly. They are not welcome to return.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Pat A.
5 August 2017
Family reunion The Farmhouse and the Cape
To Melissa: Thank you so much for all your kind words and for your thoughtfulness while we were in Maine.
My mother passed away last June, When we were kids, we had a cottage in Damariscotta and spent much of our summers there. Picnics at Pemaquid Point were among Mom’s favorite times. To commemorate her life, we decided to have a whole family reunion a year after her passing. We rented both the Farmhouse and the Cape to accommodate the large group.
The week turned out even better than I had hoped… in no small part because of the wonderful and comfortable accommodations provided. The place is lovely. It’s clearly something that you should be very proud of: fully equipped, completely stocked, well maintained, clean and spacious. And the attention to detail is amazing. It was a joy and a surprise that even after 7 days, we’d walk into a room and see some other interesting/lovely/curious (and of course, color coordinated) item that we hadn’t noticed before!
I am glad to know that my rather large crew was not an imposition or disruptive. The children are generally well behaved but with that many kids and that young, you never know!!! Their good behavior was a result of how happy they were. The spacious lawn with a range of paths weaving through the tall grass kept them running around for hours. The prospect of making ice cream one night and having s’mores at the fire pit another night also may have encouraged good behavior.
I am ever so thankful to have found such a lovely and comfy place for my family to be together and to build more happy memories as we celebrated my mom’s life.
Pat A.
Response from VrboOwner on 20 March 2020
Dear Pat (and all),
I probably can't find adequate words to tell you how honored I am that you chose this property for your family reunion and tribute to your dear Mother. Each time we were in contact as you planned the visit, you were a delight...and when you arrived, every family member was friendly, fun and positive. It is an awesome family group...I'm sure your Mother was superbly proud of you all.
And the children exploring the property were a great addition...such wonder...such camaraderie...such energy...such life force. It was a joy to observe them whenever we were here at the same time.
Also, I thank you for taking such good care of the house...as though it were your own. It would be a pure delight to have you return for another gathering some time soon.
Warmly, Melissa
We stayed here with various family members (college age, teen, tween, grandma, parents). We found the property to be relaxing and a nice place to gather. The fire pit was genius and we used it several times - a great way to end our evenings. The river and kayaks were a treat. The area once you're on the water is beautiful. Just beware that this is a river - there is no beach at the water to stand or relax on, and if you hit it at low tide, there is a lot of thick mud to contend with. The house is cozy (we stayed at the smaller Cape, and although we didn't see the inside of the farmhouse, that might be a better option for a bigger group). The house was perfectly clean. The location was great - just a 10 minute or so drive into Boothbay, a quick drive to the botanic gardens. We went somewhere every day, and it was centrally located for day trips to other towns and beaches. It was a nice place to come home to and relax at the ends of our days.
This is a lovely, historic home, set in the countryside but conveniently close enough to all the regional attractions. Very comfortable for us four women but it would also be perfect for a larger group.
This was a delightful trio of women friends who shared a getaway in Maine. They were friendly, humorous and adventurous...took great care of the house...and are very welcome to return!
We had a great time staying in the cape. The first floor bed and bath were perfect for a member of our group that doesn't use stairs. The owner, Melissa, was very informative and communicative. The grounds are beautiful! We especially enjoyed a high tide paddle on the river. Another high point was a dinner at Robinson's Wharf - a great recommendation from Melissa.
Thoroughly enjoyed our time in Boothbay, residing at well-appointed, comfortable and inspiring Bold, Colorful Life Cape House. Melissa is as warm and attentive a host as we've ever encountered. We relied on her recommendations of the area and were always happy we did - the area is quintessential coastal Maine. Highly recommended!
Great location! We had a blast with the kayaks on the river, many scenic spots around the property, and enjoyed the large fire pit. The house has plenty of beds and is on a lovely property. Melissa gave us a tour before our stay (virtually), and then was nice enough to volunteer a group photo at the end of our stay. We’ll stay with Melissa again!
Caitlyn S.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 14 July 2020
This family was a complete joy to host...the first to arrive since the COVID-19 virus hit the world...and a great beginning to the season. Every member of the family was friendly and interested...all three generations were remarkable. And I DO hope to see them again soon...and for a longer stay, to allow for all the fun things to do on the estate and in the area!
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Amy N.
29 August 2018
Rest and Relaxation
This is a beautiful waterfront property set on acreage just outside of Boothbay Maine, a charming coastal town in middle Maine. The property has adorable details and the owner is generous with her time and talent and such a gracious host. There wasn't a thing we wished for the entire trip. The home is built well and coming from Atlanta we were a little concerned for a lack of central air conditioning, but it was all for nothing. The mid-summer nights were cool and refreshing and we enjoyed the open windows and sweet breezes (the owner does have air conditioning available, by the way). There was another family staying nearby but we really didn't see or hear them the whole time. We had a relaxing time in the hammocks, watching the wildlife (we did kayak with seals in the bay!) and visiting the local sights, and the evenings were cool enough for bonfires and smores. Despite the country feel to the location, we were less than 15 min from good groceries and attractions. There isn't anything better than fresh-caught Maine lobster. The wifi was consistent and strong and we were able to stay connected and work while visiting because while you want to "get away" complete disconnect is pretty unrealistic. We are thankful for the place Melissa, the owner, provided, with gracious amenities and hospitality and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone else. Sometimes when places are historic, they feel dirty but that was NOT the case here. A fresh coat of paint and attention to cleaning details left us comfortable. One thing to note is the checkout policy where you must wash and dry all linens prior to departure, planning for this policy in your travel plans. This is a unique policy to any other place we stayed.
Amy N.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Freda H.
28 September 2017
Beautiful in all ways!
What a fabulous time our group of 6 had at this property! Our lodgings in the beautiful farmhouse were extraordinary with such grand spaciousness. Wow, what a kitchen that we used constantly and the library room was so cozy too. All was perfect, and the setting was so peaceful. We loved walking the woodsy road and trails and simply gazing at our surroundings. It all rally fed our souls, and we all hope to return again in the future. The surrounding towns were such fun to visit and the fresh lobster and oysters were unbelievable. Book it - you will be so happy that you did!
Freda H.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2017
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Connie O.
6 September 2017
“Delightful Maine Getaway. Location, Charm, Beauty
What a wonderful stay at this antique Cape on the 15 acre waterfront estate! It was lovely to leave the hustle-bustle of Connecticut far behind and reach midcoast Maine and this lovely site. The quiet, the sunshine and breezes, the birdsong and the far off train whistle were all relaxing components of a great getaway.
I’ve been re-imagining coffee and conversation on the deck, looking out over the grounds to the river, walking through the beautiful Coastal Maine Botanical gardens, and hiking to Thomas Cove on the Bonyun preserve trail...
I'm remembering exploring the Boothbay peninsula and Southport island...
What glorious beauty ... the sights, the sounds, the smells … a total sensory surround.
I think I'll make this an annual getaway!
Room Tip: While the Inn is beautiful, the cottage is truly charming. Offers privacy for families and groups.
Connie O.
Response from VrboOwner on 20 March 2020
Dear Connie,
Thank you so much for the review and kind words about our property! We appreciate your feedback and are so happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay with us, and that it was a relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of normal life.
And what a wonderful description of the things you loved about the site and the surrounding area...we love them too! The hiking, the kayaking, the local wildlife, the Botanical gardens...they're all 'simply Maine' and hard to beat. We're delighted that you'll make this an annual getaway.
We look forward to seeing you again and again!
Warmest, Melissa
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Malvina (Molly) R.
19 August 2017
Warm, inviting, comfortable, quiet
My extended family stayed here for a week in July. Everyone loved the home, the area, and Melissa. The house has all of the needed amenities, plus oodles of charm. Melissa is gracious and very responsive to any needs or requests. She is there when you need her and appropriately out-of-sight otherwise, kind of like a fairy godmother! If you want a relaxed but interesting place to visit, this is definitely it.
Malvina (Molly) R.
Response from VrboOwner on 20 March 2020
Dear Molly,
Thanks so much for your kind words. It was great to meet you and David first…a couple of months before the full family arrival, when you came to ‘check out’ the place. Then, when you arrived for your week visit, I felt I already knew you! Your family was a highlight of the summer…such great senses of humor...every interaction was fun! I’d be happy to be your ongoing Fairy Godmother—please come back again and again! Warmest, Melissa
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Will S.
30 June 2017
Wonderful off the beaten path retreat.
There isn't much to say other than it was just a wonderful getaway. Melissa was an informative and gracious host. The grounds are gorgeous. The cape house is quaint with old house charm. If you like old houses in the woods with water access, this house is for you. Would totally return for another trip.
Will S.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 20 March 2020
Will and his group were a complete delight...every interaction was friendly and warm. Communication all along the way was terrific, and it was fun to hear about the various outings the group was enjoying. I look forward to having a return visit!
About the host
Hosted by Melissa Thornton, Owner
I’ve been saving for my ‘dream house’ for 40 years....and I fell in love with kayaking about 8 years ago. After a five year search through waterfront properties in CT, the Adirondacks, MA, NH and finally ME, this was the property that offered the combination of things I'd been seeking. And it was perfect for building vacation rentals so that the awesome environment could be shared.
The setting is idyllic...with fields, woods, many perennial gardens, apple trees, lilac trees and old stone walls wandering down to the Back River. There are 15 acres of land, facing west for sunsets, on the protected waterfront of Maine and with a big freshwater pond and woodlands. The whole estate sits atop Maine ledge, which is sculpted to fall gently towards the water.
It's in an area where I am able, in the 'off-season', to offer weekend and week-long retreats that combine personal growth, spirituality and 'back to nature' events, including hiking, paddling and exploring the nearby Botanical Gardens. And I want to share this beauty with as many people who love Nature and the wild, wonderful aspects of Maine as possible...so vacation rentals are the perfect answer.
Why they chose this property
Mother Nature has shaped this property to be both elegant and beautiful...the buildings are on the plateau at the top of the estate and the lawns and gardens, stone walls and woodlands slope gently down and down to the Back River. A great Blue Heron often visits the freshwater pond; then flies off towards the river. Our local pair of bald eagles are seen wheeling overhead regularly as the tides change. A huge porcupine was seen at the south end of the property recently and we have visits from foxes and deer, ospreys and hawks. The property has a healing energy which most people feel the moment they step onto it. A visit here fills the vision with color, the spirits with hope and the body with calm and peace.
What makes this property unique
The Boothbay peninsula offers the perfect getaway. The area is naturally breath-taking, with forests and fields, farms and gardens, brash rocky coastline and gentle coves and lakes. Boothbay Harbor is a charming town with lots of engaging activities and it’s just six miles down the road. This is the area to go shopping, visit galleries and craft fairs, sample local fare at great restaurants, enjoy deep water activities like whale watching and lobster-boating.
And there are natural bonuses: 13 nature preserves for hiking within 10 miles---5 within 5 miles---one within 1/2 mile; a world-class Botanical Garden within 4 miles; kayaking possibilities in rivers and lakes and the Atlantic. We also have a world-class golf course 4 miles away. The Rockland/Camden area and Freeport shopping are within an hour's drive in either direction; and my favorite Maine park, Acadia National Park is just under three hours away. Nova Scotia and Prince Edward island, both favorite parts of Canada, are nearby too… The Bold Colorful Life Estate is also a Retreat Center, so plan to join us for a Retreat for personal growth, renewal and spiritual centering...The Bold Colorful Life Gallery offers colorful elegant jewelry, stunning natural photographs, and dramatic works of art in oil and pastel to our rental guests...when it's open.