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Cozy cottage in woods, 5-min walk to ocean & town of SWH

Photo gallery for Cozy cottage in woods, 5-min walk to ocean & town of SWH

A room with a large window overlooking a forested area.
A cozy living room with a green sofa, wooden chairs, a patterned rug, and large windows offering a forest view.
A rustic outdoor seating area with a stone fire pit, two wooden chairs, and a wooden table.
A cabin with a wooden exterior, a covered porch, and a small staircase leading to the entrance.
A cozy dining area with a wooden table and chairs, a lamp, and a view of a lush garden through large windows.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
Situated near the sea, this 2-bedroom cottage accommodates 4 guests. It features 1 bicycle and games for entertainment. Enjoy activities like rock climbing, fishing, and motorboating, along with tennis and pickleball courts nearby. Explore attractions such as the Wendell Gilley Museum and Beech Cliff Loop in the vibrant village.

Highlights

  • Made for relaxation

    Top-rated for comfort — guests feel right at home here.

  • Firepit available

    One of the few properties with a dedicated outdoor firepit.

  • Centrally-located

    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Kitchenette
  • Barbecue
  • Washing machine
  • Refrigerator
  • Internet
  • Onsite parking available

Explore the area

View map
Southwest Harbor, ME
  • Place, Wendell Gilley Museum
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Acadia National Park
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Acadia National Park's Visitors Center
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Airport, Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor)
    ‪21 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom w/ Two Twin Beds

2 Single Beds

Master Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Kitchen
Kitchenette
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Cozy cottage in woods, 5-min walk to ocean & town of SWH

The "Knollette" is a fully equipped cottage with a large grassy field tucked away in the woods on a quiet, private lane. Walk 5 minutes and you will discover the causeway at Norwood Cove - a spot that offers wonderful vistas of the ocean & mountains; dramatic tidal activity; opportunities for swimming, SUPing, canoeing, kayaking; peaceful sitting spots; and spectacular night skies. Walk 5 minutes in the other direction to the center of Southwest Harbor, a small quaint town where you will find shopping, dining, art, crafts, a bike rental store, and a wonderful public library. You'll also find access to the Island Explorer, the free shuttle to all parts of MDI and Acadia National Park.

Acadia National Park is a playground for walking, hiking, biking, swimming, boating, and picnicking. Explore scenic ocean trails, carriage roads, beaches, mountains, lakes, and nearby islands. There are also opportunities to rent boats of various sizes; play tennis, pickleball, or golf; antique hunt; visit museums and art galleries; eat ample fresh seafood; and more.

Keywords: Two bedroom cottage, quiet private lane, near ocean, near town, Southwest Harbor, Causeway Lane, Norwood Cove, Acadia, Mount Desert Island

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Exterior
Cozy cottage nestled in the woods with walking distance to town.
Southwest Harbor
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  • Kitchen
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9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (150 reviews)
Cozy cottage nestled in the woods with walking distance to town.

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 30

Check out before 10:00 AM

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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

No stairs, large grassy area, biking on the lane

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Events

No events allowed

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Pets

No pets allowed

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:

Strip any used beds and gather used towels

Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks

Turn off the lights and return the keys

If you used the heat, please turn down all four thermostats to 55.

It’s always very helpful when guests get a head start on laundry. If you could put a load in the washing machine before you leave, we would be very appreciative!

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Our wood floors and furniture are vulnerable to dampness. Please hang up all damp towels, bathing suits, etc.. and use coasters under drinks.

If you use the outdoor barbeque, please do a thorough job cleaning the grill and tools. Thank you!

Important information

You need to know

Property # 379057vb
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 indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Southwest Harbor

Located in Southwest Harbor, this cottage is in a rural area and by the sea. Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co is a popular attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Acadia National Park and Acadia National Park's Visitors Center. Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf and College of the Atlantic Natural History Museum are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as snowmobiling and ice skating.
View more Cottages in Southwest HarborOpens in a new window
Map
Southwest Harbor, ME

What's nearby

  • Wendell Gilley Museum - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Acadia National Park - 2 min drive - 2.5 km
  • Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co - 20 min drive - 28.0 km
  • Acadia National Park's Visitors Center - 21 min drive - 25.8 km
  • Cadillac Mountain - 31 min drive - 33.7 km

Getting around

  • Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor) - 22 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Jordan Pond House - ‬30 min drive
  • ‪Shell - ‬12 min drive
  • The Salty Fisherman
  • ‪Thurston's Lobster Pound - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Beal's Lobster Pier - ‬14 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Cozy cottage in woods, 5-min walk to ocean & town of SWH pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Cozy cottage in woods, 5-min walk to ocean & town of SWH?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Cozy cottage in woods, 5-min walk to ocean & town of SWH?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Cozy cottage in woods, 5-min walk to ocean & town of SWH?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Cozy cottage in woods, 5-min walk to ocean & town of SWH located?

Situated by the sea, this cottage is 0.6 mi (0.9 km) from Wendell Gilley Museum and 1.5 mi (2.4 km) from Acadia National Park. Flying Mountain Trailhead and Somes Sound are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

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. 114 out of 121 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 121 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 121 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 121 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 121 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
We would definitely stay at the Knollette again. The location is quiet but close to town. The washer and dryer are great when you're traveling with children.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Cottage is amazing! Many extras to make you feel at home. Breathtaking area! Thanks!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 14 September 2026
Lovely photo. Come again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay at The Knollette. It was quiet, the location was perfect, the cabin was clean and well stocked, and the host was helpful and responded quickly to any inquiries. Great home base for our adventures around the island. We would happily stay here again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 29 July 2026
Thanks for taking good care of the cottage. Come again!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
If you are looking for peace and quiet this is the place for you! Access to all things Acadia is just a short drive
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 24 July 2026
Marc- A belated thanks for choosing our property. I’m glad it was a good fit for you and hope you will come again! Best- Adair
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The beds were comfortable. The whole place was neat and clean. There are lots of games and books to read on a rainy day. The host family provided lots of ideas for us to explore. The kitchen is clean and well stock. I was amazed at the spice cupboard. We really enjoyed ourselves.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 16 August 2026
Thanks for choosing our home & taking good care of it. We would welcome you again! Best- Adair
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our time at the cottage. Adair was super communicative and helpful, and the peaceful surroundings were just what we were looking for. We hope to stay here again!
Stayed 10 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 5 June 2026
Colleen- Of course we would be happy to host you again! Best- Adair
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Within five minutes of arriving, my wife said, “we’re definitely staying here again next year!” The Knollette is the perfect size for our family of four. This is our sixth time visiting Southwest Harbor, and this was by far the best location we’ve stayed in. It was wonderful to be completely surrounded by woods, yet still be within walking distance of Main Street and so many other great spots around town. The cottage was clean and beautifully decorated, and our hosts were very easy to communicate with. Thanks to the well-stocked kitchen, we didn’t break the bank eating out every meal. I would 100% recommend, and would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 19 July 2026
Meanwhile, we will be happy to host you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Better than described! Well equipped, thoughtful touches, beautiful woodland setting. Great communication. I could have stayed all summer.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 7 June 2026
Linda - I'm glad that you enjoyed your stay. Thanks for being thoughtful guests. Come again! Adair
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an amazing time at this cabin and really appreciated all of the little/simple touches that the owner included to make our stay simpler and more enjoyable.We particularly appreciated the book of info on some of the local sights, attractions, and food options, as well as how so many of the locations for necessary and consumable items were well labeled.If or when we ever come back to the area again for another trip, we would absolutely love to stay here again, and would recommend this location and owner to anyone looking for a quiet, cozy, beautiful place to stay on MDI.
Stayed 8 nights in May 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 26 May 2026
Sean- Always nice to have conscientious, appreciative guests! We would be happy to have you return. Best - Adair
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A great little cabin on a quiet part of the island next to a some great walks! We really enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 15 October 2025
Julian - A belated thanks for renting with us. Come again! Best- Adair
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Communication and directions were great. The listing is accurate that it is an older cottage in the woods. There were plenty of supplies and kitchen accessories. I do not believe there was AC, but hopefully you don't need it on most days. Some of the days we were there were a bit warmer and AC would have been nice. Because it's in the woods, you have to deal with some smaller bugs, ants, spiders, etc. Overall it was good.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 29 July 2026
Timothy- It’s true that climate change is slowly generating occasional hot days on the island. We just purchased some fans for those days. Perhaps a small AC is in the cottage’s future. Meanwhile, thank you for choosing our property. Come again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Location
The cottage is in a perfect location for an easy walk to town or the causeway. Everything we needed or could want was in the kitchen for cooking, including spices, oils, pots and pans. The beds were comfortable. We loved seeing a deer from the large windows in the living area. The kitchen table was ideal for games or meals. The hosts provided details in a notebook about the cottage, area, and checkout. 10
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 17 June 2026
Thanks for choosing our home and being thoughtful guests!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to rest! Very close to Acadia NP, love it!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 September 2025
We are happy to rent to you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Super clean, well appointed. Great location!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 September 2025
Thanks being great guests. Come again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The perfect spot for exploring Acadia with the family. The cabin was just the right size for the four of us.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Cozy Cottage

Perfect cottage for a perfect vacation on MDI. Hosts were great and very accommodating!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 July 2025
Thanks for being conscientious guests!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Charming cottage in a peaceful setting

Quite, comfortable and stunning panoramic views.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 June 2025
Jill- Thanks for choosing to stay in the Knollette. We would be happy to host you again
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Amazing area and stay

Nice place. Great location on the quite side of Acadia.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 3 August 2022
So glad you had a lovely stay!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Beautiful little cottage

Perfect for a peaceful vacation + jaunts into Acadia!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 17 June 2024
So glad your week ended up being lovely!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect location for a quite vacation. The kitchen was well stocked with essentials. Very pleasant walk to town and to a causeway that crosses an inlet.Easy access to Acadia National Park and some close hiking trails.Came end of October and the cabin heated up quickly- so a very cosy place to stay.
The causeway
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thanks for sharing the Knowlette with us! We had a fabulous stay and appreciated having a fully furnished kitchen, laundry facilities and great bedrooms. We would gladly stay here again when we return.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 October 2025
Meanwhile, we would gladly rent to you, too!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

A Great Stay at the Knollette

Great location, rooms full of light, arm and comfortable.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 October 2024
I"m glad you had another comfortable stay at the Knollette in your childhood town!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This little cottage was the perfect size for our family of four and was well stocked with a little bit of everything. My kids loved seeing the deer in the yard daily.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 15 October 2025
Thanks for being thoughtful guests! Come again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Quiet cozy cottage

The cottage was quiet and in a lovely location. The place was clean. The kitchen had everything we needed to cook and the beds were comfortable. I would stay there again.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 May 2025
We would be happy to host you again!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Lovely, peaceful stay

Cottage was immaculate and supplied with everything that we needed for an enjoyable and comfortable stay. We also appreciated that the area was quiet and within walking distance to the water and beautiful views.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 21 August 2024
Sarah - Thanks for choosing our cottage. We are glad you enjoyed it and appreciated the care you exercised. Come again! Best - Adair

About the host

Hosted by Adair Fox

Host profile image

Our family has enjoyed MDI since 1937 when great-grandparents built the Knollen, a large wooden house on the property. Since then, it has been a treasured gathering place for our large, multi-generational family. During the summer, family members often live in the Knollen while renters enjoy the smaller house (the Knollette, built in 1980). During non-summer seasons, we live in Washington DC, Denver, and Copenhagen, though those of us who have flexibility in our schedules increasingly enjoy visits during the fall, winter, and spring, too.

Our cottage is not modern - but it is clean, well-stocked, attractive, quiet, comfortable, and and peaceful.

Over the years, we have enjoyed hosting family, friends, and renters. We feel incredibly lucky to have inherited this property. It feels good to pay the joy forward. Moreover, there's a certain amount of vicarious pleasure in offering guidance to newcomers; we tap into cherished memories and excitement for our next stay.

Why they chose this property

The Knollette couldn't be in a more perfect location: a 5-minute walk to the natural beauty of Norwood Cove; a 5-minute walk to the quaint town of Southwest Harbor; a 5-minute walk to the Island Explorer free shuttle bus; and a short drive to innumerable gems in Acadia National Park (5-30 minutes away depending on the spot you are visiting). With the Knollen as base camp, it's possible to explore spots near & far without use of a car - a boon for many.

What makes this property unique

At the base of South Causeway Lane is Norwood Cove and its little footbridge (the causeway). This cove offers expansive vistas of Somes Sound and sweet spots for daydreaming, reading, sketching, painting, canoeing, kayaking, SUPing, fishing, and picknicking. Around high tide, adventuresome folks jump off the bridge and body surf under the bridge. At low tide we enjoy exploring shells, stones, and shoreline marine life. Meanwhile, our peaceful property is a lovely place for playing on the field, exploring the woods, making fairy houses, and observing deer.

Languages:

English

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