Lakefront Home On Beautiful Donnells Pond,32 miles From Acadia N P and Bar Harbr
5.0
Outstanding(33 Reviews)House in Franklin, ME
5 guests · 2 bedrooms · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Includes essentialsGarden, Kitchen or Kitchenette, Internet / Wifi and more
About this house rental
Located on a large lake, beautiful, pristine, Donnell Pond in Downeast Maine. Welcome to 'Memory Cove'!
Donnell Pond is one of Maine's premier lakes, with miles of protected and forever wild shoreline. Quiet even at the height of summer, with beautiful mountain views, remote sand beaches, and hiking.
Built in the early '60s as our family's Maine summer 'camp', 'Memory Cove' is floor-to-ceiling knotty pine, rustic, and spacious with a large newly remodeled kitchen, bathroom, and deck. Our dining area seats six with a separate den to relax and enjoy TV. The deck is right off the front, with a gas grill and plenty of seating so you can relax and enjoy a summer meal while taking in the beauty of the pristine lake.
Just steps to the dock to grab a kayak, or canoe and paddle out to islands or perhaps the secluded sandy beaches for a picnic or a mountaintop hike. Shared swim float for sunbathing and swimming, kids love it!
Other amenities include full laundry, dishwasher, deck with a propane grill, fireplace inside, and a fire pit outside (bring some marshmallows!).
Swim, fish right off the dock, or just relax on the deck while taking in the spectacular beauty of the mountains and lake.
Use our 2-person canoe and several single-person kayaks for your enjoyment.
My parents, born and raised in Maine, built this home in 1963 as a summer retreat. Every summer my parents would load up the station wagon and with 8 kids in tow drive from New York to Franklin, Maine to spend the summer. In Maine, a summer lake home is often referred to as 'camp'. And truly in the early years, camp it was, with no running water or electricity and with 8 kids (some in diapers). We loved it and we can't imagine a childhood without swimming and being on the lake. Over the years 'camp' has evolved into a home, perhaps still a bit rough around the edges, but no better spot exists as far as we 'kids' believe.
It's our pleasure to share our home with you so that you can make your own everlasting memories of summer in Maine.
Welcome to Memory Cove!
Donnell Pond is one of Maine's premier lakes, with miles of protected and forever wild shoreline. Quiet even at the height of summer, with beautiful mountain views, remote sand beaches, and hiking.
Built in the early '60s as our family's Maine summer 'camp', 'Memory Cove' is floor-to-ceiling knotty pine, rustic, and spacious with a large newly remodeled kitchen, bathroom, and deck. Our dining area seats six with a separate den to relax and enjoy TV. The deck is right off the front, with a gas grill and plenty of seating so you can relax and enjoy a summer meal while taking in the beauty of the pristine lake.
Just steps to the dock to grab a kayak, or canoe and paddle out to islands or perhaps the secluded sandy beaches for a picnic or a mountaintop hike. Shared swim float for sunbathing and swimming, kids love it!
Other amenities include full laundry, dishwasher, deck with a propane grill, fireplace inside, and a fire pit outside (bring some marshmallows!).
Swim, fish right off the dock, or just relax on the deck while taking in the spectacular beauty of the mountains and lake.
Use our 2-person canoe and several single-person kayaks for your enjoyment.
My parents, born and raised in Maine, built this home in 1963 as a summer retreat. Every summer my parents would load up the station wagon and with 8 kids in tow drive from New York to Franklin, Maine to spend the summer. In Maine, a summer lake home is often referred to as 'camp'. And truly in the early years, camp it was, with no running water or electricity and with 8 kids (some in diapers). We loved it and we can't imagine a childhood without swimming and being on the lake. Over the years 'camp' has evolved into a home, perhaps still a bit rough around the edges, but no better spot exists as far as we 'kids' believe.
It's our pleasure to share our home with you so that you can make your own everlasting memories of summer in Maine.
Welcome to Memory Cove!
Amenities
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Garden
Map of Franklin, ME
Reviews
5.0
Outstanding(33 Reviews)5.0
Great visit to a cool cabin on the lake. Lots of kayaks and paddle boards for peaceful water sports. Saw a loon mom and dad and 2 babies on our last day! Enjoyed coffee each morning on the back deck. Well worth the trip!
5.0
Our first visit to ME was great! Thank you Leavitt family for offering your home during our stay. The view is beautiful. We enjoyed sipping our coffee every morning sitting on the dock. The owners were very responsive and prompt to address a minor issue we had. Plus, all the area recommendations they gave us were super helpful. We enjoyed exploring Donnell Pond with the kayaks and paddle boards. We look forward to our trip back to Maine and Memory Cove! P.S. Be sure to go to Schoodic Point —breathtaking!
5.0
Very nice cabin. Perfect location. We had a wonderful time!
5.0
It was a delight to walk into this sparkling clean, lakefront cabin located on a beautiful Donnell Pond (which would clearly be a lake in Colorado). While we’ve stayed in lots of vacation rentals in this country and others, this was the first time it felt more like entering the home of a close friend or family member. It was comfortable and plentifully stocked with everything we could possibly need. This included a recently remodeled kitchen with all the high quality pots, pans, dishes, condiments and gadgets that one could need. Having kayaks and a canoe right there for our use was delightful. It included so many thoughtful details, such as reusable bags for grocery shopping and guides for local activities. The host was very responsive should we need anything. The setting is amazingly quiet and peaceful with the call of the loons being a predominant sound. We hated to leave and would surely love to return.
5.0
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay here. The cabin provided all we needed for a one week stay for myself, my husband and our two teenagers. We had two relaxing “lake days” and spent the rest of our days on Mt Desert Island. While MDI is not around the corner we felt we had the best of both worlds being able to have a retreat away from the crowds. The home is cozy and has nice, modern updates but still gives you the Maine, lake, cabin feel. Owner checked in to make sure we got in ok but we did not need anything from him during our stay. The lake is beautiful and peaceful and we appreciated using the kayaks, paddle boards and canoes.
5.0
Memory Cove was perfect for us. A beautiful location and property. The time went by too quickly, and we thoroughly enjoyed our time there. Can’t wait to go back again!
5.0
We had a wonderful stay at Memory Cove. It was peacefull and relaxing with everything you could possibly need. We used it as a home base for exploring Acadia and spending time together making memories! We feel really blessed the hosts have opened their home and allow others to make memories among the sounds of the wind, waves, frogs, loons and owls. We hope to return!
5.0
Our family had an awesome time. This is a great place on the lake.
5.0
We had a very nice time enjoying the scenery and activities available.
5.0
The Lake Front cabin was very comfortable, well equipped , update. Was a joy to watch the mist rise from the lake every morning, as the chipmunks played on the rocks in the yard. The fire pit was great for evening peaceful relaxing. Host communicated quickly to any message. Great spot!!
5.0
My wife and I recently spent our Honeymoon at Memory Cove. It was picture perfect. Our only issue was initially locating the property, having arrived late at night due to a long drive from Jersey. Though it was past midnight, we called Tim for help and he drove out to meet us right away and directed us to the property. We had missed the driveway due to the darkness but Tim showed us right where to go.
The house is cozy, rustic, and had everything we needed, including lots of cooking implements, spices, linens, even a washer/dryer, etc. It was an extremely peaceful, scenic location, right on the lake. It made for an ideal base as we explored the surrounding area. Bangor, Bar Harbor, Acadia, Ellsworth, all are just a short drive away.
My wife and I would gladly return in the future to make more memories here!
5.0
Perfect Honeymoon
My wife and I recently spent our Honeymoon at Memory Cove. It was picture perfect. Our only issue was initially locating the property, having arrived late at night due to a long drive from Jersey. Though it was past midnight, we called Tim for help and he drove out to meet us right away and directed us to the property. We had missed the driveway due to the darkness but Tim showed us right where to go.
The house is cozy, rustic, and had everything we needed, including lots of cooking implements, spices, linens, even a washer/dryer, etc. It was an extremely peaceful, scenic location, right on the lake. It made for an ideal base as we explored the surrounding area. Bangor, Bar Harbor, Acadia, Ellsworth, all are just a short drive away.
My wife and I would gladly return in the future to make more memories here!
5.0
Great trip to Maine for some leaf peeping and to get away for a week - this house was awesome and had everything we needed. We love to cook and the kitchen was well-equipped. Donnell Pond is beautiful and we watched sunrises, paddled in the lake every day, and enjoyed the beautiful weather.
The property was easy to get to from the directions and though it's on a dirt road, we had no trouble with our rental car getting there. Host's instructions were easy to follow, and camp is located close to Bar Harbor and Winter Harbor.
We had a great time and thanks to the hosts for opening their wonderful camp.
5.0
Beautiful Escape
Great trip to Maine for some leaf peeping and to get away for a week - this house was awesome and had everything we needed. We love to cook and the kitchen was well-equipped. Donnell Pond is beautiful and we watched sunrises, paddled in the lake every day, and enjoyed the beautiful weather.
The property was easy to get to from the directions and though it's on a dirt road, we had no trouble with our rental car getting there. Host's instructions were easy to follow, and camp is located close to Bar Harbor and Winter Harbor.
We had a great time and thanks to the hosts for opening their wonderful camp.
5.0
had a marvelous stay at Memory Cove and hope to return. Donnells Pond is spectacular and was wonderfully quiet and peaceful at this time of year. Excellent access to MDI and Acadia. Tim was a super host and very responsive to queries.
5.0
Hate to leave!
had a marvelous stay at Memory Cove and hope to return. Donnells Pond is spectacular and was wonderfully quiet and peaceful at this time of year. Excellent access to MDI and Acadia. Tim was a super host and very responsive to queries.
5.0
Our family of 4 had an amazing one-week stay at Memory Cove! The listing does not do justice to how great this place is. The lake views are amazing and the cabin is so nice and comfortable. Everything is very updated and clean and comfortable. It felt like we were staying at a family members cabin. Tim is a fantastic host and a great communicator. I can’t thank him enough for the great week we had. Next time we’re visiting Acadia there’s no question we hope to stay at Memory Cove again.
5.0
Amazing Stay at Memory Cove
Our family of 4 had an amazing one-week stay at Memory Cove! The listing does not do justice to how great this place is. The lake views are amazing and the cabin is so nice and comfortable. Everything is very updated and clean and comfortable. It felt like we were staying at a family members cabin. Tim is a fantastic host and a great communicator. I can’t thank him enough for the great week we had. Next time we’re visiting Acadia there’s no question we hope to stay at Memory Cove again.
5.0
Memory Cove is exactly as described and a pleasure to visit. Donnells Pond is remote and large, pristine with a small amount of "camps" dotting the cove in comparison to the "pond" size. We enjoyed a beautifully updated & stocked kitchen, rustic and nicely furnished living and dining area, plenty of blankets/towels, as well as a great deck, fire pit, kayaks & canoe. It's about a 35 min drive to Acadia/Bar Harbor, an easy drive, and it was nice to come back at the end of day to a quiet peaceful home base. Over-all a great week, and we look forward to coming back.
Only additional comment I would offer is the bathroom is a shared one between both bedrooms. I mention it as I didn't see any pix of it on the site originally and asked Tim to confirm there was indeed one indoors (some other properties we looked at were outside) :)
Thank you Tim!
5.0
Memory Cove visit Terrific!
Memory Cove is exactly as described and a pleasure to visit. Donnells Pond is remote and large, pristine with a small amount of "camps" dotting the cove in comparison to the "pond" size. We enjoyed a beautifully updated & stocked kitchen, rustic and nicely furnished living and dining area, plenty of blankets/towels, as well as a great deck, fire pit, kayaks & canoe. It's about a 35 min drive to Acadia/Bar Harbor, an easy drive, and it was nice to come back at the end of day to a quiet peaceful home base. Over-all a great week, and we look forward to coming back.
Only additional comment I would offer is the bathroom is a shared one between both bedrooms. I mention it as I didn't see any pix of it on the site originally and asked Tim to confirm there was indeed one indoors (some other properties we looked at were outside) :)
Thank you Tim!
5.0
Beautiful lake home with gorgeous views. It was the most well stocked rental we've ever stayed in. Great location, close to Acadia. Great host.
5.0
Memory Cove
Beautiful lake home with gorgeous views. It was the most well stocked rental we've ever stayed in. Great location, close to Acadia. Great host.
5.0
Our family stayed at Memory Cove in early September after many folks had left for the season so it was fairly quiet. It lived up to its name and we definitely made fond memories. Our kids waded in the water out front as we sat on the chairs watching and relaxing. We used the kayaks and canoe provided (the kids first canoe ride...good idea to bring your own life jackets although a few are provided) to row across to the lovely sandy beach to swim as well as explore the islands.
We spotted bald eagles and cormorants, heard loons and owls, investigated beaver lodges and schools of fish, gazed up at shooting stars and the milky way. We had a fire each night with the requisite s'mores and snuggled in to the comfy beds at night.
We took a drive to the Schoodic peninsula and enjoyed hiking and exploring the rocky coast.
We found the house perfect for our needs. Kitchen well stocked with pots/pans/utensils which was great since we ate dinner in each night. The decor was homey and lovely. We did put a few delicate items out of reach of our 2 year old.
We would definitely stay again! Thank you for sharing your lovely home with our family.
5.0
Wonderful Visit in September
Our family stayed at Memory Cove in early September after many folks had left for the season so it was fairly quiet. It lived up to its name and we definitely made fond memories. Our kids waded in the water out front as we sat on the chairs watching and relaxing. We used the kayaks and canoe provided (the kids first canoe ride...good idea to bring your own life jackets although a few are provided) to row across to the lovely sandy beach to swim as well as explore the islands.
We spotted bald eagles and cormorants, heard loons and owls, investigated beaver lodges and schools of fish, gazed up at shooting stars and the milky way. We had a fire each night with the requisite s'mores and snuggled in to the comfy beds at night.
We took a drive to the Schoodic peninsula and enjoyed hiking and exploring the rocky coast.
We found the house perfect for our needs. Kitchen well stocked with pots/pans/utensils which was great since we ate dinner in each night. The decor was homey and lovely. We did put a few delicate items out of reach of our 2 year old.
We would definitely stay again! Thank you for sharing your lovely home with our family.
5.0
Memory Cove, Donnell Pond was one of the best vacations we’ve had. The house was delightful and well appointed. You could almost feel the happy memories that this family created there over the many years. I really appreciated the comfortable bed and abundance of bath towels. The kitchen had sharp knives and heavy bottom pots with plenty of dishes and bowls. For someone who loves to cook this for was a real plus. The lake was astounding, we could have spent our entire week kayaking and exploring. The sandy beach is a must do. Quiet and relaxing with a prestige lake for swimming and fishing. The multi generational owners have gone out of their way to provide all you could want at a “camp”. You could almost feel the happy memories that fills this lovely spot. We cannot wait to return.
5.0
Quintessential Maine Lake Get away!
Memory Cove, Donnell Pond was one of the best vacations we’ve had. The house was delightful and well appointed. You could almost feel the happy memories that this family created there over the many years. I really appreciated the comfortable bed and abundance of bath towels. The kitchen had sharp knives and heavy bottom pots with plenty of dishes and bowls. For someone who loves to cook this for was a real plus. The lake was astounding, we could have spent our entire week kayaking and exploring. The sandy beach is a must do. Quiet and relaxing with a prestige lake for swimming and fishing. The multi generational owners have gone out of their way to provide all you could want at a “camp”. You could almost feel the happy memories that fills this lovely spot. We cannot wait to return.
5.0
We had a wonderful time on Donells pond. Memory Cove had everything we could of needed. Cozy and clean. The best part of this location is the distance from pond to house. My kids could safely be in the pond, I could still be out on back deck or hammock and watch them. Great small sand beach for easy in and out of water access. Canoe, 3 kayaks so all were happy. The pond is clear water, clean and very warm. My daughter and I did a snorkel for 45 min. You can Kyak to amazing hiking trails. Never really have to leave this house. This place is a nature lover's paradise. Of the beaten path. If you want to truley escape from tourists and just be with nature this is your spot. So many hiking trails to explore off the lake and in the surrounding When you want to be a tourist you cam with a short 40 min drive away is Acadia!!
5.0
Hiking vacation!!
We had a wonderful time on Donells pond. Memory Cove had everything we could of needed. Cozy and clean. The best part of this location is the distance from pond to house. My kids could safely be in the pond, I could still be out on back deck or hammock and watch them. Great small sand beach for easy in and out of water access. Canoe, 3 kayaks so all were happy. The pond is clear water, clean and very warm. My daughter and I did a snorkel for 45 min. You can Kyak to amazing hiking trails. Never really have to leave this house.
This place is a nature lover's paradise. Of the beaten path. If you want to truley escape from tourists and just be with nature this is your spot. So many hiking trails to explore off the lake and in the surrounding When you want to be a tourist you cam with a short 40 min drive away is Acadia!!
5.0
Everything was thought of at this property. It has the feel of an old-school family vacation as soon as you walk in the door. The pond is amazing. Great fishing. The stars at night are worth the trip alone. I'd love to come back every summer
5.0
Perfect lakeside camp
Everything was thought of at this property. It has the feel of an old-school family vacation as soon as you walk in the door. The pond is amazing. Great fishing. The stars at night are worth the trip alone. I'd love to come back every summer
5.0
Great House
My wife and I took our 14 month old daughter with us to Memory Cove for our third anniversary and couldn't have been happier with the property. It was secluded and had a spectacular view of Donnell Pond and the surrounding mountains.
The house had the perfect vibe we were looking for and was well stocked so we didn't have to bring every single toiletry/cleaning supply needed.
It's about a 45 minute drive to Acadia and just under an hour to the Schoodic peninsula and we did both trips on different days.
Even though it's too cold to swim in the pond in October, we enjoyed the beautiful foliage and got to kayak as well. Highly recommend!
5.0
Getaway camp
The cabin has everything you need! The view was amazing! Pictures are very accurate!
5.0
Amazing!!!
Loved it nice and quiet definitely would visit again and recommend it to everyone
5.0
Great location for exploring Acadia & beyond
Being used to hunting up north, I was looking for a nice compromise where my family could enjoy being somewhat remote, but having access to explore the coast, trails and Acadia. This property met all our needs and more providing a base camp to return from hiking, fishing, exploring tidal pools, shopping, blueberry picking and cooking up fresh seafood. The camp was clean and tidy with plenty of extras to make your stay comfortable. Due to the landscape and traffic the drive to Acadia takes about 45 minutes, but it’s worth it if you enjoy being away from all the tourist commotion and like to wake up to the sounds of loons.
5.0
Absolutely gorgeous inside and out! Perfect in every way. looking forward to coming back.
Nature lover's paradise with all the comforts of home!
5.0
Relaxing Dream vacation
My family and I stayed in Memory Cove for 4 nights and we absolutely loved the rustic cottage charm !!! I have dreamed of a Maine vacation for over 15 years , this cabin/cottage was more then I could have ever hoped for ! Tim was very kind and helpful he gave great tips and ideas for must see and does in the area ....I loved everything and I am already planning my trip back to Memory Cove !
5.0
Beautiful
It is everything and more. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a cabin with a beautiful view.
5.0
Amazing Lake Views
We had the opportunity to stay at memory cove during the fall. The views of the lake are incredible and the fall foliage made it even better. It was a great home base for us to tour around Scoodic and Acadia close by. They have a whole binder full of information for stuff to do. We took the recommendation to climb Schoodic mountain and it was incredible views at the top. Ellsworth was close by to get all the groceries and stuff you need for your stay. Having the kayaks available made our stay even better. We kayaked every morning and the silence and serenity out on the lake is amazing. Great getaway to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Tim was very helpful and responded quickly with any questions we had during our stay. We hope to be back soon.
5.0
Relaxing and Peaceful
We rented the house during Labor Day week and enjoyed our stay at Donnells pond. The home was perfect for us. and we had nice weather during our stay. It is bigger than it looks from the outside. The kitchen was well stocked with pots, pans and dishes. It opens to a nice dining area overlooking the lake. We spent most of our time outside on the deck staring at the calm and beautiful lake. The house is on a cove with other homes near by, but had enough privacy. It is in a remote area with dirt road leading to the home but not far from town. The lake is quiet, occasional motor boats go by, but mostly we felt like we had the whole lake to ourselves. There were three kayaks for our use and a canoe. The house was not far from Acadia as well, which we liked. We drove to Acadia several times during our stay. Overall, I would definitely rent this property again or refer a friend.
5.0
Peaceful...Quiet...Clean...Comfortable...PERFECT
We felt completely "restored" by our stay at Memory Cove. The cottage is so welcoming and well-thought-out, with everything needed to be comfortable, relax and just have fun. Rustic charm of a traditional Maine camp, but certainly NO roughing it is necessary!
Beautiful view of the pond, regular sightings of Loons, Kingfishers, Hummingbirds, even a Bald Eagle. Great swimming (the water was not cold!) and kayaking all over Donnell Pond, quiet campfires at water's edge, fabulous local hiking with 360-degree view from the top of Schoodic Mtn. and lots of other great trails...Trading Post for yummy, filling, (and friendly!) breakfast, Joshy's Place in Millbridge for great lobster rolls (2/$15!) and Gifford's ice cream. So convenient to Ellsworth or either section of Acadia.
The Leavitt family are such nice folks, very helpful and accommodating to ensure arrangements go smoothly for your vacation...all you need to do is arrive, breathe deeply, and UNWIND. So glad we found this spot---We plan to be back next year for sure!!!
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Franklin?
The average price for a rental in Franklin is $499 per night. This rental is $5 less expensive than the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Lakefront Home On Beautiful Donnells Pond,32 miles From Acadia N P and Bar Harbr. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Lakefront Home On Beautiful Donnells Pond,32 miles From Acadia N P and Bar Harbr pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Lakefront Home On Beautiful Donnells Pond,32 miles From Acadia N P and Bar Harbr?
We found 8 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, parking, laundry, and balcony or patio.
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