Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine
5.0
Outstanding(48 Reviews)Cottage in Franklin, ME
6 guests · 3 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 essentialsKitchen or Kitchenette, Internet / Wifi, Parking and more
About this cottage rental
Located on one of Maine's most pristine lakes this brand new cottage features 2 bedrooms, on the main level (with queen-size beds). A comfy living room (with a view of the lake) complete the picture.
The Pond House has a fully equipped kitchen. The kitchen is an open concept, complete with a five burner gas stove, dishwasher refrigerator and a complete assortment of pots and pans. If the mood hits you... there are also baking supplies. A large island for cooking or dining make meals enjoyable and fun. Many guests dine on the deck and feast on freshly cooked lobster.
Dock and two kayaks available for your enjoyment. Fire Pit, Hammock, two decks and a gas grill. (all with a view of the lake). only 35 miles from beautiful Acacia National Park. Hiking, Kayaking and Swimming are located steps from the cottage. Enjoy kayaking and swimming during the day and sleep to the sounds of the loons at night. It's a wonderful place to relax... you won't want to go home.
At night light a fire in the fire pit, sit back and relax.
New this year -- improved landscaping and a beautiful rock fire pit. Summer in Maine -- it's wonderful, fall in Maine it's beautiful.
The Pond House has a fully equipped kitchen. The kitchen is an open concept, complete with a five burner gas stove, dishwasher refrigerator and a complete assortment of pots and pans. If the mood hits you... there are also baking supplies. A large island for cooking or dining make meals enjoyable and fun. Many guests dine on the deck and feast on freshly cooked lobster.
Dock and two kayaks available for your enjoyment. Fire Pit, Hammock, two decks and a gas grill. (all with a view of the lake). only 35 miles from beautiful Acacia National Park. Hiking, Kayaking and Swimming are located steps from the cottage. Enjoy kayaking and swimming during the day and sleep to the sounds of the loons at night. It's a wonderful place to relax... you won't want to go home.
At night light a fire in the fire pit, sit back and relax.
New this year -- improved landscaping and a beautiful rock fire pit. Summer in Maine -- it's wonderful, fall in Maine it's beautiful.
Amenities
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Family friendly
Map of Franklin, ME
Reviews
5.0
Outstanding(48 Reviews)5.0
We LOVED everything about the property! The view was amazing, we spent every morning on the dock listening to loons. The house was very clean and had everything we needed and even some things that most rentals don’t have. Paula was very responsive. We made a ton of memories and hope to come back again in the future!
5.0
We thoroughly enjoyed our time on Donnell pond. While the drive to the main part of Acadia was a bit long (but as described, so no surprise), we loved hiking Schoodic mountain, and biking the one way lightly travelled road around the Schoodic Peninsula. We would return happily and recommend to anyone who wanted to stay on a pond and be in the area around MDI.
5.0
Genuinely one of my new favorite places to be! We got emotional leaving because it is such a special place. The lake is gorgeous, and we even had two days of rain and it was no issue or detraction from the serenity of the pond house. The host Paula was exceptionally nice and accommodating, always available if you needed help and provided an abundance of resources for the area. Ellsworth itself is so very cute and you’re only about 45-50 mins from Acadia- we went three out of our four day trip and the drive was pleasant! I can’t recommend staying here enough- I know there are a lot of options to choose from but you definitely won’t regret staying here!!
5.0
We wanted something near the tourist sites that would still let us do some glamping on a lake/ocean/waterfront. It was this and more. It was extremely easy to find. It was beautiful inside and the host thought of everything. Dishes, cookware, assorted spices, utensils, even left candy. The outside was gorgeous. The grill had utensils, we had a couple campfires, and we thoroughly enjoyed breakfast at the upper level deck. Roughly equal distance drive to Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, and Schoodic (Winter Harbor). Quoddy was slightly farther but still an easy drive. Other reviews have cited the owner (Paula) as being terrific, and they were completely accurate. We absolutely had a fantastic time at the Pond House and would definitely go back.
5.0
Great place to stay in Maine. Clean, comfortable beds, and everything you need to make your stay enjoyable. Perfect setting on the "pond". Made full use of the 2 kayaks and stand up paddle board, swimming in the lake and the fire pit. Perfect location to be off the beaten path when you want or take the short drive into Acadia which we did often. When we come back to Maine we will definatley stay here again.
5.0
The pond house was a relaxing escape from the Texas summer heat. All amenities were available, including games that we played after dark. Although we toured Acadia NP for a short day, we had more enjoyment paddling at Donnell Pond, taking a small puffin tour out of Steuben, and heading up the coast for nature areas with few people. We loved our visit to Maine. The pond house was a great location. We also easily rented two extra kayaks from Water’s Edge so we could paddle as a family.
5.0
We had a blast staying at the pond house! We really enjoyed staying there.
5.0
This is a very cosy place to stay for families. The entire house is vey clean with everything you needed and beyond. There is a dock for fishing, boating, and swimming. Unfortunately there it rained 5 out of 7 days. Fortunately there is also a fire pit that brought warmth in unseasonably cold weather. If you come in a warm, sunny week, it would be even better.
5.0
We had a wonderful stay at the Pond House. The property was clean, well organized, and cozy. We loved having the pond right outside the back door to fill in those lazy moments between excursions to Acadia, Bar Harbor, and the surrounding area. Communication with the host was great, and we would absolutely stay here again. If you are willing to venture off the beaten path, and if your tastes lean more towards outdoor adventures, it’s a great base for a Maine vacation.
5.0
This was exactly what we were looking for in our first time to Maine. It was peaceful and quiet and a great place to unplug.
5.0
Paula has a lovely home on Donnell Pond with beautiful views. The area is a bit remote, but so serene and beautiful. We enjoyed eating in the town of Ellsworth. The home is a perfect base for exploring Bar Harbor and Acadia. We wouldn’t change a thing!
5.0
We enjoyed the tranquility of Donnell Pond and were also able to explore Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor. Beautiful accommodations and a thoughtful host made for a great week!
5.0
Very clean, great view of pond location. Kitchen weill stocked. Amenities were appreciated. Needs a few minor touches to bring up to par.
5.0
We had an awesome week at the Pond House. Loved the peaceful water views, the birds, kayaking, fishing, and swimming right off the dock. The house is comfortable and relaxing for staying in, and also not far for adventuring into Acadia and Ellsworth. Paula was easily available to contact and her thoughtful suggestions and touches were appreciated!
5.0
The Pound House was a fantastic vacation rental. Everything was super clean, and the kitchen had everything we needed (including a lobster pot, coffee grinder, and mixer). There were plenty of towels and blankets; the beds were very comfortable. The view was spectacular. We loved waking up to the view of the lake. We didn’t use them, but there were 3 kayaks available to us. The rental was just a 40 min drive to Arcadia. Paula was super accessible and just a text or phone call away. We would definitely return to the Pound House.
5.0
Pond House is a Great Lake rental. I especially loved the super well-stocked kitchen and expansive area for food prep. Paula is the most responsive host ever. We had a bit of a hard time getting in the lake because it’s very rocky (large rocks) and in no time she had a ladder installed at the end of the dock, which really helps. There are some lily pads to swim through but you get through them quickly. The kayaks are smallish and plastic but with the shoreline I think those are the best (only?) choice, and they work fine. The living room is comfortable and has a nice view. Be sure to drive to Schoodic Beach for an amazing swim (takes about 30 minutes to get to that part of Donnell Pond due to the roundabout driving route). Our friends rented Memory Cove next door, which makes for an awesome “compound” vacation!
5.0
Great stay!!
Paula did not disappoint!! Our Pond House stay was one of our favorites!! It felt like home for the week that we were there.
5.0
Perfection!
We cannot say enough good things about this property. It is the PERFECT place to stay. From the moment we walked in, we knew we had made the very best choice! Thank you, Paula, for every wonderful detail! The location is fantastic--close enough to Ellsworth and Bar Harbor, but also so much to do right there on Donnell Pond that the days we "stayed in" are some of our favorite memories! Rent a canoe when you first drive in if you have more than 2 people. We loved rowing over to the sandy beach and picnicking as a family!!! Lots of room for our family of 5 and everything was incredibly well-stocked. We could not have asked for anything better. Thank you for sharing your slice of heaven with our family!!
5.0
Private - yet still close enough to everything
The pond house is beautiful, private and very well stocked. The host communication could not be better. Perfect stay. You won’t regret this one.
5.0
Vacation paradise
Our family of five stayed At the Pond House for a much needed family vacation. We can’t say enough good things about the Pond House and Donnell Pond. The house was located about 20 minutes from Ellsworth the nearest large town on Donnell Pond. The house itself was beautiful, clean and had all the amenities you could possibly want on a vacation. We use the kitchen every day to cook, and spent many days in or on the lake using the kayaks and the floating dock. My three teenagers Were able to spread out in the house but mostly wanted to sit down by the lake or be on the hammock. My husband and I are avid runners and cyclists and went to Schoodic point, about 30 minutes away a few times to cycle and run. We highly recommend the Pickeled Wrinkle restaurant for their delicious food and craft beer. We spent three days at Acadia which was about a 50 minutes drive. Honestly the drive was very easy and we didn’t mind as we loved being able to go back to the pond house at the end of the day. The Pond House is a true gem and Paula, the owner was an incredible host. We would highly recommend this property and can’t wait to plan our next vacation to go back!
5.0
A home away from home with beautiful views of the water. The host has thought of everything.
We stayed with our family of 4 for five days to visit the mountain desert area and bar harbor. The Host thought of about everything that a family may need to make for a relaxing stay from a well equipped kitchen, throw blankets, games and puzzles, spices, kayaks, etc. We took advantage of exploring the huge pond (feels more like a lake). The house takes about 15 minutes to get to off a main road, traveling some on gravel roads. We were concerned at first, but ended up enjoying the remote location. We visited Acadia every day. It was about a 50 minutes drive.
5.0
The pictures don’t do the property justice. The views of the pond are incredible, and the home has been wonderfully cared for. We found ourselves wanting to linger in the mornings before heading out for our activities, which was wonderful. Paula was a wonderful and responsive host. Would love to come back!
5.0
Wonderful getaway
The pictures don’t do the property justice. The views of the pond are incredible, and the home has been wonderfully cared for. We found ourselves wanting to linger in the mornings before heading out for our activities, which was wonderful. Paula was a wonderful and responsive host. Would love to come back!
5.0
Beautiful and quiet
Very nice area and convienent to Acadia national park, Bar Harbor and schoodic.
Views of the pond are fantastic
5.0
Wonderful place to stay!
The Pond House is a wonderful place to stay. The view of the lake is magnificent. The place is very clean and cozy. Paula is a great hostess. The house is equipped with everything you need for the stay. We had a very good time, and we hope to come back.
5.0
Lovely, quiet, private setting on shore of pristine lake. Kitchen wonderfully supplied with needed utensils. Bed very comfortable. Excellent vacation place for a couple or small family.
5.0
Lovely, quiet, private
Lovely, quiet, private setting on shore of pristine lake. Kitchen wonderfully supplied with needed utensils. Bed very comfortable. Excellent vacation place for a couple or small family.
5.0
Luxurious Secluded Cabin
Our family of 5 very much enjoyed this beautiful home in the woods with gorgeous lake views. Paula was attentive with details and tips and even left lemonade and chilled glasses to greet us in the frig. The home was beautifully appointed with well-equipped kitchen for cooking (even sharp knives!), was comfortable and clean with big windows for views of the lake. Its so nice to have spices and olive oil, napkins and laundry soap and even shampoo (extra toiletries were available if one needed them.) We enjoyed going out on the 2 kayaks to see the rocky coastlines, views and loons. We also relaxed in the backyard by a campfire under the stars. Day trips to Acadia (including Schoodic Point) and Bar Harbor for hiking and sightseeing were accessible (about 45-50 scenic minutes). Also enjoyed a fabulous take-out Sri Lankan meal from Serendip in Ellsworth. Even on our one rainy day we enjoyed being nestled in the home with enough space and good internet access for all 5 of us to use our devices to work or read. This place is a definite gem!
5.0
Just what we needed!
The Pond House was just what we needed for our first real vacation since before COVID! We could venture out as much as we felt comfortable but had an amazing cottage/surroundings to come back to so we certainly did not feel like we were missing out on anything! The house is very well equipped and very comfortable inside and out. We did make the drive to Bar Harbor/Acadia several times and the distance did not bother us at all with lots to see along the way! We would strongly recommend this rental if you are looking to spend time sightseeing but also want to kick back, relax and enjoy your accommodations and all of its offerings!
5.0
Beautiful Retreat
From the moment we walked in, we knew we were going to have a wonderful vacation. The host was very gracious and made us feel at home immediately by providing us with all the amenities needed to make our stay terrific. It is obvious that the host wants you to enjoy The Pond House and the surrounding beauty that Maine has to offer. The view of the water is amazing any time of day. A great place to relax, especially after a days hike in Acadia National Park.
5.0
Relaxing and peaceful stay
Beautiful location on a pristine pond. House as everything you will need. Paula has thought of everything! Great for kayaking to explore this large body of water. Close proximity to Bar Harbor and Acadia yet far enough away to enjoy the peace and quiet away from summer crowds. Highly recommend Paula's home.
5.0
We can’t recommend Pond House highly enough! Our stay was just what we had hoped for: tranquil, very comfortable, so much fun!
5.0
The perfect getaway!
We can’t recommend Pond House highly enough! Our stay was just what we had hoped for: tranquil, very comfortable, so much fun!
5.0
We had a great time at the pond house. Don’t let the name fool you, Donnell Pond is a lake! The house was perfect for our family of four and an easy ride to Acadia. Hiked Black Mountain too, well worth it. The Pumpkinseeds, turtles and bull frogs kept the kids amused. The fireworks at the pond for the 4th were a great bonus! Great vacation!
5.0
Perfect Getaway!
We had a great time at the pond house. Don’t let the name fool you, Donnell Pond is a lake! The house was perfect for our family of four and an easy ride to Acadia. Hiked Black Mountain too, well worth it. The Pumpkinseeds, turtles and bull frogs kept the kids amused. The fireworks at the pond for the 4th were a great bonus! Great vacation!
5.0
Wonderful!
This property was exactly as advertised and the hostess was extremely thoughtful. The house is relatively new and everything is modern, high end and in terrific shape. The view from the living room to the back yard fire pit and beyond, to the property's dock and crystal clear lake made our stay extremely enjoyable. This is a great property with a wonderful owner.
5.0
Parents and almost 2 year old
Paula was so helpful in helping us prepare for our trip. She went above and beyond to make the home clean, inviting, and toddler friendly for our stay. We will definitely be back!
5.0
Beautiful location!
We really enjoyed our stay. Paula was hospitable and responsive and the property and grounds were beautiful. Highly recommended!
5.0
Fantastic rental
We had a great time at this cabin! Paula was a lovely host, and was very helpful at all steps of the process. We enjoyed a lot of outdoor time hiking through Acadia, kayaking on the lake or making campfires in the backyard. A really nice break from the city surrounded by nature. Totally recommend!
5.0
We enjoyed our stay at the Pond House. The home was as listed and In a nice private area, which we were looking for during these uncertain times. We kayaked a few days to private beach areas, road bikes on the multi use path in town, spent a day at the National Park, but mostly just enjoyed being by the water and enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the property. We traveled with our daughter, son-in-law and three and a half year old granddaughter. Everyone enjoyed the stay. We can’t thank you enough for opening your beautiful house to us.
FAQs
How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Franklin?
The average price for a rental in Franklin is $454 per night. This rental is $89 above the average.
Is parking included with this cottage?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cottage?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cottage. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this cottage is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine?
We found 8 amenities for this rental. This includes kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, parking, laundry, and balcony or patio.
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