Birch Haven in Winter - a wonderland ready for all kinds of snowy fun!
Location: Bethel, Sunday River, Mountains & Lakes, Maine, USA (Approximately 60 Miles from Portland, Maine) View Map
Accommodations: House, 3 Bedrooms + Other (See Description), 2 Baths (Sleeps 10)
Picture yourself in this beautiful, very well-kept and clean home with three floors of living space. You come home from a day of skiing, and enjoy a fire in the fireplace while wrapped in a throw and watching a movie. Meanwhile, the kids are downstairs playing games and watching T.V. If you want, fix dinner for everyone in the fully equipped kitchen and everyone can eat together in the dining room, which is open to the kitchen. When it's time for bed, snuggle under the comforter knowing that everyone is going to get a good night's sleep in quality beds and bedding.
First Floor:
The first floor contains a kitchen with island and breakfast bar. The kitchen is fully equipped, including pans, baking sheets, mixer, lobster pot, knife set, and much more. The dining room is open to the kitchen and can accomodate ten people for dinner. The living room has a wood burning fireplace, cable TV and DVD player. The first floor bedroom has two twin beds. There is a full bathroom on the first floor as well.
Second Floor:
The second floor has the Mission Bedroom with a queen size bed, reading alcove and library table. The Buttercream Bedroom has a queen size bed and two twin beds. There is a large full bathroom on this level. Both bedrooms measure 18' x 15'. The bathroom measures 9' x 8'.
Lower Level:
The lower level has a game room with air hockey/pool table and darts. There is an office and the family room which has a queen size sofa bed, love seat, cable TV, DVD player, stereo, dining area and plenty of room to store gear. The Family Room measures 29' x 12 1/2'. The Game Room measures 13' x 10'. The office measures 10' x 6 1/2'. Additionally, there is a ski box right next to the back entrance. The house has wireless internet access.
All bedrooms have dressers, big closets and each bed has reading lamps. The towels and linens are of good quality. Most of the furniture is barely over one year old and is of good quality.
All utilities, heat and driveway plowing are included in the rental. In addition, the owners live nearby and can be very responsive to any questions.
Notes left by renters:
"Thanks for the WONDERFUL vacation!" - A.H., Texas
"All of the extras you provided were much appreciated and made our stay hassle-free and very comfortable." - S.P., England
"This was absolutely fantastic." - L.O., New York
"We loved your house, very comfy, warm and cozy." M.H., Mass.
"This is the perfect place to unwind and re-charge." - T.K., Conn.
"We love the house and location so much that we are already talking about coming back next year." M.B., Canada
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Air Conditioning : There is a window unit which we install for the summer. The ceiling fans in each bedroom do a great job, and there is a box fan as well.
- Linens Provided : Enjoy the comforters on each bed. There are plenty of quality linens provided, including extra sheets, pillows, pillow cases, blankets and throws. Plush bath towels, beach towels and kitchen towels are provided. There are table cloths, placemats and cloth napkins.
- Washer : There is a laundry room on the lower level of the house which has a washer and dryer
- Dryer
- Off Street Parking : The driveway provides parking for several cars and is plowed in the winter. The entrance to the house from the driveway leads conveniently into the kitchen.
- Parking for RV/Boat/Trailer
- Gas Fireplace : Relax in the living room with a wonderful fire in the fireplace. So easy to use - just flip a switch! Note that the gas fireplace is turned off from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
- Beds
- Queen Bed (2) : You will enjoy "a long winter's nap" in these beds. Both queen beds have luxurious comforters and extra pillows in matching shams, with soft blankets and beautiful sheets. Even the queen sleeper sofa in the family room is a treat. It has a wonderful soft comforter, blanket, pillows and sheets.
- Twin/Single Bed (4) : Yes, they are twin beds...but there is no lack of comfort here. The twins are outfitted with the same care as the queen beds - quality comforters, color coordinated blankets and sheets. And an extra - a throw on each twin bed for added comfort.
- Convertible Bed : This queen sleeper sofa in the family room provides a very separate sleeping place. Convenient for the extra guest. Fully outfitted with linens, comforter and pillows, it is a comfortable night's sleep.
- Entertainment
- Cable/Satellite TV (2) : The two T.V.'s (32" in the living room and 38" in the family room) are connected to Time Warner Cable. Each has a DVD player and there is a small DVD library.
- DVD
- Video Library : We have a small DVD library which contains movies and TV show DVDs. Most are rated "P" or "PG".
- CD Player
- Stereo System
- Music Library : There is a small music library with a mix of jazz, R&B, and some popular music.
- Pool Table
- Air Hockey
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen : This fully furnished kitchen (should you want to cook) features a side-by-side refrigerator equipped with filtered water and ice, a dishwasher, oven with smooth top range, and a built-in microwave. The kitchen also features a coffee-maker, 2 toasters, mixer, and a trash compactor. There is a set of pans, glass bakeware, muffin tin, cookie sheets and much more!
- Cooking Utensils Provided : There is a lobster pot, measuring spoons and cups, bakeware, gas grill set, graters, complete knife set, and much more!
- Refrigerator : The large side-by-side refrigerator features in-door ice and filtered water dispenser.
- Dishwasher : Enjoy the convenience of a built-in dishwasher.
- Microwave : The built-in microwave is over the stove.
- Ice Maker
- Outdoor Features
- Gas/Electric BBQ Grill : Conveniently located next to the deck and around the side of the house from the kitchen, this gas grill is large enough to handle your grilling needs.
- Deck/Patio : The deck is right next to the side entrance and right next to the gas grill. There is a table with seating for four. The table holds an umbrella for shade. Around the deck are tiki torches for that added ambience.
- Communications
- Telephone : Two telephones with local phone service are included for your convenience.
- Broadband Internet
- WiFi (Wireless Internet) : Wireless internet service is provided throughout the house.
- Other Amenities
- Views of the mountains start on the road in front of the house and continue as you travel into town. Look to your right and see Mount Washington and the Presidential range spread in panoramic splendor. In front of the farm down the road, look back and you can see the trails of Sunday River ski resort. Birch Haven is in a wonderfully wooded setting, set back from the road and surrounded by trees and a rock wall.
- Suitability
- Pet Friendly : Please inquire about bringing your pet. We would be happy to consider that possibility.
- Handicapped Accessible (may have limitations) : With wide hallways and stairwells, a first floor bathroom and bedroom, this home is a possibility for handicapped patrons. There are four steps up to the side entrance of the house.
- Wheelchair Accessible (may have limitations) : With a wide hallway, a first floor bathroom and bedroom, this home is a possibility for wheelchair patrons. There are four steps up to the side entrance of the house.
- Kid Friendly : This house welcomes your kids. The lower level is a great place for kids, with the game room, T.V./DVD family room, some toys and games provided, and even a table and chairs for eating or playing games and doing crafts. Let them enjoy the downstairs while you enjoy a fire and a movie in the living room.
- Minimum Age Limit for Renters : We will not rent to those under 25 without parent or guardian present.
- Smoking Not Allowed : This is a non-smoking property.
- Activities
- Golf
- Tennis
- Shopping
- Kayaking
- Swimming
- Biking
- Mountain Biking
- Cross Country Skiing
- Downhill/Alpine Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Snowmobiling
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Antiquing
- Horseback Riding
- Sledding/Tubing
- Hiking
- Rock Climbing
- Restaurants
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
Ski season '11/12:$12,000/seas $225/nt,$450/wknd, $1,550/wk, $6,000/mon, 3 nt. min
Xmas week:$400/night, $800/weekend, $2,600/week, 3 night minimum
February Vacation week: $350/night, $700/weekend, $2,400/week, 3 night minimum
Fall 2011: $100/night, $200/weekend, $500/week, $1,300/month, 3 night minimum
Spring 2012: $100/night, $200/weekend, $500/week, $1,000/month, 3 night minimum
These rates INCLUDE Maine lodging tax & end-of-stay cleaning fee, heat, utilities.
2011-2012 ski season dates are considered 11/26/11 - 4/14/12, but we can be
flexible on the ski season dates.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
Map & Owner's Profile
Bethel/Newry Rental Ski Home, Sleeps 10, Sunday River, 3 Bedrm
Year Purchased: 2008
Why the Owner Chose Bethel
We live in the Western Mountains of Maine and love all that this area has to offer. We knew that this home would be attractive to visitors because of its location, the interior layout, and its great condition.
The Unique Benefits at this House
We make it a point to stay at the house several times a year. We do this because the home is very comfortable, and we love the neighborhood. There are great walking trails right outside the door, the neighborhood has access to the Androscoggin River, and the cross country ski trails are right next door.
Cross country ski right next door. The trails go around Swan Hill with beautiful views.
Get fresh produce, meats, flowers and eggs right next door at the farm stand (open seasonally).
Birch Haven is 11.5 miles from the base lodge. It takes 15 minutes to get to great skiing!
Owner's Map of Bethel
My husband and I have been involved in renovating real estate for 20 years. We bought this property, finished the basement to contain a family room, game room and office and then decided to rent it out to vacationers. We love hosting visitors to our area. We take a great deal of pride in the beautiful and very clean home we can offer to people. In addition, we live locally and can be very responsive to questions you have while here.
Property Photos
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- Birch Haven in Winter - a wonderland ready for all kinds of snowy fun! - Bethel Birch Haven Mountain Retreat House with Game Room
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- From coffee in the morning to dinner for everyone after skiing - it's easy here! - Bethel Birch Haven Mountain Retreat House with Game Room
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- Watch a movie while relaxing in front of the fire! - Bethel Birch Haven Mountain Retreat House with Game Room
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- Casual elegance you deserve - queen bed, reading alcove, library table, dresser
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- Game Room with Pool/Air Hockey Table, boom box, darts
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- Buttercream Bedroom with queen and two twins, dresser, large closet, lamps.
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- Family Room w/queen sleeper sofa, love seat, cable T.V., DVD, stereo
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- First Floor Bedroom w/two twin beds, dresser, bedside table and large closet
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- Second Floor large bathroom with tub/shower
Traveler Reviews (11)
Great house
Guest: Phil S.
Date of Stay: 10/08/11
Review Submitted: 10/19/11
We had a really great stay in the house. It was very well equipped, clean and comfortable and as there were only the 2 of us staying we had a huge amount of space. We did a lot of our own cooking and had everything we needed. Bed was very comfortable and there were loads of towels etc. The house was very well insulated and in a quiet location just over 4 miles from Bethel. We had a bit of diffiiculty finding it when we first arrived as people we asked in Bethel didn;t seem to know where Taylor Woods Rd was - we got sent on a wild goose chase by the guy at the information centre but then found a lady who told us to go down Intervale Rd for at least 4 miles and from then on it was easy. Bethel is a nice place and the people were very friendly. There is a supermarket - Hannafords - that is good and has a wide range of groceries, wine etc. Hannafords even has a tank of live lobsters which was quite unexpected. The Fall was great and we had some great drives looking at the foliage and local lakes and mountain scenery. We also caught the ski lift up to the top of the Sunday River resort and it was well worth it for the views. Nice quiet location surrounded by trees. Many thanks to Jill and Gray. Phil and Gina Scull
Recommended for:
Fantastic...Even in the Summer
Guest: Lou & Jen
(New York)
Date of Stay: 07/03/10
Review Submitted: 03/28/11
We stayed here twice in the summer of '10 and each time was excellent. Our first stay coincided with the hottest week in this part of Maine in many years. Thank goodness for the AC in the upper bedroom, even though I can't imagine it was used much the rest of the summer. The other saving grace was the wonderful finished basement which even when the temp outside was 95F remained amazingly comfortable all week. The house easily handled four adults and three kids very comfortably. The kitchen is excellent, well-stocked with most items you would need to cook any meal. The large dining room table was perfect for us as we ate in as a group most nights. The deck with table, chairs, and umbrella was a great place to drink coffee in the morning or just chill will a book. We loved the location as it was close enough to head into Bethel when we wanted to but a great base for taking day trips all around the area. The house was clean and even better than we imagined...we couldn't wait to head back in August, which was much cooler but just as enjoyable. We would highly recommend Birch Haven in any season!
Recommended for:Sightseeing, families with young children, adventure seekers, families with teenagers, age 55+.
Went there twice.
Guest: Buck and Robin
(Saint John, NB CANADA)
Date of Stay: 05/10/10
Review Submitted: 10/28/10
This place is an awesome get away spot. We have three young children and they loved to place. Jill is a great hostess. Its a quiet spot within driving distance of many attractions. This place is the nicest spot we have ever stayed.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, romantic getaway, families with young children, adventure seekers, families with teenagers, age 55+.
So Peaceful!
Guest: Banana
(Galveston, TX, USA)
Date of Stay: 09/07/10
Review Submitted: 09/21/10
I am so happy that I found Birch Haven. The house was immaculate, very nicely furnished, every amenity thought of. The location is perfect - far enough away from town that you don't hear neighbors and traffic, but close enough that you can run to the store in ten minutes. It was so peaceful and quiet, with beautiful tall trees surrounding the house. This stay was just for my boyfriend and I, but the house is perfect for a family. It had a great game room downstairs, movies, books, board games, two TVs, brochures and information about things to do in the area. The wireless internet worked perfectly! I will definitely return, and highly recommend this to anyone going to the Sunday River or Bethel area.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, romantic getaway, girls getaway, adventure seekers, families with teenagers, age 55+.
Perfect Holiday Base
Guest: Anna & Stephen
(Southampton, United Kingdom)
Date of Stay: 07/10/10
Review Submitted: 08/24/10
We spent 2 weeks here and had a wonderful stay. The house was superb, very comfortable, clean and spacious. The area is charming and unspoilt with so many things to do and picturesque places to visit. Our teenage children had a great time in the "den" with the pool table and second t.v We enjoyed the Mollyockett weekend event in Bethel and the fantastic firework display in the evening. Our hikes along the Appalachian Trail were a real highlight. This was our first time in Maine and the house was a welcome surprise after a long journey from the UK. We hope to return as we fell in love with the area. Thank you Jill for sending our son's forgotten shirt back to us and for providing such a lovely holiday home.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, romantic getaway, families with young children, adventure seekers, families with teenagers, age 55+.
Great Place
Guest: CM
(Holliston, MA)
Date of Stay: 06/26/10
Review Submitted: 07/07/10
Four of us stayed at Birch Haven for week at end of June and it was absolutely as described - exceptionally spotless, top quality linens, plenty of room, everything we needed we found - even condiments were furnished. I am normally quite picky about cleanliness but this is one of the neatest places I've ever stayed. I particularly enjoyed sitting out in the backyard reading while my daughter and son-in-law enjoyed the basement game room. I would highly recommend this place to anyone. Thanks Jill for a wonderful week.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, families with young children, families with teenagers, age 55+.
Family Ski Vacation
Guest: George_And_Marie
(Montreal, Canada)
Date of Stay: 02/27/10
Review Submitted: 05/25/10
We had a wonderful ski vacation at Birch Haven. The house was really clean, spacious, with all the amenities you would expect and then some. The house has a spacious and very well equipped kitchen, lovely dinning set, nice wine glasses and a beautiful fireplace among other things. The owners are very friendly and go out of their way to make sure you have a pleasant stay! We were greeted with little chocolates for the kids! The only negative point was the too short stay... we shall correct that problem next time.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, romantic getaway, pet owners, families with young children, girls getaway, adventure seekers, families with teenagers, age 55+.
February Vacation in Maine
Guest: Heimicza Vacation
(berlin, ct)
Date of Stay: 02/15/09
Review Submitted: 03/27/10
The house/property were even better then described. The rooms were spacious and the kitchen/dining room were perfect for the 8 of us. Very easy ride to and from Sunday River.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, families with young children, adventure seekers, families with teenagers.
Great Rental Near Sunday River
Guest: Luvtoski
(Kittery, ME)
Date of Stay: 03/04/10
Review Submitted: 03/26/10
We absolutely loved our stay at Birch Haven! The house was absolutely immaculate. The owners have thought of every detail - nightlights, everything you could need in the kitchen, more towels then you could possibly use during your stay and clear instructions about everything. A great finished basement for the kids - while the adults can visit upstairs. We had 4 adults and 4 kids stay and it was perfect. About a 15 minute easy drive to Sunday River. Lastly we found it to be one of the best values around and we would definitely rent this house again.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, families with young children, girls getaway, adventure seekers, families with teenagers.
Everything we needed, and more!
Guest: SnowVisitor
(Texas)
Date of Stay: 01/21/08
Review Submitted: 02/04/10
We rented the Birch Haven house the last week of January 2010 and could not have been happier. The house is clean, clean, clean. It is well appointed with everything you could need. The beds and linens were top quality. The owners had made sure our kids had things to do as well by providing board games, videos and a pool / air hockey table. When an issue did arise, (power outage) the owners responded quickly to help. We could not ask for more. I own a lodging facility and vacation rental in Texas and this makes me a bit judgmental when staying in another facility, but I could not find anything negative to detract from our stay. I highly recommend this vacation rental!
Recommended for:Sightseeing, families with young children, girls getaway, adventure seekers, families with teenagers, age 55+.
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #263760
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