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Tranquil Retreat on Woods Pond

Photo gallery for Tranquil Retreat on Woods Pond

Round front facing Woods Pond
Looking down from bedroom balcony.
Living room and dining room seen from bedroom balcony
Bedroom under the eaves
Kitchen looking into the dining room

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1+ bathroomSleeps 3

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Barbecue grill
  • Balcony

Explore the area

View in a map
Blue Hill, ME
  • Place, Jonathan Fisher House
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Blue Hill Books
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Blue Hill Bay Gallery
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Airport, Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor)
    ‪47 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 3)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Convertible bed(s)

1 Double Futon

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Jetted bathtub

Bathroom 2

Toilet

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Tranquil Retreat on Woods Pond

A gem for the couple that appreciates tranquility. Looking through the trees to the pristine pond that's home to loons and other wildlife you are surrounded by the natural world.

Though only a mile from town and a 40 minutes from Mt. Desert Island and Acadia Park, the setting is far from neighbors and has with walks along the shore or on the gravel roads in the neighborhood. Consider this a perfect place for a second (or first) honeymoon.

A spiral stair leads up to a cozy bedroom under the eaves. Lie in bed and watch the clouds or eagles through the skylights. Listen to the mysterious, haunting sounds of the loons who swim around the lake all summer.

Granite counter tops grace the kitchen and radiant heat keeps the hardwood floors warm on a chilly morning. Across a little bridge there is a 12' x 12' screened gazebo with three Adirondack chairs and a view of the pond -- a nice spot to sit and watch the sun set.

From the dock you can slip your canoe or kayak into the water or take a swim. Woods Pond is quiet with few outboard motors and no jet skis.

Utilities are in a separate building so only the refrigerator makes any noise to disturb your silence or creative play.

There's wi-fi access for those who wish to stay in touch. Cell phones get good reception here. A washer/dryer make vacation life simple!

Once featured in the New York Times travel section, this place is for those who want something special.

Please book Saturday to Saturday.

Keywords: House, retreat, quiet
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Extra bed is a 4" foam mattress on the floor.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
Dogs.... No cats.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No Smoking on property

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and return the keys
If you can strip the bed and put the sheets and towels in the washer and set it to wash them.
If you want to move the sheets to the dryer (omitting the towels) that would be great but not necessary.
Don't wash the duvel cover.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 180885vb
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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 no carbon monoxide detector on the property, but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Blue Hill

Located in Blue Hill, this holiday home is on a lake. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Holbrook Island Sanctuary State Park and Fort Madison State Park, while Jonathan Fisher House and Turtle Gallery are cultural highlights. Blue Hill Books and Blue Hill Co-op Community Market are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and windsurfing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cycling and mountain biking.
View more Holiday homes in Blue HillOpens in a new window
Map
Blue Hill, ME

What's nearby

  • Jonathan Fisher House - 6 min drive - 2.4 km
  • Blue Hill Books - 7 min drive - 3.5 km
  • Blue Hill Bay Gallery - 7 min drive - 3.9 km
  • The Blue Hill Wine Shop - 7 min drive - 4.2 km
  • Blue Hill Co-op Community Market - 8 min drive - 4.6 km

Getting around

  • Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor) - 42 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Bagaduce Lunch - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Blaze Brewing Blue Hill - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Dunkin' - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Devil's Half Acre Beer Garden - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Blue Hill Co-op - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Tranquil Retreat on Woods Pond pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much is parking at Tranquil Retreat on Woods Pond?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Tranquil Retreat on Woods Pond?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Tranquil Retreat on Woods Pond?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Tranquil Retreat on Woods Pond located?

Situated on a lake, this holiday home is within 3 miles (5 km) of Jonathan Fisher House, Blue Hill Books and Blue Hill Public Library. Blue Hill Bay Gallery and Holt House 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. 52 out of 53 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 53 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 53 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 53 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 53 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bryant C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My wife, dogs, and I had a great time staying here! The place was quiet, secluded, and absolutely beautiful. Incredible views of the frozen lake, cozy and comfortable house, and the host (Vicki) was very kind, welcoming, and helpful! Highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lora C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely wonderful stay. Perfect place to relax and re-connect. Very well-equiped kitchen, comfortable bed, quiet and peaceful. Sounds of Loon each morning was a special treat. Blessings and gratitude for sharing your special space.
View from deck area.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ann Marie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This property checked all of our boxes. The house was clean and user friendly. The property was a private location and made for those that love nature. It was a great place to relax in after the days activities. Also, the host is a very nice person to work with. Overall we had a very nice stay.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The tranquil retreat on Woods Pond was the perfect long weekend girls get away! The location was so serene, peaceful and quiet, but also close to the grocery store, restaurants and more. It felt like we had our own piece of paradise! The dogs also loved running down to the water everyday and swimming! It is such a beautiful property and lovely house. Vicki and Howard were also very responsive, kind, welcoming hosts. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin B.

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

A perfect retreat

We thoroughly enjoyed our week at Woods Pond. The house is beautiful with a well equipped kitchen and large windows and a side porch for taking in the views. The location was great, allowing us to kayak on the pond and easily get to some local land trust properties and Acadia NP. We appreciated being able to bring our dog, who loves to hike and swim!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Oct 2024
Kevin I just realized you wrote a review last year. No need to write again, unless of course you feel like it. Thanks so much.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth K.

Beautiful woodland cottage

This home is indeed a tranquil retreat on Woods Pond. Warm, exceedingly comfortable and private, I highly recommend this place for anyone who seeks a respite in the Blue Hill area. Close to town and other conveniences, this cottage is one I will return to in the future. Vicki is a wonderful host. Elizabeth
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2020
Elizabeth, thanks for your lovely review. It was special that you were here during such a major cold period, and that you were toasty and warm the whole time. We look forward to welcoming you back. Vicki
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

This was our 9th summer at the retreat.

The most peaceful, beautiful, relaxing, engaging and enriching experience. For two weeks we took hikes every day around Blue Hill and Acadia, swam and kayaked in the pond. In the evening we sat in the screened in gazebo down by the lake and watched the sunset.
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2020
Thanks so much for this beautiful, clear appreciation of all that this special retreat offers. I love how well you utilize our beloved haven. It’s people like you who add to the lovely energy it holds. See you again next year.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Natalee B.

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

A starry, peaceful retreat

We had a wonderful time at Woods Pond - the quiet was unlike anything we have experienced for many years and the starlit walks were well worth the trip. We were very comfortable in the spacious home and had everything we needed for a restful time away - the radiant heat was a plus. Special thanks to the hosts for responding rapidly to the need for plowing the driveway after a beautiful but quite slippery snowfall.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Dec 2021
Thanks so much for this lovely review We would welcome you back any time
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joe R.

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

Wonderful Maine Getaway

We had an absolutely lovely time at Vicki’s place! She and her husband came to greet us and show us around the property when we arrived, and provided great tips for exploring the surrounding area. We rented a canoe from the activity to paddle around the pond (we basically had the pond to ourselves most of the stay, which is more like a small lake). The solitude and peacefulness of Vicki’s home made our stay extremely relaxing and we enjoyed all of the gorgeous views from the porch and screened in gazebo. We would absolutely visit again!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Sept 2020
Thanks so much for your stay with us. It feels as if you really go the beauty and restorative energies of pond and place.. Warmly, Vicki
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mollie M.

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

Sanctuary

A serene sanctuary perfectly in tune with the magnificent nature that surrounds it. The stunning architecture features abundant windows that bathe this space in natural light, eliciting an instant feeling of harmony. Vicki and Howard are warm and wonderful hosts and we wanted for nothing during our stay - except of course for more time. We were seeking a place with good healing energy and we found it here in abundance. Thank you both so much for sharing this magical retreat.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Oct 2024
Mollie thank you for loving our special place so much. It was a treasure to meet you and share our common values.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Katherine H.

We had a perfect vacation...

We had a perfect vacation for our family of three. The property was clean, uncluttered and the owner provided excellent customer service. We opened the windows and enjoyed breezes and the sound of nature, alternating our days at the cabin relaxing and exploring the lake in our kayaks. One day we drove to Acadia National Park, and another was spent visiting nearby Deer Isle and Stonington. The village of Blue Hill has a well-stocked grocery store, a grocery co-op, great restaurants, a few galleries, and a bookstore. Our biggest regret was that we discovered the Blue Moose Restaurant at the end of our visit. They have the best blueberry pancakes!
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2020
Thanks, Kate. It goes both ways and having kind, considerate guests makes for a mutually enjoyable arrangement. I hope to see you soon again. Vicki
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Ron B.

Woods, Pond, Cottage and So Much More

My wife and I could not have picked a better place for our vacation in Blue Hill. Vicki and Howard made us feel most welcome on our arrival. Their cottage is nestled among the trees, but offers an open design with great natural light and a tranquil view of the pond. We enjoyed many hours at the cottage and on the pond -- a porch for reading and daydreaming, abundant bird life (including loons), comfortable swimming, pleasant paddling. The cottage is just minutes from the markets, restaurants and shops of Blue Hill as well as the fabulous chamber music performances at Kneisel Hall. Short drives took us to other beautiful ocean side towns, farmers' markets and the nearby parks including Holbrook Sanctuary.
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2020
Thanks for your glowing review. We were so happy to have you enjoy our special place in the same ways that we do.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Happy Place

For eight seasons in a row we have called Woods Pond Retreat our "happy place." We look forward to returning to this idyllic spot every summer and long during the year for it's tranquility. The spaces, inside and out, are beautiful and calming. At night you hear the loons and lying under the skylights you can marvel at the stars. The Pond is in view from most windows with pine trees rimming the house. One would never know the Retreat is only a few minutes from the town of Blue Hill. Every year we browse the well known bookstore, savor the wine and cheese shop, visit the large library, and meander the surrounding towns. The hosts, Vicki and Howard are personable and helpful and respond in a very timely manner. Their love of the Retreat will fuel anyone's experience which makes it an even happier place.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2020
You wrote so beautifully. We feel happy knowing that you love this special spot, that you come back every year, and that you take such good care of the house. Thanks.... Vicki
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Kendra T.

An Ideal Idyll

My husband and I were looking for a quiet, rejuvenating vacation in a beautiful setting where we could relax, read, explore outdoors, and eat good seafood! We found a little piece of heaven here. We couldn’t recommend this place more highly. The Woods Pond retreat is gorgeously situated on its own, down a dirt drive, nestled in the quiet woods. The owners (who met us on our arrival and were available should we have needed anything during our stay) have built a beautiful and comfortable house with such care and attention to detail. An unexpected treat were the skylights above the bed – nothing like waking up in the morning surrounded by the view of blue and sunny skies. The screened gazebo a few yards from the house became one of my favorite places at any time of day to read, write or just contemplate the sun streaking through the trees and the shimmering water of the pond. The nearby Activity Shop made renting a canoe a breeze, and we enjoyed many sunset excursions on the pond, watching the ospreys and the loons. It was so tranquil, the house felt very removed and yet was conveniently located – less than five minutes to the supermarket, and a few minutes more into the lovely town of Blue Hill. Acadia was not far away, but we found so many hikes and things to explore all around the Blue Hill peninsula, we ditched plans to join the fray there and took advantage of the peacefulness and stunning beauty around us. I wish I could bottle the unbelievable fragrance of warm pine and salt water. This area is a mecca of organic farming, small batch breweries and coffee roasteries, lobsters, blueberry fields, coastal inlets, and the absolutely friendliest people we’ve met anywhere (and we live in the notoriously friendly mid-west). A highlight of our trip was the lovely concerts we attended at the Kniesel Hall Chamber Music Festival. We are now members of the Blue Hill Heritage Trust and have our own library cards, so we certainly hope to return to this incredibly special place.
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2020
Wow. Thanks so much. In a short two weeks you got a real, in-depth sense of this peninsula. We look forward to welcoming you again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lauren W.

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

Tranquil escape

Cozy and comfortable cabin close to shops and restaurants but nestled away among the trees so you feel far away from civilization.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chance B.

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

Great retreat

Terrific spot. Easy drive to Acadia and offers a spot to get away from all of the tourists and relax afterwards. Canoeing around the lake in the evenings was bliss. Good as it gets.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica R.

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

Great experience

The house was beautiful, also the views from the house were nice as well. You can see the sunset from the backyard. We have a nice time at the property.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lauren W.

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

A delightful retreat

We truly enjoyed this peaceful and beautiful spot and hope to return again!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 26 May 2022
We would be happy to have you three return, any time.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thomas K.

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

Fantastic Fall

Vicki's house on the pond is a peaceful spot to spend contemplative time in coastal Maine. I was there for five nights. I rented a kayak from a place down the road (which delivered!) and paddled around the pond each day. I had some nighttime paddles, too. Amazing stars, crying loons. The woodwork inside and the natural moss garden outside are beautiful, and the house is well-equipped for cooking. I had to lead Zoom meetings of about 30 participants with multiple applications open and had no problems with the internet. But if you can avoid doing work while you're there, even better!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nan S.

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

Heaven!

This house is beautiful and sits in a blissfully quiet setting! My husband and I just returned from a three week stay during which we swam in the pond daily, canoed, hiked and biked. All we could hear were the loons and we discovered a bald eagle perched on a nearby rock in the pond one evening. Everything in the house is comfortable and works well and our hosts were extremely helpful with everything.
Stayed 21 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emmalee T.

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

Relaxing Getaway in Blue Hill

My husband and I stayed here for a week last summer and couldn’t wait to return this year. The location is perfect, and the cottage is equipped with everything you need for a quiet, calming retreat. It’s such a delight to stay here!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Suzanne D.

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

Don’t waste your money, find another stay

These people are obsessed with their home, I felt like I was watched my whole stay. They even came by to take pictures of my license plate Because they were stupid enough to leave their Apple Computer tucked away in the closet, I am young but I actually have my own Apple laptop… I don’t need to steal theirs.Talk about offensive!! The owners are too cheap to hire a cleaner, i’ve been working summers on a professional cleaning crew for over 10 years so trust me I know. I SLEPT ON SEX STAINED SHEETS! During a pandemic!! Foul! They don’t hire cleaners, and then charged me extra for dishes left and furniture rearranged. Cleaners deal with this every single day!! The soaps were near empty and watered down. The spare sheets were ripped. I ended up going to the store and buying my own new bedding. If you’re over 5’7 expect to not be able to stand in the shower. The place is beautiful. The owners ruined my stay.
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Apr 2021
Well, Suzanne.... The cleaners were appalled when they saw the mess you left and the hole in the wall. We're glad you liked the house anyway even if you didn't enjoy our help when you got your car stuck or the thermostat didn't work.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Victoria N.

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

Serenity

This is a really beautiful and cozy spot. The large windows and skylight were spectacular for watching the snow fall and the heated floors were appreciated by us and our pup :) Love the minimalist decor too which helps ease the stress out of your mind. Thanks for a wonderful stay Vicki!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Apr 2021
Thanks so much. Please join us again anytime.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dennis G.

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

A peaceful escape in Maine's wilderness

This modern and cozy house provides everything needed for a peaceful getaway in a near perfect location if you are interested in hiking the Blue Hill area and visiting Acadia / Bar Harbor. Owners were responsive, helpful and gave a tour of the house and useful information about the surrounding area. There's not much I can say to properly describe the tranquility of the location, including a winding path through the woods to both a screened gazebo with rustic furnishings designed for gazing at sunsets by the lake to the continuing trail to a private dock overlooking Third Pond (Woods Pond). In addition to the peaceful setting of the property, there's gas and 2 supermarkets within 10 minute drive up the road, including the Blue Hill Co-op which includes vegan / vegetarian alternatives (an important factor in our family for vacation spots). Overall, a location to escape the hustle / bustle of our modern lives, to listen to the loons haunting but enchanting calls across the pond and to explore the many local trails on Maine's coastal areas while staying in a unique architectural wonder of a house in a perfect location in Maine.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2020
We are so glad that you and your family experienced the Retreat House in the way that we hope people will - you fully took in the peacefulness, the beauty, and the accessibility to other things. We welcome you back at any time. Thanks for your lovely review.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David J.

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

Autumn Gold

Nice, very clean, very comfortable. Just what we needed for our trip to Acadia during peak leaf change. Owners were very helpful and all went well.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Mar 2020
Thanks so much for your appreciation of our special place. And thanks for leaving it so spotless. Also I'm grateful for your suggestions.

About the host

Hosted by Vicki Pollard

Host profile image
I'd like very much to introduce you to our Woods Pond Retreat. It's a place that I absolutely love and treasure the days spent here, often alone, just bathing in the silence or in the cool waters of the pond. Sharing the retreat with others has proved to be a rewarding adventure, trusting people I don't know in advance with something deeply precious to me.

Why they chose this property

We built this house close to where we live because we wanted to be able to retreat regularly -- slip away from the pressure of our busy, committed lives. Being near the pond, the presence of loons and other wildlife, and the simple quiet that sometimes descends made this location just perfect. It's easy to slip a canoe or kayak into the water, and there aren't any jet skis or big power boats.

Now I choose to share this idylic spot with others, realizing that this sort of place doesn't exist very often in our cynical, difficult world. I hope you will join others who have found this beautiful place a place for new intimacies -- with yourself, with your partner, with the natural world. Welcome.

What makes this property unique

Personally, I spend a lot of time either reading or just looking out the windows, letting my being settle into the moment. Quiet inside, quiet outside. It takes a little time, a day or so to let that happen, and it's so delicious.

I take walks, go for a paddle, talk with my dog and sometimes take the peace with me on a trip to Bar Harbor or to visit a friend, returning in time to slip into bed and listen to the loons talking to each other.

Languages:

English, French
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