Airy, book-lined cottage on historic seaside estate with private beaches & more

Enjoy a heavenly stay on this historic private estate, with full access to two private beaches, a granite swimming pier, a lily pond, tennis courts, woodlands, meadows, a scenic picnic spot with outdoor fireplace, a playground, a wild rocky peninsula, and stunning scenery. "The Library" cottage, originally built as a professor's study, is perfect for one person or a couple (and there's a spare mattress that can be used for an extra person). One large, cheerful room contains the living, eating, and sleeping areas, lined with shelves containing a wonderful variety of books (old and new) and vintage magazines. An old woodstove adds charm and is operational as well. The kitchenette is in a small separate room. A clothes washer and dryer (shared with a neighboring cottage) are accessible in an outside closet. The two skylights and their shades are operated by remote.

The view from inside is very limited, but the Library offers access to the entire 55-acre estate where it's located. The estate has been in our extended family since the 1860s and is truly one of the most beautiful spots in New England. This peaceful haven is an extraordinary place for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, exploring tidal pools, birdwatching (herons, egrets, kingfishers, ospreys, even occasional bald eagles), fishing for striped bass, admiring historic architecture, and enjoying magnificent sunsets. It's also a wonderful spot for kayaking (you can rent kayaks in nearby Rockport) and offers easy access to the cultural and gastronomic riches of Cape Ann.

One queen bed; one twin mattress, which can be placed on the floor for an extra guest; one bathroom (stall shower); mini kitchen (refrigerator, hot plates, toaster oven, coffee machine, pots & pans, etc.; no sink, but there is a double-basin sink in the bathroom just off the kitchen); a small barbecue for the yard; WiFi. There is no AC or central heating; there are skylights and we provide fans and space heaters, and the woodstove is effective for heating.