Ski & Splash Retreat

There's a particular kind of Maine holiday that only works in a house - not a hotel room. Multiple families, multiple generations, the ability to cook breakfast in your own kitchen at eight in the morning, a fireplace that everyone gathers around after dark. The Ski & Splash Retreat in Bridgton delivers exactly that. This five-bedroom, two-bathroom lakefront home anchors itself between summer and winter: a swimming pool for July, skiing minutes away come December, and hiking trails in every direction year-round.

What makes it functional - rather than just spacious - is the practical architecture. A fully fitted kitchen, dining area, sitting spaces that don't feel like you're stacking people into a shoebox. Streaming services, a desk for anyone who needs to work, a playground for children who need to burn off energy. Lake views don't hurt either.

This is the kind of property you rent for a week, not a night. It's built for groups and families who want a base camp in the mountains, not a hotel stay.

Space and privacy for multiple families. Five bedrooms and two full bathrooms means no one's negotiating shower schedules. The layout separates sleeping areas from living spaces, so children can be asleep upstairs while adults linger by the fire below. Most group rentals feel cramped; this one actually breathes.

Pool and lake access in a single property. The outdoor swimming pool keeps the kids occupied on warm afternoons, while the lake itself (visible from the house) offers fishing and a sense of place. Fire pit evenings with blankets and lake breezes are the texture of Bridgton summers.

Outdoor fireplace for gathering. Unlike a fireplace you peer at through a window, the outdoor fireplace and seating area become the social center of the property. This is where the week happens: transitions between meals, unexpected conversations, the kids catching fireflies while adults watch the light change.

Connected to Maine's best outdoor seasons. Bridgton sits in the foothills - close enough to White Mountain National Forest (15 miles) for serious hiking, and ski access is immediate in winter. The same house works for leaf-peeping, swimming, and powder days.

The house holds five bedrooms with linens provided, spread across the property with two full bathrooms and private entrances - important for a rental this size. Bedrooms are equipped with views and comfortable sleeping arrangements; bathrooms include bathtubs, towels, and free toiletries. The living areas comprise a dining space, sitting room with a sofa, and work desk for anyone who needs to step away with a laptop.

The kitchen is the actual heart: full-sized appliances (stovetop, oven, dishwasher, microwave), a refrigerator, coffee machine, and enough counter space for multiple people to cook without friction. Washing machine and dryer on-site mean you can extend a stay without overpacking.

The outdoor swimming pool opens the season in warm months and becomes the daily focal point for families. The property's fireplace and furnished seating area overlook the lake, with a barbecue and picnic dining table for communal meals. A children's playground provides independent activity for younger guests, while the grounds themselves - with lake views and multiple outdoor zones - break the property into different moods: quiet reading corners, active play areas, social gathering spots.

Activities & Nearby Recreation

• Skiing & Winter Sports: Shawnee Peak operates just minutes away in winter, with Sunday River and other resorts within 30 minutes.
• Hiking & Forest Access: White Mountain National Forest trails range from easy lake loops to serious ridge hikes; Bridgton itself has access trails to local peaks and forest roads suitable for family walks.
• Lake Activities: Fishing, kayaking, and swimming directly from the property or at Highland Lake.
• Family Entertainment: Story Land and local amusement parks are a scenic drive, while the house's playground and streaming services serve rainy days.
• Golf: On-site course nearby for families who golf.

Summer (June–August): The pool is the daily draw, and the lake is swimmable. Hiking is at its best; mountain views are clear. This is peak family season. Restaurants and attractions operate at full hours.

Fall (September–October): Leaf-peeping season brings the biggest crowds to Bridgton and the surrounding mountains. Trails are spectacular. The pool remains open early in the season; water activity shifts to hiking and scenery. Book well in advance.

Winter (November–March): Shawnee Peak operates, and Sunday River is 30 minutes away. The property is excellent for ski groups. Lake freezes for fishing; snowshoeing and cross-country skiing take over the trails. The outdoor fireplace becomes more functional than decorative.

Spring (April–May): Shoulder season. Snow lingers at elevation, wildflowers bloom in lower areas, and crowds thin. The pool opens by May. Fewer tourists mean quieter restaurant access; hiking trails dry out gradually.

• 2 miles: Local golf course (accessible within 2 miles)
• 5 miles: Downtown Bridgton, shops and local restaurants
• 10 miles: Shawnee Peak ski area (winter)
• 12 miles: Highland Lake swimming and kayaking
• 15 miles: White Mountain National Forest, major hiking trail network
• 22 miles: Sunday River ski resort (Newry)
• 26 miles: Story Land Amusement Park (Glen, NH)
• 45 miles: Portland International Jetport for arrival/departure

Is the house on the water? The property features lake views and fishing access. It's not directly beachfront (no private shoreline dock), but the lake is visible from the house and within walking distance.

Is breakfast or meals included? No meals are included, but the fully equipped kitchen is designed for guests to cook. You have an oven, stovetop, dishwasher, microwave, coffee maker, and dining table for self-catering families and groups.

Are pets allowed? The JSON does not specify pet policy. Contact the property directly before booking if this is important.

Is Wi-Fi included? Streaming services and a work desk are available. High-speed internet is implied for modern streaming, though specific speeds aren't detailed. Confirm if remote work is a priority.

How far is the nearest airport? Portland International Jetport is 45 miles away - roughly 50 minutes to an hour by car. Manchester Airport (NH) is a similar distance.

Is the pool heated or seasonal? The pool is outdoor and seasonal. Expect it to operate June through September, with possible extension into early May and late October depending on weather.

What's the nearest town for supplies? Downtown Bridgton is about 5 miles away with grocery stores, restaurants, and local shops. It's a quick errand run, not a major drive.