Pet-Friendly Cottage on Branch Lake

Ellsworth sits at the gateway to Mount Desert Island, and this one-bedroom cottage offers a rare combination: direct lake access without the Bar Harbor premium. The property looks directly onto Branch Lake, a quiet body of water that feels miles from the tourist spine, though it's only 12 miles from Hulls Cove Visitor Center and within striking distance of Acadia National Park. It's designed as a rental home rather than a traditional hotel - you get a full kitchen, a fireplace, and the freedom of a private entrance. The trade-off is one bedroom plus loft and bunk sleeping areas, which works best for small families or groups comfortable with unconventional layouts.

The cottage appeals most to guests seeking outdoor access without central-town bustle. Dog owners will appreciate the pet-friendly designation; those who want to cook their own meals will value the full kitchen setup. Reviewers praise the lake view and cleanliness consistently, though the sleeping arrangements warrant honest consideration before booking.

Direct lake access and unobstructed views. The property's main draw is its position on Branch Lake. Multiple guests specifically cited the view as a highlight, and that's not hyperbole - you're looking at open water from the cottage. For families or groups who want to paddle, swim, or simply sit with coffee overlooking the lake, this is the feature that justifies the stay.

A fully equipped kitchen for self-catering groups. Unlike hotel rooms, this cottage includes a proper kitchen: full stovetop, oven, microwave, coffee machine, and all the cookware you'll need. For a family planning to prepare some meals or a group that wants flexibility, this setup saves money and adds convenience that a standard hotel room can't match.

Pet-friendly accommodations. Dogs and other pets are welcome here - a rarity in Maine's rental market. There's no fee or deposit mentioned in the booking details, and guests have the freedom of a private entrance and outdoor space.

Spa access and fireplace comfort. The cottage includes spa facilities and a working fireplace, giving guests options for relaxation during cooler months or after active days exploring nearby Acadia.

This is a one-bedroom cottage with a loft and additional sleeping areas. The main bedroom holds a queen bed (note: the loft queen has low headroom and requires ducking to access the bed). The loft also includes a top bunk. A double futon in the living area provides additional sleeping capacity. The layout is unconventional and best suited for groups flexible about sleeping arrangements; the cottage is marketed to sleep six, though comfort depends on group composition and expectations.

• Vacation Home: One bedroom, loft with queen and bunk bed, double futon, full bathroom with private entrance

One honest note: reviewers flagged that the loft headroom is tight for adults, and the futon is functional rather than luxurious. If your group includes tall sleepers or anyone requiring a traditional queen or king, confirm the layout directly with the owner before booking.

Utilities & Comfort: Free WiFi · Air conditioning · Fireplace · Private entrance

Kitchen: Full stovetop and oven · Microwave · Coffee machine · Complete kitchenware · Washing machine and dryer

Spa & Recreation: Spa access · Beach access (lake) · Board games and puzzles · Canoeing

Bedroom & Bath: Private bathroom with bathtub and shower · Free toiletries · Hair dryer · Flat-screen TV with cable channels · Ironing facilities

Practical: Parking on site (street parking) · Non-smoking property · Pet friendly

Summer (June–August): Peak season for lake-based vacations. The cottage's main appeal - the view and water access - is at its best. Expect warm days ideal for swimming, paddling, and outdoor meals. Acadia is crowded, but your private lakeside retreat offers a quieter alternative base.

Fall (September–October): Leaf-peeping season brings crowds to Acadia, but Branch Lake remains quieter. Temperatures cool down, making the fireplace more valuable. September weather is often the most stable of the year in Maine.

Winter (November–March): A niche season for this property. The spa and fireplace become genuine amenities. Acadia's carriage roads are less crowded. However, confirm heating system capacity and road access during ice-out season.

Spring (April–May): Shoulder season with fewer tourists. Weather is unpredictable but warming. Good for groups seeking solitude and willing to embrace variable conditions.

"The view of the lake was wonderful. The property was clean."

• Sandra, United States · Family · 8/10

"Great time! Highly recommended."

• Sandra, United States · Family · 8/10

"Had a great time."

• Vicki, United States · Group · (no score given)

Caveat: One couple noted difficulty sleeping due to the unconventional sleeping arrangements (the loft queen bed's low ceiling and bunk bed layout). Their stay was in late August (a longer trip), and they found the advertised sleep capacity didn't match their comfort expectations. If your group is flexible on sleeping arrangements and doesn't include anyone tall or particular about bed style, this is less likely to affect you.

• 5 miles: Downtown Ellsworth shops, restaurants, and local services
• 12 miles: Hulls Cove Visitor Center for Acadia National Park permits and orientation
• 15 miles: Mount Desert Island - car ferry from Bar Harbor to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia; beaches and carriage roads throughout
• 17 miles: Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (commercial service to Boston, New York)
• 20 miles: Acadia National Park - Jordan Pond, Thunder Hole, Park Loop Road, hiking trails
• 30 miles: The Abbe Museum (Bar Harbor) - Native American history and cultural exhibits
• Nearby: Canoeing access directly from the property on Branch Lake; Fort Knox State Historic Site (Prospect) is 25 miles south

Is the cottage right on the water? Yes. The property sits directly on Branch Lake with lake views from the cottage. The listing mentions "beach access," indicating you can access the water directly from the property or nearby grounds for swimming or launching canoes.

Is breakfast included? No. This is a self-catering vacation rental. However, the full kitchen allows you to prepare breakfast and all meals. Ellsworth's downtown is five miles away if you prefer eating out.

Are pets allowed? Yes, this is a pet-friendly property. Dogs and most pets are welcome. Confirm any size or breed restrictions directly with the owner.

Is there a spa on site? The listing includes spa access, though details on specific services (massage, sauna, etc.) aren't specified. Confirm amenities with the property owner before booking if spa services are a priority.

How far is it to Acadia National Park? About 20 miles to the main Acadia entrance and Jordan Pond area. The drive is 25–40 minutes depending on which part of the park you're visiting. The cottage offers a quieter base without staying in busy Bar Harbor.

Is WiFi available? Yes. Free WiFi is included, so you can stay connected or work remotely if needed.

Can I park easily? Street parking is available on site. Confirm whether multiple vehicles are accommodated, especially for larger groups.