The Highland House

The Highland House isn't a hotel in the traditional sense - it's a three-bedroom, two-bath house in one of Portland's quietest residential neighborhoods, yet close enough to walk downtown. Built for groups and families who'd rather cook their own meals than hunt for reservations, it gives you the kind of room and autonomy that a typical inn can't match. The place is clean to an almost unsettling degree, with soft bedding and the kind of thoughtful kitchen setup that suggests someone's actually stayed here before. One recent guest, traveling with a dog, called it the best location they could have found. That balance - quiet street, easy downtown access, room to spread out - is what draws people back.

Space to actually spread out. This is a full house, not a room. Three bedrooms mean families and groups have their own corners, a kitchen where you can prep real meals instead of relying on room service, and a living room with a fireplace if you want to hole up on a rainy Portland evening. Recent guests praised the brightness of the rooms and the lack of clutter - a rental that feels lived-in, not staged.

Genuinely quiet neighborhood with downtown at your back door. Deering Highlands is one of Portland's most peaceful residential blocks, but the Arts District and Old Port are a 10–15-minute walk away. One couple with a dog described it as the best of both worlds. You're not isolated; you're just removed from the noise.

The details matter. Fluffy towels, well-stocked cookware, good bedding. These aren't luxuries - they're the kind of everyday comforts that vacation rentals often skip. Guests mention the amenities felt "well thought out," which is a way of saying someone's actually cleaned and tested the space before listing it.

Pet-friendly without hesitation. The Highland House welcomes dogs (and likely other pets - confirm when booking). That opens the door to a whole category of Maine trips: hiking the Presumpscot River Trail, exploring Cape Elizabeth, or just walking the neighborhood with your dog without worrying about a "no pets" policy.

Free parking and WiFi included. In Portland, that's not guaranteed. If you're driving, you're covered. If you need to work remotely, the house has a desk and solid internet.

The Highland House is a single three-bedroom property, so you're renting the whole place. Each bedroom has its own character and size. Guests specifically note the quality of the bedding and the brightness of the rooms - large windows let in natural light, and the interior design leans toward uncluttered (spare rather than sparse). The kitchen is fully equipped with cookware, utensils, and appliances; the living areas include a fireplace and workspace.

One minor note: Recent guests have suggested adding chairs to the bedrooms (for sitting, not just sleeping) and improving ventilation in the bathrooms. The property doesn't yet have grab bars in the shower, which some guests flagged as a safety consideration for longer stays or less mobile guests. None of this is a deal-breaker, but it's worth knowing if accessibility is important to you.

Kitchen & Dining · Full kitchen with stovetop, oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, and extensive cookware · Washing machine for longer stays · Dining table · Flat-screen TV in the living area

Outdoor Spaces · Terrace for morning coffee or evening air · Garden with garden views · Free parking on-site

Comfort & Convenience · Air conditioning throughout · Central heating · Fireplace in the living room · Work desk (useful if you're remote working) · Free WiFi · Non-smoking throughout

Practical Touches · Hairdryer and towels · Iron and ironing board · English-speaking support

Summer (June–August). Peak season in Portland. The Arts District buzzes, outdoor patios are open, and the neighborhood is lively but not overwhelming. Weather is warm; the terrace at The Highland House becomes your default hangout. Book early.

Fall (September–October). Shoulder season, often the best time to visit. Fewer crowds than summer, still warm enough for terrace time, and the coastal Maine foliage starts in early October. Local restaurants are less frantic, so you can actually get reservations.

Winter (November–February). Quiet and cold. The fireplace becomes essential (and comforting). Portland's restaurant scene is accessible without the summer crush. The neighborhood feels genuinely residential, which some guests prefer.

Spring (March–May). Variable weather but steadily improving. Fewer crowds than summer, and the gardens around Deering Highlands start to show color in late May.

"Lovely quiet neighborhood. Sparklingly clean. Nice bedding, big soft fluffy towels. Plenty of kitchen utensils and cookware."

• Mary, United States · Family · 9/10

"The property was fantastic. We stayed for 2 nights with our puppy and couldn't have found a better location. Close to pretty much everything but also in a quiet and friendly neighborhood."

• Thompson, United States · Couple · 10/10

"The amenities to the house were well thought out. The house was bright and uncluttered."

• Julia, United States · Solo traveler · 10/10

The only consistent critique across reviews is a small one: Welcome supplies (tea, coffee, snacks) were minimal. Guests arriving late after travel appreciated the precedent set by other vacation rentals, where a basic welcome kit is standard. If you're arriving late or need caffeine, plan accordingly - stop at a nearby coffee shop or bring your own supplies.

• 5-minute walk: Portland's Arts District, galleries, and coffee shops
• 10-minute walk: Old Port, waterfront shops, and historic Dock Square
• 15-minute walk: Congress Street, Portland's main drag, lined with restaurants and bookstores
• 1.1 miles: Portland Stadium (events and sports)
• 3.7 miles: Portland International Jetport (if you're arriving by air)
• 14 miles: Funtown Splashtown USA (if you're traveling with kids who need a break)
• 15 minutes by car: Cape Elizabeth and Two Lights State Park, excellent for coastal walks and lighthouse photos
• 20 minutes by car: Crescent Beach and the wider Casco Bay area, perfect for kayaking or casual beach time

Is The Highland House pet-friendly? Yes. Dogs are welcome. Confirm any pet fees or restrictions when you book, and let the owner know in advance about your pet's size and temperament.

Is breakfast included? No. The Highland House is a self-catering rental. You have a full kitchen, so you can cook breakfast, or walk to the Arts District for coffee and pastries (5-minute walk).

Is there free parking? Yes. Free parking is included on-site, which is a major convenience in Portland.

How far is it from the airport? Portland International Jetport is 3.7 miles away, about a 10-minute drive depending on traffic.

Is WiFi included? Yes. Free WiFi is available throughout the house, so you can work remotely or stream without extra charges.

What's the closest town center? Downtown Portland and the Arts District are a 10-minute walk from The Highland House. Both have shops, restaurants, galleries, and the waterfront is 15 minutes on foot.

Is the house air-conditioned? Yes. Air conditioning is included, along with central heating, so the house is comfortable year-round.