Oakland Apartment on Messalonskee Lake

Most rental apartments on Maine lakes deliver a view and a microwave. This one - tucked on the Messalonskee Lake waterfront in Waterville with a private dock - delivers both, plus the kind of personal attention from an owner who actually cares. You get a one-bedroom, fully equipped kitchen, lake views from multiple windows, and permission to tie up your kayak or canoe steps from your door. It's not a polished resort. It's a genuine place to live for a few days, with the bonus of a northern Maine lake practically in your lap.

The apartment has drawn repeat guests and strong marks from couples and solo travelers who come back. One visitor called it "spacious living conditions. More than expected." Another spent half her days sitting on the dock, watching the water. The owner, Rosanna, manages the place with visible care - she once tracked down guests' forgotten belongings and mailed them back. The 7.6 rating reflects both the appeal of the location and some honest gaps in the property's maintenance during winter months.

Lake access and dock privileges are the main draw. You have a private dock; bring a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard, or just sit with coffee watching the water. One guest called relaxing at the dock "one of my favorite things to do." The lake is calm, scenic, and yours to use during your stay.

The owner, Rosanna, is exceptionally responsive and kind. She handles guest questions promptly, helped one couple recover forgotten items shipped to them after checkout, and replies thoughtfully to concerns. This is not an automated property; someone is genuinely managing it.

The apartment is genuinely spacious and well-equipped for self-catering. The kitchen includes a full stove, oven, refrigerator, microwave, toaster, coffee machine, and dining table. The living room is separate from the bedroom, so you have actual space to spread out - not a cramped studio.

Cleanliness and comfort are consistent. Multiple guests noted "very clean" conditions and "comfortable" living. The linens and towels are fresh; free WiFi works; the flat-screen TV is there if you want it.

This is a one-bedroom apartment in a residential building. The layout gives you a separate living room, bedroom, full bathroom, and kitchen - more like a home than a hotel room. A private entrance adds to the independence. Upper floors are reached by stairs only.

• Apartment (one bedroom) - Living room, full kitchen, bedroom with linens, private bathroom with shower and free toiletries. Lake views from windows. Private entrance.

One honest note: reviewers who stayed in winter mentioned the steep outdoor steps can become snow-covered and difficult to navigate. The owner has acknowledged this and is improving snow removal for future winter guests. If you're visiting November through March, confirm snow-removal protocols before booking.

Grounds & Views · Private dock on Messalonskee Lake · Lake views from apartment windows · Street and accessible parking available

In the Kitchen · Full stovetop and oven · Refrigerator, microwave, toaster · Coffee machine · Dining table · Kitchenware provided

Bedroom & Bathroom · Private bathroom with shower · Free toiletries and hairdryer · Fresh linens and towels · Iron and ironing board

Connectivity & Entertainment · Free WiFi · Flat-screen TV with cable channels · Heating for year-round comfort

Summer (June–August) is peak season for lake use. Water temps reach the low 70s; perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Days are long; expect warm afternoons and cool evenings. The dock is your backyard.

Spring (April–May) brings thawing and greenery. Temperatures climb into the 50s–60s. Mornings are cool; afternoons lengthen. Lake is still chilly, but paddling around is pleasant. Less crowded than summer.

Fall (September–October) is quiet and scenic. Foliage peaks mid-to-late September. Water temperature drops to the 50s. Nights get crisp; you'll want the heating on. Fewer tourists; peaceful.

Winter (November–March) is scenic but challenging. Snow can accumulate; the outdoor steps to the apartment require shoveling. The lake may ice over. Heating works well indoors, but access and maintenance are less reliable than in warmer months. Book only if you're confident about road and step conditions, or contact the owner first.

"Everything. The view was incredible. Spacious living conditions. More than expected!" - Matthew, United States · Solo traveler · 10/10

"The location is beautiful sitting at the dock and relaxing was one of my favorite things to do. The host was very very nice and accommodating." - Jade, United States · Solo traveler · 10/10

"A simple but well enough home during your travel. Very clean. Great thanks to Rosanna." - Yun, China · Couple · 8/10

"The owner was extremely kind. The apartment was cozy and comfy. Beautiful location over the river." - Abby, United States · Solo traveler · 8/10

The small criticisms: winter guests have flagged unshoveled steps, and one visitor found the property outdated with maintenance issues (including evidence of mice). The owner has responded to these concerns and says she is improving snow removal and property upkeep. Summer and fall guests have not reported these problems, suggesting they are seasonal or already addressed.

Less than 20 minutes to shopping and dining. Walmart, Hannaford supermarket, fast-casual chains, and local restaurants are all 15 minutes away in the direction of Oakland proper - convenient for restocking the kitchen without leaving the lake setting.

Augusta is 18–22 miles south. The State Capitol, Maine State Museum, and Augusta Civic Center (events, shows) are a 30-minute drive. Old Fort Western, a 1628 trading post now a museum, is about the same distance and worth a half-day trip.

Waterville itself (downtown) is about 10 miles north. Colby College campus is walkable in that direction; there are local shops, galleries, and cafes along Main Street.

Sugarloaf ski resort is 40 miles north if you visit in winter - a mountain and lodge operation with skiing, lodging, and dining.

Pine Tree State Arboretum (21 miles) offers trails and seasonal plantings if you enjoy walking gardens in spring or fall.

Lakes and public boat launches abound nearby. Messalonskee itself allows motorboats and sailboats; nearby Sebasticook Lake and smaller ponds are within 20–30 minutes and popular with canoeists.

Is this a waterfront property? Yes. The apartment sits directly on Messalonskee Lake with a private dock. You can tie up a kayak or canoe and access the water steps from the property.

Is there a laundry machine in the unit? There is a laundry room next to the kitchen. The owner confirmed this in a recent reply to a guest.

Is breakfast included? No. The apartment is self-catering. You have a full kitchen and are near shopping centers 15 minutes away.

What's the nearest town with restaurants and shops? Oakland proper (the town) is about 5 miles away and has local dining and some retail. A larger shopping center with Walmart and Hannaford is 15 minutes drive.

Can I bring my dog? The property listing does not mention pets. Contact the owner directly to ask.

Is the apartment accessible for people with mobility challenges? Upper floors are reached by stairs only. Winter snow can make outdoor steps difficult. If accessibility is a priority, ask the owner about ground-floor options or winter conditions beforehand.

What's the WiFi quality like? Free WiFi is included and available throughout the apartment. Multiple guests mentioned it works.