Is Spectacular private island pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 5 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

Where is Spectacular private island located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is close to Marshall Point Lighthouse. Area attractions also include Tenants Harbor Marina.

Spectacular private island Reviews, Deals & Photos 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

16 Jun 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Island Vacation

Staying on an island with just family and friends is magical. The island was beautiful and the rustic elegance of the house gave us everything we needed for a great vacation. There are so many things to do- hiking, kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, reading- that no one was ever bored. An integral part of the trip was Joe, the caretaker/boat captain. He is a personable young man, who helps make the trip stress free. If you need assistance or information, he is happy to help. Thanks, Joe!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephen C., Phippsburg, Maine

21 Aug 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

McGee Paradise

MaGee Island is the quintessential Maine costal experience. The Island is stepping into a time capsule, when life was slower, more interesting and purposeful. For our group, sharing the original family’s history of the property, and the tranquility of a private island was absolutely restoring to the sole. Joe, who caretakers the asset, added immensely to our enjoyment. If you are looking to step back to a time life was simpler and a true sense of history with the historical buildings and original home artifacts, this is the place to experience a true costal Maine experience.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Amy D.

15 Sept 2015

McGee Island ... couldn't have dreamt it so good!

Honestly, from my very first contact with the family/ renters - to the actual vacation - to the aftermath (did we forget anything? did we break that thing !?) - My college reunion / wedding celebration of 11 adults and 9 children under the age of 7 could not have been better. The "business/ logistical" part of our vacation was handled with superb professionalism and friendliness. The island and house (all three structures) are beautiful and meticulously cared for, curated with a strong aesthetic and point of view - - (the first thing my gang said was "This is like a Wes Anderson movie!") - everything worked the way it supposed to, all the beds and sleeping arrangements were accurately described - we had more than enough room. The caretaker Jo, was a super cool guy, both helpful flexible and thorough. I can't say enough about how much McGee is a truly special place.... Let's put it this way I was already emailing about coming back the following year - while I was there!

10/10 Excellent

Sue B., Fort Collins, CO

11 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical historic property

We had a wonderful time. It truly is a magical place. If you want to watch TV, and live in modern luxury, and run to the store or do lots of things on the mainland, this isn't the place. But if you're looking for a very comfortable, historic and absolutely beautiful place to spend time with people you love, it's perfect. We loved having the old books around, the game tables, binoculars, fireplace, woodstove, and extra blankets. The outdoor shower is a wonderful start to the day. The views from everywhere are amazing and calming and we loved watching the changes with the tides. We went musseling, rowing, exploring, and flagged down a lobsterman who sold us 14 lobster for $60 which made for a story we'll tell for ages. We hiked the trails and admired the views and interior sights around the island. We spent mornings in the sunroom reading and doing puzzles while one or two of us cooked breakfast in the well stocked cookhouse and then we all trooped down to have breakfast in front of a warm fire before spending our days exploring or putzing about in boats or wellies or reading on the porch or in front of the fire. We like to cook (and eat) and the kitchen is well stocked and we had everything we needed. Joe is a treasure. He allowed us to feel as though we were on our own private island and yet was always ready to answer a question or help in any way we asked. He's had everything we needed ready; firewood, kindling for the sauna, mowed lawns, etc. What a nice guy. We hope to return some day. It's a place out of time.

Stayed 9 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Adam B., Saukville, WI

25 Jun 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just Perfect

We had 21 people aged 8 to 68 and McGee was perfect in every way. We had high expectations and every expectation was well-exceeded. We spent much time just exploring the island and enjoying the views. The island was perfect for a larger party with a wide age group. There was something for everyone and plenty of space for it! Joe, caretaker, was top notch and takes great of the property and is sure to make the time there as great as possible. Michael, owner, was extremely responsive and helpful when booking and understanding the different nature of preparing for an island getaway! Overall, just a perfect getaway!!!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anna T.

13 Sept 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Summer Dream

As other guests have attested, our experience on McGee Island is hard to put into words. It’s a place that’s so special, we’ve found ourselves wondering how we got lucky enough to experience it. Days filled with boating, porch rocking and reading, walks, dinners and fire side singalongs. Foraging for mussels and playing lawn games. Summer camp for adults and kids alike. Much care and attention has been paid by the owner and caretaker to maintain the quintessential Maine charm and familial atmosphere that those of us who wish we had a summer cottage desire. Before we left we booked our return for next summer. Big thanks to the Ericksons and Joe for making it the highlight of our year.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael C.

7 Jul 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Experience!

Our week-long stay on McGee Island was outstanding. It was just what our Family needed. The owners/Joe were all great. The island itself is beautiful, just as advertised, and the weather could not have been any better. The buildings themselves are meticulously kept time capsules. Plenty of activities to do for children/teenagers (kayaks, paddle boards, ping pong and a host of other games) with plenty of space for the adults to decompress, read and enjoy the amazing views. Hope to return again soon. Thank you!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Pat Q.

19 Jul 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible Family Vacation on McGee

Our family vacation/celebration on McGee Island could not have been more fun or relaxing. Everything about the island home - from the incredible Main House to the private “pool” - exceeded our very high expectations. The pictures do not do justice to this magnificent compound. We had 14 people in our party ranging in age from 4 to 78 and everyone had a blast. Our favorite activities included kayaking/paddle boarding, catching our dinners (muscles), flagging down lobstermen for fresh lobbies, hiking and eating raspberries while taking in the views (blueberries were just coming in), family game-nights, and simply relaxing on the massive front porch. If you are looking to a (very) quiet, relaxing yet activity filled getaway for a large group, look no further - McGee is your place.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Elyssa R.

13 Jul 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best family vacation!

I booked McGee Island for a family getaway, after over a year of not all being together due to the pandemic. We were a group of 21, with ages ranging from 16 to 86. This vacation surpassed my expectations. The islands and accommodations are absolutely wonderful, with so many activities and areas to enjoy spending quality time together. The front porch was a favorite gathering spot, and there are so many rooms where you can spread out and relax. We all enjoyed the remoteness and ability to truly "get away." I can't say enough as to how special this place is. The owner is amazing to work with and really wants to make sure you have a wonderful experience. You will not be disappointed if you book this place!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Greg P.

14 Jul 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One of a kind place

Historic house w all kinds of period touches and the subtle beauty of nature make this a unique experience

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Neil S.

7 Sept 2018

Paradise

I don’t even know how to encapsulate all the amazing details about our stay at McGee Island. We booked the island for a corporate team outting - about 20 people from the office (all adults). The island is incredibly beautiful, and feels extremely removed from the world - lots of wildlife to observe and enjoy. The house is a dream come true - it has great new fixtures in the bathrooms and the kitchen, but everything else seems to have been lovingly maintained over the course of 100+ years so it has plenty of rustic charm. It also has one of the biggest and best fireplaces I’ve ever seen. Also an amazing library of books spread through the house. We hiked, swam, kayaked, picked mussels, star gazed, relaxed in the sauna or the hammock, enjoyed the views. Even getting to the island was fun! Everyone we interacted with was great - the owners were extremely friendly and helpful while making the reservation and preparing for our stay, and the caretaker Joe was great. Aside from a few things (firewood, trips into Port Clyde, and a sink drain stopper whose lever came loose) we didn’t need Joe’s assistance for much, but he had lots of historical info about the island to share, was a reassuring presence for a bunch of folks from the city, and was just all around a cool guy. He also has a huskie/lab mix named Baloo who’s one of the chillest dogs I’ve ever met. Can’t recommend McGee Island highly enough. If you have the chance to stay there, take it. You won’t forget it!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

susan c.

3 Oct 2014

Magical!

Our stay on McGee was one of the best vacation weeks we have spent anywhere. Your family truly has one of the most special homes on the coast of Maine. It is like a time warp of what we knew and loved as children. This property is definitely not for everyone, particularly those who expect amenities consistent with a five star resort. Television, air conditioning, spa services and fine dining are not to be found on McGee Island. Instead, watch the eagles and great blue herons vie for the same tasty morsel swimming in the ocean. Bask in the sea breeze and enjoy the salty spray on your face. Pick mussels at low tide and cook them with lobsters caught that day. Tide pools, kayaks, ping pong, trail hikes, reading on the front porch in a hickory rocker in the sun - all my idea of a five star vacation. Joe, the caretaker, will help you shoot clay pigeons, take you to Port Clyde for an outing to Monhegan Island (fantastic!), pick up lobsters for dinner or leave you alone to discover the island on your own terms. The facilities are authentic and period and amazing and harken back to a time when families were together days and weeks and months, enjoying Maine life. We spent evenings at the cookhouse around the wood stove, preparing feasts and drinking wine. After dinner we retired to the main house, lit a roaring fire, sipped rum and enjoyed being together until we could no longer stay awake. Thank you for sharing your special home with our two grateful families. We look forward to returning next year for another magical week on McGee Island.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn P.

5 Sept 2014

A very special place for a family gathering

McGee Island is a very special place and was a wonderful setting for our family to celebrate our parents' 50th anniversary. The owners are absolutely fantastic to work with when planning your get away and provide information on every detail for your trip. Unlike some rentals, everything was as described and pictured and there was absolutely nothing that we were dissappointed by upon arrival. The houses and property are stunning. The views that change through the day with the tides and lighting are amazing. We loved the Cook's house with a great kitchen for cooking for a crowd and dining room that accommodated our group of 16. Our group pushed the outdoor cooking with propane burners for lobster to an extreme, having lobster four ways during our stay! The caretaker was great at helping us with our orders for lobster throughout the week. From one year old to 78, all had fun and found plenty to do. The "pool" made for a great place for our younger group to explore and paddle around at low tide when it is almost completely enclosed. And the older crowd enjoyed paddling and hiking around the island. All enjoyed gatherings on the porch, in the big living room at night, and in the Cook's house. We can not recommend this property and the owners as renters enough. You will not be disappointed if you choose McGee for your special vacation.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Steven B.

9 Jul 2014

Family Reunion ... June 21st - 28th, 2014

We were a group of 19. This was a reunion of my sister's and my families: 12 adults and 7 little ones (ranging in age from almost 1 to 12) - and the first time the little ones (the 2nd cousins) had ever met one another ... also, the first time in 9 years that my sister's twin boys and my two girls had the opportunity to see one another since a wedding 9 years ago! A special occasion for all of us to say the least - what a perfect venue and situation in which to do so! A few comments from our crew: - "Exceeded far beyond my expectations! Absolutely the PERFECT family vacation/reunion!!!!!" - "McGee more than exceeded our expectations and that even though the photos on the website were beautiful, they don't do the place justice as the views truly are magical. I might add that for those that worry about getting bored on an island, we never lacked for activities and seemed to run out of time (there were so many things that I would have liked to have spent more time doing)." - "I would do it all over again in a heartbeat, it was great seeing all the kids playing and having a good time! It was such a pleasure meeting everyone and getting to know each person just a little bit better!!! What a great trip it was!” - "We appreciate how well equipped the Cook House was including candlesticks which we used for our anniversary dinner ... we really weren't lacking for anything!" We celebrated a mega-reunion, a 43rd anniversary and a proposal/acceptance while on island ... McGee was the PERFECT venue to experience and share this all!! Don't miss it - book it! I should also mention that Joe, the Caretaker, is a great and very competent guy who will ensure your needs and wants are taken care of! Enjoy McGee ... I'm just trying to figure out how and when to orchestrate a return!!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Sean C., Gloucester, MA

15 Oct 2013

Perfect Wedding Location

Where to start. Our time on McGee was perfect. Despite arriving in a downpour, getting to the island went very smooth. We were met at the dock by the very helpful and enjoyable caretaker who helped us load the boat so our luggage wouldn't get wet. As we pulled into McGee not even the weather could disguise the beauty of the island. My husband and I were thrilled. We'd rented the island to host our wedding and upon arriving knew it'd be everything we could have wanted. The weather varied from sunny and warm to rainy and brisk but the houses were well appointed to keep us comfortable. Each bedroom is as described and perfect for guests. We spent the week enjoying the island. Activities ranged from kayaking around the island to relaxing in the wood fired sauna. There us really no need to leave, but we did enjoy an afternoon off island to pick up our marriage license. The caretaker gave us great advice on where to find a good market, flowers, and pies. He even picked up our flowers for us the next day. Both the owners (who are lovely) and the caretaker worked with us to make sure our wedding day was what we envisioned. We scheduled a boat to pick up our guests who arrived and were as enchanted with the island as we were. While there are many beautiful spots to get married on the island we chose the front porch of the main house overlooking the water and neighboring island. We enjoyed dinner under the porch, a big fire, and the most beautiful sky of stars. Everything you could need is provided. Extra blankets, flashlights, and shampoo/conditioner were most appreciated. We recommend visiting McGee to everyone and will definitely be back! Thank you to the caretaker, Don, for all his hard work and to the Ericksons for making such a wonderful place available to enjoy!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Linda D.

11 Sept 2013

What a very special place!

What a very special place! Not only is the physical setting extraordinary, but each room of the house is beautiful --views, lovely fabrics, comfortable furniture and beds. We loved it. From the beginning, the owners were so helpful and accommodating while we were planning. Toward the end of our stay we had a family olympics: best time kayaking around Barter Island, walking around McGee, swimming to Barter and back, and best scores in croquet and shooting. I can't claim that everyone participated because there were those who fell in love at first sight with the front porch of the main house and only moved from there when they had to. The cook house is amazingly well done, and we are a family of cooks. We found everything we needed to cook big family feasts. Of course we had lobster several times --and steamers. Don was more than great, getting the lobsters and clams, teaching several people how to shoot, giving us tours as well as extra butter; and each day he managed to do something that made our stay a little greater. I can't capture all of the wonderful things about being here, but every member of my family appreciated how lucky we were to have this fantastic experience on this beautiful island.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

26 Aug 2013

Magnificant

We were looking for a place to take our family to celebrate our 50th Wedding Anniversary. When I found McGee Island on line it seemed like the perfect spot. Little did we know what a treasure we had found. The McGee Island home was built as a cottage between 1912-1915. The house reflects the era. It is filled with furnishings of the time along with updates in bedrooms, kitchen and added showers along with footed tubs so inviting for a long soak. There are several hiking trails to test your agility, kayaking, swimming,outdoor games and a wonderful porch for lounging, reading or painting the magnificent scenery, Beach combing and collecting sea creatures delighted the youngest members. At night the sky was aglow with myriad stars and even many falling stars. In the early morning the sunrise was a treat to awaken us. Our family loves to cook and found the kitchen a great place to create tempting dishes to eat inside or outside by the grill. The caretaker, Don, was so helpful and was available to answer any questions and brought us fresh lobster and fish to cook. We could have gone to the mainland but never felt the need. It was the most relaxing, invigorating vacation that each one enjoyed. We left with many beautiful memories and a wish to return.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

11 Jul 2013

Paradise

This was one of the best vacations I have ever had - in large part due to the wonders of McGees Island. The owners were kind, accommodating, responsive, and the properties themselves were charming. Think, Moonrise Kingdom. I spent a week there with family and friends to celebrate my 40th birthday, and we are all planning to come back - it was pure joy.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Sally Y., New York, NY

2 Sept 2012

Weeklong wedding celebration

Our week on the island was spectacular! Everything from the house to the island scenery to the kayaking, hiking, swimming, and kitchen facilities were great! The caretaker Don was very accommodating and well organized as we had groups of people leaving and arriving on several different days. He and his girlfriend even attended our wedding ceremony and were so thoughtful to burn a cd of photos they had taken of the event. We also appreciated the isolation and lack of television on the island, although cell phone service was available in the main house, most of us turned off our phones and spent more time visiting with each other, playing games and exploring the island and old house. Our dog also loved the island as he was able to run off leash the entire trip; he also got along well with Don's dog Scout. We hope to be able to return in the future and spending more quality time with friends and family!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Lei X.

15 Oct 2011

A marvelous vacation destination for everyone.

Our families (six in total) come from the suburbs in Connecticut; in October, our neighborhoods bring honey crisp and jona gold apples, pumpkin carvings, and a crisp air that carries a memory of summer and a foreboding of winter. Our families, with children of different ages and various jobs that occupy our days (and sometimes weekends), are busy balancing our family lives and our professional ones. Columbus weekend, however, allowed our group to celebrate many things: the long weekend, the striking New England fall, and of course, our families. In short, we came to McGee Island to cherish that absolutely precious time with our loved ones; we left with stunning memories of watching the sun rise across the Atlantic horizon (those colors that streaked across the sky), hiking through the brush and trees along the sea breeze and mountain ash, and mostly importantly, with memories of laughing and cooking and talking late into the cool evenings. Beginning from the boat ride at the Pier until the very last sunrise we saw, McGee Island offered one surprise after another. The entire experience was layered: from picking mussels on the seaweed beds, to hiking along the windblown trees, to watching our kids try to “fish for crabs and lobsters”, to kayaking at sunset, and finally, to discovering the beauty of the home and estate. Every turn in the house offered a surprise: the old books that lined the shelves, the pictures drawn in the study from 1977, the newspapers of the First World War in the attic, the old grand piano which our kids played on in the evenings (it is the most spectacular place to listen to Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata while the ocean is gentle outside, and we are quietly talking inside with our children playing with the board games on the living room floor). As for the island, we were greeted with treasures that allowed every single person to be marveled and excited, from four-year-olds playing “find the crab!” to the adults boating around the island to the teenagers playing volleyball out on the lawn. In that respect, McGee Island was timeless for us, offering something for everyone. As for McGee in October? When is New England more magical other than the fall when the leaves light and dance with the fires of yellow, orange, red and sienna? For us, this weekend was a reprise of summer, as we were lucky with 75 degree weather (I had dug up old shorts which I thought wouldn’t see daylight until April again) that allowed for some splashing

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

7 Oct 2011

No "canned" vacation here!

So exciting to experience a vacation that lives up to it's expectations and much more. As a member of a large family of 28 (ages 2 to 72 ) planing a vacation that can accommadate the many different needs, wants, likes and dislikes of all can be challenging but Mcgee island came in far above the mark. As a family we have done many actives in the past and what makes this the best EVER is the location, setting, and layout. Being on the island creates an adventure all its own. Far enough away from the distractions of every day life but close enough if needed (we needed for nothing). From sunrises to sunsets to star gazing to kayaking to walking the trails, the island provides it's own entertainment for all. The layout of the property creates a wonderful combination of inclusion, privacy and togetherness. Whether you like to sit on the deck of the main house and watch the going ons of the day( a favorite of ALL ages even if they wouldn't admit such) or take advantage of the tidal pool and all it has to offer during its ever changing tidal flow, you feel like you are always part of the actives. We loved the uniqueness of the three houses. The main house with it's picture perfect location and plenty of room for all provided endless hours of family fun in the fire place living room and quite the trip down memory lane with all the pictures and old relics. The cook house was ideal. A common meeting place for the early risers looking for that first cup of coffee or sleepy heads hoping for some left over breakfast. The fully equipped kitchen and extra large dinning room table made for some of the best family style dinners EVER. The boat house was so charming a toss up between a quiet get away, girls/boys night out or the cutest family suite. From lobster feast to volleyball matches, to kite flying, to high tide jumps off the dock ( yes the water's cold) there's something for everyone. If you are looking to make real memories and know what the word "fun" in "functional" means, then this is the best place for your next vacation. So worth it!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Richard H.

24 Aug 2011

A Fantastic Family Re-Union 2011

Our family re-union on McGee Island was a fabulous success easily and comfortably accommodating the 23 family members that attended. Our re-union consists of a tight group of cousins and their children that some 15 years ago embarked on set schedule of re-uniting every three years so we don't lose touch with each other. While perhaps having regular re-unions is not so unique the locations we attend are. We have been to The Hamptons, Italy, Outerbanks, Austria (Alps) and now off the coast of Maine on McGee Island. Each re-union has been memorable but what truly makes our stay on McGee stand out from the others was the Main House, Don the caretaker and the spectacular Maine scenery. What made the Main House so special for us was the instant flashback of memories it triggered from our collective youth resembling a house that three of the cousins grew up in and where the remainder of us of spent as much time as we could learning about life. Perhaps difficult to put into words others would appreciate but suffice it say, there was just something "oh so special" about the Main House. The island and the Maine scenery is spectacular and cannot be overstated on how magnificent it is. Finally, ............ there's Don. Don is quite the character and I'm not sure what we would have done without him there making sure everything was perfect for us. Each morning as we awoke we would sit on the porch waiting patiently knowing our day would truly begin with the start of Don's little tractor. Sure enough along he would come finding the right time to check in on us and the island amenities. Should you visit McGee please take the time to chat with Don about Maine, the history of McGee Island and where/how to buy those fabulous Maine lobstaah. (that was for you Don. We loved your New England accent. All this to say............. We highly recommend McGee Island. Go and you will not be disappointed.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

28 Jul 2011

A Perfect Family Vacation!

The Recipe for the Perfect Family Vacation ? Just the right blend of convenient yet private location (15 min boat ride from Port Clyde) ? Mix in comfortable, private bedrooms and accommodations for the entire family from teenagers to grandparents ? Blend of rustic, comfortable furnishings with one-of-a-kind historical pieces from first-edition books to decades old custom-made sailboats ? Generous amount of gorgeous sunrises and sunsets from the best oceanside porch in Maine complete with the perfect-for-napping hammock ? Add a family-friendly island trail, complete with Osprey nests & lobster buoy markers ? Don’t forget the large family room in main house to host family games,contests and puzzle solving. ? Unusual twist of a separate house for teenagers to hang out away from dreaded adults and a "cook house” for cooking, serving and eating large family meals … along with the perfectly blended early morning cup-of-Joe ? Throw in a Wimbledon-like grass field that welcomes family badminton, croquet and water balloon games ? Shake things up with the personable caretaker with laugh-out loud sense of humor ? Sprinkle in activities from kayaking around the island (kayaks included), dozens of places quietly welcoming you to take a seat and read a book, the occasional boat ride to Port Clyde to resupply if needed and a smooth boat ride to see the Wyeth’s private island and the famous Maine puffins. ? Mix in the huge boathouse chock full of historical keepsakes and classic wooden Maine boats ? Pour in a cup of water from your private harbor between Barter & McGee Islands teaming with wildlife performing daily for your viewing pleasure Cook for about a week in the cool Maine temperature and you’ll pull out the vacation that the entire family will always refer to as the “that awesome vacation on McGee Island, when are we going again?” Which is actually a great question, for us next year isn’t soon enough.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

10 Jul 2011

McGee Island is a very special place!

Our stay on McGee was a huge success. The Main House was comfortably furnished and easily accommodated us all while providing enough space for people to be off on their own if they wanted some space. We thoroughly enjoyed the evenings in front of the fire, playing games or quietly reading. I loved exploring the house; the wonderful old things, furniture and art work. Everyone loved the outdoor shower! I would say that pictures do not quite capture the magnificence of the place. The Cook House transformation, while not complete when we were there, was very nicely done!! The new eight burner/double oven gas range got some serious use. While the dishwasher was not yet functional; it will be a tremendous asset to have. Some of our most enjoyable times were spent in the Cook House preparing our meals and dining together in the large dining room. There is something wonderful to see no matter where you are. The magnificent view from the front porch never gets old, the lupines, foxgloves, roses, peonies and the ocean beyond were a constantly changing panorama to enjoy, with bald eagles and ospreys soaring over head, the ducks and a loon in the water and an occasional deer crossing from Barter to McGee. On a walk around the island amazing things are waiting to be discovered; beautiful fields of ferns, seals basking on rocks, fantastic ocean views everywhere, ospreys and their nests. Herons walking across the lawn a few feet from the house, for serious nature lovers this was a magical place! And the stars at night are incredible!!! The owner’s where very helpful and easy to correspond with, very prompt in replying and answering the many questions I kept coming up with. They obviously put a lot of thought and effort into preparing the property for renters. They also provide a very thorough information package. I also have to mention, the caretaker; he was a major factor in the success and enjoyment of our stay on McGee. He was very helpful and skilled in working out some of the kinks in the Cook House. He went out of his way to make sure everyone in our party got to do the activities they wanted to get in during our week, kayaking and canoeing, shooting/target practice and giving us a demonstration and instruction in the fine art of fly fishing. He also shared his knowledgeable of the local area and the history of the island. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the week on McGee! It was a complete success and a definite repeat.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

16 Sept 2010

A bunch of Brits' first taste of Maine - a truly memorable stay in a very special place

Arriving at the McGee Island jetty in thick mist one Saturday lunchtime towards the end of July, after some 24 hours travelling, we felt excited but tired, and somewhat disorientated. The warm but laidback welcome we received, and the immediate comfort of our lodgings created just the right first impression. The next morning, waking to blue skies and clear sunshine, the sheer natural splendour of these beautiful islands and their surroundings washed over us. We were instantly entranced and remained so, as the days flew by. The views of forest, shore and sea, punctuated by the bright splashes of painted lobster buoys, bobbing in the waves, cast up amongst the rocks or even hanging from the trees, provided a constantly refreshing backdrop to the activities of the week. From grandmother to toddler, we all seemed to find what we were hoping for. Paddling in clear rock pools, crawling with life, catching a first fish, swimming in the sheltered tidal pool, or striking out around the island, on foot or by kayak, there was always something else to do, or try! And not to forget, a never-quite-ending game of cricket played out on the sweeping lawn below the Main House. It is probably worth noting that the kids never even mentioned the absence of a TV... We watched ospreys circling above the trees, and then hiking around the far side of the island, came across these magnificent birds on their nests almost within touching distance. One very windy afternoon we watched a deer scramble, leap and swim across the rocks and pools at the northern end of the channel, crossing from McGee to Barter Island – followed shortly by two wild turkeys! Each of the buildings has its own character and sense of history. The Main House is an extraordinary structure, to me it seemed the epitome of skilled construction and craftsmanship, with an abiding sense of timeless, exacting standards of comfort and style. The Boathouse was, as suggested, a wonderful and no doubt welcome retreat for younger members of the party. The Cookhouse was a loved and homely focus for our gatherings in the evening, cooking, drinking and eating. The long table was also the scene of the culinary highlight of our stay, an 18 lobster supper where, young and old, we got to grips with the art (or science?) of dismantling and downing a well-prepared Maine lobster - another special memory amongst many from this wonderful week. I can heartily recommend McGee Island as a very special family holiday destination.

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