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Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine

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Outdoor dining
3 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Miscellaneous
Smart TV, books
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms1 bathroom1600 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

Map
Franklin, ME
  • Acadia National Park's Visitors Center
  • Bar Harbor Whale Watching
  • Donnell Pond
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor)
    ‪45 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Franklin

On lake.You'll be within 2 miles (3 km) of Donnell Pond and 9 miles (15 km) of Spring River Lake with a stay here. Wild Mountain Man Ray's Chainsaw Show and Sullivan Harbor Farm are within 12 miles (20 km).
View more Cottages in FranklinOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Donnell Pond - 3 min drive - 1.0 mile
  • Abrams Pond - 39 min drive - 14.3 miles
  • Acadia National Park - 46 min drive - 25.0 miles
  • Schoodic Beach - 55 min drive - 19.2 miles

Getting around

  • Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor) - 39 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Galley - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪Downeast Cheesecakes - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Sullivan Harbor Cafe - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Chester Pike's Galley - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪182 Pizza - ‬8 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine

Located on one of Maine's most pristine lakes this brand new cottage features 2 bedrooms, on the main level (with queen-size beds). A comfy living room (with a view of the lake) complete the picture.

The Pond House has a fully equipped kitchen. The kitchen is an open concept, complete with a five burner gas stove, dishwasher refrigerator and a complete assortment of pots and pans. If the mood hits you... there are also baking supplies. A large island for cooking or dining make meals enjoyable and fun. Many guests dine on the deck and feast on freshly cooked lobster.

Dock and two kayaks available for your enjoyment. Fire Pit, Hammock, two decks and a gas grill. (all with a view of the lake). only 35 miles from beautiful Acacia National Park. Hiking, Kayaking and Swimming are located steps from the cottage. Enjoy kayaking and swimming during the day and sleep to the sounds of the loons at night. It's a wonderful place to relax... you won't want to go home.
At night light a fire in the fire pit, sit back and relax.
New this year -- improved landscaping and a beautiful rock fire pit. Summer in Maine -- it's wonderful, fall in Maine it's beautiful.

Property manager

Paula M Leavitt

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Firepit
  • Gas grill
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In the mountains
  • Near a hospital
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Unit size: 1,600 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

Frequently asked questions

How close is Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine to the airport?

This cottage is 20.7 mi (39-min drive) away from the Bar Harbor, ME (BHB-Hancock County - Bar Harbor) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this cottage.

Does Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine offer free breakfast?

This cottage does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine?

No, there is no casino at this cottage.

What time is check-in at Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine?

Free parking is not available at this cottage.

Does Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine have a pool?

This cottage does not have a pool.

Does Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this cottage.

How close is Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine to downtown Franklin?

This cottage is 3.3 mi away from Franklin.

Pond House - Donnell's Pond in Franklin, Maine Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 46 out of 49 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 49 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 49 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 49 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 49 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Nicholas C.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Pond House was very well stocked and accompanied for our week stay! Pictures don’t do it justice- the view of the lake and outdoor living are glorious. The lake is so peaceful and quiet. I’m an open water swimmer, and that’s the clearest water I’ve seen in a lake. Sleeping arrangements were great for our family of 5. There is a single air conditioner in the main living area, so if you are used to central AC (like we are) it can be a little warm some nights in the bedrooms. We cooked dinner most nights (bought our groceries in Ellsworth and Bar Harbor). We made day trips to Acadia/Bar Harbor and Schoodic Point. Everything was about an hour each direction from the house, and we didn’t mind the drive. 5 stars all the way around!!!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Janelle H., Troy, ohio

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfection and beauty

This anniversary getaway was absolutely perfect due to this amazing home. The views from the backyard was full of spectacular. All the essentials of home provided to make it a wonderful stay
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

David C.

Liked: Cleanliness

An amazing week at Pond House!

We LOVED everything about the property! The view was amazing, we spent every morning on the dock listening to loons. The house was very clean and had everything we needed and even some things that most rentals don’t have. Paula was very responsive. We made a ton of memories and hope to come back again in the future!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa R., Boston

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely Pond House

We thoroughly enjoyed our time on Donnell pond. While the drive to the main part of Acadia was a bit long (but as described, so no surprise), we loved hiking Schoodic mountain, and biking the one way lightly travelled road around the Schoodic Peninsula. We would return happily and recommend to anyone who wanted to stay on a pond and be in the area around MDI.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Aly R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Spectacular nature getaway

Genuinely one of my new favorite places to be! We got emotional leaving because it is such a special place. The lake is gorgeous, and we even had two days of rain and it was no issue or detraction from the serenity of the pond house. The host Paula was exceptionally nice and accommodating, always available if you needed help and provided an abundance of resources for the area. Ellsworth itself is so very cute and you’re only about 45-50 mins from Acadia- we went three out of our four day trip and the drive was pleasant! I can’t recommend staying here enough- I know there are a lot of options to choose from but you definitely won’t regret staying here!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ted T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Immaculate, fantastic, perfect

We wanted something near the tourist sites that would still let us do some glamping on a lake/ocean/waterfront. It was this and more. It was extremely easy to find. It was beautiful inside and the host thought of everything. Dishes, cookware, assorted spices, utensils, even left candy. The outside was gorgeous. The grill had utensils, we had a couple campfires, and we thoroughly enjoyed breakfast at the upper level deck. Roughly equal distance drive to Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, and Schoodic (Winter Harbor). Quoddy was slightly farther but still an easy drive. Other reviews have cited the owner (Paula) as being terrific, and they were completely accurate. We absolutely had a fantastic time at the Pond House and would definitely go back.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ken K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect quiet getaway in Maine

Great place to stay in Maine. Clean, comfortable beds, and everything you need to make your stay enjoyable. Perfect setting on the "pond". Made full use of the 2 kayaks and stand up paddle board, swimming in the lake and the fire pit. Perfect location to be off the beaten path when you want or take the short drive into Acadia which we did often. When we come back to Maine we will definatley stay here again.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen H., Oakwood, USA

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect week

The pond house was a relaxing escape from the Texas summer heat. All amenities were available, including games that we played after dark. Although we toured Acadia NP for a short day, we had more enjoyment paddling at Donnell Pond, taking a small puffin tour out of Steuben, and heading up the coast for nature areas with few people. We loved our visit to Maine. The pond house was a great location. We also easily rented two extra kayaks from Water’s Edge so we could paddle as a family.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lake Life

We had a blast staying at the pond house! We really enjoyed staying there.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Fei R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Thank you for a enjoyable week

This is a very cosy place to stay for families. The entire house is vey clean with everything you needed and beyond. There is a dock for fishing, boating, and swimming. Unfortunately there it rained 5 out of 7 days. Fortunately there is also a fire pit that brought warmth in unseasonably cold weather. If you come in a warm, sunny week, it would be even better.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful spot for a Maine vacation!

We had a wonderful stay at the Pond House. The property was clean, well organized, and cozy. We loved having the pond right outside the back door to fill in those lazy moments between excursions to Acadia, Bar Harbor, and the surrounding area. Communication with the host was great, and we would absolutely stay here again. If you are willing to venture off the beaten path, and if your tastes lean more towards outdoor adventures, it’s a great base for a Maine vacation.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kendra D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Maone Get Away

This was exactly what we were looking for in our first time to Maine. It was peaceful and quiet and a great place to unplug.
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan C., Linden

Liked: Cleanliness

Cozy Getaway

Paula has a lovely home on Donnell Pond with beautiful views. The area is a bit remote, but so serene and beautiful. We enjoyed eating in the town of Ellsworth. The home is a perfect base for exploring Bar Harbor and Acadia. We wouldn’t change a thing!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Patty P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fall re-energizing getaway

We enjoyed the tranquility of Donnell Pond and were also able to explore Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor. Beautiful accommodations and a thoughtful host made for a great week!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

8/10 Good

Walter Frank M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice quiet location

Very clean, great view of pond location. Kitchen weill stocked. Amenities were appreciated. Needs a few minor touches to bring up to par.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

ally b.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay!

We had an awesome week at the Pond House. Loved the peaceful water views, the birds, kayaking, fishing, and swimming right off the dock. The house is comfortable and relaxing for staying in, and also not far for adventuring into Acadia and Ellsworth. Paula was easily available to contact and her thoughtful suggestions and touches were appreciated!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Julia W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastic Vacation Rental

The Pound House was a fantastic vacation rental. Everything was super clean, and the kitchen had everything we needed (including a lobster pot, coffee grinder, and mixer). There were plenty of towels and blankets; the beds were very comfortable. The view was spectacular. We loved waking up to the view of the lake. We didn’t use them, but there were 3 kayaks available to us. The rental was just a 40 min drive to Arcadia. Paula was super accessible and just a text or phone call away. We would definitely return to the Pound House.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cathy E., Brooklyn, NY

Liked: Cleanliness

Modern and comfortable place!

Pond House is a Great Lake rental. I especially loved the super well-stocked kitchen and expansive area for food prep. Paula is the most responsive host ever. We had a bit of a hard time getting in the lake because it’s very rocky (large rocks) and in no time she had a ladder installed at the end of the dock, which really helps. There are some lily pads to swim through but you get through them quickly. The kayaks are smallish and plastic but with the shoreline I think those are the best (only?) choice, and they work fine. The living room is comfortable and has a nice view. Be sure to drive to Schoodic Beach for an amazing swim (takes about 30 minutes to get to that part of Donnell Pond due to the roundabout driving route). Our friends rented Memory Cove next door, which makes for an awesome “compound” vacation!
Stayed 13 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ross R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay!!

Paula did not disappoint!! Our Pond House stay was one of our favorites!! It felt like home for the week that we were there.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Amy C., Live Oak County, Texas

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfection!

We cannot say enough good things about this property. It is the PERFECT place to stay. From the moment we walked in, we knew we had made the very best choice! Thank you, Paula, for every wonderful detail! The location is fantastic--close enough to Ellsworth and Bar Harbor, but also so much to do right there on Donnell Pond that the days we "stayed in" are some of our favorite memories! Rent a canoe when you first drive in if you have more than 2 people. We loved rowing over to the sandy beach and picnicking as a family!!! Lots of room for our family of 5 and everything was incredibly well-stocked. We could not have asked for anything better. Thank you for sharing your slice of heaven with our family!!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dustin V., Crandall, in

Liked: Cleanliness

Private - yet still close enough to everything

The pond house is beautiful, private and very well stocked. The host communication could not be better. Perfect stay. You won’t regret this one.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tom H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Vacation paradise

Our family of five stayed At the Pond House for a much needed family vacation. We can’t say enough good things about the Pond House and Donnell Pond. The house was located about 20 minutes from Ellsworth the nearest large town on Donnell Pond. The house itself was beautiful, clean and had all the amenities you could possibly want on a vacation. We use the kitchen every day to cook, and spent many days in or on the lake using the kayaks and the floating dock. My three teenagers Were able to spread out in the house but mostly wanted to sit down by the lake or be on the hammock. My husband and I are avid runners and cyclists and went to Schoodic point, about 30 minutes away a few times to cycle and run. We highly recommend the Pickeled Wrinkle restaurant for their delicious food and craft beer. We spent three days at Acadia which was about a 50 minutes drive. Honestly the drive was very easy and we didn’t mind as we loved being able to go back to the pond house at the end of the day. The Pond House is a true gem and Paula, the owner was an incredible host. We would highly recommend this property and can’t wait to plan our next vacation to go back!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kelly D.

Liked: Cleanliness

A home away from home with beautiful views of the water. The host has thought of everything.

We stayed with our family of 4 for five days to visit the mountain desert area and bar harbor. The Host thought of about everything that a family may need to make for a relaxing stay from a well equipped kitchen, throw blankets, games and puzzles, spices, kayaks, etc. We took advantage of exploring the huge pond (feels more like a lake). The house takes about 15 minutes to get to off a main road, traveling some on gravel roads. We were concerned at first, but ended up enjoying the remote location. We visited Acadia every day. It was about a 50 minutes drive.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Garrett P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful getaway

The pictures don’t do the property justice. The views of the pond are incredible, and the home has been wonderfully cared for. We found ourselves wanting to linger in the mornings before heading out for our activities, which was wonderful. Paula was a wonderful and responsive host. Would love to come back!
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Christopher G., Spring, Texas

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful and quiet

Very nice area and convienent to Acadia national park, Bar Harbor and schoodic. Views of the pond are fantastic
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2021