Beautiful property. House is easy to use, great kitchen with great layout. The washing machine, linens and dishwasher were great additions to make for light packing. The cove was great to explore-- although our week was warm and the mosquitos fierce on the walk there! Bring rubber boots and kids can explore into the water and mud for great wildlife. At sunset the birds dive for fish, which was super cool.
For the house-- it is very isolated and private. DARK at night, which was great for us. Sunset side so you didn't get sunrise right INTO the windows allowing some later sleep (minimal curtains). Set up with bathrooms and bedrooms great for families. We liked being away from busy side of island-- and did lots of exploring at Echo lake, sea wall, sea harbor, etc.
Richard was a great host. Issues with wifi on arrival-- which he had promptly fixed. Prompt responses for questions. We did the recommended boat tour-- and it was great. Boys also climbed with Atlantic Climbing School - and they have you repelling down Otter cliffs right over the ocean! (which needless to say way a big crowd pleaser). Overall a great week.
Other tips:
1- stop at the visitors center on Thompson island off the bridge and get a visitors pass in the park, and quiet side hiking guide which contains a tide chart so you can plan your cove visits, your visits to thunder rocks, etc,
2- go early if you want to park at sand beach or echo lake. We were there in peak season and parking in bar harbor and park was no joke. However, the swimming at Echo ledges was more fun (no beach) than the beach swimming at Echo lake anyway.
3- Beehive isn't worth it, and it is super dangerous. Gorham Mt. and continuing down Cadillac cliffs trail are way better views.
4- Little Notch bakery is a wonderful in Southeast harbor-- french bread/pastry by french staff.
5- Food prices are high on the island, we stopped in Bangor at the Hannaford and filled the cooler. The IGA on 102 had reasonable selection, but limited.
6- Do not miss the blueberry soda.