Briar Lodge - Elegant History on the Bay

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It is rare when a shorefront property in-town Bar Harbor becomes available for weekly seasonal rentals. The Briars Lodge is located on the south entrance of the famous Shore Path walk along Frenchman Bay, overlooking Bald Porcupine island and the breakwater (also visible is Egg Rock Lighthouse and Schoodic Peninsula). An amazing history, the original property was built by J. Montgomery Sears of Boston in 1881. John D. Rockefeller Jr. rented the cottage for the summers of 1908 and 1909. The Rockefeller's third child Nelson was born on the property in 1908. In 1910, The Briars was purchased by Evelyn Walsh McLean and her husband Edward (Ned), who's family owned the Washington Post. Evelyn's father made his fortune in the mining business in Colorado. Mrs. McLean loved jewelry and become the proud owner of the 45.52 carat Hope Diamond in 1911. The main estate was torn down in 1968. The servants quarters, which is now The Briars Lodge, is one of the original buildings from 1881. It was designed by the famous shingle-style architect William Ralph Emerson, a relative of Ralph Waldo Emerson. This cozy cottage provides comfortable accommodations for your family of five, in one of the most desirable locations in Bar Harbor.
 
The 3 bedroom cottage features 2 bedrooms and a full bath on the first/lower level: one king bedroom and a queen bedroom. The upper level, which enjoys spectacular ocean views from the living room, features a bedroom with two twins, a half bathroom, living room, dining area and small kitchen with breakfast nook. (Note: due to its steep staircase, this home may not be suitable for those with very small children or who have difficulty ascending stairs).
 
The 2.5-acre grounds feature some old stone fixtures that harken back to its history, and a fragrant garden. There is a large, spacious yard, so you might want to bring your badminton gear! A private pathway leads directly to the Shore Path, where you can access the water or walk to the town pier.
 
The location of this property will amaze you. Very private, with outstanding ocean views, shore access, and within walking distance to all of the in-town activities of Bar Harbor. It's just minutes from Acadia National Park, where you'll enjoy hiking, biking, walking, beaching and all the wonders of our spectacular national park!
 
Accommodates 5 guests maximum. Owner will not permit larger parties or events. Weekly, Sat-Sat preferred. No pets. No smoking.