Sara welcomed us for our romantic getaway with a bottle of wine and fresh blueberries. The small house is private, wooded, close to the lake, with an eagle soaring, osprey fishing, hummingbirds, and the evocative call of loons. In the morning we took our coffee to chairs by the lake watching frogs swim among the reeds and myriad of birds and insects in the native shrubs and wildflowers. If we were home in the evening we drank prosecco on cushioned wicker in the screened porch with a view of the water. The house is small but comfy for two or four (no toddlers or anyone who cannot manage narrow, steep stairs). We swam and kayaked on the lake and also went afield to hike, take an evening sail from Rockland, and explore the nearby towns. Nearby Belfast is delightful, not too touristy yet. Take the harbor walk then stop at Nautilus for seafood with a harbor view on the deck, Moonbat Bakery for homemade croissants, the year-round farmer and craft market Saturday morning, toy store, bags made from old sails, and galleries. Chase’s Daily offers good local vegetarian fare. At nearby Northport take the informal tour at Swans Island weaving, then buy a locally woven Maine blanket, shawl or yarn. A few miles from town is Mainely Pottery showcasing 28 potters, then walk around Sears Island beachcombing at low tide and watch cormorants dive underwater to fish. We enjoyed our week so much we plan to book Sara’s place again next year.