Breath-taking, private island situated on beautiful Nicatous Lake in northeastern Maine. If you are searching for an experience your family will never forget, perhaps an experience every family needs, then search no more. Butterfield Island has been one of the most powerful places our family has experienced. From the complete solitude and beauty, to the star lit skies over the lake, the sounds of the loons, the moose standing on Moose Cove across from the western side of the island, the boat rides to hidden sandy beaches, the stories around the campfires, the kids snuggling into their own private cabins, fishing for dinner, the lack of screens and wifi, moon lit canoe rides, flashlight tag on an island with 5 kids late into the night, and wonderful home cooked meals. The remote island experience truly is life changing. Guests arrive at the private boathouse where ample parking is available. Bags and supplies are then loaded into the private 26 foot pontoon. If there is not sufficient room, additional boats are available. Guests then ride the boat roughly 4.5 miles passing exceptional shorelines, lined with tall pines, oaks, maples, birches, and if you are lucky, a bear, deer, or moose sighting. The boat passes only a few camps, before entering a zone of nothing but lake, sky, and trees lining the lake. You are in the wilderness, unplugged. Cell phones will work however on the island in several spots, giving guests the ability to send and receive texts, phone calls, and pictures, although pictures take a bit of time to send. There is no internet. There is no wifi. In the distance the island can be seen. Butterfield is a remote, off the grid, 8 acre paradise. It has a brand new diesel generator, capable of powering the entire island, providing guests with lights, outlets, cell phone charging, a television and DVD player (including a collection of movies to chose from), a microwave, toaster, coffee maker, and fans to help you sleep. The oven, stove top, fridge, and water heater are powered by propane. In the main cabin their is a full bathroom with new shower, vanity, and a classic tub. The main cabin has amazing history, and it is fun to read some of it with the children while sipping decaffeinated coffee and eating a warm muffin. Not far away, and with great water views to Moose Cove, sits the Main Lodge. Here you will find a full kitchen, dining area, living room, spiral staircase to a master suite, and a separate bedroom on the sun porch if you desire to fall asleep to the sounds of loons and the occasional beaver slap on the water. There is a large deck off the main lodge which faces the west side of the island. In addition to the main lodge and main cabin, there are three additional cabins situated in a semicircular fashion. There is a tool shed, generator shed, and wood shed in addition. There are two docks on the island with two boats available for no additional charge. There are numerous canoes and kayaks as well. This lake remains fairly calm, but like any lake, conditions can change quickly. Life jackets should be worn at all times on the water by adults and children. One last thing, if you enjoy sunsets and astronomy (you can see every single star and satellite passing by), then you will want to lay on the boat or the north end dock at night! Stunning! Cannot even put this into words.
The host will meet you at the boathouse upon arrival.
The host will transport guests to the island, taking time to show the route taken and any risks on the water.
The host will help you unload and show you around the island, demonstrating how to start to stop the generator.
The host will turn on gas for the appliances, and demonstrate how things work.
The host will review some basic safety, emergency procedures, and basic rules for the island, ensuring all are safe.
The host can pick guests up at the conclusion of their stay on the island.
The host does NOT stay on the island with guests. This is your time, your time with family.
