Golden Lantern House

Why Golden Lantern House Works for an Acadia Trip

Golden Lantern House sits in Bass Harbor, on the southwestern edge of Mount Desert Island, often called the island's "quiet side." Where Bar Harbor is busy with shops, restaurants and tour traffic, Bass Harbor is a working fishing village with lobster boats in the harbor and a slower pace. For guests who want Acadia without the crowds outside their front door, it's an easy fit.

The four-bedroom layout gives a family or small group room to settle in for a multi-day stay. There's space to cook, gather in the evening, and spread out after a long day on the trails, which is a different kind of trip than squeezing into a hotel room in town.

Location is the other draw. Bass Harbor Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine, is just down the road, and the western side of Acadia National Park, including Ship Harbor and Wonderland trails, is a short drive away. Southwest Harbor's restaurants and shops are close by, and Bar Harbor and the Park Loop Road are within comfortable driving distance when you want to head over to the east side of the island.

Exploring Acadia from Bass Harbor

Staying on the quiet side means you can start your mornings on the less-crowded western trails and coastline, then decide whether the day calls for a trip into Bar Harbor. Our guide to where to stay near Acadia National Park explains how the different parts of Mount Desert Island compare if you're still deciding on a home base.

Acadia's carriage roads are one of the best ways to see the park, and an e-bike makes the hills easy for riders of any fitness level. As part of the Acadia Royal Rides family, Golden Lantern House guests can have e-bike rentals delivered directly to the property. Choose a step-thru e-bike for an easy mount or a high-step e-bike for a more traditional ride. If you'd rather have a local lead the way, we also offer guided e-bike tours of Acadia.

Planning your days? Start with our roundup of the best e-bike routes in Acadia National Park and our list of must-see places in Acadia.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I check availability and rates for Golden Lantern House?

Contact us through our contact page or give us a call, and we'll get back to you with current availability and pricing. Summer and early fall weeks book up quickly, so reach out early if your dates are set.

Can I add e-bike rentals to my stay?

Yes. We deliver e-bikes directly to Golden Lantern House, so there's no pickup stop to plan around. Let us know your dates when you book and we'll have bikes ready when you want to ride.

How far is Golden Lantern House from Bar Harbor?

Bass Harbor is on the opposite side of Mount Desert Island from Bar Harbor, roughly a 30 to 40 minute drive depending on traffic. Most guests enjoy the trade: quieter evenings at the house and easy access to the western side of the park, with Bar Harbor close enough for a day trip.

What other rentals do you have nearby?

If Golden Lantern House doesn't fit your dates, take a look at Ferry Lodging House or Harborview, or browse every property on our lodging page.

Book Your Stay at Golden Lantern House

Ready to plan your quiet-side getaway? Get in touch through our contact page or call us, and we'll help you lock in your dates and arrange e-bike delivery before you arrive.