My GF and I stayed at Balance Rock for 4 days in September. And we didn't want to leave! We stayed in Room 304. This is a fairly small room, but talk about a perk....we had our own private deck/widow's walk atop the inn. It was accessed by climbing a ladder and lifting a hatch...so cool!! The time we spent in our room was mostly up top enjoying an unspoiled view of Frenchman's Bay. Our experience was fantastic. We were especially impressed with an employee named Aaron. A very nice young man. One thing I feel like I must address, and the reason why this was a 4 star review instead of 5, is a door in the hallway across from our room which had a sign on it stating "Do not open, Bees inside." I understand this is an old building and problems like this can occur, but the sign had been on the door for a while judging from the wear of the paper, and I would think a good exterminator could have taken care of the bees. Overall, the inn is in great shape, being built in 1903, We didn't have swarms of bees attacking us, and in no way did this adversely effect our stay here, but feel I should share this information.

We can not say enough great things about this hotel, the staff and the location. We stayed in a large ocean view suite, 206, that had a great private porch. The concern of the staff and the luxurious amenities reminded us of special European hotels where we have stayed. If we get a chance to return to the states again we would definatel< stay at the Balance Rock Inn:

We have been staying at the Balance Rock for years. We love the location- quiet, water views, but still an easy walk to town after a day of hiking or cycling. The past couple of years we've started bringing our children and they love it. A couple issues with the last time we stayed there though and I was disappointed. The rooms are expensive and it's billed as a luxury inn and historically we have felt that. The most recent trip was a little off. The owner was there while we were visiting and he insists on smoking his cigars throughout the wing of the inn where are room was- really unpleasant, and when my husband mentioned it to the front desk they just sort of shrugged their shoulders like there was nothing they could do. That may be the case, but the owner should know better. The second issue is historically the inn gave a small room credit for each nights cocktail hour and they've taken that away. It's a small thing, but seemed like a cheap move to us. I gave it 4 stars because it's still the only inn I'd book in Bar Harbor, but given the cost and lowering of the standards we'll rent a home next time we go.

You can't beat the location of this classy inn. Right on the water, but secluded from its neighbors so it's really quiet. Very attentive staff, wonderful breakfasts, great bar with seating options indoors or out. Our room had its own porch and patio with table and chairs. This was very important to us, since we had our dog with us, and this way we could eat breakfast with him and still gaze at the wonderful harbor view. The dog was also welcome on the patio, so we brought him with us for drinks in the evenings. Very comfortable room. We really loved it here, and will certainly go back.