878 Washington Street

The rental period is December 2023 through May 19, 2024 and the rate is $5,900 per month, which includes all utilities except for cable/telephone/tv.

This location has an incredible and intimate yet panoramic view of Ipswich Bay. The setting of this contemporary home is very private although it is part of a large family estate (complete with rocky shoreline, woods, fields and nature trails), which dates back to the 1860s. Gloucester is known for its beautiful ocean views, artist colonies, quaint villages and local shopping. There are many restaurants, galleries, museums, shops and bakeries to explore along with whale watches, hiking, boating and swimming. In addition, Gloucester is only an hour train ride to the sophisticated city life of Boston. However, Gloucester is not a sleepy summer resort town- its scenic beauty, active fishing industry and renowned arts community are always humming beneath the surface which makes for a vibrant, eclectic and memorable experience any time of year.

The property is a spacious, beautiful contemporary home on a private oceanfront estate near Gloucester's coveted Annisquam district, with access to two private sandy beaches (shared by a lucky few), boating and a fresh water pond just outside the door. This fully furnished home has four bedrooms, two full bathrooms, hardwood floors, central air conditioning, a large deck with magnificent water views, an outdoor shower and a large yard. Only 150 yards away from two private sandy beaches, this sunny bright house also has access to two brand new tennis courts that overlook the ocean, a play and swing area and acres of land to explore allowing for lots of fun and relaxation for all.

The house is an open plan living room with fifteen foot ceilings, a huge brick fireplace and cozy furnishings with a flat screen TV and dining area surrounded by glass patio doors that lead to a wraparound deck. The open kitchen has two separate sinks (great for more than one cook), granite counters and a breakfast bar. Two bedrooms are on this level: one master king with glorious views on the water side and a flat screen TV, and a second room with two twin beds, as well as a full deluxe bath. On the ground floor there are two twin bedded rooms, a full bath and laundry room, and a young adult/children's play area with full size ping pong table, a flat screen TV, and a door leading to the yard, two hanging swings, hammock and outdoor shower. The house has high speed internet access, three flat screen TVs, gas grill, charcoal grill, fire pit, ping pong table and a fully appointed kitchen with every amenity. Tennis on private courts is available free of charge. Four new kayaks available for use plus four paddle boards.

Last but not least, this contemporary home is part of a 50+ acre family estate that dates back to the 1860s. The house looks out onto Ipswich Bay and has great views of sunsets across the water as well as views of Crane's Beach, Plum Island, and the New Hampshire and Maine coasts. In addition to the private sandy beaches on the estate, the Gloucester area has many long sandy beaches to explore some of which are great for surfing, skim boarding, scuba diving, snorkeling and nighttime fishing or stargazing. There are nearby quarries, including one in Halibut Point State Park, which makes for a great kayaking destination on calm days. Finally, downtown Gloucester and Rockport are close at hand with their many wonderful restaurants, boutiques, nautical history and antique stores.

The views and beauty of this oceanside estate are memorable and extraordinary, and difficult to capture in words. It is a place to rebuild, refresh and discover deep pleasure among the flora, fauna and surrounding oceanic habitat. Just a peaceful paradise, and never a dull moment.

No smoking or pets. Offered by owner at $5,900 per month from December 2023 through May 19, 2024. All utilities included except monthly cable/telephone/tv. We require one month's (refundable) security deposit + first and last months' rent. Perfect for sabbaticals, retirees and home renovation families. Please e-mail Karen if interested.

CHECK OUT OUR HOME ON VRBO.COM (#409817). Click on http://www.vrbo.com/409817.

Lease would end on May 19, 2024.

Review from 2022 winter tenant: "This house is a gorgeous spot. The views and the wildlife are stunning, the proximity to the ocean is excellent, and the opportunities for exploring and finding solitude are superb. If you like space, quiet, beauty and communing with nature and the elements, all from the comfort of a well-designed and maintained home, it cannot be beat."

Review from 2021 winter tenant: "To say that my family and I enjoyed our time in this wonderful home would be an understatement. This very comfortable house is filled with natural light and you feel immersed in the natural surroundings thanks to large windows and a very spacious deck. The "off" season months offer serenity and privacy while you explore the local trails or visit Rockport and Gloucester Harbor which are both very close. These communities are active year round and offer great restaurants, galleries and many things to do. Karen is very prompt and accommodating host and the property is full of options and equipment for outdoor activities like kayaking, bicycling and enjoying the beach. Everyone who visited us agreed that this is a special place and that we were fortunate to have the opportunity to experience it."