Home of the Terrapin King
About this farm stay rental
HISTORIC, WATERFRONT HOME ON MARYLAND’S EASTERN SHORE (CRISFIELD, MD) – SECLUDED/QUAINT/PEACEFUL The LaVallette House is where the Maryland terrapin originated! Albert Tallmadge LaVallette Jr. launched the terrapin soup industry from this very site. (You can still see the old terrapin pins beside the driveway.) In addition to the property’s historic charm, the location just can’t be beat. The five-bedroom house is completely private. Guests have to drive through wetlands to get to it, and the only neighbors in close proximity are the gulls and the fish in the Chesapeake Bay. The house is surrounded on three sides by water; you can see the Bay from all of its windows. Outside, you can sun yourself on the private beach, sit with a cool drink on the front porch, fish and crab from the bulkhead, or launch your boat or kayak from the dock. And the fishing’s great from the front yard! You hardly ever need to leave this place—but if do you want to get out, downtown Crisfield offers charming restaurants, shops, an ice cream parlor, and plenty of places to get fresh crabs. Crisfield is known as the “Crab Capital of the World.” This home is unlike any other. It’s a perfect spot for family vacations, friends’ getaways, or writing retreats. It’s been in our family for over 20 years. We love it dearly and know you will, too! This Queen Anne Victorian was built in the late 1800's. The main floor features a large updated kitchen with seating for 8-10; a family room with a Visio TV, WiFi, Apple TV, Direct TV; a formal dining area; a sitting room with a futon that sleeps two; and a queen bedroom with panoramic views of the Bay. There is also a bedroom with two twin beds and another large bedroom with a king size bed. Upstairs, the master bedroom features a widow's walk for two, a queen size bed, and furniture to lounge on. There is a full bath across the hall. The second upstairs bedroom features two double beds. The house is spacious with lots of room to spread out. There is also two screened porches, and an outside shower! There are two kayaks for you to use, be sure to bring it to launch from the beach and explore the natural wonders that surround this local treasure. Additionally, please do NOT use any fireplaces in the house except for the pellet stove. No weddings / large gatherings allowed on property. Please keep all cars within the parking area. All people accessing the house and PETS must be listed on the reservation.
Amenities
Pool
Air conditioner
Kitchen / Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony / Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Chesapeake Bay, NC
Farm Stay in Chesapeake Bay, NC
Reasons to book
People love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Includes essentialsGarden, Pool, Kitchen / Kitchenette and more
$$$$
Reviews
4.7/5.0
Outstanding(104 Reviews)
10.0
This wonderful, isolated, 100-plus-year-old house was just the ticket for a group of four women who wanted to get away relax. It is literally on the Chesapeake Bay, minutes from Crisfield. The house has beautiful views of sunrise and sunset from its many windows, a nice screened porch and another side porch for sitting outside in milder weather, and so many interesting touches! Lots of lovely antique pieces and curios. Comfortable beds, very well appointed kitchen, tons of bottled water and basic supply needs. Could easily host a larger family gathering with still lots of room for people to have privacy. The large lawn, bordered by the bay, offers some opportunities for playing outdoor games (weather permitting; with lots of rain, the grounds can be soggy). Coming from the DC area, we had meals in St Michaels on the way to and Kent Island on the way back, and lunch at Dockside in Pocomoke City while there. Many local places were closed when we went off-season, so look forward to hitting these again when they're open. All in all just a delight, really relaxing and a fun location.
5.0
The house has a ton of character, and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay there even if it was for one night. We got in right at sunset, which was beautiful. If you’ve ever watched the sun set in Crisfield you know they’re some of best. It was early enough to cook a pot of gumbo and all of us sat at the nice long table and enjoyed a hot meal after a long day of travel. Watched the sunrise the next day with some heavy weather that made our day interesting for sure. The host kept us posted on the weather and made sure we were aware of what to do. In the end we were glad we took their advice. Being born and raised in the area, the terapin house, with its panoramic view of Crisfield and Smith Island, was a great place to stay and talk about the “old days.”
5.0
We had a wonderful stay at this property on Maryland's Eastern Shore. The house was situated on a private peninsula, surrounded by the Chesapeake Bay and beautiful marshlands. We enjoyed the views of the town of Crisfield in the distance and the privacy of the location. The house was spacious and cozy, and it felt like we were on a boat. We loved exploring the trails around the property and learning about the history of the terrapin king who used to live there. This was a perfect getaway for us and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing and scenic vacation.
5.0
Thank you for sharing your house with us. It was beautiful and the rooms were very big. We enjoyed exploring outside and listening to the animals at night while we sat around the fire. It was a perfect Christmas with my family.
5.0
We had the most wonderful experience/vacation from start to finish. The historic home is welcoming and warm with all the comforts of a home away from home. The ambiance is relaxing and private. We enjoyed kayaking, fishing, oyster shell hunting and playing with our dogs on the little stretch of beach/bank. The hosts are hospitable and easy to get in touch with—very accommodating! We went to Linton’s Seafood and grabbed a bushel of crabs to bring home. Best crabs we’ve ever had (even as Marylanders)! We walked downtown to the gift shops, harbor, and the art galleries, even when to a local history talk at the Corbin Gallery one evening! The Crisfield folks are kind and welcoming. We can’t wait to come back!
5.0
We had an amazing time. The views are beautiful. We would love to return in the future.
4.0
Wow what a view! We saw porpoises on our last day!
5.0
I absolutely enjoyed this stay. Everything was very clean. We had everything needed to cook meals. Beds were comfortable. Only complaint was water pressure in shower wasn't that great.
5.0
Home of the Terrapin King was exactly what we were looking for! The peace and tranquility truly soothed my soul. I cannot recommend this place highly enough. Check in was simple, communication with the owner was seamless, and let me just say that the views are spectacular! Thank you so much for allowing us to stay in your beautiful home. We will definitely be back!
Respectfully,
Renee and Miguel
5.0
Beautiful property to relax and enjoy peace and quite! Worked perfect for our elderly family member to sit on screened porch and enjoy waterviews.
4.0
Need a good cleaning dead mouse on porch lovely view
5.0
Great location and getaway spot
5.0
We had a group of 9 adults and 3 children. The house slept everyone comfortably. The property kept everyone busy from morning until dark. Exploring the sandy beaches and marshes, waiting for sunsets to paint the sky, listening and watching the wildlife( Turkey, deer, fox,owls, turtles), fishing, crabbing, and kayaking. The owner was quick to respond with some questions which was very helpful. The town and marina are right down the road which was so convenient. The history of the home is very interesting.
Everyone was sad to go home, hopefully we can visit again soon!
Thank you for sharing your magical retreat with us!
5.0
We just loved our time here. The kids loved running around the property and porches. The adults loved the peace and quiet in the evenings listening to the bay. The history of the home was so interesting to learn and we enjoyed crabbing and fishing every day.
5.0
What an incredible property! You truly feel like you’re on a deserted island and yet still have the comforts of civilization. The property is exactly as shown. It’s obviously well cared for. It’s easy for older houses out on the water like this to get a musty sort of smell but not this one! Perfectly Clean and fresh. We all thought the beds were the most comfortable we’ve had at a rental. The owner is generous enough to share beach chairs, kayaks, and more so you can enjoy everything the place has to offer without dragging all that equipment along with you. The one downside is the water having the sulfur smell due to being well water on the bay. The owner is great with communication and warned about this ahead of time. They provided large bottles of drinking water for this reason. There’s nothing else you can really do about it except be prepared to deal With a stink when washing dishes or taking a shower. It wasn’t anything that would stop us from coming back, but it was good to know ahead of time so I wanted to mention it for others. This is a place you go to get away from it all. So if you’re looking for a trip with shopping, big restaurants, or other public activities nearby you’d be disappointed. But for us it was perfect. We’ve stayed on the water many times but this really was a unique experience the kids and us will never forget. We hope to make it back someday.
4.0
We went the to go fishing but in early April it was windy and cold. The location to the bay and the house were wonderful !
5.0
We went down to stay with some friends for a few days and two of us duck hunted the WMA just south of the property. Great spot and it's nice to be in a small town for a bit when living full time in DC.
5.0
This was a beautiful experience, would love to rent this property again!
5.0
If you want to get to away from the all the noise and distractions, the Home of the Terrapin King should be on your list to visit. There are not words that can describe the sunset view...you will be amazed! The owner has made many improvements since our last visit and reacted very quickly to resolve any issues.
4.0
Lots of great memories, however the flooring, beds and carpet all need some updates! Awesome screened in porch my, excellent crabbing!
5.0
Hands down most relaxing and beautiful place we have ever stayed as a family. Surrounded by nature with total privacy - what a sweet experience :) House is big and clean and we enjoyed sitting out on our own private porches and dock taking in nature and watching the bay. Would definitely stay again in a heartbeat!
5.0
Though our stay was short, we made great memories and enjoyed all the property had to offer. Hope to go back.
5.0
We had a wonderful stay at Home of the Terrapin King! The house is rustic and charming, and even though it doesn't have central air and we had some VERY warm days, the house was comfortable with fans and window units. Domenic was an excellent host, providing us with excellent directions, suggestions, and answers to any questions we had. A perfect, relaxing, and fun time with family and good friends!
5.0
A Peace of Heaven
The Home of the Terrapin King is an amazing and cozy home with lots of space and beds. We felt right at home in this house with decor that was fun to admire. You are totally surrounded by water and wetlands and the scenery is just beautiful. My kids enjoyed fishing off the pier. They caught a stingray and crabs and had a lot of fun! My favorite part was the fiddler crabs and the dragonflies, which were abundant! This was a great trip for my family and happy with the memories that we made. We will definitely be back!
5.0
Family Vacation
We couldn't have asked for a more serene and quaint getaway. The views were picturesque from all parts of the home. We spent our days relaxing on the dock, swimming in the bay, and kayaking. The overall charm was just what we needed for our vacation. The owner communicated very well and gave suggestions for local favorites.
5.0
Incredible experience!
What an incredible trip! Beautiful house, everything as advertised, very responsive and helpful owner! Wildlife was the highlight of trip - owls, otter, fox, herons and of course the crabbing and gulls. Peaceful kayaking with marsh all around. Definitely plan to return again!
5.0
This property is beautiful. A view at every window. Please read it’s history too. A bad storm passed through one evening and the owner notified us beforehand.
5.0
Family vacation with my adult children
This property is beautiful. A view at every window. Please read it’s history too. A bad storm passed through one evening and the owner notified us beforehand.
5.0
Perfect Place to Get Away from the hustle/bustle
We had a wonderful stay. Our 3rd time and won’t be our last. One of our favorite get always.
5.0
The house was super clean and very open large spaces, much bigger than the photos give credit for. We had an excellent time and the owner is really easy to talk with and the house is stocked with everything you don’t think of. I highly recommend you stay here! You will not regret it.
5.0
Amazing time on the water
The house was super clean and very open large spaces, much bigger than the photos give credit for. We had an excellent time and the owner is really easy to talk with and the house is stocked with everything you don’t think of. I highly recommend you stay here! You will not regret it.
5.0
We had a great experience! House had everything we needed. The weather was exceptional n we loved the peace n quiet n the beautiful view!
5.0
Amazing!!!!
We had a great experience! House had everything we needed. The weather was exceptional n we loved the peace n quiet n the beautiful view!
5.0
Was a pleasant stay. Very peaceful. If you are looking for quietness this is the place to stay. Views were beautiful. House inside very nice lots of room.
5.0
Beautiful Views
Was a pleasant stay. Very peaceful. If you are looking for quietness this is the place to stay. Views were beautiful. House inside very nice lots of room.
5.0
While the weather wasn’t ideal the house and the views made it a good experience! I will def return!
5.0
Great QUIET water location! Beautiful sunsets! Ocean view from every room. House is clean, well heated, kitchen is stocked! Two screened porches to enjoy! We loved this place!!!!!!!
5.0
Great stay!
While the weather wasn’t ideal the house and the views made it a good experience! I will def return!
5.0
Great Stay on the Bay
Great QUIET water location! Beautiful sunsets! Ocean view from every room. House is clean, well heated, kitchen is stocked! Two screened porches to enjoy! We loved this place!!!!!!!
5.0
Enjoyed the seclusion and beauty of the property!!
FAQs
How much does this farm stay cost compared to others in Chesapeake Bay?
The average price for a rental in Chesapeake Bay is $231 per night. This rental is $303 above the average.
Is parking included with this farm stay?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Home of the Terrapin King. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this farm stay?
Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at Home of the Terrapin King. Enjoy the water!
Is Home of the Terrapin King pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this farm stay is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Home of the Terrapin King?
We found 12 amenities for this rental. This includes pool, air conditioner, kitchen / kitchenette, internet / wifi, and fireplace.
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