An international lawyer with a taste for collecting historic real estate, Mitch Willey always sought the services of a five-star hotel yet craved the solitude and convenience of a private home. His solution: Time & Place Homes, a company Willey started that markets luxurious and exclusive private vacation rentals all over the world. Nantucket Island is now the setting of Willey’s newest property catch, Harborview Place, a secluded waterfront enclave of 10 restored cottages available for rent or purchase.

Located just two blocks from Straight Wharf and historic Main Street, this charming compound comprises a playful mix of homes that are laid out in the shape of a horseshoe. Tradition aside, Harborview is just steps away from one of the island’s primary ferry landings, affording great views of Nantucket Harbor and the picturesque estates of Monomoy. This peaceful in-town oasis feels like it’s a world away from the Massachusetts mainland.

The 10 residences are uniquely designed in Nantucket’s timeless tradition of simple elegance, including a classic fisherman’s cottage by the water and a historic barn. Harborview boasts an array of amenities and private club services from a personal concierge to pre-stocked, privately staffed units, an owners’ lounge and private beach services, transportation, spa treatments, and anything else your island heart desires.

Of course, no trip to Nantucket would be complete without getting out on the water, and what better way to see the island than cruising around in one of Harborview’s new hassle- and maintenance-free Boston Whaler 200 Dauntless club boats. “Everything is so close, so you don’t need a car,” says Jon McLoughlin, the director of sales and marketing for Time and Place Homes. “Staying at Harborview Place is really like having your own home.” $450-$2,700 per night, Time and Place Homes, 202-286-6110, harborviewnantucket.com.

By Scott Kauffman