Entire home

Fish the "Little J" / Cozy Cottage convenient to Juniata College & Penn State

Photo gallery for Fish the "Little J" / Cozy Cottage convenient to Juniata College & Penn State

Cottage: View from the Southwest
The "Little J": Just a quick walk (Photo Courtesy: Little Juniata River Assn)
All Seasons Porch: View toward the "Little J"
Kitchen & Inside Dining Area
Kitchen with Vintage 1950s Era Home Comfort Gas Range

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 490.6 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Parking available
  • Outdoor space
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Alexandria, PA
  • Little Juniata River
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Juniata College
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Pennsylvania State University
    ‪43 min drive‬
  • Philipsburg, PA (PSB-Mid-State)
    ‪67 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

North Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

South Bedroom

2 Single Beds

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Fish the "Little J" / Cozy Cottage convenient to Juniata College & Penn State

Step back in time, and enjoy a stay at our century-old family cottage, just minutes on foot to the Little Juniata River. (No "traditional" internet or broadcast TV -- so our home is ideal for guests who prefer to "unplug" from media distractions.)

Although... adequate WiFi service via cellular data when tethered to a laptop or tablet has been reported by multiple recent guests, sufficient for remote network access and video streaming. (Experience may vary, however, according to the guest's cellular network.)

The cottage features a cozy living room with a CD/DVD player and flat screen TV. A wide selection of DVD films is available, or bring your own.

Recent guests have reported good cellular service with Verizon and AT&T, Sprint and T-Mobile. AND as of October 16. 2023 a new signal amplifier is active that boosts cell reception with quite satisfactory results!

The "Little J" -- well known to fly fishers far and wide -- is one of Pennsylvania's best trout streams and popular with kayakers and river tubers as well; we are just a mile down-river from the village of Barree.

Built in 1902 on a wooded acre by 2nd and 3rd generation descendants of late 18th Century settlers of northern Huntingdon County, the home has been carefully maintained and fully modernized -- serving both as a seasonal and a long-term residence over the last 120 years. Expanded periodically over the last 120 years, the home retains many of its original architectural features together with some period furnishings.

Take your morning coffee on our all-seasons porch (screened in warm weather, enclosed with thermal widows in cold weather). Hike up the road into the Rothrock State Forest lands. Hike the Mid-state Trail from a nearby trail head with adequate parking.

The cottage comprises about 975 sq ft (90 sq m) and can accommodate 4 guests comfortably.

The kitchen is equipped with dish soap, dish cloths and dish towels, pots and pans, cooking utensils, toaster, toaster oven with broiler, microwave oven, plates, cups, coffee pots (French Press and Italian Stove Top Espresso), glasses, and flatware. The kitchen seats up to 4 persons, with a 1920s-era Hoosier cupboard and a professionally-restored, 1950s-era gas range, ready for stove-top cooking.

If you plan to bake, roast or even just reheat an item, ask us to set the oven's standing pilot for you prior to arrival. (Note that this model range did not include a broiler.)

The two bedrooms are in the half-story loft: one with a queen bed and the other with two twin beds.

While many of our guests prefer to bring their own BED and BATH linens, we can furnish these at the guest's request for a one-time $30 fee to cover our linen laundry costs and make up the beds for you. We furnish bed pillows. comforters and light blankets.

You can draw the privacy curtain between the rooms if needed.

The house has air conditioning in hot and humid weather.

The full bath has a tub with shower.

Our cottage is clean but not fussy: a kick-off-your-shoes, settle-in-with-a-good-book-or-good-conversation kind of place.

We are about 50 minutes from Penn State University and about 20 minutes from Juniata College.

Convenience stores and gas stations (10 minutes to Petersburg or to Alexandria) and supermarkets (20 minutes to Huntingdon) are within convenient driving distances. Several local eateries are close by for eat-in or take-out, and some for delivery.

Property manager

Barree Guest Cottage
Premier Host

Languages

English, French, German

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
A detailed description of our Property Information and House Rules is available, upon request, for the guest's review prior to booking.
The guest's booking constitutes guest's full understanding of our Property Information and guest's agreement to and compliance with our House Rules.
Due to the property's bordering State Forest and other heavily wooded lands, no open fires are permitted on the property at any time.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Alexandria

Located in Alexandria, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a river. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Raystown Lake and Stone Valley Forest, while Tyrone Historical Society and Tyrone History Museum are cultural highlights. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Alexandria, PA

What's nearby

  • Little Juniata River - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Juniata College - 20 min drive - 20.4 km
  • DelGrosso's Amusement Park - 28 min drive - 29.0 km
  • Pennsylvania State University - 43 min drive - 40.0 km
  • Beaver Stadium - 48 min drive - 43.4 km

Getting around

  • Huntingdon Station - 18 min drive
  • State College, PA (SCE-University Park) - 54 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Paesano's - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Diner 22 - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Spruce Creek Tavern - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Shawnee's Manor Restaurant - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Diner 22 - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Fish the "Little J" / Cozy Cottage convenient to Juniata College & Penn State pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Fish the "Little J" / Cozy Cottage convenient to Juniata College & Penn State?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Fish the "Little J" / Cozy Cottage convenient to Juniata College & Penn State?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Fish the "Little J" / Cozy Cottage convenient to Juniata College & Penn State located?

Situated on a river, this holiday home is steps from Little Juniata River and within 9 mi (15 km) of Diamond Lake and Lincoln Caverns and Whisper Rocks. Shavers Creek Volunteer Fire Co. Firemans Park and Arch Spring are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 60 out of 68 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 68 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 68 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 68 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 68 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Morgan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A home away from home

I recently stayed in this cottage for a winter getaway. It was just as described and perfectly appointed! Guy and Jane met me shortly after arriving and told me a little about the history. They were easy to reach during my stay and very friendly. Overall the cottage is cozy and I was relaxed and comfortable during my stay. The Little Juniata is a short walk and the scenery is beautiful. I look forward to staying again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Fantastic stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Todd B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fly fishing trip

The house was perfect for a quick fly fishing getaway to the little J. Guy was informative and responsive to our needs and questions. We loved our stay and will definitely be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An Alternative to Hotels

We appreciate the opportunity to stay in the cottage and enjoy the great outdoors and privacy. If you love an old fashioned cottage and don’t mind the brief and beautiful drive to State College, this is the place! The host is wonderful and charming!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Matthew R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick Fishing Trip

I was looking for a place to stay while on a fishing trip. This cabin was perfect for what I needed. A little on the rustic side, but I love that. The host was very accommodating and very easy to communicate with. I will be staying here again for future trips.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Vincent A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Little get away

The property was purpose for my wife and I to get away for a long weekend. Close enough to State College for a game and a couple of very good restaurants and bars within 20 minutes. The house had everything we needed and communication with Guy was better than could ever be expected. Definitely look to do again when back in that part of the world.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tim M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay on the Litlle Juniata

We had a great time and our host couldn’t be more accommodating. The property is very quaint and has all the amenities you are looking for. Thanks for having us!!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful and Relaxing

We enjoyed a peaceful and quiet three night stay where we enjoyed a bit of fishing, walking and driving some of the back roads - and sitting by the river in the evening! The property was very clean, well outfitted and comfortable. Communication with Guy before our stay and at arrival was excellent. We were happy with our selection of this property and would not hesitate to book again if we return to the area.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

George A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thank youj!

You are kind and thoughtful and run a very fine place.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Todd T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint Cabin with a Family History

A quaint cabin in the woods. Clean, functional, & convenient. Host was great!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

David M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Barree Cottage

Cottage is a lovingly restored period piece in a stunning woodland setting. Loved it!
Stayed 1 night in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

James L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint little river house in the hills

Very well kept old family home, right by the Little Juniata. Well maintained and appointed, with nice large modernized bathroom. Would stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mary T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy cottage

Great place to stay. Couldn’t have asked for a better host. Everything needed and very clean. Close to fishing: food and site seeing and on a quiet road. Highly recommend you book with Guy and Jane
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fishing Getaway

Guy was great to work with. The entire process was easy to navigate. Guy was responsive and quick to respond. We would stay at Guy's cabin again!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brittany M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vintage cabin by the stream

Sweet owner, cute property, great porch. Stayed Easter weekend. There’s a Walmart supercenter 15 minutes away for supplies.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

8/10 Good

Jamie P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Penn state stay

Property was well kept and provided a good home base for our trip to happy valley to see Penn State.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelly K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely weekend getaway

Everything about our stay at this cozy mountain cottage was wonderful except we wish we could have stayed longer! Guy was a wonderful host from arrival and even after departure. We thoroughly appreciated the location and the quiet atmosphere. We were able to get to/from the Penn State football game on Saturday, no problem, and enjoyed a couple of the restaurant recommendations Guy provided in addition to some leisurely drives and walks. Thank you, and we definitely look forward to coming again!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tom Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Visit relatives in Alexandria

Property was clean and adequately appointed. Everything worked properly. Communication with host/owner was excellent. Location was very good and private. I would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Randall B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Anniversary weekend

We celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary at guy's cabin we totally loved it. We went to a penn state football game on Saturday guy's place is so great and comfortable. We will be going back to do some fly fishing in the near future.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Geraldine B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

We had a great long weekend of fishing and Penn State football. The house was cozy and well located. Great communication with owner who was helpful and accommodating.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barry M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great cottage and location!

This place is off of a Rothrock State Forest road but we only saw 3 cars go by the entire 3 days we were there. The historic cottage was very comfortable and clean. My brother and I took our dad here to fish for Father's Day weekend. He loved it. The Little Juniata River is about a 100 yards down the State Forest Rd so we walked down there frequently to fish and seine. I would get my morning run in by running the other direction into the State Forest. Beautiful area to run. The owner was very friendly and great to work with. There is a lock box on the porch to access the key. No wifi or cable but that was no problem for us. The cell signal is weak but we were able to make calls and send text messages. I liked that we didn't have external distractions. My brother and dad liked it so much they suggested that we stay there every year for Father's Day. We are already planning a trip back soon.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

ROBERT N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Outdoor getaway

The cottage was clean and organized. It has a nice setting in the woods and is very peaceful. We were quite relaxed there and enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jane F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cottage in the woods

We had a cozy and relaxing stay in this historic cottage. The area is beautiful and very quiet. The bed was comfortable and we especially enjoyed eating and relaxing on the sun porch. Guy was very helpful and great with communication before, during, and after our visit.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

John M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Secluded cabin in woods

Take a step back in time to this awesome cabin. We stayed for a guys weekend and caught a Penn State game. It was about 25 minutes to the stadium but worth the drive. Breath taking trout stream walking distance from the place.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jill S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect stay near Barre

Everything went perfect at our stay. Location was just what we wanted for the Little J, we were able to run and hike and attend event in State College . Bike trail nearby that we want to check out next time ! Guy was fantastic at check in . We will be back !!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

About the host

Hosted by Barree Guest Cottage

Host profile image
Third generation owner of the property built in 1902 and passed down through the generations: successively in 1912 and most recently in 1970.

Retired from Juniata College: Offices of College Advancement and Center for International Education.

Juniata College: B.S., Biochemistry,1972
Penn State University: M.Agr., Extension Education / Dairy Science, 1976
University of Cambridge (UK): CELTA, Teaching English as a Second Language, 2005
Independent foreign language study:
French (1967-68), German (1996-98), Hungarian (2005-06)

Taught German language conversation in Hungary (2005-06) and have traveled annually extensively internationally since 1994

Executive local government law enforcement officer (1978-85, 2003-04)
Founder, Juniata Valley Regional Police Department
Clasically-trained pianist organist.

Why they chose this property

Our home is a 120+ year old family legacy that we love to share with family, friends and responsible guests (both US and internationally).

The location is ideal for fly fishing, tubing and kayaking enthusiasts on one of the best trout streams in Pennsylvania or for just relaxing without major media distractions over a long weekend.

As a "market experiment" in late 2018, we first listed the property under a property management contract with an area realtor with whom we have long done business and whose professional attentiveness on our behalf yielded encouraging results. This afforded us the requisite knowledge and confidence by January 2021 to now manage our guest house ourselves.

Whereas our guests' entire stay can be achieved without any personal contact with us, we enjoy meeting our guests in person (following current CDC guidelines, of course)--always by appointment--either upon arrival or after they have settled in.

What makes this property unique

We are convenient to academic and cultural centers (Juniata College and Penn State University), recreation (Raystown Lake and Rothrock State Forest, Mid State Trail, Lakemont Park), shopping and services (Huntingdon, State College, Altoona), yet secluded and private enough for those who just want to get away and unwind without major media distractions.

Languages:

English, French, German

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests