Woods & Windows - Treehouse for Adults - Near a Lake, Waterfall and Tanglewood!

Photo gallery for Woods & Windows - Treehouse for Adults - Near a Lake, Waterfall and Tanglewood!

Living area
living room facing rear french doors to deck shows steps to window banquets
Exterior
Terrace/patio
Property grounds

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Stockbridge Bowl
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Spa pool on site
  • Onsite parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning

Explore the area

View map
Stockbridge, MA
  • Place, Stockbridge Bowl
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, National Shrine of the Divine Mercy
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Tanglewood Music Center
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Airport, Pittsfield, MA (PSF-Pittsfield Municipal)
    ‪27 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

Convertible bed(s)

1 Double Futon

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet

Bathroom 3

Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Outdoor shower
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Woods & Windows - Treehouse for Adults - Near a Lake, Waterfall and Tanglewood!


Your Treehouse in the Berkshires
A cozy, all-wood year round retreat - tucked away close to a waterfall — amidst fully landscaped with natural woodland gardens, mature flowering perennials and shrubs. Just steps from Tanglewood, Kripalu, and the Stockbridge Bowl. The inviting grounds welcome you to a home that feels like a treehouse for grown-ups, chock-full of amenities.

Nestled into the mountainside with few neighbors in sight, this rustic wood house sits just a stone's throw from the waterfall that spills off the Stockbridge Bowl, cascading down the mountain in a stream that wraps around the property. From the third floor you can listen to the quiet hum of running water from the Falls and, if you wish, pull up the shade and fall asleep under a skylight framing the night sky.

Built of wood inside and out this year round house is wrapped in oversized windows, pulls nature close and floods the space with light. It's charming and rustic, yet outfitted with all the modern comforts you need for a memorable Berkshire getaway.

The Space
First floor — One continuous living space anchored by a galley kitchen with modern appliances and everything you need to cook beautiful meals. Dine comfortably for six, relax in the living room, then step through French doors to the porch and outdoor year round hot tub. A convenient half bath completes the level. Off the living room three steps lead up to a pair of window seats beneath a skylight — the perfect reading nook.

Second floor — A cozy, enclosed bedroom, a full-size bed, two windows with black-out shades. Just outside: a fully renovated bathroom and a spacious, airy study with a full-size futon couch and tucked away laundry corner.

The "Eagle's Nest" (top floor) — The master bedroom with a queen bed, several windows, a skylight, and its own private porch overlooking the green expanse and the waterfall's spill-off. Open to the loft below by a rail - yet visually private — a true artist's dream.

You're positioned midway between Stockbridge and Lenox, at the heart of everything the Berkshires offers: Under 2 miles from Tanglewood and 1.5 miles from Kripalu
Steps from the Stockbridge Bowl — private boat and beach access for residents.
Minutes from the Norman Rockwell Museum, Jacob's Pillow, Chesterwood, and Berkshire Theatre Festival.

Every Season Is a Good Season
Summer & warmer months: Swim, fish, kayak, or canoe on the lake - (kayak and bike rentals are nearby). Hike Monument Mountain and Mount Greylock, or take walks on the 2 mile loop around the property— perfect for a quiet morning run or stroll. Golf, tennis, horseback riding, and boating are all close. Fill the kitchen with fresh greens from the Great Barrington farmer's market.

Winter: The property becomes a snowy wonderland — especially when the waterfall freezes mid-motion, a sight worth seeing. Downhill ski at Butternut, Bousquet, Catamount, or Jiminy Peak, or head out for cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on the many nearby trails.

Thoughtful Touches
Central air conditioning and heating, plus a heat pump and ceiling fans to keep the top floor comfortable; High-speed internet, cable TV.
New ceramic dishware and plenty of wine and beverage glasses.
A kitchen stocked with teas, oils, & vinegars— help yourself
Lawn chairs set out by the ravine overlook, and a patio dining set with umbrella on the back porch near the hot tub - steps from the efficient "Baby Weber" propane grill. Beautifully sited close to the waterfall, surrounded by good eats, culture and Zen moments in every direction, This home invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and settle in.
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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
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

Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number C0216122830
Property # 280365vb
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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

West Stockbridge

Located in West Stockbridge, this holiday home is in a rural area and on a lake. Tanglewood Music Center and Norman Rockwell Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Berkshire Botanical Garden and The Bookstore. Berkshire Performing Arts Center and Hoffman's Pottery are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging and snowmobiling.
Map
Stockbridge, MA

What's nearby

  • Stockbridge Bowl - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Norman Rockwell Museum - 5 min drive - 5.0 km
  • National Shrine of the Divine Mercy - 7 min drive - 6.1 km
  • Tanglewood Music Center - 7 min drive - 6.4 km
  • The Mount - 14 min drive - 11.0 km

Getting around

  • Pittsfield Intermodal Transportation Center - 20 min drive
  • Pittsfield, MA (PSF-Pittsfield Municipal) - 19 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪The Red Lion Inn - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Fresh City - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪The Red Lion Inn - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Tanglewood Cafe - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Woods & Windows - Treehouse for Adults - Near a Lake, Waterfall and Tanglewood! pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Woods & Windows - Treehouse for Adults - Near a Lake, Waterfall and Tanglewood!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Woods & Windows - Treehouse for Adults - Near a Lake, Waterfall and Tanglewood!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Woods & Windows - Treehouse for Adults - Near a Lake, Waterfall and Tanglewood!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Woods & Windows - Treehouse for Adults - Near a Lake, Waterfall and Tanglewood! located?

Situated on a lake, this holiday home is steps from Stockbridge Bowl and within 3 mi (5 km) of Berkshire Botanical Garden and Housatonic River. Norman Rockwell Museum and Tanglewood Music Center are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 19 out of 22 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 22 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 22 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 22 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 22 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.0/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Archival

10/10 Excellent

Lindsay W.

A perfect getaway in the woods

This house is so special! I came for a long weekend with 2 best friends to break up the monotony of winter, and I wish we could have extended our stay. We were incredibly lucky to have unseasonably warm weather (in the low 60s and sunny in February), which let us enjoy the property even more. The house itself is welcoming, unique, and immediately felt like home. It was well stocked, and for such a rustic home I was surprised by how new the appliances were. As others have said, Holly is very nice and she's quick to respond to any questions. We spent 3 fantastic days taking nature walks, cooking, listening to music, painting, exploring Stockbridge, looking at the stars in the hot tub and generally having the best time. We're already looking forward to coming back!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Lindsay was lovely to work with. She was concerned about the house, taking care of everything. She was easy to get along with and very cooperative. I'd love to have her back again. (I dealt only with Lindsay, but had no reason to doubt that her friends were just as nice.) Holly
Verified review

8/10 Good

John M.

Uniquely charming private rustic retreat!

This is a unique private and rustic retreat. Nestled downstream of the dam from Stockbridge Bowl, the house is located in a very private wooded setting serenaded by the waterfall and river. The house is a very unique three story with many windows, a back yard deck and a third floor deck off the main bedroom. The second floor has one bedroom, an office and main bath. The first floor a wood stove, half bath and open floor plan. The interior is unfinished structural framing that has aged to a comforting patina. The furnishings are simple, a bit worn, but comfortable. The atmosphere is one of an artisits studio with a meditation platform above the third story bedroom that requires a climb to the perch. Holly is a gracious, responsive and very helpful owner. The hot tub was not working and a bit of a disappointment, but Holly did all she could. Many VRBO units advertise hot tubs, but few are working or clean enough for inviting use. This tub was well kept, just not functioning. All toll, not for everyone, but a special jewel for the adventurous!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
I appreciate the positive review left by these guests. I am sorry the hot tub needed a repair and appreciate how important this was for them. I had a new circulating pump installed and the tub is back to normal! The only thing I'd like to clarify is that while I love the idea when they said it's "...a special jewel for the adventurous", I wouldn't have thought to say you need to be adventurous. Maybe they meant that it is not of high end, state of the art, modern design. however, it features a fully appointed kitchen and creative architectural design that often elicits a "Wow - beautiful" response...so if you're not feeling adventurous please come anyway...it's a wonderful house with expansive grounds, a nearby waterfall and brook. A relaxing experience.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

April D.

Truly is charming, wood, and windows

We had an all-too-short stay in this fascinating home near Tanglewood and Kripalu, and short rides to Stockbridge and Lenox in July 2012. Holly and Rachel could not have been more gracious in working with us and addressed questions immediately. The house is on a private wooded lot, yet there are many restaurants, theaters, and historic places to visit in a 10-15 minute ride in Lenox, Lee, Stockbridge (and a bit further to Great Barrington). Or lay on the couches and nooks and read a book and relax as we did in the sultry afternoons. I'm sure its gorgeous in the autumn with the fall foliage and it's probably convenient for skiing in winter. The photos don't do justice to the architecture. The construction of the house, all wood beams and open spaces, was rustic and sophisticated simultaneously. Although we were there during a heat wave, we only used the AC once because of all the windows, and the ceiling fans and high ceiling. We were lucky that it was cool enough in the mornings to enjoy the hot tub--worked miracles on achy backs. The kitchen was fully stocked for indoor cooking, and we used the gas grill on the patio to prepare a lovely meal and eat on the large patio table. Loved having the half-bath on the first floor, something you don't get in a hotel room. Note: there are a lot of steps inside the house, may not be disability-friendly.
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Thanks for your review April. So glad to hear how pleased you were with the house. Love to have you back. Holly
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

mary g.

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

A woodland oasis

This was a relaxing low stress time away in beautiful Stockbridge close to a lake and wonderful hiking trails. We saw deer and foxes in the back gardens in two separate days. The noise from the water fall in back was delightful.
Stayed 27 nights in Jun 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Alexis T.

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

Enchanting cabin

This is such a special cabin on a beautiful street that backs up to a lake with a waterfall. The view and sound of the waterfall is incredibly peaceful and the house is a wonderful mix of warm, quirky, and tasteful. It’s really a unique place that we have loved.
Stayed 69 nights in Dec 2021
Verified review

2/10 Terrible

Mark S.

Disliked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy

Didn't work for us

The house didn't work for us since we were traveling with our baby. It's effectively all one living space, so it was hard to manage the baby's naps and sleep requirements. But anyone staying there with more than one person would have the same issues. The house is old and very creaky. It's hot (we stayed in the summer) and the AC really can't keep up. The top floor and largest sleeping space ("cooled by fans" in the listing) isn't cooled at all. We called it the bikram room. The one "bedroom" is very small with a small bed (full size). The house has many windows, about one third of which are supposed to open but only about half of these actually work. The furniture is very old and in embarrassingly bad shape. The kitchen is small and dark and in poor condition. It didn't say in the listing, but you have to take your trash to the dump and can't store any on the property. So if you fill a bag, that's it you need to go. When I pushed back on this, the manager said that's the way it is in the area, but if you walk down the street you'll see the neighbors get theirs collected. The deck and outdoor furniture is very old and worn, but the property is peaceful and private. We booked for 3 months, but only made it 3 weeks and bailed. I tried to get one month worth back as a refund, but the owner refused and I think she was offended by my candid comments about the place. I take responsibility for making a bad choice in renting this place. Think hard if it's right for you.
Stayed 91 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 12 September 2021
There is another couple at the house now through October who are loving it. I hope you give us a try if you like the way the property looks. And please read my previous reviews, and ask questions, which I'll be glad to answer. Many others have loved it over the years. This current review reflects a most unfortunate rental experience for both the guests and for me. Having a 7 week old baby is hard for any couple and being in a rustic house in the woods in a heat wave is very difficult for anyone - no less with a newborn. This couple didn't choose their location wisely and didn't consider the details in the listing, nor did they ask questions even though they booked months in advance. The interface with nature is a pleasure for many, the house looks out on a waterfall, there is a lot of hiking and beautiful landscaping, however, it is in the country surrounded by tall grasses - they had a dog - and with typical outdoor insects, etc. My write-up explains the A/C only cools the first two floors and there is an enclosed 2nd floor bedroom which gets quite cool as does the first floor. There is only one window on the 2nd floor that doesn't open as a safety feature. It's an extra long bedroom window. Their degree of complaints baffled me. I wish I could have refunded their money. I explained that I would if I re-booked the property but most families had already booked for the summer. I am sorry to say this but their crass review might reflect their anger at me for not getting a refund even though they were fully aware of the policy since last November. They only stayed one week, and didn't give me a chance to make some suggestions that may have helped make them more comfortable.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Leily K.

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

Can't wait to return

My partner and I stayed at Holly's for just under a month, and it was perfect. Secluded enough for us to feel alone in nature, but close enough to towns and attractions that we always had somewhere to go. The property is gorgeous. We loved sitting on the deck and reading and watching the birds, or watching the stars while inside the hot tub. People here have called the house an adult treehouse, and that's exactly right. Holly was an extremely responsive host. We cannot wait to return!
Stayed 25 nights in Sep 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

jacqueline g.

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

A Berkshire Summer

We loved the House for all of its features. The style of the house was amazing - like a tiered loft. All the windows at corners made for a sense of openness and light. Kitchen was great and easy to use. The property was beautiful - a garden that changed constantly over our three months.- Flowers bloomed, trees had fruit- apples, berries, grapes and the birds were fabulous. The house is very private and it has a well running hot tub. Big bonus was being able to hear and just see the nearby waterfall. We enjoyed walks on the associations roads, using the nearby Stockbridge Bowl and occasion al trips into Lenox and Stockbridge. Holly is a great host- generous and responsive. If there were any issues she saw to them right away. It was a great Berkshire summer -
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Shira K.

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

I almost want to keep this as my own secret

This house and the property are absolute heaven. The pics don’t do it justice. It’s really one of a kind, so relaxing, unique, and beautiful. Holly is fantastic. Can’t wait to return.
Response from VrboOwner on 25 May 2020
Shira and Ben were great guests. They communicated extremely well, and were very helpful. I would be happy to have them stay at my house again.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Melissa B.

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

Charm in Stockbridge

The pictures on here do not do this house justice. If you like a house that has character in an extraordinary setting book this place! It's not modern - it's wood on the inside and out. The furniture isn't new - but it's really comfy. The kitchen cabinets are older and wood - but everything works great! We were there over the holidays and despite the cold and snow, we were cozy and comfy and slept like babies. We all fought over the cushions at the landing of the staircase as it was the coziest place to read a book. The sound of the waterfall outside the house was very peaceful. We didn't get to use the hot tub because it was either snowing/raining or we were out but the location on the back porch overlooking the waterfall no doubt would be terrific. The location of this home is really great - right in Stockbridge - so close to main street and the Norman Rockwell museum. It was the perfect getaway during the holiday week.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2019
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Lisa B.

Peaceful, Relaxing, and Cozy

This is a wonderful place to stay during the winter holidays! With the snowflakes falling outside and the warmth of the wood-burning stove inside, we loved hanging out each morning as we enjoyed a fresh pot of coffee. There are beautiful, scenic trails in the area as well and we looked forward to returning to our cozy digs every evening. The outdoor grill is well-suited for two people but, if you plan to cook for more people, you may want to bring your own grill. From start to finish, Holly was very accommodating and provided all of the information that allowed us to maximize our visit! Thank you, Holly, for your hospitality and for letting us enjoy your home.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2018
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Paul M.

A perfect retreat . . .

My wife and I were looking to take a week away from our daily lives mainly to think about some big approaching life changes ahead, but also to do a little winter hiking, visit some museums, and go out for some great meals. We were looking for a place that lent itself to opening up our thinking, and Holly's place turned out to be perfect. It was bigger than we needed for just the two of us, but because of the open, flowing layout, we used every bit of it, from the dining table overlooking the falls, to the couch by the back porch, to the window seats by the stairs, to the second floor desk (also overlooking the falls), to the third floor loft. We loved it so much that we never went out for dinner until our last night, because we kept deciding we'd rather be here, putting dinner together, a fire in the wood stove. We unexpectedly had to leave for a couple days in the middle of the week to help with a family matter, and luckily were able to extend our stay an additional night, because we really weren't ready to go. Holly was extremely helpful with that process and with all the communications throughout the rental process. Happily, by the end of the week we got our thinking done, made some big decisions (!), we got out into the woods most days, saw Mass MOCA and the Clark Museum, and just had a wonderful, peaceful, soul-nourishing time. This is truly a unique house. You can see pretty much the entire structure looking up from the window seat, and I often wondered how the designer came up with a layout that is at once so unusual and so completely natural. We have only good things to say, and hope to be back.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2018
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Colette and Tony S.

Unique, cozy, welcoming.

This is not your average rental. Custom designed (c. 1969-ish) by an architect whose appreciation for this spot is apparent from every angle, this is a cozy, super comfortable and interesting. space with a very open flooplan, high ceilings, lots of windows and tons of light. It's not fancy, it's not high brow -- but it is a very special place. A place that inspires and heals. The lovely, thoughtfully landscaped property abuts the edge of Stockbridge bowl and when you sit where the property meets the woods, the sounds of the waterfall, stream and birds are a mesmerizing, meditating combination. We spent a magical Columbus Day weekend here 18 months ago with family, friends and dogs and keep trying to figure out how and when we can go back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2015
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Edward C.

beautiful house

Great architecture. Clean and comfortable. We had a fine time.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2015
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Debbie P.

Rustic Charm

Waking up to the sound of the waterfall was how we started each day in this Berkshire paradise. Beautiful, private property in a fabulous location! We couldn't have imagined a better home base, providing access to nature,water sports, and all the cultural venues in the area.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Chris G.

Beautiful House in the Woods!

My girlfriend and I had a wonderful winter weekend in Holly's home in the Berkshires. The house is a very special place, and the pictures don't do it justice. Even though we came during a snow storm, we thoroughly enjoyed the hot tub (with great views), the rustic house, and the wood burning stove. Holly was extremely helpful before and during our stay. We hope to enjoy this magical house again!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Thomas C.

Enchanting Escape

For my girlfriend's birthday, we spent the weekend at Holly's home in Stockbridge. The charming nature of the house and all of the included amenities (hot tub was great!) truly made for a magical experience. The home is warm and inviting and full of interesting nooks to explore. Holly was a most gracious host and ensured that our stay was a pleasant and enjoyable one. The town of Stockbridge is quite lovely and perfectly captures that small town New England feel. The Starving Artist Cafe & Creperie in nearby Lee serves the most delicious crepes for breakfast, lunch, and dessert. For dinner options, Xicohtencatl Mexican Restaurant in Great Barrington is another must try. As others have said, pictures simply do not do this home justice and I enthusiastically encourage a stay! Hope to return someday! Thanks, Holly!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Tracey C.

Cosy country house

Mu husband, 1 year old daughter and I stayed here for a two night escape from the city. Although the weather was very cold, the house was warm and welcoming. The location was perfect for exploring the picturesque nearby towns and countryside. The hot tub was a perfect way to unwind in the evening! The house had everything we could ask for and Holly was quick to respond to queries prior to booking. We highly recommend a stay, we might just be back in summer!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Evan H.

Great Retreat

We had a great time at the house. Everything we needed was there. We enjoyed hanging outside on the porch and soaking in the hot tub after hiking. The living area is perfect for conversation, cards and games while warming up by the fire. The house is located perfectly to explore all the towns in the Berkshires.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth L.

Incredible house for a girls weekend or otherwise

My friend and I rented this house to celebrate two of our other friends 30th birthdays and it was the perfect place to spend two nights! This rental originally stood out on the site because of the wood burning stove and outdoor hot tub (both of which we used and loved!) but when we arrived for the weekend it was the unique architecture that blew us away. The pictures on the site really don't do this rental justice- the all wood house is open and cozy with many landings, thoughtful details, and interesting spots to relax. It truly feels like you are in an adult tree house and we all felt lucky to get to spend the weekend in it. Although it rained while we stayed, the house is so special that none of us had any problem staying in, making a fire, cooking, and hanging out together. It was awesome! Holly was very responsive and easy to work with throughout the process, and I am already thinking of weekends to come back! This is a gem of a rental and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a gorgeous house to stay at in the Berkshires.
Archival

4/10 Poor

Cute house but in need of maintenance

My husband, 10 yr old daughter, and I stayed here for the week with our small dog. It is a charming house, but unfortunately hasn't been well maintained. The washing machine was broken and there was no cable tv, despite both features being advertised in the listing. Also, the roof leaked and there was a hornet's nest in the patio table umbrella and another nest nearby. We weren't able to use the deck and hot tub because of the hornets. Lastly, the house was not very clean, there were about 8 lightbulbs out, and there was a lot of opened food remaining in the fridge. Overall, the house just didn't feel like it was set up for rental. Ultimately, the owner refunded a third of our rental fee for our troubles. This helped, but we would have preferred to stay in a house that was in the condition advertised and ready for visitors.
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Response to Karen's review: First of all we are very sorry that Karen did not have the experience she wanted. How people react to a rental is very subjective. For example the previous review, from the same summer as Karen's stay, was quite different. That couple loved the house and wrote an extremely positive review. I have since changed the listing to make it as clear as I could that this is a country cabin in a wooded area, near the lake, it is rustic, subject to the elements, and not a "luxury" high end home. As such there are the usual insects and pests - unavoidable but easily dealt with. I called our exterminator immediately and he removed the nests. Rachel and I were not aware that our cleaning woman left food in the refrigerator. We don't know how much and we doubt that will happen again - however, we do leave our spices, condiments and basics for everyone's use - even assorted teas. We have an "owner's" cabinet for non-perishables stored for our use. It is always cleaned between rentals though sometimes as in all country homes, cobwebs and a few flies might "move in" suddenly. Perhaps the extra light bulbs I left were hard to find. I've since upgraded my "House Manual" with such things. And yes, the cable TV was indeed surprisingly not working. I had neglected to have it turned on when I opened the house that Spring. Again, I am very sorry that Karen had so much trouble with the house. I want to pass along that most renters over the past 20 years have loved it - basic and rustic as it is. Though it now has a new roof, there are a few battle scars acquired over 45 years. I stay there often, have a handyman who checks on things, a cleaning woman and exterminator, all whose numbers I leave on site. I trust that you will find the house as described: A clean, tastefully furnished, rustic cabin in the woods, with beautiful views and woodland landscaping, and all the amenities you see listed. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help you make the decision to rent this lovely house.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

My wife and I stayed at t...

My wife and I stayed at this cabin in February and absolutely loved it. We both grew up in rural settings and this cabin was a great opportunity to get back to nature and escape the city. We filled our time with hiking around the lake and nearby nature trails, and relaxing in the outdoor hot tub. It snowed for most of our stay at the cabin which only added to the scenic surroundings. We returned thoroughly rested and we would definitely do this trip again. Thank you, Jen and Dan Moore
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2020
Thanks Dan, so glad you enjoyed your stay. Hope to see you again.

About the host

Hosted by Property Butler

Host profile image
Andy was a psychiatrist from NY who went to Harvard for his residency and stayed in Cambridge. He had this house built about 45 years ago because he loved the Berkshires and he loved Tanglewood. Holly is also from NY, born in the Bronx, and who now lives, teaches and practices psychology in the Boston area. Step-daughter Rachel is a filmmaker who lives with her wife , their 3 year old son Wiley and their new baby Cleo, in Los Angeles. There have also been a succession of canine family members who roamed the property. Molly was a golden, Jesse James was a springer/lab and Anvik was a 15year old magnificent malamute. In addition to her therapy practice, Holly paints and writes. Please enjoy our spices, teas, books and CDs.

Why they chose this property

Stockbridge Massachusetts is the perfect blend of nature and culture, old town charm and progressive ideals - whether you've come for rest and relaxation or to finish your 300 page novel on a deadline, you couldn't have picked a better place! The house is very charming and is equipped with modern amenities but is basically low key. While only 1.5 miles down the road from Kripalu and 2 miles from Tanglewood, It is extremely private and a great place to get away from it all. The cabin is located in a wooded area near the Stockbridge Bowl (main Stockbridge lake). It is off one of the back roads so it is also equipped with all the things nature brings to a house in the woods :-) In other words, keep the screen doors closed and enjoy the view.

What makes this property unique

From April through December my personal favorite is the hot tub, but listening to birds compete with a waterfall is a close second. When winter is upon us and the waterfall freezes in motion - it's quite a sight. Staring out at the sunrise over the water as it pours through the trees is also pretty terrific as is having a dinner on the small screened in porch. There's something also really sweet and 'homey' about the open design. The house was designed by graduates students from MIT's architecture program about 45 years ago. It has a modern 'Frank Loyd Wright' feel which is also rustic, funky and tasteful.

Languages:

English
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