Entire home

What makes you happy?

Photo gallery for What makes you happy?

Fall
Summer sunshine
Coffee in the morning sun
Living room
Fully equipped kitchen
Reviews
10

Exceptional

3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 784 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Pet-friendly
    Pet-friendlyPet-friendly
  • Washer
    WasherWasher
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • Kitchen
    KitchenKitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioningAir conditioning
  • Fireplace
    FireplaceFireplace

Check-in time

9:00 AM

Check-out time

7:00 PM

Explore the area

Map
Bethel, PA
  • Popular LocationVraj Temple9 min drive
  • Popular LocationMountain Springs Arena13 min drive
  • Popular LocationKoziar's Christmas Village16 min drive
  • AirportHarrisburg, PA (MDT-Harrisburg Intl.)61 min drive

Most relevant reviews

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 7)

Downstream bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Loft

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bed

Upstream bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining Area

About this property

What makes you happy?

Looking for a tranquil place in the woods? Located on the Blue Mountain in rural pennsylvania a short walk downhill from the Appalachian Trail, this cozy little cottage invites you to sit down on the porch and listen to the creek burble. There's hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing, bird-watching, sight-seeing, but maybe you just want to relax and do nothing other than lie around chatting or reading. Either way, this is the place for you. All the amenities of home are here so you can drive up and instantly make yourself very much at home.

*Smoking is not permitted on or around the property.*

Note: GPS will get you only as far as the mailbox. The cottage is 3/4 of a mile down a winding single-lane dirt road and across a creek from Route 183.

Your vacation is more than an investment of money; it's an investment of your time and hopes. We take your investment very seriously. We want you to be delighted.

The cottage has a stone fireplace in the living room with firewood and kindling provided, AM/FM tuner, DVD/BluRay/CD player with iPod port, 22” flat screen TV, basic cable, and wifi. There are plenty of board games and a wonderfully eclectic library.

The kitchen is fully equipped with everything you need: electric stove, microwave, toaster, drip coffee maker, crockpot, full fridge, cooking utensils, pots and pans, flatware, dishes, glasses, and cups.  Basic staples like ketchup, mustard, mayo, butter, sugar, flour, olive oil, vinegar and spices are all onhand; not enough to make 17 dozen cookies or roast a horse, but enough to get you by for a week that you don't need to worry about the little stuff. A vintage, hand-cranked coffee grinder is just the thing for a home-brewed coffee to greet everyone if you're the first one up in the morning. Alas, there is no dishwasher. On the shelf to the right of the fireplace is a 3-ring binder of instructions on how to work basic home utilities (TV, cable, wifi password, thermostats, trash, etc) along with a long list of local attractions and activities, and map to the Secret Swing.

There are two bedrooms, each with a queen bed. The low-ceiling loft has a queen and a single bed. Bed linens, blankets, and an army troop of bath towels provided. There’s both a full size washer and clothes dryer.

The cottage is fully insulated, is warmed and cooled by a heat pump, and has individually controlled electric baseboard heat in every room.

Cabella's Sporting Goods is just 12 miles away.

Lancaster County Amish country is 40 miles or less.

Cottage is 163 miles from Washington DC, 130 miles from NYC, and 92 miles from Philadelphia. 82 miles from Gettysburg is 82 miles away, Knoebel's Amusement Resort is 30 miles away, and Hershey Park is 35 miles away.

Maps, brochures, and a custom-made notebook list hundreds of local activities, adventures, and amusements.

Much of the furniture was made by local craftspeople. The slab for the live-edge kitchen table, for example, is from a pin oak that was felled in Tulpehocken Twp by a pair of sibling sawyers, then kiln-dried for many months, planed, and finished by a furniture maker in Myerstown.

The cottage is 2½ miles north of the intersection of Routes 78 and 183 and about a mile from the Berks/Schuylkill County border.

Property manager

Mike Najarian
Premier Host
Premier Host

Languages

English, German

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

House Rules

Check in after 9:00 AM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 7:00 PM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings

Pets

Pets allowed: limit 3 total

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Guest must return completed rental agreement within 10 days of booking or three days before arrival

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 10
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 not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Bethel

Located in Bethel, this cottage is near theme parks and in the mountains. Koziar's Christmas Village and Conrad Weiser Homestead are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Berks Lanes and Slick Willy's Karts & Eats. Travelling with kids? Consider Reading Public Museum, or check out an event or a game at FirstEnergy Stadium. Water tubing and rafting offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hunting and cycling nearby.
Map
Bethel, PA

What's nearby

  • Vraj Temple - 9 min drive
  • Ghost Town Gulch - 12 min drive
  • Mountain Springs Arena - 13 min drive
  • Roadside America - 13 min drive
  • Koziar's Christmas Village - 16 min drive

Getting around

  • Reading, PA (RDG-Reading Regional) - 27 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Dunkin' - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Lake Wynonah Lodge - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Trainers Midway Diner - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Kauffman's Bar-B-Que Chicken - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is What makes you happy? pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 3 total).

What time is check-in at What makes you happy??

Check-in begins at 9:00 AM.

What time is check-out at What makes you happy??

Checkout is at 7:00 PM.

Where is What makes you happy? located?

Located in the mountains, this family-friendly cottage is within 9 mi (15 km) of Vraj Temple, Fawn Lake and Ghost Town Gulch. Roadside America and Mountain Springs Arena are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

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. 131 out of 135 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 135 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 135 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 135 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 135 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Tory H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Secluded cabin in the woods
We enjoyed our stay at What Makes You Happy? The host was so flexible, friendly, and accommodating. The generous check in and check out times made this experience a step above others. The wifi in the cabin was strong enough for us to work remotely with zero issues. The cabin is small and cozy. The porch is a spectacular place to sit, listen to the creek, and relax. There was a firefly show every night! We are so thankful this property is pet friendly. Our two dogs loved sitting on the porch and lounging inside when it got too hot. There are thoughtful extras like flashlights, walking sticks, binoculars, s'mores ingredients, and dog bags. Thank you for a great stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Emmanuel P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy cabin getaway
The cabin is as described in the listing. Mike, has everything organized and super clean. This is a great location to spend the weekend either for getting away from the city or to visit some of the small quaint local towns. West reading has tons of restaurants and if you’re a fan of Yuengling, the nearby museum has a great 1 hour tour. My wife and I enjoyed our stay and left relaxed with good memories.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Linda R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Magical cabin in the woods
Another great few days at this lovely cabin. Bedding is divine. Games, books, puzzles, and a good sound system made our rainy days a cozy and fun family getaway. A true gem.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen V., Chester Springs, PA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our Happy Place
Another awesome stay…cozy cabin with everything you need right there! 4th time roasting marshmallows in the best fireplace! Wonderful family get away!!! Thanks Mike!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lori V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The perfect woodland retreat!
I knew as soon as we walked into this cabin that we were going to have the best week, and I was not wrong! The host made this property so incredibly inviting and covered every little detail that you could possibly imagine. I’m going to miss waking up to an amazing mountain sunrise every morning but I will not hesitate to book this property again.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jo S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful cabin on Blue Mountain
Very relaxing stay with a fully equipped cabin. Mike is an exceptional host. We are coming back next year to the place at the top of the hill. Can't wait! We all relaxed and enjoyed ourselves.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Heidi C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A beautiful and quiet cabin stay
We had a lovely weekend at the cabin! From the beautiful views to the crackling fireplace and fire pit to the cozy beds and antiques decor, we had a fantastic time! Everything was perfect and there were so many personal additions that really made our stay memorable!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christina B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cabin in the woods
Must pay attention to his directions. Sits off the road about .8th of a mile. The dirt road was tight also turns. You had to look on the tree’s for the maple left there was two !! House was up on the hill. So let’s talk about the two bedroom/ loft . It was so cute it felt like home away from home they had EVERYTHING you can think of. They have a notebook giving you your do’s and don’t and if the power goes out. Plenty of towels and blankets full kitchen! Has a fire pit ! We have been looking around didn’t see any bears lol. They had a lot of books and games . We only stayed two day wish it was longer. Everything was great didn’t have to call the whole weekend!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Has everything
What a wonderful place to stay and relax. Mike seems to have thought of everything in stocking the cabin. We will be coming back.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joanne T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Escape from Reality
This was our second stay at this property, and we absolutely loved it. Fire pit, hiking, chilling. Had so much fun we didn’t want to leave. Can’t wait for our next visit!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrew M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect!
Everything was excellent! Second time here and I’m sure I’ll be back. Book with confidence, you won’t be disappointed. Thank you !!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mary R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Rustic Cabin Getaway
This cabin exceeded our expectations, secluded but not too secluded. We took our dog with us, and we were all to settle in nicely. It is a great location for hiking and has some wonderful wineries nearby. Mike is a great host and was quick to get back to us on a few questions we had. This is one place we wouldn't hesitate to rent again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Thomas B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice and peaceful
This was a nice cozy place to spend the weekend. Even though it rained most of the time we were there we had a good time. It cleared up enough to walk some of the property and the Appalachian Trail. Then warm up and relax at night with a fire going in the fireplace.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mark C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Attention to the Details
We had a great stay. The hosts attention to the little things was obvious as soon as we walked in the door. Would definitely return to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Linda R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything we could as for
Lovely property nestled in the woods with all kids of charm and fun finds. Couldn’t have asked for a better stay and communication with the host as we found our way around. Thank you and we will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Bethel trip
Great get away.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joanne T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cool Place
If you are looking for a secluded escape from reality, look no further. The house had everything we needed to enjoy a nice quiet stay with our dogs. We plan on returning soon.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Margaret S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Serenity cabin
Everything we could possibly need was available and cozy comfort was experienced by all (including the dogs)Beautiful well stocked kitchen and loved the real fireplace.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jerome L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great atmosphere
Was everything I was looking for so that a group of guys could get away for a couple days to relax. Very nice that there was some fire wood provided and the i side fireplace was already prepped and ready to go.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott S., Myerstown

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Cozy Cabin in the woods
Love the fireplace and the setting. Great for a winter getaway. Place is laid out nice and very homey. Loved staying here.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jim D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thanksgiving 2022
This is one of the best property rentals we have ever had. The owner's attention to every detail was amazing. The setting was wonderful and we enjoyed our time immensely. Definitely would stay again and highly recommend it.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Natalie R.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great cabin getaway!
We had a great 3 night stay at this cabin. At night, temperatures were in the 30's so sitting by the fireplace was very enjoyable. The loft is fantastic - it feels like a whole room and the kids and adults equally enjoyed hanging out up there. The kitchen makes the cabin feel "grand" despite its cozy size... and we LOVED the vintage coffee grinder on the wall. All the kitchen supplies were plentiful and good quality! With 3 kids, we cook breakfasts and dinners every day so that was especially nice. While we came prepared with our own S'more making stuff - it was a really nice touch to see all of that out and ready for us by the owner! We also came prepared with our own toilet paper and paper towels, first aid kits, etc. etc., but everything is already supplied which again, is a very nice touch - because we've been to several places that don't have any of it!! There is a secret swing hidden in the woods behind the cabin - and we had a blast hiking up the mountain to check it out - the swing is SO FUN (even for adults)!! We had a really great, relaxing stay at this cabin and we would definitely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kaylee

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Outstanding!
The owner, Mike, was excellent and helpful as always. This was the third time being at that property and there will definitely be more stays! Always enjoy staying in that cabin, it gives a cozy, warm feeling.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Melissa O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy cabin in the woods, with all the amenities of home. Appalachian Trail close by.
This cabin was everything and so much more. Beautiful setting inside and out!! Hiking close by, tons of nature to listen to either on the front porch in the morning with coffee/tea or by the fireplace in the evening with your favorites suds. Loved, loved, LOVED this cabin!!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ian W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place for a weekend trip
Very cozy cabin that makes for a great space to gather with friends and family.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

About the host

Hosted by Mike Najarian

Host profile image
Except for a short stint in Germany, I've lived my entire life in northern Berks County: first on a goat farm, then in a one-room schoolhouse in the village of Fetherolfsville (population 7!), and now in a nearby cottage elsewhere on the mountain.

Why they chose this property

Before you book, I'll send you detailed information on the amenities on hand, more photographs, a 14 page description of different activities in the area, a list of local grocery stores, and some restaurant suggestions. The blue binder in the cabin has even more information so that everything is covered. But that also means online payment is disabled. The folks that run Homeaway/VRBO have now decided that you should have less than a day to peruse this info. Guests really appreciate all this extra info and may take their time to read it before deciding whether or not they'd like to book. An alternative online payment method is available.

What makes this property unique

Peace. Quiet. Worry-free vacation. Everything is taken care of and ready for you. You'll feel your worries melt away and begin relaxing even just driving down the lane that leads to the cottage. But if you're looking for family fun and adventure, it's right around the corner. As one guest said, "You're in the middle of nowhere but next to everything."

Languages:

English, German

Premier Host

Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback

People also search for

More Holiday Rentals ideas