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A True Shangri-La-Country Retreat W/Pond, Gardens and Huge Deck and View

Photo gallery for A True Shangri-La-Country Retreat W/Pond, Gardens and Huge Deck and View

Fallscape with Pond and Dog
Fall View from the Deck
Airy and Spacious Master Bedroom on Second Floor with Queen Sized Bed.
Airy and Spacious Master Bedroom second angle
Ensuite Master Bathroom

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 6232.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Gym
  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Dryer
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

Map
Ashfield, MA
  • Ashfield Lake
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • University of Massachusetts Amherst
    ‪39 min drive‬
  • Amherst College
    ‪43 min drive‬
  • Westfield, MA (BAF-Barnes Municipal)
    ‪47 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

3rd Floor Guest Room

1 King Bed

Guest Room - 2nd Floor

1 Queen Bed

Master Bedroom -2nd Floor

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo

Bathroom 2

Soap · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo

Bathroom 3

Toilet

Spaces

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

About this property

A True Shangri-La-Country Retreat W/Pond, Gardens and Huge Deck and View

Modern comforts in this gorgeous, passive solar, post and beam house on 50 private acres with a view of the Green Mountain foothills. All season beauty and tranquility; great for family holiday gatherings! High Speed Fiber Optic internet and cell service makes it easy to work reliably and relax.

Two huge bedrooms (450 sq ft) and a third medium sized. One of the bedrooms has a king size bed, the two others have queens. There are two and a half bathrooms - one in the master bedroom. Bedrooms are on the second and third floors accessed by a fairly wide spiral staircase.

Passive solar house (wood pellet / radiant heat - warm floors) is spacious and comfortable; washer, dryer, expansive and well-equipped kitchen, wood floors, large living room/dining room with wood stove and a 34' x 12' deck that looks an amazing view of the Green Mountains.

A third of a mile off a quiet country road with a pond, fire pit, streams, two large vegetable gardens, perennial gardens galore, with awesome hiking trails, lakes and cross country skiing nearby. Field stone fire pit and gas grill for great summer and fall hanging out.

This property has a little of everything. Gorgeous gardens, a pond, streams, great walks in the woods and access to the cool town of Ashfield, MA. A quintessential New England town with great amenities - Elmer's a community owned offer shop, the Lake House (a dinner place right on Ashfield Lake), Country Pie (a decent pizza place) as well as Neighbors (a gas station and convenience store.) So while you'll be out in the woods you're not in the middle of no-where.

Ashfield has a wonderful town beach, town tennis courts (free), and two golf courses. There are well marked town trails in several locations and the DAR State forest just minutes away with swimming, hiking, skiing galore. Ashfield also has the Double Edge Theater, an experimental theater whose performances are immersive events that are physical, lush and dreamlike. Each original performance is created by an ensemble of multi-talented artists and their works are toured nationally and internationally.

Minutes from the historic, quaint New England town of Shelburne Falls, MA; 30 minutes from the restaurants, culture and shopping of Northampton and Greenfield, MA, forty minutes from Amherst and an hour to the cultural gems of the Berkshires; Mass Moca, Tanglewood, Jacob's Pillow, the Clark Museum, The Mount - Edith Wharton's homestead, etc.

It is also 30 minutes away from Smith College, 40 minutes from Amherst, Hampshire and UMass/Amherst and 50 minutes from Mt Holyoke College and all they have to offer. Cultural and educational events and museums including the Smith College Museum of Art, Mead Art Museum, Beneski Museum of Natural History and the Eric Carle Museum.

Plenty of sports activities year round including rafting, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, down hill skiing, snow shoeing, fishing and swimming. Check out Zoar Outdoor, Berkshire East, Stump Sprouts, Notchview Nordic skiing for more information.

Dozens of nearby farm stands sell locally grown and produced products including maple syrup, grass fed beef, hard cider, eggs, fruit, honey, yoghurt and raw milk, eggs, vegetables and flowers

Only two hours from Boston; three and a half hours from NYC.

The owner lives mostly on the premises in a studio apartment above the garage; you may see her in the garden or feeding the birds but overall is pretty low profile. Feel free to enjoy fully the yard, the fire pit and the pond (sorry no swimming.)

Room type: Entire home/apt
Accommodates: 6
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 2.5
Beds: 3 - one King, two Queens
Minimum Stay: 3 nights
Cleaning Fee: $180
Check In: 2:00PM
Check Out: 12:00PM
Country: United States
City: Ashfield
Cancellation: Moderate
Pet Owner: has Cat(s)

Property manager

Owner/Property Manager
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 3–17
There is a spiral staircase
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Events

No events allowed
Only small gatherings under 20 are permitted.
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
Dogs only
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Outside only

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
Note from host: Only small gatherings under 20 are permitted.
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 and a deadlock
Property Registration Number C0023360130

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Ashfield

Located in Ashfield, this holiday home is in a rural area and in the mountains. Bullitt Reservation and Chesterfield Gorge Reservation reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Land of Providence and Petticoat Hill. Bald Mountain Pottery and Shelburne Falls Bowling Alley are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Ashfield, MA

What's nearby

  • Land of Providence - 7 min drive - 4.6 km
  • Ashfield Lake - 8 min drive - 5.5 km
  • Berkshire East Ski Resort - 27 min drive - 23.0 km
  • University of Massachusetts Amherst - 39 min drive - 33.2 km
  • Amherst College - 43 min drive - 37.3 km

Getting around

  • Northampton Station - 33 min drive
  • Westfield, MA (BAF-Barnes Municipal) - 47 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Ashfield Lakehouse - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Conway Inn - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Elmer's Store - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Countrypie Pizza Company - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Spruce Corner Restaurant - ‬17 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is A True Shangri-La-Country Retreat W/Pond, Gardens and Huge Deck and View pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at A True Shangri-La-Country Retreat W/Pond, Gardens and Huge Deck and View?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at A True Shangri-La-Country Retreat W/Pond, Gardens and Huge Deck and View?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is A True Shangri-La-Country Retreat W/Pond, Gardens and Huge Deck and View located?

Situated in the mountains, this holiday home is within 3 miles (5 km) of Double Edge Theatre, Steady Lane/Hill Cemetery and Bullitt Reservation. Land of Providence and Chapel Brook are also within 3 miles (5 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. 28 out of 29 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 29 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 29 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 29 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 29 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

jenny c.

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

Jenny C

Quiet, beautiful views and wood stove. What else do you need?
Stayed 14 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Angela M.

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

Magical Thanksgiving Stay

This home and property were beautiful! The views out of expansive windows and sundeck were stunning starting from picturesque fall foliage to snowy landscape. Our host was lovely and thought of everything to make our Thanksgiving stay delightful and cozy: super soft beds and extra bedding, fully stocked kitchen, wood for the fire in the stove, toiletries/towels/soaps and detergents/trash bags. It was one of our favorite stays. Magical!!!!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle D.

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

Open & Airy, but oh so Cozy!

The house was beautiful and absolutely immaculate. It was such a gorgeous and cozy retreat! Perfect place to spend a relaxing weekend. We are looking forward to coming back when the weather is warmer and the trees/gardens are green!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pam D.

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

Quiet and beautiful

The house and property were really great. Magnificent views. Clean, comfy inside. Everything we hoped for. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Howard V.

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

A magical place

We have enjoyed vacation rentals in western MA and Vermont for 20+ years and none were nicer than this property. The views and gardens were so peaceful and beautiful. The home is lovingly cared for and the host was great. 9 days was not enough.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

Marlene G.

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

Rural retreat

The property was beautiful, lush with great views. The house was spacious, furnishings comfortable and well-worn so it is well suited for pets and children. Location is remote, expect a 30 minute drive to get anywhere but you could see wild turkeys and black bears, The communication with host was excellent.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Incredible Mountain Retreat

Mary's home is a beautiful and calming retreat in the mountains. I was teaching for a program in Amherst and rented the property for my family for a week. Kids loved the property and the gardens (and the newts in the Zen pond). Highly recommend if you're looking to escape the world for a bit and recenter.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Eileen C.

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

Wonderful

Glorious view, gardens, amenities, and proximity to outdoor activities and cultural events and venues.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

jenny c., Where do you live?

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

Jenny and Tom

Lovely property!! So quiet! Mary was amazing and glad she was on property to answer any questions about the area!
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth M.

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

Beautiful location

The house was clean and well stocked, the property was beautiful! Mary had great communication before and during our stay. We stayed here for our daughter’s UMASS graduation and it was about a 40 minute ride to campus. I only wish we had more time to stay and enjoy the house, yard and town!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca G., Boston,Ma.

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

Unbelievably beautiful home and property!

This home is lovely. Nicely decorated and very homey with everything you need to be comfortable and prepare meals with ease. The beds are very comfortable with linens provided. The back deck overlooks a forested valley with a beautiful view and the front yard is several beautifully landscaped gardens areas and a small pond. (the children loved the tadpoles and salamanders) The hostess (Mary) has the most beautiful mountain laurels which were in bloom during our visit. During our visit we also saw many deer and a couple of bear which everyone enjoyed. Mary is a wonderful host and quickly responsive to questions. We hope to visit again! Sean and Rebecca
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sheila D.

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

Gorgeous home, amazing views, lovely host!

We rented this house during our son’s graduation weekend. Gorgeous spot and plenty of room to host family. House had everything we needed - not only linens and sheets but even shampoo and soap, loads of kitchen appliances, and lots of rooms. Everything was extremely clean and it is just so awesome, our mouths dropped when we walked in. Mary was so nice and helpful and we loved chatting with her whenever we saw her out and about, which unfortunately wasn’t too often. We will definitely be back - thanks so much! - Sheila Doyle and Michael Lorant
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ann G., Mill Valley

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

Wonderful

I brought my daughter and a few of her UMass compadres here for a weekend escape from dorm life in the woods. The house is beautiful and well equipped for a tranquil stay as well as dinner parties and exploring NW MA. Ingenious pulley system above the garage for bird feeders attracting flocks of Goldfinch and other songbirds. Loved the passive solar and radiant heat, two kitchen sinks, artwork and trinkets from far corners of the globe. I only wish we could have stayed longer.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Briana F.

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

Beautiful views

Loved the view off the back deck. The place stayed very warm a cozy. Host communicated well. Only disappointment is the jacuzzi tub does not actually work.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Marleigh N.

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

Dog-friendly fun in the woods

A perfect escape from the pandemic for my friends, myself, and my dog. Secluded enough that we didn't have to mask, but spacious enough that we never felt trapped. Great hiking right outside the front door, and we appreciated the dog-friendly ameneties like a dog bed, bowls, and a few toys. We went in the winter, and particularly loved the solar porch and the wood stove. We kept nice and toasty the whole time.
Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Shira C.

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

Spectacular property and host

We had a truly transformative experience. We were able to unwind in this beautiful place and enjoy our life again after COVID life in the city. Our kids frolicked in the woods and we were able to relax. Mary was accommodating, open, and available as issues arose. Her garden and dog were also a highlight with our kids. 100% perfect month-long experience.
Stayed 30 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Barry N.

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

Lovely respite

A little remote but a Great location. The house was unique and interesting. Kitchen well stocked with equipment . All rooms large and comfortable. Excellent supply of hot water which was most welcome in the snow & temp. in the teens. Spacious grounds for walking the dogs.

10/10 Excellent

John O.

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

A True Home Away From Home

Our family spent 5 nights at this oasis. Two adults and 4 teenagers and we enjoyed all tis property had to offer; the magnificent views from the deck, the fire pit and the gardens. The house is immaculate with everything and more that is needed to enjoy time with family. We were visiting colleges so were out often. We felt fortunate to have opportunities to chat with Mary - so gracious and helpful - just added to the trip. We wouldn't hesitate to stay again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Yocheved (Yoko) C., New York, NY

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

Wonderful stay in beautiful setting

We spent a wonderful couple of weeks at Mary's house in Ashfield. The house was roomy and comfortable with many wonderful spaces to relax both indoors and out. The setting was absolutely magnificent, with beautiful views of the mountains, and lovely plantings. Mary's house gave us the quiet respite from city life that we needed! Mary was an excellent host - although she lives on the premises she was completely respectful of our privacy. At the same time she was quick to respond to any questions and address any concerns. I highly recommend this house for an escape from urban life.
Stayed 12 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn F.

Peaceful stay in Ashfield

This is an amazing house tucked away in the woods north of Amherst. It feels like s cabin in the woods get away, but the cabin has three floors, huge bedrooms, and every possible amenity, including Netflix access and a jacuzzi tub! It is probably one of the most relaxing places we've stayed. I say probably, only because we were so busy running around to various graduation activities in nearby Amherst and Northampton that we didn't get to fully enjoy the deck, sun porch, nature walks and many other activity suggestions that Mary recommended. Mary was wonderful to work with and very accommodating. We booked well in advance for graduation and she quickly responded to questions and changes in the interim. Arrival information was sent just when needed with great directions. This is a great booking with something to offer for all four seasons.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Debbie H., Jefferson MA US

Spacious, private and relaxing!

Surprised my husband with an extended weekend away with our 18 mo old son. Truly enjoyed the experience. From the fresh veggies from the garden to waking up to deer in the yard we loved every minute of it. Although weather didn’t cooperate with our full weekend plans the spaciousness and comfort of the house made us feel at home!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2018

10/10 Excellent

scott f.

It really is a Shangri-La

We arrived late and were welcomed with a basket of fresh lettuce from the garden. That lovely gesture set the tone for our stay. The house was extremely clean, comfortable, and very well appointed. The property is peaceful and beautiful with a pond, and a garden we were encouraged to enjoy. It's park-like setting offers great vistas with expansive grounds that are both perfect to explore, or to simply relax under the trees. Mary was the perfect host, who made us feel at home while giving us complete privacy. We hope to return in the near future.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Amy M.

Gorgeous, spacious, and gracious host

Huge, beautiful, spacious house with a gorgeous view. Perfect for the weekend tranquility we needed. Would be ideal for larger family gathering. Mary was accommodating with a very last minute request to book. House was clean, comfortable, had everything one needs. We will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Gary E., Andover, MA

Perfect HomeAway in the Hill Towns

This Ashfield retreat is our go-to place when we stay in Western Massachusetts. Simply, this is a wonderful home in a wonderful town in a wonderful part of the state. The location is spectacular and beautiful, with great views and true peace and quiet. The property owner, Mary, is absolutely wonderful and helpful in so many ways. Everything is great about this place !!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Laura B M.

Beautiful, quiet, relaxing

Had a wonderful, relaxing time. Fabulous view, beautiful grounds and gardens coming in with the beginning of spring. In the woods, quiet and alone, but close to and a short lovely drive to town of Ashfield and half a dozen other charming hill towns. Kitchen is big and has Everything, windows everywhere, and solar porch makes the place feel even more open. Radiant heat was super cozy, and wood stove was there if we needed it, which we didn't. Washer dryer meant we could pack super lightly. The owner was as described completely there when we needed anything and when we didn't, we didn't know if they were there or not. Best of both worlds. We will be back.

About the host

Hosted by Owner/Property Manager

Host profile image
I am a documentary film maker and teacher. I spend a portion of my time in NYC but mostly here in Ashfield. When I am on site I live in an apartment above the attached garage that is completely separate from the house. You may see me in the garden or feeding the birds and I have my own private patio so the yard and pond and deck and firepit are all yours. Take over and enjoy!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests