Untitled Document

COTTAGE TESTIMONIALS
I went to West Rupert with the intention of getting away from it all. Fortunately the opposite happened. If I had left it all behind, I would have returned to it all as it was. I returned home to a changed situation, transformed by a week away in a sanctuary just this side of paradise. Even as I approached this peaceful retreat, tucked away in the mountains of Southwestern Vermont, I found a perspective that allowed me to deal with it all. With the tranquility and beauty of nature surrounding, I was in no time at all able to leave the small stuff behind, spend time considering all that needed to be and then bask in the tranquil sights and sounds of nature. Spending a week at the cottage was a retreat for my soul. The owners have done everything possible to make this gorgeous cottage the kind of place that accommodates to whatever needs a potential renter would have. As I had come to enjoy the peace and quiet, I received all that I could have imagined and more. West Rupert is also a great place to launch from to enjoy the picturesque charm, as well as a large variety of restaurants and other attractions offered in this corner of Vermont. I look forward to returning there again very soon. Clare, Waterbury, CT
We had a great time at the cottage and are definitely planning on returning. The cottage was well kept and has everything that you need for a comfortable stay. Aside from that, Joanne made sure that we felt comfortable and helped us get information on things to do in the area. It was beautiful to visit in the winter and there are plenty of things to do. We definitely want to visit in warmer weather as well to hike, visit farms and river tube. I’m hoping this will become our home away from home when we want to get away from the city for a few days. Corey & Jennifer, Brooklyn, NY
My husband and I had such an amazing time at this beautiful cottage in West Rupert. The setting is very private and just gorgeous. The wood interior, wood burning stove and small stream right behind the cottage makes this the perfect getaway for some quiet time with our loved one(s). My husband would wake up early and climb up the hill just behind the cottage right to the edge of the woods with a coffee cup in hand and just take in the sights and smells of the Vermont outdoors. Having Manchester and Dorset not too far away was a plus. So many lovely shops and places to eat. We also took a day to do a short hike in Merck Forest which is only a few miles from the cottage. We hope to come back some day…and soon! Alicia & Derik, Collingswood, NJ
My twin sister and I were looking for a rural, dog-friendly, quiet cottage where we could share a “Girl’s Weekend,” free from the distractions of our daily lives, and from which we could hike and explore with our dogs. This cabin was absolutely perfect, and more than we could have asked for or expected. The cottage is from the pages of a storybook, nestled on a hillside with a musical stream running just outside the back door. The inside is cozy and charming and just as fairytale-like. The host and hostess have put much time and consideration into making their place comfortable and efficient, and all the small and thoughtful touches they’ve added make staying at the sheep farm a simple luxury, with that being an intentional oxymoron: The is nothing pretentious about the place, yet there is nothing to want for either! It is absolutely ideal! From the well-stocked bookshelves (with selections for all readers) to the wood stove to the soft flannel sheets to the dog bowls on the floor, the owners make their place one in which you can settle in from the moment you walk through the quaint door. The location was spot-on for us – within easy striking distance there was a wealth of hiking options to choose from, all with a wide variety of trails, and outdoor activities would be accessible during all seasons. (This was our primary focus, but for shoppers and art-lovers, there would be an equally strong draw.) The owners were wonderful about providing information and directions beforehand, and they did everything they could to make us feel welcome and at ease. Will we go back? You bet!! Laura and Martha, Hillsdale, NY
My wife and I stayed in this cottage for our honeymoon and it could not have been more perfect. The scenery is gorgeous, the cabin is beautiful and private. So often the descriptions posted on these sites are exaggerations, but his one is not. Truly beautiful with comfortable furnishings and great access to whatever it is you are into. Plus the owner, Joanne, was so kind and pleasant to work with. She was patient when our wedding planning chaos delayed some of our responses and told us right where to go to do what we like (hiking). There were 3 or 4 large binders full of activities in the area available to us so there really is something for everyone. We really did not want to leave and we’re already talking about returning! I highly recommend it! Emily & Angie, Flint, MI
This cottage exceeded every expectation. My daughter and I spent four days there as part of a multi-centre holiday in Vermont (we are British); our only regret is that we didn’t spend more time at Bear Mountain Farm. The cottage was comfortable, clean and well maintained, with a good selection of books and local information brochures. The owner was welcoming without being intrusive, and phoned a couple of times during out stay to check everything was OK. The setting was idyllic, with a stream outside the sliding doors, visits every evening from five white-tailed deer and barred owls calling at night. Though quite secluded (especially during out stay the town was rebuilding the bridge) it was still an easy drive to local amenities. We used the cottage as a base to visit Hildene, Manchester (I recommend the Northshire Bookstore), Weston (great productions at the playhouse) and the Merck Forest for hiking; every day however it was a joy to return to the cottage, cook dinner in the well-equipped kitchen (there was even coffee in the fridge) and then relax (my daughter was particularly fond of curling up on the sofa to read).The climb up the steep stairs to the sleeping lofts made going to bed fun (and something of an adventure!), and the quirky wood carvings meant there was always something to discover in the cottage. I would unhesitatingly recommend this cottage to anyone, and hope that one day we would be able to stay there again. John, Peterborough, England
This cottage is a wonderful place for a retreat from the world of virtual reality. It is set in a beautiful part of Vermont on a gravel road infrequently travelled by other cars and yet is easily accessible to the surrounding region. Inside the cottage is warm and friendly with elaborate woodwork. Outside is the magic of Vermont green fields, a cheerful energetic mountain stream, and nearby mountains. From the kitchen and dining area you can soak in the energy of the stream which runs a few feet away as though it is almost an extension of the house. This cottage offers a great way to enjoy a vacation: one that you can dream about long after you have left. Tom, Gardiner, ME
You will fall in love with Bear Mountain Farm’s circa 1865 + - cottage. The house sits alongside a soothing mountain stream fed by the springs of the surrounding mountains. A short walk up the meadow behind the cabin reveals a breathtaking panaoramic vista. Bring your camera for this, as the light on the mountains across the valley is ever changing, dramatic, and inspiring all at once. Christopher West Rupert, Vermont
Mountain Farm cottage. It has an almost fairy tale Vermont quality to it - amazing wood work, very restful, a babbling brook right out the sliders. It is one of the loveliest places, in one of the most restful and comfortable environments imaginable. I can’t think of a better getaway. I have written there, read there, and just retreated from the world. Whenever life seems a bit overwhelming, or I want to experience a slice of the most beautiful aspects of Vermont, I try and get to the cottage. It is unique. Jon Hebron, New York
Visiting your cabin with my sister is how we really stay connected with each other. Phone calls are great, the family gatherings are wonderful, but the time to just be with her is a treat. We don't have an agenda and don't want one. We hike if the weather cooperates, shop in any weather (I hate to admit that, but we both have a great time). One of the best parts is breakfast on the patio in my pajamas. I eat breakfast and read out there in solitude while the brook has a calming, soothing effect to unfold the morning. Morning thoughts are different those in the evening. At the cabin - there is time for all of that - with no interruptions. Lyn O’Donnell Danbury, Connecticut
Our stays at The Cottage are always memorable. The peace and quiet amidst beautiful surroundings in the Vermont mountainsides are a welcome respite every year. Whether it's curling up with a good book in the sunshine that makes the interior pine logs glow, or coming back after an invigorating day in the fields to the cozy welcome of The Cottage, it's always restorative. The creek provides lovely background music to our stay, and we look forward year after year to our vacation in this little bit of heaven. Dr. Roe and Gordie Grand Rapids, Michigan
The Smith's cabin is a great place to get away. It is nestled in the valley at the bottom of Bear Mountain with a stream flowing just a few steps away. As soon as we stepped inside we immediately noticed the wonderful wood workmanship of the previous owner. I took photos of the unique hinges on the doors, the framing around the windows, and inlaid wood floor. Our goal was to go skiing, but there was a snow storm, and it was very cold outside. We were just as happy to be cozy warm inside relaxing by the wood stove watching it snow and blow outside. It is a great place to listen to music while reading a good book or working on cross stitch that only gets done when I'm away from home. It is a peaceful place to relax and enjoy beautiful southern Vermont. Susan and Dan Glastonbury, Connecticut
Thank you for the wonderful days I spent at your cabin in October. It was such a peaceful, relaxing few days. The brook running just outside the back door; the view from the patio just beyond the brook, the rustic ambiance of the cabin were all just perfect. The area is lovely with lots of trees, sheep grazing, and a small village nearby just as you promised. What more could I ask when I needed to get away for a while? Carol, Montague, California
We love Southern Vermont, and count ourselves fortunate to be frequent visitors. There are few nicer ways of spending time than at the Smith's Bear Mountain getaway, which has endless charm and is the perfect decompression spot to shake off the pressures of everyday life. Our son never fails to remind us of the woolly bear hunts in the garden, and Winnie the Pooh stick competitions in the idyllic brook. We all had a fabulous time, though we still don't know if we found all secrets of the amazing woodwork and may just have to stay again to double check! The cabin is a delightful and faithful reflection of the Smiths' generous and welcoming spirit. Steve, Yael & Niv, New York City
If you want to relax in peace and be able to gaze on rolling hills, listen to the constant sound of the brook and the distant sound of sheep, come to the Smith's cabin! You will experience complete privacy on an unpaved road perfect for walking and biking. The country store, a few minutes away, brings you into the world of Norman Rockwell. But if you want great food, a swim in the marble quarry or to see a play, travel on scenic roads to Dorset. Or go further to Manchester for great shopping. There are hiking trails galore, lakes, a trout and canoe river...so much to do near by. And then come back to the cabin, open the door into the most charming and whimsical wooden interior where you will find a comfortable place to sleep and a kitchen that is fully stocked. End your day sitting on the patio deck next to the brook and look at the stars. Heaven!!! Debby & Michael, Ridgefield, Connecticut
I could not think of a more relaxing, beautiful place in New England, if not earth! My wife and I got engaged at the cottage in January of 2011 and just went back and spent another weekend. It is truly an oasis; the perfect place to get away from it all. The beauty of the scenery is breath taking. There are tons of great places to hike, walk, drive, ramble and simply enjoy life. The cottage itself is perfect. It is extremely well maintained, clean, comfortable and well stocked with everything you’ll need (full kitchen, fire wood, BBQ, bedding, towels etc.). Joanne and Ray could not be better hosts and went out of their way to make both of our visits extremely special. I would give the cabin a rating of 11 out of 10. I highly recommend booking this spectacular cabin! Matt and Leah, Cambridge, MA
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COTTAGE TESTIMONIALS

I went to West Rupert with the intention of getting away from it all. Fortunately the opposite happened. If I had left it all behind, I would have returned to it all as it was. I returned home to a changed situation, transformed by a week away in a sanctuary just this side of paradise. Even as I approached this peaceful retreat, tucked away in the mountains of Southwestern Vermont, I found a perspective that allowed me to deal with it all. With the tranquility and beauty of nature surrounding, I was in no time at all able to leave the small stuff behind, spend time considering all that needed to be and then bask in the tranquil sights and sounds of nature. Spending a week at the cottage was a retreat for my soul. The owners have done everything possible to make this gorgeous cottage the kind of place that accommodates to whatever needs a potential renter would have. As I had come to enjoy the peace and quiet, I received all that I could have imagined and more. West Rupert is also a great place to launch from to enjoy the picturesque charm, as well as a large variety of restaurants and other attractions offered in this corner of Vermont. I look forward to returning there again very soon. Clare, Waterbury, CT

We had a great time at the cottage and are definitely planning on returning. The cottage was well kept and has everything that you need for a comfortable stay. Aside from that, Joanne made sure that we felt comfortable and helped us get information on things to do in the area. It was beautiful to visit in the winter and there are plenty of things to do. We definitely want to visit in warmer weather as well to hike, visit farms and river tube. I’m hoping this will become our home away from home when we want to get away from the city for a few days.
Corey & Jennifer, Brooklyn, NY

My husband and I had such an amazing time at this beautiful cottage in West Rupert. The setting is very private and just gorgeous. The wood interior, wood burning stove and small stream right behind the cottage makes this the perfect getaway for some quiet time with our loved one(s). My husband would wake up early and climb up the hill just behind the cottage right to the edge of the woods with a coffee cup in hand and just take in the sights and smells of the Vermont outdoors. Having Manchester and Dorset not too far away was a plus. So many lovely shops and places to eat. We also took a day to do a short hike in Merck Forest which is only a few miles from the cottage. We hope to come back some day…and soon! Alicia & Derik, Collingswood, NJ

My twin sister and I were looking for a rural, dog-friendly, quiet cottage where we could share a “Girl’s Weekend,” free from the distractions of our daily lives, and from which we could hike and explore with our dogs. This cabin was absolutely perfect, and more than we could have asked for or expected. The cottage is from the pages of a storybook, nestled on a hillside with a musical stream running just outside the back door. The inside is cozy and charming and just as fairytale-like. The host and hostess have put much time and consideration into making their place comfortable and efficient, and all the small and thoughtful touches they’ve added make staying at the sheep farm a simple luxury, with that being an intentional oxymoron: The is nothing pretentious about the place, yet there is nothing to want for either! It is absolutely ideal! From the well-stocked bookshelves (with selections for all readers) to the wood stove to the soft flannel sheets to the dog bowls on the floor, the owners make their place one in which you can settle in from the moment you walk through the quaint door. The location was spot-on for us – within easy striking distance there was a wealth of hiking options to choose from, all with a wide variety of trails, and outdoor activities would be accessible during all seasons. (This was our primary focus, but for shoppers and art-lovers, there would be an equally strong draw.) The owners were wonderful about providing information and directions beforehand, and they did everything they could to make us feel welcome and at ease. Will we go back? You bet!! Laura and Martha, Hillsdale, NY

My wife and I stayed in this cottage for our honeymoon and it could not have been more perfect. The scenery is gorgeous, the cabin is beautiful and private. So often the descriptions posted on these sites are exaggerations, but his one is not. Truly beautiful with comfortable furnishings and great access to whatever it is you are into. Plus the owner, Joanne, was so kind and pleasant to work with. She was patient when our wedding planning chaos delayed some of our responses and told us right where to go to do what we like (hiking). There were 3 or 4 large binders full of activities in the area available to us so there really is something for everyone. We really did not want to leave and we’re already talking about returning! I highly recommend it! Emily & Angie, Flint, MI

This cottage exceeded every expectation. My daughter and I spent four days there as part of a multi-centre holiday in Vermont (we are British); our only regret is that we didn’t spend more time at Bear Mountain Farm. The cottage was comfortable, clean and well maintained, with a good selection of books and local information brochures. The owner was welcoming without being intrusive, and phoned a couple of times during out stay to check everything was OK. The setting was idyllic, with a stream outside the sliding doors, visits every evening from five white-tailed deer and barred owls calling at night. Though quite secluded (especially during out stay the town was rebuilding the bridge) it was still an easy drive to local amenities. We used the cottage as a base to visit Hildene, Manchester (I recommend the Northshire Bookstore), Weston (great productions at the playhouse) and the Merck Forest for hiking; every day however it was a joy to return to the cottage, cook dinner in the well-equipped kitchen (there was even coffee in the fridge) and then relax (my daughter was particularly fond of curling up on the sofa to read).The climb up the steep stairs to the sleeping lofts made going to bed fun (and something of an adventure!), and the quirky wood carvings meant there was always something to discover in the cottage. I would unhesitatingly recommend this cottage to anyone, and hope that one day we would be able to stay there again. John, Peterborough, England

This cottage is a wonderful place for a retreat from the world of virtual reality. It is set in a beautiful part of Vermont on a gravel road infrequently travelled by other cars and yet is easily accessible to the surrounding region. Inside the cottage is warm and friendly with elaborate woodwork. Outside is the magic of Vermont green fields, a cheerful energetic mountain stream, and nearby mountains. From the kitchen and dining area you can soak in the energy of the stream which runs a few feet away as though it is almost an extension of the house. This cottage offers a great way to enjoy a vacation: one that you can dream about long after you have left. Tom, Gardiner, ME

You will fall in love with Bear Mountain Farm’s circa 1865 + - cottage. The house sits alongside a soothing mountain stream fed by the springs of the surrounding mountains. A short walk up the meadow behind the cabin reveals a breathtaking panaoramic vista. Bring your camera for this, as the light on the mountains across the valley is ever changing, dramatic, and inspiring all at once.
Christopher West Rupert, Vermont

Mountain Farm cottage. It has an almost fairy tale Vermont quality to it - amazing wood work, very restful, a babbling brook right out the sliders. It is one of the loveliest places, in one of the most restful and comfortable environments imaginable. I can’t think of a better getaway. I have written there, read there, and just retreated from the world. Whenever life seems a bit overwhelming, or I want to experience a slice of the most beautiful aspects of Vermont, I try and get to the cottage. It is unique.
Jon Hebron, New York

Visiting your cabin with my sister is how we really stay connected with each other. Phone calls are great, the family gatherings are wonderful, but the time to just be with her is a treat. We don't have an agenda and don't want one. We hike if the weather cooperates, shop in any weather (I hate to admit that, but we both have a great time). One of the best parts is breakfast on the patio in my pajamas. I eat breakfast and read out there in solitude while the brook has a calming, soothing effect to unfold the morning. Morning thoughts are different those in the evening. At the cabin - there is time for all of that - with no interruptions.
Lyn O’Donnell Danbury, Connecticut

Our stays at The Cottage are always memorable. The peace and quiet amidst beautiful surroundings in the Vermont mountainsides are a welcome respite every year. Whether it's curling up with a good book in the sunshine that makes the interior pine logs glow, or coming back after an invigorating day in the fields to the cozy welcome of The Cottage, it's always restorative. The creek provides lovely background music to our stay, and we look forward year after year to our vacation in this little bit of heaven.
Dr. Roe and Gordie Grand Rapids, Michigan

The Smith's cabin is a great place to get away. It is nestled in the valley at the bottom of Bear Mountain with a stream flowing just a few steps away. As soon as we stepped inside we immediately noticed the wonderful wood workmanship of the previous owner. I took photos of the unique hinges on the doors, the framing around the windows, and inlaid wood floor. Our goal was to go skiing, but there was a snow storm, and it was very cold outside. We were just as happy to be cozy warm inside relaxing by the wood stove watching it snow and blow outside. It is a great place to listen to music while reading a good book or working on cross stitch that only gets done when I'm away from home. It is a peaceful place to relax and enjoy beautiful southern Vermont.
Susan and Dan Glastonbury, Connecticut

Thank you for the wonderful days I spent at your cabin in October. It was such a peaceful, relaxing few days. The brook running just outside the back door; the view from the patio just beyond the brook, the rustic ambiance of the cabin were all just perfect. The area is lovely with lots of trees, sheep grazing, and a small village nearby just as you promised. What more could I ask when I needed to get away for a while?
Carol, Montague, California

We love Southern Vermont, and count ourselves fortunate to be frequent visitors. There are few nicer ways of spending time than at the Smith's Bear Mountain getaway, which has endless charm and is the perfect decompression spot to shake off the pressures of everyday life. Our son never fails to remind us of the woolly bear hunts in the garden, and Winnie the Pooh stick competitions in the idyllic brook. We all had a fabulous time, though we still don't know if we found all secrets of the amazing woodwork and may just have to stay again to double check! The cabin is a delightful and faithful reflection of the Smiths' generous and welcoming spirit.
Steve, Yael & Niv, New York City

If you want to relax in peace and be able to gaze on rolling hills, listen to the constant sound of the brook and the distant sound of sheep, come to the Smith's cabin! You will experience complete privacy on an unpaved road perfect for walking and biking. The country store, a few minutes away, brings you into the world of Norman Rockwell. But if you want great food, a swim in the marble quarry or to see a play, travel on scenic roads to Dorset. Or go further to Manchester for great shopping. There are hiking trails galore, lakes, a trout and canoe river...so much to do near by. And then come back to the cabin, open the door into the most charming and whimsical wooden interior where you will find a comfortable place to sleep and a kitchen that is fully stocked. End your day sitting on the patio deck next to the brook and look at the stars. Heaven!!! Debby & Michael, Ridgefield, Connecticut

I could not think of a more relaxing, beautiful place in New England, if not earth! My wife and I got engaged at the cottage in January of 2011 and just went back and spent another weekend. It is truly an oasis; the perfect place to get away from it all. The beauty of the scenery is breath taking. There are tons of great places to hike, walk, drive, ramble and simply enjoy life. The cottage itself is perfect. It is extremely well maintained, clean, comfortable and well stocked with everything you’ll need (full kitchen, fire wood, BBQ, bedding, towels etc.). Joanne and Ray could not be better hosts and went out of their way to make both of our visits extremely special. I would give the cabin a rating of 11 out of 10. I highly recommend booking this spectacular cabin! Matt and Leah, Cambridge, MA

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