Vacation Rentals by Owner

The Perfect Vacation Cottage

Guest: Helen M. (Belleville, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 04/16/11 Review Submitted: 05/25/11

This is the first time ever that we have been on a month long vacation and haven't been anxious to get back home. The reason for that is this quaint, very clean and homey cottage and Nanci with her wonderful dogs. She is the perfect hostess, there to welcome and socialize but also giving you your own personal space. We are country people and this place has the definite feel and appeal of country but is actually very close to shopping and conveniences.The town of Prescott is your idea of a perfect home town. Events going on almost every weekend, very friendly people and best of all very dog friendly. There is a wonderful dog boarding place called "Run a Muk". And did I mention that the weather is perfect?? I would definitely recommend this " Cottage on Walden"

Owner response:Thanks Helen and Joe for being the "perfect" guests also. What a treat to have such lovely people who were so kind and generous and my idea of real good country folk who I would want to be my neighbors.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, pet owners, sightseeing.

Super Dog friendly

Guest: LucyBasset (Sun City West, AZ USA)
Date of Stay: 09/18/10 Review Submitted: 09/26/10

One of the biggest problems in finding a vacation rental is one that takes Dogs. Walden cottage solved this problem for us. The cottage is in a great location. It allows easy acces to downtown with several routes to get there. The cottage was comfortable. The cottage is an old adobe style build and the walls are thick. We brought several sheets with us to cover some of the furniture which allowed our spolied family pet to feel right at home. The furnishings are laid out well for the size of the cottage. Everything we needed was provided. The back yard has plenty of seating and as a bonus a very nice hammock hanging between two large trees makes it all the better. The cottage owner (Nanci) lives next door. If needed she is available but we never felt crowded in anyway. We saw deer on the road outside the cottage. We also had a very large Owl that liked to perch on the fence next door both in the daytime and at night. He never made a sound. I hope we can return in the future and enjoy the cottage and the great location. Just to add a bonus we drove to the Grand-Canyon in two hours. Had a nice day and easily drove back to the cottage without feeling like we had traveled all day.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, pet owners, sightseeing.

The Cottage on Walden - Home away from Home

Guest: Mike (Chandler, AZ USA)
Date of Stay: 09/01/10 Review Submitted: 09/16/10

This was my second stay at the Cottage on Walden and it felt just like 'home'. In addition to being a very gracious and accommodating host, Nanci is also a dog lover. My two border collies and I had a great time during our nine day stay. The cottage is very cozy, comfortably furnished, tastefully decorated, squeaky clean and you would be hard pressed to need something that Nanci hasn't already thought of and provided. Every amenity from books, CD's, DVD's, Wi-Fi, cable TV, stereo, washer, dryer, Yardley soaps for the bath, a super comfy queen bed, and some kitchen appliances that I don't even know. The list goes on and on.... The property is fully fenced so it's perfect for my dogs who spent much of their time lounging outside on the grass. One of the things I like best about the cottage is how peaceful and quiet it is. You are in the pines, close to town but not 'in town'. There is a lot to do in and around Prescott, something to please just about anybody. My dogs have a blast hiking around some of the nearby lakes, Lynx Lake and Goldwater Lake are their favorites and just minutes away. I rarely write reviews but this place is a real Gem. I would recommend it to my friends and family and anyone looking for a peaceful, quiet getaway or just looking for a great place to vacation and explore Prescott. Nanci is a pleasure to deal with, always available should you need her but never intrusive. I've already reserved the month of June next year and can't wait to get back.

Owner response:I so enjoy having repeat guest it tells me I am doing something just right. Having had this guest not once but now it will be three times gives me great pleasure. The dogs are just the sweetest critters and this guest treats them with such loving care and is such a gentle and kind soul. Makes me love what I do. Thanks for choosing this gentle place.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

The Cottage on Walden - What a great find!

Guest: Mike (Sun Lakes, AZ USA)
Date of Stay: 06/01/10 Review Submitted: 07/03/10

Having just returned from a 1 month stay at the Cottage on Walden, I can say that I have had one of the most pleasant, comfortable and relaxing vacations ever. The extremely charming and nicely furnished cottage is as nice as described here if not more so. Nanci has attended to every detail to insure her guests comfort. I showed up with a toothbrush, a few changes of clothes, a laptop and two dogs and did not want for anything. If you are looking for a peaceful, quiet, serene getaway, the Cottage is just the ticket. I was looking for just that in addition to escaping the summer heat in Phoenix. Nanci's cottage exceeded my expectations and I never even had to turn the AC on. Close to town but not in town, perfect! My dogs had a blast and became quite spoiled with their daily hikes around 4 pristine lakes in the area. All within a 15 minute drive at most. If you are so inclined, there are lots of activities to take advantage of in Prescott. All this coupled with Nanci's warm, congenial personality made our stay a memorable one. We will be back. Oh, and those wonderful eggs from Nanci's hens..... yum!

Owner response:A great and easy guest with 2 great and easy dogs always a pleasure to have such great people come my way.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Cottage on Walden (Prescott, AZ)

Guest: The couple from Ohio (Cleveland, OH)
Date of Stay: 05/15/10 Review Submitted: 06/26/10

Nanci makes this place special and was a wonderful "landlord." She provided many amenities above and beyond the call such as English lavender soap, hand lotion (lack of humidity really dired my skin out), a cut glass container filled with Q-tips and cottonballs in the bathroom, a library of used books to read, CDs and CD player, DVD players and DVDs, a cast iron fireplace & firewood (which we didn't need as it was hot out but cool inside-I'm now a fan of adobe walls), and one of the most comfortable beds I've ever slept in! Internet access was important (had to check in with work daily) and we didn't bother with wireless. No problems (which, frankly, is unusual in our travels). It was especially nice to find the kitchen stocked with coffee and filters, spices, garbage bags, sponges, dish soap, and a good set of knives. And the grocery she directed us to was VERY convenient (only about a mile down the road). Ironically, we actually didn't spend much time there as we set off to go hiking pre-dawn and usually didn't return til 3pm, but I loved to sit in the outdoor reclining chair with the back support overlooking the beautiful orange poppies and baskets of purple & periwinkle flowers after a long day on the trail. The grill was huge and we enjoyed the mesquite charcoal she recommended. Having a washer & dryer on the premises was also very important to us as we brought minimal clothing - one carry on each (thanks to the new airline regulations). Nanci was very responsive when a problem or need arose, and she dealt with the plumbing issue WE created most promptly and efficiently without complaint. She was there when we neede her, but respected our privacy as well. I actually loved having her dogs visit (but the yard is fenced and they don't come over unless invited). Don't want to repeat other reviews - read them. Suffice it to say the place was as clean as my own home and a very comfortable get away. Susan (& John) - the couple from Ohio

Owner response:Great guests, I love this way of life.

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway.

Charming Cottage

Guest: goodoman (Mesa, AZ)
Date of Stay: 05/07/10 Review Submitted: 07/08/10

My family (husband, son, dog and myself) stayed over Mother's Day weekend. Nanci is a very thoughtful host and did everything possible to ensure we had an enjoyable stay. The cottage is tastefully decorated and absolutely charming. Fresh eggs lay in wait in the kitchen which is stocked with herbs and other cooking essentials. Music, movies and books are provided to be enjoyed. The cottage feels very secluded but is still very near the historic downtown Prescott. What a lovely escape!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Cottage on Walden

Guest: Marc & Pamela (Andover CT)
Date of Stay: 03/31/10 Review Submitted: 04/26/10

Our three week stay at the "Cottage" was wonderful. Peaceful yet close to town for our needs. Kitchen great for cooking meals in, the mesquite wood for grill nice, added touch. Fresh eggs from hens so good, can't make a quiche without Nanci's eggs. Super comfortable beds, soft towels, lots of hot water. Cottage nice and warm on those chilly nights. We enjoyed the beautiful pines, all the birds, and our visits with Nanci and her dogs. Love those dogs. We appreciated Nanci's easy going personality. Great to work with. Thank you

Owner response:Thanks for coming my way so great to have great guests.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 12/27/09 Review Submitted: 12/27/09

I spent two weeks writing and hiking and enjoying the delightful Treehouse Cottage (which is also on this property). The cottage is cozy, charming, and equipped with everything you need. Comfortable bed, great shower, nice deck. Nanci is an attentive host and the location is quiet and woodsy and also convenient to town. I'll be back!

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Guest: Paul112 (Phoenix AZ)
Date of Stay: 11/04/09 Review Submitted: 11/04/09

My wife, three year old son and I spent two weeks in August in the Cottage. We had a wonderful time, enjoyed the peace and quiet, as well as Nancy's hospitality. It is a wonderful, quiet and quaint cottage/area. Great place to bring the family (including young kids). Will definitely be back.

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Guest: Shannon Edwards (Mesa, AZ)
Date of Stay: 10/03/09 Review Submitted: 10/03/09

We stayed at the Cottage last weekend--3 nights, 4 days. We had a wonderful time. It was great to have a fenced yard for our little dog to be off leash. The Cottage was very cozy, well furnished, had every amenity and clean. We had fresh eggs waiting for us when we arrived. Nanci, the host, was very polite, gracious and welcoming. The setting was beautiful, rural and yet close/convenient to the square. We had a great time and would recommend this cottage to all. One in our group is vision challenged and the Cottage was safe and bright. thanks for the fun! Sue, Shan, Winnie & Waverly

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Guest: peggy and shawn (mesa,az)
Date of Stay: 08/23/09 Review Submitted: 08/23/09

We couldn't have asked for a more perfect place to relax, have some peace and quiet, and enjoy beautiful surroundings. Nancy, has a charming small farm atmosphere with chickens to boot. The cottage was emaculate, cozy and so inviting. We loved the old ball and claw bath tub and the bed was amazingly comfortable.We slept like babies. Thank you Nancy,you and your dogs are a delight!!We will definately be back!

Owner response:I certainly hope to have Peggy and Shawn back again, there were lovely guests.

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/09/09 Review Submitted: 08/09/09

We stayed at the cottage for 1 week during July 2009. Nancy met us upon arrival in the rain and welcomed us and our 4 dogs. She had never had 4 visiting dogs before, so we were happy and flattered that she took us on. The cottage is charming with it's warm and cozy decor, plush towels, beautiful bedding and pillows, pretty dishes and simply put "all the amenities of home." We enjoyed the wonderful books, CDs and DVDs - you couldn't ask for more! The yard is fully fenced, which our dogs took to right away and we soon met Nancy's friendly dogs. We both napped in the shaded hammock listening to the ponderosa pine trees in the breeze and enjoying all of the fascinating birds that live there. The chickens were too cute and Nancy brought us all the eggs we could eat. I am now lost without Goldwater Lake National Park only minutes from the cottage. The trails were a perfect walk for us and our dogs. We spent a lot of time just sitting next to the lake relaxing. It was just perfect! We invited my parents to stay in the Treehouse for 1 night and they are convinced that they want to live in Prescott now! The treehouse is perfect too! Don't hesitate to make reservations as soon as you can. We hope to go back someday soon! Thanks, Nancy - you're the perfect host.

Owner response:Wonderful guests with great happy dogs very kind and respectful of doggies manners good experience with 4 dogs.

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Guest: Jim & Carol Peacock (Payson, Utah)
Date of Stay: 06/22/09 Review Submitted: 06/22/09

Thanks Nanci for making our week at Walden so very enjoyable. Your home is so comfortable, and tastefully decorated, we had a great time. And especially thanks for getting the internet for us so quickly. And we can't forget to thanks you for the fresh eggs - we truly enjoyed our week, and plan on coming back again soon.

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Guest: Leslie S. (Glendale, AZ)
Date of Stay: 06/22/09 Review Submitted: 06/21/09

We just spent a magical week at the Cottage on Walden thanks to our fabulous hostess Nanci. There was plenty of room for my husband and I plus our two big dogs, "the boys" who enjoyed exploring the big tree-shaded fenced yard, peeking at chickens and Nanci's dogs through the fence. We enjoyed everything about the cottage - outside seating area under a large weeping willow with lots of other mature trees nearby, beautiful flowers the sound of the waterfall, and the view of all the stars in the black evening sky. Inside the cottage, we were right at home immediatly! The cottage exceeded our expectations - incredible bed, soft, fluffy towels, and a lovely offering of bath amenities. The cozy sitting room came complete with cable tv, a nice selection of DVD's to place into the player, a stero plus a great selection of music CD's. Sublime! We enjoyed listening to music and reading. Nanci even thought to supply a variety of tea to which we added a few leaves of the fresh mint that is growing right outside the cottage door. We loved our stay at Walden - Nanci was an incredible hostess, touching base with us daily to ensure that we had everything we needed. The bonus was that she brought us fresh eggs in the morning! We are already planning our return for another stay. Thank you Nanci!!

Owner response:Thanks again to my most interesting guests, I am fortunate to have great, kind, lovely people like Leslie and Larry as guests and the boys behaved like gentlemen, I hardly knew they were there. Thank you for coming my way.

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Guest: Denise & Matt Abbe (Phoenix, AZ)
Date of Stay: 06/10/09 Review Submitted: 06/10/09

Being an English teacher, the title "Cottage on Walden" appealed to me when I first viewed the site at the VRBO web site. My husband and I were not disappointed. What a charming, comfortable, cozy place! I think we were one of the first to bring our dogs--two rescued greyhounds--and they had a delightful time! Luxurious walks in the morning-- all of the places Nanci recommended were top- notch--delicious fresh eggs, a cozy couch to sit and read, a wonderfully inviting claw bathtub, a quaintly decorated cottage that exceeded all of our expectations. We especially enjoyed sitting outside in the afternoon with our binoculars and bird book, trying to identify all of the different birds. Nanci was an excellent host, and we loved chatting with her on those splendid afternoons. Truly, a magical place!

Owner response:great guests and doggies, though they are not the first dogs to come have had others. Doggies were were well behaved and gentle. Matt and Denise so easygoing and interesting, I have the best guests.

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Guest: Don & Cindy Lambert (Ames, IA)
Date of Stay: 06/07/09 Review Submitted: 06/07/09

What a fantastic place!! Highly recommended! Reminded us of an English country-side cottage. Spotlessly clean, all amenities provided, quiet, very comfortable, easy/short drive to Prescott. Nancy was a charming, wonderful host. To stay again at Cottage on Walden is just another reason we will return to the Prescott area.

Owner response:What great guests, I'm fortunate I have the best guests ever.

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Guest: Gary and Marlena Saupe (Haines, AK)
Date of Stay: 05/26/09 Review Submitted: 05/25/09

November 2008 We stayed for four months during the winter. We enjoyed relaxing in the livingroom on a comfy couch warmed by the fire from the wood stove. Taking a bath in the claw tub felt like having your own personal spa retreat. Everything was provided. We only needed to bring our personal items. The eclectic furnishings added to the charm of the cottage. There were many extras which included the fresh eggs, a wonderful library of different books to read, the warm and cozy sunroom and the many different species of birds that visited the backyard. We could walk to several trails through the pines from the cottage. Nanci respected our privacy, but was there if we needed anything. It was a wonderful quiet retreat for us and truly our home away from home.

Owner response:Gary and Marleena were such great guests, kind and thoughtful, great outdoors folks. I gained much from their good Alaskan spirit.

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Guest: Catherine and Ward Schendel (Roseville, MN 55113)
Date of Stay: 05/07/09 Review Submitted: 05/07/09

WOW. what a place! We felt like we were back in England in a quaint countryside cottage. It's the kind of place you can call home and where you can easily settle in and enjoy the cottage, the town of Prescott and the entire area. We napped in the hammock, read to our heart's content and enjoyed the splendor of magnificent star gazing. Cozy living room, comfortable, warm bed, hot water, clean and charming. Nanci and her dogs welcomed us warmly. She offered suggestions and yet gave us our space and independence. We are eager to return! Highly recommended!

Owner response:What a lovely couple, on their 30 year honeymoon. Fun and thoughtful, please come back soon.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/01/08 Review Submitted: 10/01/08

More than expected! Comfortable bed, quiet, convenient to hiking and downtown yet feeling you were far away! Owner has put much thought into decorating and having even little things available for use, unlike we have found in other rentals! The frosting on the cake, fresh eggs for breakfast!

Owner response:Such lovely guests. Thank you for coming and please come back again! What a pleasure it is to make a home away from home for travellers.

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Guestbook Comment

Guest: xmas41 (California desert)
Date of Stay: 09/01/08 Review Submitted: 09/13/08

This is a very charming little house. It sits on an extra-large fenced yard with a seasonal creek and big trees with a hammock and comfortable lawn furniture with colorful cushions. The interior is artisticly and comfortably furnished and the house itself has a lot of charm. There is a feeling of seclusion yet the gracious owner is just over the creek ready to see to your every need. We are hoping to return again soon.

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An Absolutely Wonderful Vacation

Guest: Friend to animals (Laveen, AZ)
Date of Stay: 08/30/08 Review Submitted: 09/10/08

My wife and I stayed here over Labor Day weekend; The House is full of charm and tastefully decorated. It is nestled in the woods just a little off the road which adds to the serenity. It was cool in the evening so we had the windows open and you could hear the gentle stream nearby and a few crickets which made it even more peaceful. The host greeted us warmly and made us feel at home. The home is absolutely clean and well maintained. Fresh Towels and linens are provided. There is even a television and DVD player with a few DVDs and music CDs provided for your enjoyment while you are there at no charge. There is a washer and dryer for your use with full kitchen and even the spices and herbs were provided. An unexpected treat was the host also provided fresh eggs from her hens every morning. We enjoyed some of the local restaurants including Arizona’s Historic Palace Saloon & Restaurant (since 1877). We also enjoyed the historic district of Whiskey Row and its shops. There are plenty of sites to see nearby and returning to the cottage on Walden in the evening was a great place to relax. We will definitely stay there again.

Owner response:Lovely people, so nice, thank you for coming my way!

Recommended for:Girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Charming Cottage

Guest: PJAZ (Gilbert, AZ)
Date of Stay: 08/08/08 Review Submitted: 08/14/08

Even nicer than we expected, very clean and comfortable. The kitchen and bath had everything we needed for our stay. Convenient to downtown yet secluded and quiet. The owner was wonderful, greeted us on our arrival even brought us fresh eggs!! We plan to return again next year.

Owner response:Great gals, Mom and her two daughters here for a time to be together and connect. Thanks! I enjoyed their fun loving time together.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Guestbook Comment

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/01/08 Review Submitted: 08/07/08

The Cottage is everything it is represented to be and more.. Delightful setting, and very charming. The owner is accommodating, and hospitable, even bringing fresh eggs!

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