Reviews for Charlottesville Vacation Rental - VRBO 153165 - 2 BR Central Virginia Cottage in VA, Afton Cottage:Private, Wineries, Breweries, Uva, Monticello

Clean, charming, secluded!

Guest Chris B
Date of stay 05/30/13
Review Submitted 06/11/13

Loved our stay! Very clean, well furnished great owners! Perfect get away, definitely going back! The fall would be beautiful with the foliage. Thanks Dick!

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: We enjoyed having you at Afton Cottage. At the moment, the last week in October is still available. That happens to be our best week for leaves. Come on down!

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Home Away From Home

Guest Cindy
Date of stay 05/30/13
Review Submitted 06/10/13

What a great house! We arrived at the rental cottage later than we'd expected, so hadn't grabbed everything we thought we'd need for making dinner. Much to our surprise, much of what we'd failed to purchase was already at the house. The cottage was so charming and we immediately felt right at home. With two children and 4 adults, it was so much better/easier for us to have our own house instead of trying to stay at a hotel and have to go out to eat every meal. We were able to do laundry and with that many people, that's great!!! We would definitely recommend this place to others and will certainly stay there again in the future!

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway.

Owner response: Chris & Cindy, Thanks for choosing Afton Cottage as your home-away-from-home. We are so happy that you enjoyed your stay. We are looking forward to your next visit.

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Beautiful cottage for a quick getaway- so close to so many wineries!

Guest annapexplorer
Date of stay 05/11/13
Review Submitted 05/18/13

My fiance and I had a wonderful stay last weekend at Afton Cottage. The cottage is beautiful- even more so than the pictures on the site. We went to Blue Mountain Brewery (3 miles away) Saturday night, and spent Sunday visiting all of the local wineries, which were all within a 10 mile radius- Flying Fox, Veritas, Pollack Afton Mountain, and Cardinal Point, which is literally down the road from the house. We enjoyed the view from the deck and grilled out on Sunday night with all of our newly acquired wine! Our pug loved being off-leash and even spent some time with the winery dogs at Cardinal Point. Dick was a great host, and we enjoyed the large binder listing local activities and points of interest. Just wish we could have stayed longer and spent some time hiking. Next time! Thanks Dick and Veegie for a great stay!

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

Owner response: Taryn, We are so happy that you and Ben found Afton Cottage to be the ideal base for exploring our local wineries. We are surrounded! Please come back soon, and bring your adorable pug.

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Perfectly Central to Everything Yet With a Rural Feel!

Guest On the Go
Date of stay 03/29/13
Review Submitted 04/14/13

Our family of three absolutely loved the Afton Cottage for its "out there" feel and views of the Shenandoahs and Blue Ridge Parkway, yet still central location to everything one would want to do while in the area (Charlottesville, Monticello, UVA, wineries/breweries, hiking, and more). From the time we stepped in and recognized the home's charm and decor to finding puppy treats thoughtfully left for our beloved pooch, we felt at home. In addition to having absolutely everything one would need to set up shop (for 5 days in our case - so washer/dryer, oven, etc.), details like binoculars and a birding book were present for taking in the incredible array of springtime activity at the feeder. We also enjoyed exploring and running around the large yard. We were on the go constantly and had researched where we were headed, but always felt like if we ever would have had any questions about where to go or how something might work in the house, Dick and Veegie would help us out from their perfect distance further up the hill. We would highly recommend this beauty to anyone!

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

Owner response: Gary, thanks so much for taking the time to give such a nice detailed review. Please come back soon!

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Charming Retreat

Guest Paul S.
Date of stay 03/23/13
Review Submitted 04/05/13

This property was our perfect getaway for a 3 night stay in March. A week would have been even more ideal to enjoy the surrounding attractions and the beauty of this secluded cottage home. The location is centrally located near several wineries and Charlottesville, but away from crowds and traffic, surrounded by gorgeous scenery. A surprise snowstorm made our experience even more special, as the cottage is so cozy. Everything about the photos and description in the listing is accurate. The owner, Dick could not have been more accommodating, hospitable, or helpful. I'd like to return again and again, or better yet, retire there!

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

Owner response: Thanks for your kind words, Paul. We hope you, Betts, and Donna will visit us regularly.

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"Home" again

Guest Jeff and Cristi
Date of stay 03/02/13
Review Submitted 03/16/13

Afton Cottage is just like coming home. Dick accommodated our impromptu decision to stay a couple of days as we were traveling in the area. The cottage was neat as a pin, as always, and Dick couldn't have been more welcoming. It's location is beautiful, wonderful late winter views of the mountains, songbirds enjoying the feeder and peaceful surroundings make it a true get-a-way. He and Veegie have a true gem and they are wonderful hosts. We are counting the days until our next opportunity to "drop in" and soak in the beauty of the Charlottesville area.

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

Owner response: Jeff & Cristi, it was so nice to see you again. We are so glad that you called us on the spur of the moment and the cottage just happened to be available.

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Lovely country cabin

Guest Deena F.
Date of stay 12/30/12
Review Submitted 01/07/13

We had a very nice new years stay at Afton Cottage. We found the kitchen well stocked for all of our needs and had easy access to local sights and restaurants. On our final morning at the cabin, Dick generously stopped by to let us know we could stay as long as we liked. We highly recommend it as a comfortable country getaway.

Owner response: Thanks so much, Deena! we hope we see you and Andrew again, soon.

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Excellent

Guest Chuck
Date of stay 12/28/12
Review Submitted 01/05/13

The reviews speak for themselves - everything was as advertised: the location, the scenery, the amenities, etc. We had set the bar high prior to arriving and we were not disappointed. Great location - lots to do in the area (too much to list here). Something that we were not expecting, however, was that the owner/proprietor could not be any more hospitable, welcoming, helpful, and accomodating; all while at the same time being very professional. If you are on the fence about booking a stay here, I promise you will not find another property owner of the caliber as this one.

Recommended for: Age 55+, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Wonderful Experience!!!

Guest Renee
Date of stay 12/23/12
Review Submitted 02/09/13

The Afton Cottage couldn't be more charming! From the amply supplied kitchen to the tasteful decorations to a vast library and warmth of the fireplace... it was delightful. The views are dramatic, the owners accommodating and informative, and the house was clean and comfortable. Being able to share the experience with our canine companion was the icing on the cake!!! We will return, and have recommended the Afton Cottage to many friends!

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

Owner response: Paula, thanks for your kind words. We are so happy the you enjoyed your Christmas stay at the cottage. Come back soon, and often!

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What a great place to be refreshed!

Guest Pete L.
Date of stay 11/02/12
Review Submitted 11/08/12

This was, by far, the best get-a-way weekend we have ever had ... great R&R ... the owners are very kind and courteous ... We will definitely stay here again in the days to come. Thank you! You are the best! Pete and Jude

Owner response: Thank you, Pete & Jude! We hope you will make Afton Cottage a family tradition.

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Wonderful Getaway!

Guest Anne L.
Date of stay 11/02/12
Review Submitted 11/07/12

We chose Afton Cottage as a half way point between North Carolina and Pennsylvania to meet my in-laws for the weekend. It was a wonderful weekend away and time to unwind and catch up. The cottage was extremely clean, comfortable and quiet. We had no problems finding it and we even arrived in the dark. It was wonderful to see the beautiful country side the next morning on our way to Monticello which was only about a 30 minute drive. The owners were very kind and helpful. I would highly recommend Afton Cottage to anyone that is looking for a little peace and quiet in a beautiful setting but with conveniences not far away. Anne Lake

Owner response: Thank you, Anne! We hope that you and your family will make Afton Cottage an annual event.

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Makes you feel like a local!

Guest Gabby's mom
Date of stay 10/14/12
Review Submitted 10/30/12

My husband, dog, and I stayed here with some friends that met us from NC. We loved the cottage, everything you could think of for kitchen needs was stocked and ready to go. The deck was fabulous and so was the setting. I was able to take my morning runs with hardly any cars passing and the scenery was beautiful. The cottage is in a great location, not too far to Charlottesville, Crozet, and Skyline Drive. The beds were very comfortable and the cottage was decorated to feel homey. Great wineries and breweries very close by, and we went to Crozet several times for dinner. I would recommend this cottage to anyone wanting to visit the area, you will not be disappointed.

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

Owner response: Nikki, we are so glad that you enjoyed your stay at Afton Cottage. We look forward to seeing you, Mike, and Gabby again, soon!

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Wonderful getaway destination!

Guest j d.
Date of stay 09/13/12
Review Submitted 10/07/12

We arrived for a 4 day stay and immediately felt at home in a spotless, comfortable and well appointed cottage in the woods. The kitchen is well lit and well appointed with everything needed for the fussiest cook. There were even beer glasses chilling in the freezer, waiting for the wonderful local brews. Mr Bell was only a phone call away and very willing to accomodate any of our needs to make our stay more pleasant. We slept well in comfortable beds in the quite wooded surroundings. The washer and drier were a real convenience, and much appreciated. We will definitely return to the cottage and the area.

Owner response: Your kind remarks are much appreciated. Thanks so much for leaving the cottage in such nice order. We look forward to seeing you again, soon.

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Excellent alternative to a hotel!

Guest Carol D.
Date of stay 09/07/12
Review Submitted 09/16/12

Our family of 5 needed a place to stay for just one night in Charlottesville. Unfortunately it was during a football weekend! Not a hotel room available! We found Afton Cottage and it was just perfect! Beds were so comfortable and there was enough room for our 3 kids to feel relaxed and at home. And it is not far from Charlottesville at all. We headed out to Monticello, which is close as well, and had a great time. Never will I look for hotel rooms again! We will definitely come back to Afton Cottage when in the area. Thank you Dick and Veegie!

Owner response: Carol, we are so glad that Afton Cottage was available for you. Thanks for your kind words, and for leaving the cottage in such nice order. We hope to see you and your family again, soon!

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Excellent Unwind!

Guest Travelon
Date of stay 08/12/12
Review Submitted 08/28/12

Our family came for a much needed get-away. Afton Cottage was just the answer. We've stayed at several VRBO rentals and this is truly a gem. The location in VA is perfect - centrally located for just about anything you might like to do. Or just do nothing on the deck and watch the humming birds with the Blue Ridge as a back drop. The property owners have done a wonderful job of ensuring vacationers have everything they'll need. The attention to detail was very much appreciated. We really felt like guests - not just renters. Our dog loved chasing the frisbee in the front yard and taking long walks along picturesque country roads. Our daughter having her "own" little cottage. Many wineries and micro-breweries are nearby. Not to mention swimming and fishing and hiking... And of course Charlottesville is so close. Overall a lovely place to hang your hat for a while. Thank you for making our week so easy! We look forward to returning.

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

Owner response: Michelle, we are so happy that you, Seneca, Roger, & Sadie had a good time. Next time you come, we have a little gift for Seneca.

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vacation

Guest travelswithpets
Date of stay 07/21/12
Review Submitted 08/09/12

Wonderful cottage and area. Many things do do and see. Very pet friendly. This is our second visit to the cottage and it was as nice as the first. We hope to be able to go back someday. The property owner is very friendly & helpful.

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

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Wonderful cottage getaway

Guest Lisa M.
Date of stay 07/18/12
Review Submitted 07/23/12

This was the perfect place for my youngest son and I to meet up with my oldest son who is away at college. Before we even got there the owner responded promptly to my emails and answered all questions. He gave me contact info for if I had any problems during our stay. When we entered the cottage we noticed the owners had left music playing, a personalized greeting, and even dog biscuits for our pooch. They have many little touches in the place that make it home. The kitchen already has some spices and things that you can prepare a meal without having to buy or bring it all with you. It is also fully equipt with pots, pans, dishes and such. The bedrooms are comfortable and welcoming. The views from every window are peaceful. There is a tv and wireless Internet if sitting around enjoying nature isn't your thing. There are brochures on area restaurants and activities in the owner manual if you want to venture out but with the cottage being so wonderful, we did a lot of staying in, playing games and catching up. We are hoping to make this an annual meeting place. If you want a quiet get away in a wonderful area, this is it!

Owner response: Lisa, We are so haapy that you and your family enjoyed the cottage. We hope that you do make it an annual event.

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Awesome girls weekend get away!

Guest Winelover
Date of stay 07/13/12
Review Submitted 07/20/12

A group of 5 girls stayed here for our wine weekend of relaxation and it was a blast! Clean accommodations, beautiful back porch which was perfect for stargazing and so close to a whole series of wineries! I would highly recommend this cottage to anyone looking to kick back and get away!

Recommended for: Families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: Erin, we are so glad that you and your friends had a good time. We hope that you all will come back, soon!

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afton cottege

Guest paul
Date of stay 06/23/12
Review Submitted 07/09/12

This was one of the best vacations of my life, the property is really nice! very private and a great host! the landscape is wonderful! check out safari park in natural bridge!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: Thank you, Paul! We hope to see you again, soon.

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Our Afton Cottage Family Get Away

Guest MBARR
Date of stay 06/23/12
Review Submitted 07/09/12

As a busy working mom with a 4 and 1 year old -- I left it up to my husband to plan this vacation. Typically we stay in hotels but this time around my husband decided to go a different route and rented a cottage for a week. Of course I was a little hesitant about this idea but agreed to it. After a 10 hour drive from Western, MA with the little ones we arrived at the cottage at about 6:30 PM. As we first stepped foot in the cottage I could tell right away this was a home away from home. It was so clean and beautifully decorated and included all the amenities we could ask for. The description provided was more than accurate. The owners left a binder with lots of information on the local restaurants, activities and attractions for the family, wineries and so much more. This binder was so helpful and gave us so many ideas. As the place provided a full equipped kitchen with all the essentials on the first day we drove to a local super market and stocked up for the week. Many nights we cooked out on the grill provided by the owner. In our week stay we visited Monticello, Grand Caverns, Safari Park and a few of the local wineries and the historical down town Charlottesville with lots dining and shopping. In the local area we dined at a Tex-Mex and local Brewery recommended by the owners. Overall, this was such a wonderful experience and we would love to stay again and visit many of the attractions we did not have a chance to see.

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

Owner response: Marja and Paul, It was such a pleasure having you, Jenna, and Madison at the cottage. We enjoyed getting to know you and your little girls. Thanks so much for leaving the cottage in such wonderful order. It made getting ready for the next guests so much easier. Please come back soon!

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Afton Cottage

Guest Chris
Date of stay 06/16/12
Review Submitted 06/26/12

Great place to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains of VA. Golf courses, breweries, and C'ville are all with in short drives. House is secluded and very comfortable. Owner was very nice and helpful. Will return to this rental.

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

Owner response: Thanks, Chris! We hope to see you, Kay & Colby again, soon.

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Peaceful Getaway for Family

Guest Mindy
Date of stay 05/31/12
Review Submitted 06/13/12

My husband, our 7-month-old and I stayed at the cottage after being apart for several months. It was the perfect get away for our family. The cottage is in great condition and the Americana decor made us feel right at home. One of my favorite parts was that the kitchen (and the rest of the cottage) was well stocked with all the equipment you need. Almost every time we needed something, from sugar to shampoo, they already had it on hand! The back deck view is breath taking and Dick Bell was a pleasure to work with. We would HIGHLY recommend this cottage to rent.

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

Owner response: Mindy, it was such a privilege to have you, Scott, and your little one at Afton Cottage. It is humbling to have you choose the cottage for part of your brief time together between tours of duty. We hope that you will make Afton Cottage a tradition. We hope to see you and your family again, soon.

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Afton Cottage

Guest Linda, Ryan, Camille, Jaren
Date of stay 05/18/12
Review Submitted 05/31/12

My family stayed at Afton Cottage while attending my Son-in-Law's graduation at UVA. What a wonderful place! The drive in to the cottage is beautiful and it's not too far from Charlottesville. The cottage is exactly as pictured, very cozy, comfortable, and well decorated and equipped. The setting is secluded and very peaceful. The view from the back deck is awesome. We saw cardinals and deer, even a few lizards. We enjoyed the deck and had my daughter and family over for a nice BBQ. Dick Bell is such a gentleman and was very kind, hospitable and helpful. He gave us such a nice warm welcome with the lights on, music playing, and some delicious homemade strawberry jam. A week just wasn't long enough to explore everything in the area we wanted to see. I hope to get back there again in a few years and would definitely like to stay at the cottage again. Thanks Dick for everything, your cottage is a jewel and we enjoyed it so very much!

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

Owner response: Linda, it was such a pleasure to meet you and your family. We look forward to seeing you again, soon.

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Afton, Virginia is one of the most beautiful parts of Virginia

Guest Louise and Amber
Date of stay 04/30/12
Review Submitted 05/17/12

Nature abounds at this charming cottage in the woods. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay there. The immediate area surrounding the property is stunningly beautiful. Loved the experience.

Owner response: Thank you, Louise. We hope to see you and Amber again soon.

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Everything we needed and more at Afton Cottage

Guest buddysgirl
Date of stay 04/14/12
Review Submitted 04/26/12

Three women thoroughly enjoyed a week long stay at Afton Cottage for our girls' getaway to the Charlottesville area. The location was great, close to Shenandoah National Park, Staunton and easy drive to C'ville. We enjoyed the homey comfort of the space, as well as al fresco dining on the back deck. As a person who loves to cook, I appreciate that the owner has definitely stocked the kitchen well with very nice cookware and most tools that you would need. It was very nice to find the little things that you need to clean up in the kitchen as well. Kudos to Dick. The beds were very comfortable; also large closets, dresser, and suitcase rack are available conveniences. The owner supplied ample clean sheets and towels. He made himself available if needed for any information or needs. We especially enjoyed the immense collection of books that are available in the cottage. No need to bring your bird or wildflower books. They are there! I would definitely recommend Afton Cottage to anyone looking for a rental in the C'ville area.

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

Owner response: We are so glad that you enjoyed your stay. Please come back soon.

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Perfect setting for R&R

Guest Eileen
Date of stay 03/26/12
Review Submitted 03/31/12

We loved this comfortable, light-filled cottage with breathtaking mountain views. The nature-filled setting was so relaxing and restorative. It was the perfect getaway to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary. The owners have thought of every detail to make the stay comfortable. I especially appreciated the thoughtfully equipped kitchen. We enjoyed seeing the local birds at the bird feeder off the back deck, and the night star-filled sky was amazing. We'd love to stay there again if opportunity arises.

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

Owner response: Thanks so much, Eileen. We hope to see you and John again, soon.

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Return to Afton Cottage

Guest Patrick L.
Date of stay 03/21/12
Review Submitted 04/01/12

This was the second time we stayed at Afton cottage. The listing is exactly as described and depicted in the images. It's dog friendly. We have two dogs and when we arrived dog biscuits on the kitchen table for them. We had a personal note and a jar of locally made pickles. The kitchen is well equipped - perfect for cooking in which we love to do. We had lunch out a couple of days - the Blue Mountain Brewery and the Blue Toad are both very good. If you have dogs there are a number of parks that are dog friendly. We took them to Humpback along the Blue Ridge parkway and Mill Springs near Crozet. We love the solitude of the cottage and will definitely recommend it to friends, family, or dog lovers.

Owner response: Pat, thanks so much! We look forward to seeing you and your pooches again, soon.

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Return stay

Guest Patrick L.
Date of stay 03/21/12
Review Submitted 04/01/12

When my wife decided to attend a conference in Charlottesville, we immediately went online to see if Afton cottage was available. We stayed here about two years ago and had a wonderful time. This time was just as relaxing. We opened the cottage's door to hear our favorite FM radio program - All Things Considered on National Public Radio. We have two dogs and on the kitchen table were dog biscuits for them. We were welcomed with a personal note and a jar of locally made pickles. The cottage is cozy and clean (same as last time). We love to cook so having a well equipped kitchen is a pleasure. For dog lovers the cottage is near a number of parks that are dog friendly. We drove to Humpback along the Blue Ridge Parkway and Mill Springs Park near Crozet. Both have nice trails and are just a few miles drive from the cottage. We did eat lunch out a couple of days. The Blue Mountain Brewery and the Blue Toad Pub were both excellent choices. We would definitely recommend Afton cottage to friends, family, or dog lovers who enjoy the outdoors. We'll be back.

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

Owner response: We look forward to seeing you and your pups again, soon!

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Home Away from Home

Guest Bromley's Pal
Date of stay 03/16/12
Review Submitted 04/03/12

We have been coming to Afton Cottage (6 times) over the past 3 years. We have taken advantage of the hiking and kayaking and food and drink of the area and especially enjoy gathering back at the cottage to savor those moments and the peacfulness and beautiful setting of the cottage itself. The owner is a warm and unabtrusive host who is always interested in receiving and acting upon the details of your comments about the experience of your stay at Afton Cottage. We shall surely be returning again.

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

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Perfect Private Getaway

Guest Jim C.
Date of stay 11/27/11
Review Submitted 11/30/11

We were looking for a quiet, relaxing place where two old friends could spend some quality time catching up. Afton Cottage was the perfect spot. The cottage is equipped with everthing one might need for cooking at home or grilling on the deck. The owners provided a binder with great information about the cottage, the area restaurants, shops and attractions. The even left welcome treats for the dogs. If you are looking for a quiet retreat, you can't do better than Afton Cottage.

Owner response: Jim, we are so happy that you and your friend enjoyed Afton Cottage. Please come back soon.

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Afton Cottage

Guest digger
Date of stay 11/18/11
Review Submitted 11/24/11

It was just what we wanted. It was a great location. Everything was clean and well equipped. Our daughter Carrie made the reservations for us.

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

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Lovely Getaway

Guest Jean Ross
Date of stay 09/15/11
Review Submitted 10/04/11

Light and airy cottage with an open floor plan that makes it seem much larger. Classy interiors with original art and prints - lots of current reading material. Well appointed kitchen for almost any cooking endeavour. The owners are very accommodating with any extras, but you wouldn't know they are around, as the Afton Cottage is secluded in the forest with view of the mountains off the back deck. Great for dogs and bird lovers. The surrounding area has southern gentleman-farmer estates along winding country roads.

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

Owner response: Thank you, Jean! We look forward to your next visit.

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Beautiful getaway

Guest Jeff and Cristi
Date of stay 08/29/11
Review Submitted 12/22/11

After dropping both kids off at college, we decided to have a little "celebration" of just the two of us time. We could not have picked a better place. Dick and Veegie are charming, thoughtful hosts. The cabin is spotless, and outfitted for everything you desire. A quick jaunt down the road leads to whatever your heart desires. . . hiking, antiquing, leisurely drives, beautiful Charlottesville; you name it it is there for your enjoyment. Thank you so much for allowing us to enjoy a slice of heaven. We can't wait to return!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: Thanks so much, Cristi! We hope to see you and Jeff when you come visit the kids.

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sweet retreat

Guest Miss Pat
Date of stay 08/25/11
Review Submitted 08/31/11

My son, our cat and I escaped the wrath of Hurricane Irene in late August, not knowing how bad it would be. Afton Cottage was a haven of safety and security; clean, well-maintained and organized which is especially appreciated when your mind may be frazzled by life. All necessities thoughtfully provided, but bring your own food and dairy products or zip over to major grocery store (Harris Teeter) within 15 minutes for your groceries. A very handy binder at the cottage gives you property details as well as info on the extensive recreations close by, including restaurants. A most enjoyable stay, difficult to leave!

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

Owner response: Thanks, Patti! We look forward to seeing you, and yours, again, soon.

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Doesnt get any better than this!

Guest Sam
Date of stay 08/14/11
Review Submitted 09/28/11

My wife and our two mastiffs spent 10 wonderful days here in August, and we all rate it with thumbs (and paws) way up! Conveniently located, yet totally private. Easy access to interstate, Charlottesville, UVA. Unusual Japanese farmhouse exterior with comfortable, homey interior with all the comforts. Well appointed and well equipped. All this, and dog cookies and hummingbirds too!

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: Thanks, Sam! We are glad that everyone had a good time.

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very nice!

Guest overnight guest
Date of stay 07/09/11
Review Submitted 07/16/11

Stayed just one night, and very much enjoyed it. The vaulted ceilings in the main living area contributed to the spacious feel. The TV, radio and AC worked great. My dogs and I enjoyed the deck and the shaded grounds around the cabin, as you are in the woods but the cabin is in a large clearing that gives a private compound vibe. Liked the motion sensor outside light for when you come home in the dark--it comes on when you start up the walk. Hint: the coffee was in the refrigerator--didn't find it until ready to leave.

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

Owner response: Thanks, Janet! Please come back, and stay longer next time.

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Delighted!

Guest Nancy
Date of stay 07/03/11
Review Submitted 07/22/11

Delighted, delighted, delighted: that encapsulates my feelings about my stay at Afton Cottage. I stayed for twelve glorious days and wish I could have stayed for more. The cottage is perfect: it's secluded yet close enough to necessities, like a food store, and wonderful activies, like UVA and Monticello and Natural Bridge. It's quiet. It's well appointed. I felt so blessed to have located such a getaway. Thanks, Dick, for being everything you advertised and more.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Owner response: Nancy, you and your pooches are welcome, anytime. Come back soon!

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Another Happy Family

Guest Karen
Date of stay 06/26/11
Review Submitted 07/02/11

This is a wonderful home, that truly feels like a home away from home. From the moment we entered to the last minute of our trip we were very happy with our stay. We did a lot of exploring in the area and did even more relaxing, we never stay put when we go away so it says a lot that we wanted to stay and hang out at the cottage. Our daughter loved playing in the yard with our dog and we all enjoyed watching all of the wild life. We saw a couple deer everyday and night, took some great photos and we just can't wait to book our next family get away. This is a perfectly secluded place to get away from the everyday stress of life. The cottage is very clean with everything you can possibly need for a week away. We've already recommended this place to family. I can't think of enough nice things to say. Thank you for a very enjoyable stay.

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

Owner response: Thanks, Karen & Shawn! We are so glad you and your family had a good time. We are looking forward to your next visit.

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Great place, perfect for Charlottesville

Guest Andy
Date of stay 06/02/11
Review Submitted 06/06/11

My family and I (2 small children) stayed here for reunions weekend at UVA. It was perfect for us. The cottage is extremely comfortable, the country around it is beautiful, and Dick Bell is very hospitable. Even though it is a bit of a drive to get to Charlottesville, it was worth it to stay in this beautiful place. The price is also great - for the price of a hotel stay, you get an entire house and can cook your own meals. We will definitely be back whenever we visit the area.

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

Owner response: Andy and his family are lovely people. We hope to see them again, soon.

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Perfect for relaxing and sight seeing

Guest Jeremy
Date of stay 05/27/11
Review Submitted 06/09/11

The property and owner made relaxing and finding the best of all there is to do in the Charlottesville area our most pleasant experience in Virginia to this date! Thank you

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

Owner response: Thanks, Jeremy! We hope to see you and Marlyn again, soon.

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Peace & Quiet & Lots of Colorful Birds

Guest Karen
Date of stay 05/12/11
Review Submitted 06/06/11

My mom, our Cairn terrier & I stayed at this delightful cottage for a week in mid-May 2011. While our drive from NJ was frought with delays and accidents, at the end of 11 hours, we arrived to lights on, jazz on the radio and dog biscuits for our furry friend. Who does that?! it was awesome! And after unpacking the car, ourselves and settling back to relax for a late night beverage, we discovered chilled glasses for our beer! Dick Bell is the most hospitable host we've met in all our years of traveling and renting homes. The house was "eat off the floor" clean and neat with all the conveniences you could ask for. The weather was against us during our trip (rain/thunderstorms), so we didn't get a chance to really enjoy the large deck. But we did have a fabulous time watching the birds fight over the feeder. While there was lots to do in the area, we took advantage of doing next to nothing, taking drives along country roads and marveling at all the wide open spaces. We became trapped in "the most comfortable couch in the world", crocheted/knitted, read and talked. We were down in the area to attend an annual sheep shearing at the Juniper Moon Farm in Palymyra, VA. The rain held off for most of that day so it was a spectacular time. Mr. Bell invited our Cairn, KC to meet his Cairns, Jamieson & Campbell - fun to see the same breeds together. We would definitely come back to Afton Cottage more often if we lived closer. And when/if we do return in November, we'll be flying down. Thanks again for all the hospitality!!! Karen, Chris & KC

Recommended for: People with disabilities, age 55+, families with young children, pet owners, sightseeing.

Owner response: Thanks, Karen, Chris & KC! People like you make this business so enjoyable. We try to go the extra mile and it is nice to know we are appreciated.

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Perfect for bicycle riders

Guest Louise et Serge
Date of stay 04/23/11
Review Submitted 05/05/11

We enjoyed our vacation at Afton Cottage. The place is confortable and very very quiet as it is located about 150 feet from the road. We had a lot of pleasure biking in the shenandoah Valley. We recommand this place. Thank you mr. Bell. Endroit parfait pour les amateurs de velo, a dix minutes du skyline drive.

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, romantic getaway.

Owner response: First time for 4 out of 5. Oh well, it had to happen sooner or later. The cottage is actually 800 feet from the road.

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Great place to get away from it all!

Guest Restisbest
Date of stay 11/23/10
Review Submitted 12/01/10

My husband and I stayed at Afton Cottage during the week of Thanksgiving. It was everything we expected...CLEAN and inviting. The cottage is in a private setting with a nice deck to enjoy a morning cup of coffee and watch the deer. We brought our binoculars, however, the cottage is so well equipped there were a pair inside for guests to use. The location is great. It's only a short drive from Charlottesville. For those that enjoy hiking it's close to many trails. We will definitely stay here again.

Recommended for: Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Wonderful Experience

Guest Connie
Date of stay 10/30/10
Review Submitted 11/21/10

We couldn’t have asked for a better place to come “home” to after exploring the Shenandoah National Park or visiting Charlottesville. The ability to bring our dogs with us is an important part of our vacation and it was clear from the beginning that they were welcome at Afton Cottage. They were even greeted with doggie biscuits on arrival. The cottage is well appointed with everything we could have needed and is very clean and cozy. The cottage is perfectly located. We were secluded and surrounded by nature yet within a short drive to town, wineries, and Shenandoah National Park. We are already planning our next visit.

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

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Great Location For Sightseeing

Guest MikSaxby
Date of stay 09/29/10
Review Submitted 10/09/10

This cosy and well equipped rental is perfectly located for visiting one of the nicer regions of the country. Set in a peaceful and pleasant landscape, it is not far from many scenic, historical and cultural sights, and the slow country roads are themselves relaxing in their own way. Staunton (Shakespeare theatre at it's best with a few nice eateries close by), Lexington, Charlottesville, Natural Bridge, Blue Ridge Parkway, Monticello, Montpelier, Ash Lawn, hiking trails, caverns, wineries and brewpubs are all within a comfortable driving distance. If you want to to just lay back and stay home, you can relax in the snug living room or out on the deck. Kitchen equipment is more than adequate, the bedrooms and bathroom are roomy and clean. If ever needed, the affable host Dick Bell is always on hand to help out . All in all, a great place to stay in a beautiful area."

Recommended for: Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

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Peace and Quiet in the Country

Guest Patricia
Date of stay 09/18/10
Review Submitted 10/03/10

Everything about Afton Cottage is wonderful! The location is perfect for those who want a peaceful country retreat, surrounded by woods and wildlife, and yet is only a short drive from Charlottesville and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Dick Bell is a friendly and attentive host, too, and very willing to provide guests with anything they need. He and his wife are also close by in case of any problems. The cottage itself is adorable and a very comfortable size for 1-4 guests. It is lovingly furnished, spotlessly clean, and the kitchen has everything you need to feel right at home. There is also a very nice deck off the kitchen where I spent a lot of time reading, watching the deer, and enjoying the quiet. After a long day of sight seeing this was the perfect place to relax. Locally, there are several very pretty wineries to visit with friendly hosts and wine tasting. And don't miss the Green Gourmet Grocery! They have a wide selection of wine, cheese, produce, and homemade entrees if you don't feel like cooking. Overall, my stay at Afton Cottage was absolutely delightful and I highly recommend this vacation spot to anyone who wants a beautiful country getaway!

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

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Great Vacation Spot

Guest Family with two middle school boys
Date of stay 07/29/10
Review Submitted 08/09/10

I highly recommend Dick Bell's Afton cottage for your next vacation. First, if you have never been to this part of the country, it is absolutely beautiful! Second, the cottage is extremly clean and well maintained. It really is the perfect place for a great family vacation. It is ten minutes from George Washington National Forest and the Shenandoah National Park both of which have great hiking trails for every ability level.. In addition to great hiking, there are vineyards, historical sites, and quaint towns all close by. It is also very close to Sherando Lake which has small island in the middle. Pack a lunch in the cooler (the cottage has one), grab your fishing pole, and bring a canoe or an inflatable boat to the lake and your children can feel like Tom Swayer.. This really is a perfect place for a diverse and affordable family vacation. We LOVED it!

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

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Afton Cottage:peace and relaxation among the trees

Guest Donald
Date of stay 07/19/10
Review Submitted 08/07/10

We spent a delightful week at Afton Cottage in July. It was ideally situated for relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings in a location close to the Shenandoah National Park. The cottage was even better in reality than we had expected from the photos on the website. It is beautifully furnished and very well equipped with everything you could need for a vacation. Dick Bell, the owner, could not have been more welcoming or more helpful. We would have no hesitation recommending Afton Cottage to anyone looking for a quiet holiday in the foothills of the Appalachians.

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

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Perfect Getaway

Guest De Golf
Date of stay 06/27/10
Review Submitted 07/06/10

This was a great place to stay! Dick Bell, the owner could not have been nicer. The cottage was very attractively furnished and the fact that we could bring our yellow lab Reilly was a real bonus. Everything in the cottage was in great shape, clean and it really felt like home. Honestly, there was so much to do in the area that we wished we could have stayed another week. Charlottesville is only a few minutes away and you are virtually surrounded by wineries. The Skyline Drive & Blue Ridge Parkway are also very close as well as several golf courses. The cottage has everything you need and is very private and comfortable. We have stayed in other rental homes and would certainly come back here anytime we're in the area. The immediate area is home to some very impressive country estates and the scenery around the cottage is just gorgeous.

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

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Wonderful getaway, central to everything!

Guest Anonymous
Date of stay 06/25/10
Review Submitted 06/27/10

We had a wonderful time and cannot thank Dick enough for such hospitable accomodations. The cottage was perfect for our family, including our dog, who loved the walks on country roads and sitting on the deck to listen to nature's sounds. The location was perfect - 10-15 minutes gets you to the entrance to Skyline Drive for hiking, as well as numerous wineries. The cottage's binder of recommendations and local directions is just one example of Dick's helpful, yet not intrusive, care to ensure that guests enjoy themselves. The cottage itself was very clean and had everything we could possibly need - from linens and soap to a well-stocked kitchen. We hope to return again next year, but stay longer!

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

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Vacation Rentals by Owner

Afton Cottage:Private, Wineries, Breweries, Uva, Monticello [#153165] | View Property

Traveler Reviews (77)

Clean, charming, secluded!

Clean, charming, secluded!

Home Away From Home

Home Away From Home

Beautiful cottage for a quick getaway- so close to so many wineries!

Beautiful cottage for a quick getaway- so close to so many wineries!

Perfectly Central to Everything Yet With a Rural Feel!

Perfectly Central to Everything Yet With a Rural Feel!

Charming Retreat

Charming Retreat

"Home" again

"Home" again

Lovely country cabin

Lovely country cabin

Excellent

Excellent

Wonderful Experience!!!

Wonderful Experience!!!

What a great place to be refreshed!

What a great place to be refreshed!

Wonderful Getaway!

Wonderful Getaway!

Makes you feel like a local!

Makes you feel like a local!

Wonderful getaway destination!

Wonderful getaway destination!

Excellent alternative to a hotel!

Excellent alternative to a hotel!

Excellent Unwind!

Excellent Unwind!

vacation

vacation

Wonderful cottage getaway

Wonderful cottage getaway

Awesome girls weekend get away!

Awesome girls weekend get away!

afton cottege

afton cottege

Our Afton Cottage Family Get Away

Our Afton Cottage Family Get Away

Afton Cottage

Afton Cottage

Peaceful Getaway for Family

Peaceful Getaway for Family

Afton Cottage

Afton Cottage

Afton, Virginia is one of the most beautiful parts of Virginia

Afton, Virginia is one of the most beautiful parts of Virginia

Everything we needed and more at Afton Cottage

Everything we needed and more at Afton Cottage

Perfect setting for R&R

Perfect setting for R&R

Return to Afton Cottage

Return to Afton Cottage

Return stay

Return stay

Home Away from Home

Home Away from Home

Perfect Private Getaway

Perfect Private Getaway

Afton Cottage

Afton Cottage

Lovely Getaway

Lovely Getaway

Beautiful getaway

Beautiful getaway

sweet retreat

sweet retreat

Doesnt get any better than this!

Doesnt get any better than this!

very nice!

very nice!

Delighted!

Delighted!

Another Happy Family

Another Happy Family

Great place, perfect for Charlottesville