Location: Bethel, Berks County, Philadelphia & Its Countryside, Pennsylvania, USA (1.5 Hours from Philly--2.5 Hours from NYC--3 Hours from DC) View Map
Accommodations: Cabin, 2 Bedrooms + Loft, 1 Bath (Sleeps 7)
Keywords: Quiet woodland cottage. This cottage has something for everyone, whether you want to escape into nature on the Appalachian Trail or take the family to Hershey Park. This cottage is the perfect romantic hide-away or the best place for friends and family to gather.
****Smoking is not permitted on this property or in the surrounding woods. The remote location makes it impossible to fight fires without the use of a helicopter. Please, smokers should not inquire about renting this home****
2011 was another great year of renting. Some guests stayed for as long as three weeks and did not run out of things to do and see. Our greatest compliment came from a person who offers a rental through VRBO. She said, "You guys make it look easy. Everything in the cottage flows. I didn't have to think about a thing. Whatever I needed was at my fingertips." Our other greatest compliment came in the form of repeat guests. To some of you, our cottage is "The Christmas Cabin." To others, it is the "Creek House." Another couple calls it their second home because it feels like it belongs to them and no one else.
This year we are exploring local organic food resources. Imagine my surprise when I grabbed a copy of Town and Country at the airport the other day and there was a great article about nearby Dietrich's Meats. I guess that now the secret is out. Dietrich's is just one wonderful food resource near the cottage. There is also a farm 20 minutes away that sells grass fed beef, free range eggs, raw milk, and organic vegetables. Ask me for details about having a chef trained in slow foods to come up to the cabin to help you prepare a meal.
It has been our pleasure and honor to provide friends, families, couples, and individuals with a beautiful, peaceful retreat that can be as quiet or as activity-filled as you want. Your getaway represents more than an investment of money. It represents an investment of time and hope and energy. You are putting your faith in us that you will not be disappointed. Our reviews speak for themselves.
For more information, visit our webpage at Homeaway. We are #231792.
We have Wireless Internet service and cable TV!
The best of both worlds: you will be in a remote woodland setting and still be able to check your e-mail.
* Hike, snowshoe, or x-country ski the Appalachian Trail.
* Mountain bike on trails located in State gamelands across the road.
* Visit Hawk Mountain and watch raptors soar in the thermals.
* Downhill ski, snow board, or go tubing at Bear Creek Ski Resort.
* Ride an antique steam powered train at the WK&S railroad.
* Cabella's sporting goods store is just 12 miles away.
*Amish Country in Lancaster County is 40 miles or less.
A winding, single lane dirt road leads you over a small bridge to a cottage perched on the mountainside.
* Cottage on 35 forested acres adjacent to 135 square miles of of undeveloped woods and gamelands. Half mile from the Appalachian Trail.
* Cottage is 163 miles from Washington, DC; 130 miles from New York City; 92 miles from Philadelphia; 82 miles from Gettysburg; 30 miles from Knoebel's Theme Park; and 35 miles from Hershey Park.
* First Floor: bedroom with a queen bed, bedroom with a double bed, full bathroom, full size washer and dryer, eat-in kitchen, living room with massive stone fireplace--firewood provided, AM/FM tuner, 5 CD changer, lots of board games, excellent library, and more Legos than you can shake a stick at! Bring your DVD's to play on the TV and DVD player provided. We have cable TV and wireless internet.
* Loft is perfect for older children or nimble adults. It has a double bed and a single bed.
Maps and brochures for activities are provided as well as information from area restaurants.
Two and a half miles from the intersection of rts. 183 and 78 in Bethel Township, a mile from the border of Berks and Schuylkill Counties in Pennsylvania.
Non-smokers only. Smoking is not permitted on or around the property. Outdoor cooking and grilling are prohibited.
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Washer
- Dryer
- Linens Provided
- Off Street Parking
- Parking for RV/Boat/Trailer
- Wood Fireplace : We provide firewood, kindling, and tinder.
- Beds
- Queen Bed
- Double Bed
- Twin/Single Bed
- Entertainment
- Cable/Satellite TV
- DVD
- CD Player
- Stereo System
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen
- Cooking Utensils Provided
- Refrigerator
- Microwave
- Outdoor Features
- Lanai
- View/Location
- Waterfront, not Lake/Oceanfront. Ask for details
- Mountain View
- Communications
- Cell Phone
- Broadband Internet
- WiFi (Wireless Internet)
- Other Amenities
- The cottage overlooks a quiet, babbling creek. It is surrounded by trees and native plants...not a blade of grass.
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed
- Kid Friendly
- Minimum Age Limit for Renters
- Smoking Not Allowed
- Activities
- Golf
- Shopping
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Boating
- Swimming
- Biking
- Mountain Biking
- Cross Country Skiing
- Downhill/Alpine Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Antiquing
- Live Theatre
- Horseback Riding
- Hot Air Ballooning
- Theme Park (Amusement Park)
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
- Museums
- Rafting
- Sledding/Tubing
- Hiking
- Rock Climbing
- Restaurants
- Other Activities
- My "list of things to do" is 20 pages long. Visit wineries, Hawk Mountain, golf, ride horses, kayak, hike the Appalachian Trail, or take a sleigh, carriage, or haywagon ride through the countryside with Bee Tree Trail (www.beetreetrail.com). The cottage is in the middle of nowhere but close to a wealth of historical, cultural, and outdoor activities. See our slideshows at www.atcottage.com.
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
$185/night plus 6% PA sales tax
two night minimum
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
Map & Owner's Profile
Year Purchased: 1998
Why the Owner Chose Bethel
For the first 16 years of our marriage, we looked for a private retreat where we could "get away from it all". Proximity to the Appalachian Trail was a priority. We needed a place that was isolated. We did not want to be able to see other houses. We wanted a place that was not in a development...was not on a road, was not surrounded by houses with lawns and hot-tubs and pools. We wanted to have a retreat that was part of nature, not a place that violated nature. In 1998, after looking at countless houses, in countless locations, we found this home. We had never seen anything even remotely like it. We had to have it. We put in our bid: full asking price, no inspections, no contingencies. We knew that this was where we belonged.
The Unique Benefits at this Cabin
Peace. No worries. I don't know why, but it is virtually impossible to worry when you are on this property. For some strange reason, your worries melt away as soon as you enter the drive that leads to the cottage. However, if you are looking for family fun and adventure, it is right around the corner. For the first ten years of owning the cottage, we were very content to explore the woods, hike the Appalachian Trail, sit on the porch, and read. In 2008, when we first started renting the house, I decided to research activities that would be interesting to our guests. My "things to do" guide is 21 pages long! All of the activities are under an hour drive--most within 15 minutes.
The entire country of America represented as a miniature train set. The set-up is the size of a large gymnasium. A labor of love from one family for over 60 years.
This private preserve is located along the Appalachian Trail. It is the highest point for many miles and affords beautiful views of the valleys below.
Blue Marsh has over 40 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and biking; miles of river for kayaking and boating; and a lake with a sandy beach. Boats of all horsepower are permitted in limited areas.
This wonderful 333 acre farm demonstrates the best practices of organic gardening. It is truly an inspiration.
Owner's Map of Bethel
My husband and I have been married for 29 years. Our sons grew up spending weekends and vacations at the cottage. A few years ago, we did an extensive renovation. The house had been built in the early 1950's and was in serious need of an up-date. We gutted it and rebuilt it from the inside out. When we renovated it, we used the best materials and implemented excellent design. Our first guests came in June of 2008. Since then, it has been our pleasure to provide families, couples, groups of friends, and individuals with an opportunity to experience the joy that we have known through this wonderful place.
Property Photos
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- The cottage in summer! - Philadelphia Vacation Rentals
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- The cottage on a snowy winter evening! - Philadelphia Vacation Rentals
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- Fully equipped kitchen. You can even bake a pie! - Philadelphia Vacation Rentals
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- Loft with double bed
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- Loft with single bed
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- The cottage is on this mountain...to the left.
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- The cottage road.
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- The view from the front porch.You can see the bridge to the right of the center.
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- Welcome!
Traveler Reviews (75)
Perfect Stay
Guest: leanne b.
(jersey city)
Date of Stay: 01/27/12
Review Submitted: 02/01/12
Spent this past weekend at the super cozy AT Cabin! 'Cabin' is an understatement, its really a modern, well appointed home. It beautiful, clean, and super comfortable. We spent almost the entire weekend inside near the fire and around the kitchen table, exactly the seclusion and relaxation we were looking for. There are plenty of opportunities for peaceful walks in any direction when you leave the house. Owners are super friendly and very helpful with questions, everything has directions and works great. I would recommend staying here to almost anyone, the loft might be tricky for some folks, as its accessed from a ladder and has a low ceiling, but its really just extra space, the main floor of the cabin is plenty. Loved it and will go back!!
Recommended for:
secluded cozy getaway!
Guest: leanne b.
(jersey city)
Date of Stay: 01/27/12
Review Submitted: 01/31/12
Just returned from a wonderful relaxing weekend at the cabin! Its really a beautiful modern well appointed home more than it is a cabin! Has everything you need as is described in the listing. Liz is super friendly and helpful with any questions. Will make it a point to return soon!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, girls getaway, families with teenagers.
Holiday week at the cabin
Guest: Sue S.
Date of Stay: 12/20/11
Review Submitted: 01/11/12
We loved the cabin. The minute we walked in the front door and saw the stonewall fireplace and the ladder to the loft we fell in love. It is obvious to us why we see so many repeat families coming back to this cabin. It is clean and obviously loved. The cabin is full of many extras; such as teas, coffee, reading glasses, suntan lotion and a variety of children's toys. We even found day-glow orange caps and vest for safe hiking during hunting season. It was quiet and comfortable. The owners have thought of everything right down to providing firewood and all the fixing for smores. The kitchen is fully stocked with everything one could need. My son and granddaughter loved the loft. He played with the dinosaurs and train tracks all week. Several members of our family hiked up around the back and found the secret swing. They had a blast. Though there are plenty of activities to participate in the area. This cabin is a perfect peaceful retreat. We had a lovely relaxing Christmas in its warmth. We'll back. The owners responses prior to and throughout were helpful and immediate. We have already made tentative to return. Our friends have asked where this wonderful place was just so they can stay.
Recommended for:
Another wonderful visit
Guest: Michael W.
(Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Date of Stay: 01/02/12
Review Submitted: 01/11/12
We had another wonderful visit to the AT Cabin. Liz and Ken are wonderful hosts and the visit was perfect in every way.
Recommended for:
relaxing weekend
Guest: Katharine D.
Date of Stay: 12/15/11
Review Submitted: 12/19/11
My family of 5 spent a wonderful winter weekend at this cottage to celebrate my husband's birthday. We did a little hiking, a little cooking and a lot of relaxing. It was a wonderful place to "get away from it all" and reconnect as a family. My children spent hours in the loft, and while they needed a bit of help getting up and down the ladder, it was a perfect place to play. We will definitely come again!
Recommended for:
The Cottage
Guest: Jan M.
Date of Stay: 11/22/11
Review Submitted: 12/09/11
We spent our Thanksgiving holiday at this wonderful cottage. It was as described and more. The setting was uncrowded and peaceful. It was just what a bunch of city people needed to regroup from our busy lives. The owners were thoughtful and attentive to our needs. We especially enjoyed the notebooks filled with ideas for viewing the local sites. Our visits to the Appalachian Trail and Yuengling Brewery were highlights for us. The cabin was clean and well-maintained. We would stay here again if the opportunity should present itself.
Recommended for:
Perfect Retreat
Guest: Sara J.
Date of Stay: 11/09/11
Review Submitted: 12/03/11
This was a perfect spot for our work retreat. The cabin is cozy, comfortable and well appointed and maintained. It has a wonderful combination of modern convemiences and old fashioned charm. The two bedrooms are spacious, and the loft worked well for two adult men, low celings notwithstanding. With five adults indoors for much of the time, we never felt crowded, and we felt very well taken care of. Our hosts were helpful with every detail, from step-by-step directions to troubleshooting internet connectivity while we were there. They also left fixins for smores, along with firewood and kindling - a really thoughtful touch. It was raining a good bit of the time we were there, so we didn't spend much time outdoors, but the setting is beautiful, in the hills nestled among a stream and woodland trails. I highly recommend the cabin for anyone looking for a peaceful retreat not too far from the city.
Recommended for:
Amazing Cabin Experience
Guest: Richard M.
Date of Stay: 11/18/11
Review Submitted: 11/21/11
I was on the search for a cozy cabin half way between Washington DC and New York City and this is it! Had an amazing time staying at Liz and Ken's one of a kind cabin. In the thick of the woods you really feel tucked away and still only a short drive to civilization. I will definitely be staying here again. Hiking, And S'mores are literally waiting....
Recommended for:
Fun at the Cottage!
Guest: Ed & Maryann S.
Date of Stay: 10/19/11
Review Submitted: 10/27/11
Great time! Very cozy and relaxing. Just what my wife and I needed. Beautiful place. Very clean and comfortable We were there two days and didn't venture out much. We had the fire going and had intimate dinners right there. The porch was fun to sit out on and listen to the stream down below. We hope to be back next year. Liz and Ken were wonderful hosts. Anything we needed was just a phone call away. We would recommend this cabin every one of our friends. Enjoy!
Recommended for:
Matt and 3 princesses in the cabin!
Guest: matt m.
Date of Stay: 09/03/11
Review Submitted: 10/18/11
We arrived Saturday morning to find much more than a "cabin" in the woods. "WOW" were the first words out of our mouths. My 5 year old daughter immediately went up to the "loft" and was enthralled. Everything is so clean and well kept. The smores and skewers were even out and ready for the fireplace. Liz was so helpful before we got there and even while we were there. She told us where the "cool" places were to go and visit. We even had internet to search for things in the area. Although, Liz is full of info on the area and can tell what's the best for your family. We left Saturday afternoon to go the PA Energy Fest. I'm no tree hugger but the carnival atmosphere was awesome for my family (just as Liz predicted). We came back to the cottage after dinner and stoked a good fire for smores (and to keep us warm). Even though the heat system is fantastic, there's nothing like a roaring fire keep you warm! On Sunday we woke up to the smouldering ashes and threw on some more logs. This got us through breakfast. When the fire died down, we went to see the old fashioned train ride and Crystal Cave (both were Liz's recommendations). They are both about 20 minutes away and an easy country drive. Both were outstanding suggestions for my family. She also has multiple booklets of attractions which most of them were hand written (showing her dedication to guest services) Going out to these places is nice but the next time we go, we are going to stay right there on the property and explore the nature and enjoy the cottage more. Everything you can possibly need is inside (or outside even). And, Liz is the most gracious and sweet host. There is plenty of room for even a large family with all the amenities that make you feel at home (despite being the only house for as far as the eye can see). I would recommend this place to anyone who wants an amazing peaceful weekend.
Recommended for:
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #182629
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