We really enjoyed our stay here. The location is marvelous, towards the back of a quiet cove, and the house is quite nice.

We spent considerable time on the spacious dock — and on the water. The cove is perfect if you have young children (or even adults) who aren't experienced kayakers but want to get comfortable on the water. The paddle boat is a nice option, too. (It was too cold for paddle boards during our early-spring visit, sadly.)

There's an osprey nest just beyond the cove, on top of the shoal warning sign; during our stay, an osprey also landed in a tree near the property and spent nearly 45 minutes devouring a fish. Alas, the bird was a better fisherman than I was; I struck out while casting from the dock. (Be sure to get a fishing license from the state!)

The deck is quite nice, especially in the late afternoon, and we also took advantage of the hot tub and the fire pit. The basketball/tennis courts are just up the street, close enough for young children to walk on their own, which was nice. There is a bunch of sports gear at the house, too -- a really nice touch.

Our favorite interior features: The kitchen, which spills into the dining room, which spills into the living room. Our two families spent most of our inside time on that main level, though the kids periodically disappeared downstairs to use the gaming system. The well-stocked kitchen has most of what you'll need to cook (including two types of coffee machines, one of them a Keurig), and we also made good use of the gas grill on the deck.

There is plenty to do nearby, and there is a Food Lion just a few minutes away, next to a Virginia ABC Store.

We'll definitely try to come back. The only things we'd do differently: Stay longer, for sure ... try come back when it's warmer ... figure out the right bait for the fish in the cove ... and probably bring our own linens and towels. (The house has plenty, but departure day will be a bit easier if you bring your own.)

One other thing: The owner is amazingly responsive and gives you all the information you'll need before your visit. A great guy.