We spent Christmas weekend in the Norton House and had a fabulous time! The house is at the water's edge on a bluff, so there is a very pretty view from all the windows of the lake/Niangua River. The paved road down to the water's edge (a one minute walk) was very easy to walk down and back up. The weather was pretty cold, so we didn't sit around the campfire there, but the campfire spot right on the water is an excellent set-up, very comfortable, big chairs already there. The house itself was cozy yet roomy, and very, very clean. Beautiful kitchen, lots of wood trim, floor and paneling. Beds very comfortable, rooms a nice size. Bathrooms were beautiful too, even soap and shampoo provided just like a first-rate hotel. We prepared all our meals from scratch, which probably isn't typical of most vacationers at least in the summer, and there was plenty of cookware, utensils and dishes (we had to bring our own measuring cups and measuring spoons). Refrigerator was very large. Gerbes grocery store was nearby - great store. We also visited Ha Ha Tonka park (which my daughter dubbed LOL Tonka park) and saw the house ruins and an amazingly gorgeous view. Just amazing! The kitchen, dining and living room layout was perfect for us all to be in the same spot but not in each other's way. We watched Christmas dvds on the big screen tv. I don't think you can do better than this for the perfect vacation house!! The other house, Chardonel, I think it's called, is close by, so if you had a really big family to vacation with, you'd be even more comfortable. We want to come back when the winery is open and also go out on the lake. We all commented on how quiet the area was, although it may be more lively in the warmer months. This was one of our best vacations ever! -Patty