My wife and I, along with our two dogs, spent the week between Christmas and New Year's Day in this wonderful house. The place is furnished like a home, with all the appropriate furniture and artwork to make it feel like someone really lives there! The kitchen is well appointed with everything you need for cooking and eating. The bedrooms are comfortable and the master even has a Sleep Number adjustable mattress (which is something we'd never tried before!). We spent a lot of time lounging on the two recliner sofas just enjoying the view out to the mountains across the valley while the fire kept us comfortably warm. The floors are hardwood and very easy to maintain and the house is easy to secure and solidly built. The house is very secluded and yet access is relatively easy.

Despite having about 6 inches of snow from a previous storm, we managed to get out and about on several walks in the forest in front of the property and even found what appeared to be some old stone ruins down by a creek which was quite fascinating.

We managed a separate trip around the area each day except for one when it snowed all day. There are gorgeous lakes and small towns in abundance and the roads are generally good all around. My favorite drive was up along Peekamoose road through the same named valley (what's not to love about a place called Peekamoose!?). Stunning scenery!

Even in winter there are several diners open and there seems to be at least one in each town. These make for easy meals and good casual conversation with folks. There are convenience shops at gas stations in nearby Kerhonkson and there's a good sized supermarket at the Wallmart in nearby Ellensville if you need to do a full shop.

The owners checked in with us by email before we left to come to the house and then called as soon as we arrived. They were available by phone easily if needed and are very friendly and eager to assist. There's a detailed guidebook in the house with suggestions for nearby sightseeing and local restaurants as well.

We've been staying at various vacation rentals in a number of different locations throughout the USA for over fifteen years and we both felt when we left that this had been the best experience yet. We were so relaxed when we headed home (but so sad to be leaving!). We're already hoping to get another week here sometime soon if our work schedules will permit.

We can heartily recommend this lovely house for a great break!