Under the Hemlocks Escape: A Cozy Getaway Retreat

Escape to a tranquil, bijou studio retreat under the hemlocks—your perfect getaway. This scent-sensitive gem features elegant furnishings, quality linens, and thoughtful amenities. Enjoy the dreamy bed, custom kitchenette, and deep clawfoot soaking tub with rain shower. Relax by the indoor fireplace and unwind in your private outdoor spaces, including the unique Writer’s Retreat—an off‑grid rustic haven.
Fast Wi‑Fi, parking, and minutes to UMass and Amherst.

Whether you’re here for a restful weekend getaway, a visit to the Five Colleges, or simply a quiet place to recharge after a busy day, every detail has been curated to make your stay warm, welcoming, and restorative — an ideal retreat for one or two guests.

Amenities
Private Guest Suite
Enjoy complete privacy with your own dedicated space—no shared areas, just a cozy retreat all to yourself.

Guest Driveway
A designated parking spot makes coming and going simple and stress-free.

Luxurious Bed
Drift into a dreamy night’s sleep on a queen-sized bed with adjustable head settings, premium linens, and plush pillows. Blackout blinds, individually controlled heating and cooling, and a tower fan ensure your comfort in every season.

Extra Sleeping Option
A clever chair/bed combination transforms into a comfortable European small double bed/daybed — perfect for lounging during the day or accommodating an extra guest at night. Ideal for a family of two or besties who don’t mind sharing an intimate space.
*Please note: adding the second bed makes the studio a little cosier, and as this is an open-plan layout, there are no separate bedrooms or partitions.
**An additional $40 per stay applies for the second bed.

Custom Bathroom
Relax and refresh in a deep soaking tub with a rain shower. Eco-friendly bath products, waffle towels, and robes are provided, along with a hairdryer and cleaning supplies.
Please mindful of the tub’s depth when stepping in and out.

Kitchenette
A well-equipped kitchenette includes:
Microwave, kettle, coffee machine, toaster, and mini fridge/freezer
Dishes, cutlery, stemware, and cooking utensils
Personal blender, storage containers, and mixing bowls
Compact countertop dishwasher
Complimentary tea and coffee are always available.

Flexible Table Space
A versatile table serves as a dining spot, workspace, or coffee table—perfect for meals, remote work, or simply enjoying a cup of tea.

Wi-Fi & Charging
Stay connected with fast, reliable Wi-Fi. Multiple outlets, surge protectors, USB ports, and charging cords are provided for your convenience.

A Screen-Free Zone
To encourage relaxation, the suite is intentionally designed without a television. Instead, enjoy a selection of books, puzzles, games, and drawing materials for a mindful, unplugged experience.

Outdoor Courtyard
Step outside to a welcoming courtyard with seating, a fire pit, grill with side burner, and a prep kitchen with sink.
Some outdoor amenities may be unavailable during the winter months.

The Writer’s Retreat
A rustic, airy hideaway where the indoors and outdoors blend seamlessly. Off-grid and designed for quiet reflection, this screened sunroom offers a tranquil space to curl up with a book, sip tea, or let inspiration flow onto the page.
Now featuring a brand-new gel fuel fireplace, the retreat glows with warmth and ambience — perfect for cool evenings or misty mornings.
*The complimentary gel fuel provides up to three hours of cosy firelight, with additional fuel available for purchase if desired.
**The space is available most months, though it may close during periods of heavy rain, snow, or freezing conditions. Please check with the host for availability between November and May.

A Final Note
Every corner of Under the Hemlocks has been created with care to offer a cozy, elegant, and restorative stay. Whether you’re here to rest, explore, or create, this little haven is ready to welcome you.


Under the Hemlocks: Frequently Asked Questions

General Policies

Is the property scent-sensitive?
Yes. Under the Hemlocks is a scent-sensitive friendly property. To ensure a comfortable environment for all guests, please avoid using strong scents such as perfumes, sprays, or heavily fragranced products during your stay.

Is smoking allowed?
No. Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere on the property. Any evidence of smoking will result in an additional $150 charge.

Who is allowed to stay overnight?
Only guests listed on the reservation may stay overnight.

Can I have visitors?
Yes, visitors are welcome between 10a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Can I bring my fish, iguana, or chinchilla?
No, sorry—no pets or exotic companions are allowed.

Can I arrive early or leave late?
Early arrivals or later departures are sometimes possible if mentioned when booking. These requests depend on the reservation schedule, so they can’t always be guaranteed. Last-minute requests normally aren’t possible, as time is needed to prepare the space with care for each guest.

Does the primary booking guest need to stay for the entire reservation?
Yes. The primary guest who booked the reservation must remain for the full duration of the stay.

Are there quiet hours?
Yes. Quiet hours are observed from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. to ensure a peaceful environment for all.

Guests & Sleeping Arrangements

How many guests can stay at Under the Hemlocks?
The studio guest suite is designed for a maximum of 2 guests. It is a small, open-plan space intended for 2 humans only.

Is the suite suitable for children?
No. The space is not equipped with child safety measures such as safety gates or child-proof locks. For safety reasons, the suite is unsuitable for babies or children under 12.

Is there an extra bed available?
Yes. A space-saving chair/bed combination converts into a European small double bed. If you require this second bed, there is an additional charge of $40 per stay.
Please note: The suite is an open-plan studio. Adding the second bed makes the space a little smaller, and the sleeping area is not separate from the main bed.


Comfort & Amenities
Do you provide tea, coffee, bedding, towels, and paper products?
Yes. Tea, coffee, bedding, towels, and essential paper products are provided for your stay.

Are there lots of kitchen essentials?
Yes. Guests often comment on how well-equipped the kitchen is, with plenty of essentials provided.

How do I adjust the heating and cooling?
Heating and cooling instructions are posted above the bed for easy reference.

What should I know about the bathtub?
The suite features a deep soaking tub with a rain shower. It’s perfect for relaxation, but please be mindful of the tub’s depth when stepping in and out.

Is there a television in the suite?
No. The space is intentionally designed without a TV to encourage a calm, relaxing, and Zen-like atmosphere. Instead, books, puzzles, games, and drawing materials are provided.

Where can I find Wi-Fi details, amenity instructions, and local guides?
Wi-Fi, amenity instructions, and local guides are available on the interactive touchscreen in the kitchenette.

How do I work the 3-in-1 table or remotes for fireplace candles, and other amenities?
The coffee table and remotes have QR codes linking to short tutorials that explain how to use them.

Is there an iron in the suite, and what are the options for removing wrinkles from clothes?
Due to limited space, an iron isn’t provided, but a clothes steamer is available in the suite for your convenience. I’m happy to iron garments by arrangement.

Damages
Normal wear and tear from gentle, everyday use is expected and never charged. However, costs may be applied for damage that goes beyond this—such as broken items, stains, burns, or other clear signs of misuse or neglect.

Housekeeping & Services

Is housekeeping available during my stay?
Housekeeping is available for extended stays. Please arrange this service during the booking process so it can be scheduled in advance.

May I bring a personal kitchen appliance?
Possibly, depending on the appliance, but please arrange this with me in advance.

How many parking spaces are available?
Parking is provided for one vehicle. If you need extra space, let me know and I’ll be glad to arrange it.

Surroundings & Seasonal Notes

Will it be completely quiet during my stay?
The suite is located in a cosy, wooded residential neighbourhood. While the retreat is designed for peace and tranquillity, occasional sounds may be heard. These could include the host’s dog, grandchildren playing, or normal household activity. Neighbourhood sounds such as lawn maintenance, snow removal, or delivery vans are also possible and beyond my control.

Can I use the outdoor kitchen year-round?
During winter, the outdoor kitchen is limited to the worktop only, as the sink and water supply are shut down to prevent freezing.

Is the Writer’s Retreat open all year?
Yes, The Writer’s Retreat is open year‑round, though access may be paused during periods of extreme weather.

Will I encounter wildlife or insects?
The suite is nestled among the Hemlocks and is part of a vibrant woodland ecosystem. Despite regular treatments, you may occasionally see insects. Wildlife such as bears, foxes, or possums may also be spotted in the area—they are part of the natural surroundings.

What's Under the Hemlocks cancellation policy?
Under the Hemlocks has a firm, non‑negotiable cancellation policy, so travel insurance is strongly recommended to protect against unforeseen changes.