Ideal location-- close to activities/amenities while in a quiet, rural setting that feels a million miles away.
The lake is perfect for any water activities you could want. Clear, clean, warm water for swimming, paddle-boarding, kayaking, etc. We loved that this end of the lake is a no-wake zone and not very busy. The small, nearby boat launch was mostly used for kayaks, canoes and the occasional motor boat. Even on the busiest days, it really wasn't very busy and never interfered with our enjoyment of the property/lake. Very pleasant with paddle board, 2 kayaks, canoe, floats on site.
The cottage itself is more attractive and spacious inside and out than the pictures portray. Overall, a nice balance of rustic simplicity complemented by modern updates. Lots of green natural barriers between neighbors, with a good balance of sun and shade throughout the property. Brought a portable badminton set we put up in the back yard, with plenty of room to spare. We enjoyed relaxing on the spacious deck and hanging out in lawn chairs closer to the lake.
Inside, a well-equipped kitchen opens onto a great room, with a full bath and small bedroom also on the first floor. Upstairs is an open, airy suite with flexible sleeping (king or two twins) lots of closet/drawer space, large bath. Both floors have tons of windows for great natural light, views and cross breezes. Furniture is very comfortable, rooms well lit, bathrooms nice. Although no A/C, fans and window blinds help keep the house surprisingly comfortable in hot weather. We were very pleased with the space and quite comfortable.
Wifi great, even had a signal down by the dock! No TV or streaming service, so bring books, games and downloads on your tablet. Cell service is spotty, use internet voice calling/messaging if your phone is set up for it, or the landline.
We loved taking walks in the neighborhood. It's a half mile to the end of the private road and smells deliciously of pine forest. Neighbors are friendly and nice.
Things we enjoyed: hiking Tyringham Cobble, Tanglewood , Jacob's Pillow, Great Barrington and Lenox downtown shops, Get Lit bookstore in Lenox, Lenox Patisserie in Great Barrington for macarons and pastries, Guido's gourmet market, Betty's Pizza in Lenox for excellent fresh topped pizza.
The owner was super easy to work with and very responsive. If you have questions, just ask! Can't say enough about how wonderfully he treated us!