A magical place nestled into the woods, marked by open forest views, and natural light. Enjoy spectacular sunsets over our lake from the porches, or through the glass picture windows. Listen to the creek meandering along the side porch. A place of beauty, to unwind, unplug and enjoy nature. For those that crave the inspiration & solace that only nature can provide. Gardens and paths... benches and views... water and peace... nature & art… Staying at the Chalet supports our conservation work.
The space
"Trees release chemicals called phytoncides that reduce stress hormones like cortisol, lower blood pressure, and improve immunity. .. Our bodies respond by increasing the number and activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells or NK. .. In one study, increased NK activity from a 3-day, 2-night forest bathing trip lasted for more than 30 days. Japanese researchers are currently exploring whether exposure to forests can help prevent certain kinds of cancer."
-WSMTC & NYSDEC
We wish to share our Chalet with people that love and respect the Earth, who wish to contribute to a conservation project through their own presence and mindfulness. Our focus and purpose on this land is to provide stewardship and sanctuary for the Natural world to maintain it’s own balance with minimal interference from humans. To remain wild and free. We are a plant, wildlife and butterfly sanctuary.
We rent the Chalet to support our not-for-profit land conservation work: Providing habitat and refuge for animals, insects, birds and more. The reduction of invasive and harmful species. The maintenance and expansion of native and pollinating species of plants. Expanding the area that we steward.
The Chalet is a wonderful place for relaxation, peaceful exploration, creative inspiration, artists, musicians and writers. Great for couples, personal or group retreats, weddings, honeymoons, family vacation, or a gentle getaway to nature.
General:
This property is on 17 acres with access to our 9 acre lake (across our private drive) for canoeing & swimming. The Chalet can sleep 5 people, and we have a portable crib available for the tiny ones. High ceilings are a welcome relief for tall people. This is a shoes-free building. As you come in the door, look up to see our 3D printed moon light!
Main Room and Kitchen:
The Main Room and Kitchen share an open-floor-plan. The main room has a trundle daybed (can be 2 single beds or 1 queen), leather sofa & chairs, and soapstone wood stove. Large picture windows overlook our forest and lake.
The kitchen is fully equipped with running water from the well, gas range/oven, full-size refrigerator, toaster oven, electric water-kettle, crock pot, food processor, french press, SodaStream, dish ware, silverware, cooking utensils and more. Organic coffee & teas are provided.
Bedroom:
The bedroom has a double bed and propane fireplace.
Backroom:
Backroom separated by glass french doors with privacy shades, can be used as a separate bedroom or as a sitting room. Has a single-sized pull out sofa bed, chaise lounge, and propane fireplace. This room connects to the main area by the French doors, and opens to two of the three porches - the covered sitting porch, and the covered rear wood-porch.
Bathroom:
Full bathroom with shower, toilet, towels, robes, and slippers (or bring your own!).
Laundry:
Front-loading washer and dryer adjacent to the bathroom are available for guest use. PLEASE USE ONLY THE LAUNDRY SOAP WE PROVIDE! (Our soap is hypo-allergenic, septic-safe, and tried-and-true)
Loft:
Upstairs loft with two beanbag beds, and a fantastic view of our 9 acre lake. (Note: loft stairs are relatively steep)
Heating:
The chalet is heated by the soapstone wood stove. The propane fireplaces are for ambiance and to help warm parts of the building that are farther from the wood stove.
Covered Side Porch:
Covered sitting porch rests above the creek, where you have a view of the lake and can hear the babbling of the creek and gentle tones of wind chimes. Lit at night by LED string ceiling lights.
Rear Porch:
The rear “wood” porch is a covered porch used to access the chalet in wet weather (so as to not drip all over the floor), and to store cordwood for winter heating, outdoor games, etc.
Front Porch:
Open porch leading to the main door is a great place to do yoga, read, relax, watch wildlife, watch the sunset, …
Outside:
Path(s) and bridges over the creek lead to the Reflection Pond, surrounded with native plants, dragonflies, chirping frogs, and filled with koi. (For the health of the pond and it’s aquatic residents, no swimming or wading.)
Below the front porch is a seating area and propane grill. A little further down the slope is a fire pit with log seats. Beyond is a woodland garden with paths for contemplative strolls.
Behind the Chalet is a rose & lavender garden, an open area and the Moon Garden.
Games & Entertainment:
Bluetooth speaker, indoor screen & projector (coming soon), puzzles, card games, board games, sketchpad & coloring books (with colored pencils & crayons), outdoor games (frisbee, croquet, beanbag toss)
WiFi:
Wifi is now available! (Our local telephone company received a grant to run fiber-optic to rural areas.) However, if you would prefer an opportunity to unplug, we'd be more than happy to power off the router before you arrive.
Children:
Make sure to contact us before booking with children! This listing may not be appropriate to every situation. Children require active supervision on this property: The woodstove and propane stoves burn very hot and are at floor level; The flooring is sturdy for most activities, but is constructed of recycled materials and is softer than regular hardwood flooring and more susceptible to scratching and gouging; The loft steps are very steep; Outside there is open water, cultivated gardens, a variety of wildlife, and potentially challenging terrain.
Other things to note:
-The changing climate has given us longer spells of dry/drought conditions.
We have never had the creek run dry, but it’s always possible! The level in the pond may drop several feet during particularly dry seasons.
-We will need to access the property occasionally to maintain plants, feed fish, mow (during extended stays), provide heating wood, refill propane, etc. We value your privacy and we'll coordinate with you on timing so as to not disturb you. If you have any questions or concerns, let us know!
Coming Soon / In Process:
-Meditation Garden
-Waterfall/mosaic wall.
Guest access
Private road to access the Chalet. Parking at the house can accommodate several vehicles.
