“A Fabulous Indulgence” I literally just wanted some time off to spend with my kids and husband and a few close relatives and friends but didn't want to go so far away. It must have been through the grace of God that I came across this ginormous house and for the price the owner was asking for...practically a steal! I'm so happy in the decision I made in renting this home as opposed to just practically handing away my money to a hotel/resort, everything was conveniently close by, beaches, shops, theaters...there was even a guide book at the house that came in really handy. My kids loved the pool so much that it was difficult keeping them out. My husband enjoyed the outdoor BBQ and looked cute working the grill as well. This house has everything anyone could ever ask for and I mean everything! It was completely furnished, kitchen was fully stocked with appliances, cookware and utensils. Everyone enjoyed spending time together but the best part is that everyone got to go their separate ways at night in their own bed rooms with their own TV (def a must if you're a soap opera fanatic as I am). The only thing that I wasn't too crazy about was the check in (3 pm) and check out (11 am) time, it was a little too late and definitely too early for my taste (mostly because I really didn't want to leave). I def recommend not only this house, but the owner as well...very pleasant woman, it was like dealing with a family member...she was very welcoming and will most definitely rent from her again, am already counting down the days to my next vacation.

“Visit Great Barrington, but stay in a true New England town. Cho” Set back in the Berkshires, Alford Ma is a stone's throw from New York State. The small town borders Great Barrington, which is rich in activity. Many famous americans have roamed Barrington's streets, from W.E.B. DuBois to Woody Guthrie. The artistic spirit of Guthrie and social activism of DuBois can still be felt when your getting lunch at the Gypsy Joint or sipping a latte at Castle Street Cafe. The citizens of Great Barrington are friendly and thoughtful, never moving fast enough to share a story or lend a hand. This is one of my favorite towns in The Berkshires because it isn't Stockbridge. If you want the Norman Rockwell museum that's just fine, but if you want to see art in motion, music in the live and eat a sandwhich you didn't know existed..make this town a necessary pit-stop. And while you're visiting Great Barrington, stay at the smith homestead! This room offers a serene, private setting in a quintessential, New England home. The bed is big and comfortable and the bathroom is state of the art. The shower has a window that allows for an incredible view of the farm. There's nothing like a good "Scrub with a View". Step outside and enjoy a panoramic view of the mountains, or sit on the back porch and play your guitar. Chances are you'll make a friend in a lovely dog named Perry. Have him fetch a ball, or a stick. His vocabulary is quite expansive (I've seen him fetch an old set of deer antlers on command!) The owners are quite nice and knowledgable of the area. The breakfast is delicious and bottomless. At my last stay I ate at least 7 blueberry muffins. I couldn't resist. And when I'm back in The Berkshires I won't be able to resist staying at The Smith Homestead once again! 5 stars!!!

“Cozy little spot, kid and definitely dog friendly” We brought our Cavalier with us and had a great time at the cottage. It was clean and gave us tons of room. Would definitely stay again.

“Great house Jiminy Peak” We (family of 4) stayed a weekend in January 2010 with friends (family of 5). It is a great house, perfect location and the owner is really great to deal with. Highly recommended for everyone with kids. easy drive to the slopes. well maintained and very clean.

“Relaxing vacation” We vacationed here for the first two weeks of July. Bill and Sandy were fabulous hosts. They were attentive to our needs and generous with their time taking us out in their boat to view the fireworks. The space is decorated tastefully and was clean and welcoming. We spent almost all of our time outdoors enjoying the sun and water. We ate most of our meals outside on the patio. The only thing that could have made it any better would have been to have a screened in area so that we could have stayed out later at night after the mosquitos' came out. We are planning on returning next year.

“We'll be back!” We stayed with two other couples in August 2014, and found the house to be modern, comfortable and spacious with all the facilities we needed plus some nice touches such as the mood lighting and oversized deck. We loved the location, especially the privacy and quiet. We were central to town and beaches, everything was only a few minutes drive away. Thoroughly recommended, I would definitely stay there again.

“Wonderful Home!” We had a wonderful weekend! The home and area are lovely - easy walk to town for drinks and dinner - and enjoyed sitting on the many porches, looking out at the view. The home has been upgraded and the kitchen and living areas are beautiful. Thank you!

“Fantastic House -- Lake, Poor” Yes, the house is wonderful. Beautiful views abound, it's well stocked with everything you'd want, and extremely clean. A five-star place. That said, the lake's dreadful, in our opinion. It's murky-black. We did go swimming in it, however, but it's so murky you can't see your thighs in the water, much less the bottom. Our twenty-something son wanted to swim across it, and I kept thinking, if he goes under you'd never see him. As it was, he did swim across and we followed in a row boat. We would definitely return were it not for the lake.

“Best alternative to Fire Island” My partner and I wanted to try something new, we originally always go to Fire Island and although we will always love that place, I can't express how expensive it is just to go for a weekend with friends not to mention that we can't help but feel stranded in a way (we don't drive) because once the ferry leaves, that's it! You will be staying whether you want to or not. I would have never thought that I would find a house of this size, with amenities such as linens, towels, beach chairs, hot tub, and pool included for such a reasonable price at the Hamptons none the less...I thought it had to be a mistake, I literally had to call to confirm the rates. The owner was very prompt in her responses whether it would be through phone and or email, and she definitely went out of her way to make sure we were properly accommodated as well as gave awesome recommendations to nearby shops and restaurants. I never had such a pleasant and smooth experience. It was a one, two, three transaction and was very pleased with the outcome, will be coming back next year for sure!