Amazing Stargazing Retreat

Hi, I’m Wendy! My journey here began in Oregon, where I spent years as a small business owner running a dog school. When climate challenges and wildfire smoke made air quality a daily struggle, I decided to trade those smoky skies for the crisp, clean air and abundant water of the Finger Lakes. I’ve always felt a deep connection to this area; some of my fondest childhood memories involve visiting grandparents nearby, spending my days exploring the outdoors and marveling at the local wildlife. When I decided to make this my home, I searched diligently for a place that offered true peace—somewhere far from city lights and busy roads. I fell in love with this property because of its seclusion on an abandoned road, the privacy it provides, and its incredible, spring-fed pond. Restoring this property has been a true labor of love. After it sat abandoned for seven years, I dedicated myself to cleaning up the land and rehabbing the house to reflect my values. I replaced the old coal furnace with a clean, efficient mini-split system and recently added an EV charger. My goal is to make this land a sanctuary for both guests and wildlife. By prioritizing native plantings and protecting the meadow, I’ve created a refuge where you might spot otters, foxes, deer, or even a bobcat. I’m passionate about healthy living and sharing that restorative energy with my guests. From the air-purifying house plants to the "hummingbird café" I’ve cultivated right outside the dining room windows, every detail is designed to help you disconnect from the noise of the world and reconnect with nature. I’m thrilled to share this quiet, vibrant space with you.

I chose this location for the rare combination of deep peace and natural splendor. My property is tucked away on a quiet, remote road where the only neighbors are hundreds of acres of protected forest, offering a level of seclusion that is increasingly hard to find. The air here is crisp and clean, and the well water is remarkably delicious—a true testament to the health of the Finger Lakes region. The geography here is unlike anywhere else in the world. Being so close to these deep, ancient lakes and the hidden gems like Grimes Glen in Naples feels like living in a natural wonderland. I am constantly in awe of the landscape, from the stunning waterfalls to the lack of light pollution; on a clear night, the star-filled sky is nothing short of breathtaking. While the property feels like a world away, it offers the perfect balance. You can enjoy the absolute stillness of the meadow and the wildlife—from the otters in our spring-fed pond to the deer grazing at dawn—yet you are still within easy reach of the region’s renowned wineries and breweries. Whether you’re looking to explore the vibrant local culture in Canandaigua or Rochester, or simply want a peaceful retreat that is still accessible, this area provides the best of both worlds. It’s a place where you can truly breathe, reset, and experience the beauty of the natural world.

What truly sets this property apart is the intentionality behind every detail. Located on a quiet, abandoned road, you’ll find a rare level of privacy where the only "traffic" is the occasional local visitor. My goal was to create a sanctuary for healthy living that extends from the inside out. The home is designed to immerse you in nature. Our expansive wraparound porch offers the best of both worlds: a covered section where you can relax during a summer rainstorm, and an open-air area perfect for soaking up the sun. We’ve deliberately kept the stargazing areas—including the fire pit and the hot tub—open to the sky. Whether you’re watching the stars on a clear night or enjoying the unique sensation of snow falling while you’re in the warmth of the hot tub, the connection to the elements is constant. I’m also deeply committed to natural, sustainable practices. Instead of artificial hummingbird feeders, I’ve cultivated a "hummingbird café" using canna lilies, providing a natural food source for these beautiful visitors. You’ll also notice a lack of pesky insects here, thanks to our thriving ecosystem. By maintaining the meadow and the pond, we’ve encouraged a large population of dragonflies that act as natural pest control, keeping the area comfortable without the need for harsh chemicals. From the air-purifying indoor plants to the clean, quiet environment, this property is more than just a place to stay—it is a space designed to help you rejuvenate. It’s a quiet, vibrant refuge where you can experience the land exactly as it was meant to be, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a healthy, flourishing ecosystem.