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Bright Modern Secluded Vermont Home: Fish Pond + Trails, 5 Mins to Williamstown

Photo gallery for Bright Modern Secluded Vermont Home: Fish Pond + Trails, 5 Mins to Williamstown

A rustic cabin with a dirt path leading to it, surrounded by trees.
A serene pond surrounded by lush greenery and a clear blue sky.
A grassy field with a gazebo, a red building, and a cabin surrounded by trees.
A gravel path in a forested area with a wooden fence and flower boxes.
A cozy living room with a sofa, armchair, and ottoman, a large window with a view of greenery, and a ceiling fan.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
This vacation home accommodates 8 guests with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It features 1 separate living room and is pet-friendly, welcoming your furry family members. Mountain Meadow Preserve and Williamstown Trailhead offer outdoor activities for the whole family.

Highlights

  • Family fun awaits

    Top-rated for families.
  • Beach equipment

    A rare find — beach equipment ready to go for your days by the sea.
  • Centrally-located

    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Electric vehicle charging point
  • Barbecue
  • Toys
  • Internet
  • Refrigerator
  • Onsite parking available

Explore the area

View map
Pownal, VT
  • Place, Mountain Meadow Preserve
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Williamstown Trailhead
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Williams College
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.)
    ‪69 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

Living Room 1

1 Single Sofa Bed and 1 Single Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Number of living rooms
Garden

About this property

Bright Modern Secluded Vermont Home: Fish Pond + Trails, 5 Mins to Williamstown

The Cottage At Mountain Meadow
Originally built as a guest house on a 45 acre country estate in Vermont just five minutes from Williams college, this secluded year-round Vermont home has always been called “The Cottage”, although a recent expansion to a family sized home stretches that definition. Three bedrooms, two full baths plus a pine-paneled loft with additional sleep options. Kitchen opens onto a large, bright and cheerful great room with floor to ceiling local fieldstone fireplace and skylights. Soak up the ambience of a cozy wood fire in colder months. Walk from the house and property directly onto the 240-acre Mountain Meadow Preserve trails…this protected land surrounds the estate. Lush and private woodland setting. Swim or fish for catch and release brook trout and bluegill in the large stocked spring-fed pond.

Relax with family and friends around the fire pit, pick wildflowers in the meadow, collect pictures of birds and wildlife, choose one of the many marked trails to explore, fish or troll the edge of the water with your net for pond life, and don’t forget you are still just five minutes from restaurants and shopping on Spring Street in Williamstown, and four minutes’ drive to the Williamstown access of the new Mohican Trail (mixed use trail: bike, walk, or run). Just thirteen minutes to MASS MoCA.
A comfortable and warm home base for a ski weekend; it’s a scenic 16 mile/about 20 minute drive to Jiminy Peak (with no traffic until you reach the resort), and hour to Mount Snow. The trails surrounding the property are great for cross country skiers.

This home was constructed for privacy, with the front door opening to forest. No windows are visible to the main house up the road and vice versa.

King bed and ensuite bath in the master. Two bedrooms each with a full size bed. There is a twin bed and oversized sleeper chair in the loft. There is an additional foldout chair bed which can move easily to any bedroom. Sleeps 7-9.

We now have 1Gps fiber optic high speed internet.

We ask for no special check out instructions or requirements!

If the dates you have chosen over a year in advance end up being the date of one of the rare local festivals or events, we may raise rates and give you the right of first refusal. (This is to prevent a guest from reserving all the possible weekends of a future event long before the actual date is announced.) We look forward to hosting you!

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 11:00 AM

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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings

Permission required for events. Fees may apply

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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats (limit 1 total)

Dogs must be leashed. Another dog lives nearby.

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:

Start the dishwasher

No check out instructions! Safe travels to you.

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 3237011vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 25
Note from host: Permission required for events. Fees may apply
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

About the area

Pownal

Pownal is home to this holiday home. Williams College Taconic Golf Course and Waubeeka Golf Links are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit 62 Center for Theater and Dance and Hopkins Observatory. The Clark Art Institute and Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum are also worth visiting.
Map
Pownal, VT

What's nearby

  • Mountain Meadow Preserve - 4 min drive - 2.9 km
  • Williamstown Trailhead - 5 min drive - 3.3 km
  • Williams College - 6 min drive - 4.7 km
  • The Clark Art Institute - 11 min drive - 7.5 km
  • Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort - 31 min drive - 33.0 km

Getting around

  • Pittsfield, MA (PSF-Pittsfield Municipal) - 46 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cumberland Farms - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Lodge - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Stewart's Shops - ‬18 min walk
  • ‪Dunkin' - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Lickety Split at Mass MoCA - ‬15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Bright Modern Secluded Vermont Home: Fish Pond + Trails, 5 Mins to Williamstown pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 1 total).

How much does it cost to stay at Bright Modern Secluded Vermont Home: Fish Pond + Trails, 5 Mins to Williamstown?

As of 20 Sept 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Bright Modern Secluded Vermont Home: Fish Pond + Trails, 5 Mins to Williamstown on 26 Jan 2027 start from AU$1,408, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Bright Modern Secluded Vermont Home: Fish Pond + Trails, 5 Mins to Williamstown?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Bright Modern Secluded Vermont Home: Fish Pond + Trails, 5 Mins to Williamstown?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Bright Modern Secluded Vermont Home: Fish Pond + Trails, 5 Mins to Williamstown?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Bright Modern Secluded Vermont Home: Fish Pond + Trails, 5 Mins to Williamstown located?

Situated in Pownal, this holiday home is within 2 miles (3 km) of Green Mountain National Forest, Mountain Meadow Preserve and Williamstown Trailhead. Mountain Meadow Preserve Vermont Trailhead and The Dome Trailhead are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 35 out of 38 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 38 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 38 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 38 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay! The home was clean, well-stocked, and very comfortable. I loved the serenity of the location. We took walks on trails through the forest and enjoyed the peace and quiet.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 13 July 2026
I agree, it is peaceful. We would love to have you back sometime.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was hands down the best rental we’ve ever had. So much bigger than it looks from the outside and my kids loved having the huge loft TV area to themselves. They loved fishing in the pond every day and we loved being able to access hiking trails right from the property. It is beautiful and secluded yet 5 minutes from Williamstown. Hoping to come back again soon!!! Thank you for a wonderful trip!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage is very clean and comfortable, and is in a lovely setting close to Williamstown.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had everything that we needed, and the house was spotless. The host was very responsive and helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 21 July 2026
We would love to have you back!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Myself, my husband, and our four adult children all stayed. The house had enough space for all of us. Everything you needed was already there! We had a wonderful time exploring Vermont, New York, and the Berkshires. We love the pond and ending our nights around the fire pit. Main Street in Williamstown was quintessential New England and we absolutely loved Images cinema.Great restaurants, and coffee all around!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed at Venetia’s lovely cottage for a week, and that just wasn’t long enough! The cottage was well appointed and oh so cozy! We loved the secluded setting, yet we were close to everything we wanted to do. Going for hikes right out our front door was a bonus! And it was so peaceful to sit outside with my coffee in the morning and listen to all the birds singing! Venetia was so wonderful to work with. She was super responsive and so kind. We will definitely plan to come back sometime soon!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Aug 2026
How kind! We would love to have you back.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean and cozy with all amenities needed for a long weekend.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed at this property for a wedding in North Adams and Williamstown, MA. The property was very clean and inviting. Beds were comfortable, and the layout was perfect. It was hot, but the AC unit in the living room kept the climate cool. The bedrooms had fans to circulate the air and provide comfort. We were tied up with wedding activities so we didnt get to enjoy the use of the property. There's a few restaurants right down the road into Williamstown. My husband took off early Saturday to bike at Thunder Mountain. The area was beautiful. And there's an adorable diner 3 minutes from the house: The Chef's Hat, where we had a great breakfast. Cleanliness and quiet are my most imprtant qualities, and this property met both. Venetia was very responsive and easy to do business with. Highly reccomend this property for anyone visting the Berkshires!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Aug 2026
Next time, come and linger! Chef’s hat is fun, and Cozy Corner across the street is famous for their pizza. We would love to have you back!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic experience

Wonderful setting, beautiful cabin, terrific hosts.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Aug 2024
Until next time!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice get away!

We had a wonderful time nestled in the woods with our family! We can’t wait to return!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The location is quiet and the grounds are beautiful. Inside the house has everything you need for a comfortable stay. The host was amazing, even putting out fresh flowers from the property for our arrival. I highly recommend and would definitely stay there again!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect restful spot in the woods

The property was beautiful! The kids enjoyed fishing in the pond with their grandpa. The hosts were nice enough to let us have a small impromptu family cookout and were very helpful when we accidentally locked ourselves out. It was a great stay!
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 May 2025
You were ideal guests and we are glad the fishing was optimal!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning and Great Access!

What an absolutely gorgeous property this is! The pond, the trails, the easy access to Williams, Bennington, mountaintop beer and pizza - perfect for a Berkshires getaway. Absolutely amazing experience!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Oct 2024
We would love to be your Roommate Reunion place next year!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend trip

Such a gorgeous house! We loved walking the nearby trails and how close it was to Williams. Venetia was the best!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Nov 2024
We’d love to have you back for the big game next year!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
The property owner was very responsive in communicating. We were very comfortable at the property and will definitely look to stay there next year for our annual trip
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property was clean and well stocked with everything you need. It is a great space to spend time with family as I did. Our host, Venetia, was more than accommodating. She responded quickly whenever I messaged her. Over all, great experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Venetia and Joe are wonderful and generous hosts. The house is comortable, very liveable, and very well designed with lots of great personal touches and conveniences. It is on a beautiful property with access to some great hiking trails. Five stars!
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Oct 2025
September in Vermont is beautiful! Look forward to seeing you next year.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful

Communication with the host was phenomenal and the home was cozy and inviting! The area around the home was gorgeous and had a great little hike on the property. We would definitely stay here again in the future!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful weekend away

This was a wonderful weekend away! The house was beautiful - in the forest with hiking trails adjacent and just a stone's throw from Williamstown. It was just perfect for our family and we will be sure to come back.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Oct 2023
We would love to have you back!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay! The house was very clean and well taken care of, and the pond on the property was absolutely gorgeous, such a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy nature. The loft upstairs was perfect for our guests and gave everyone plenty of space. Our host was incredibly friendly and quick to respond to any questions we had, which made the whole experience even better. Just note that the rental is on the same property as the host, but they were very respectful of our privacy. Overall, a beautiful and comfortable place to stay, highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything in the house is very clean and looks new. Functions very well for a family with lots of space for everyone.Photos may undersell the property. Very special in the woods. Colors were magnificent.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Oct 2025
We would love to have you back!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A home away from home

Everything in this home has a touch of thoughtfulness and taste. We loved it and our stay was very nice even though we were not lucky with the weather.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Oct 2024
We would love to have you back and will do our best to provide sun : )!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent place to stay for a visit to Williams College

We stayed at the cottage for parents’s weekend at Williams college with our teenage kids and dog. The cottage is spacious yet cost, had everything we needed and very conveniently located. Communication with host was great. Thank you for a great place, we’ll be happy to come back :)
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Oct 2024
We would love to host you again next year!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

Lovely home. Loved the complimentary shower products.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The interior of the cottage is well appointed and aesthetically pleasing. All the comforts of home. The property is beautiful - feeding the fish in the pond was an unexpected delight! Venetia, Joe and family are kind, friendly, helpful people, who helped me feel welcome and cared for while also allowing me complete privacy. I highly recommend this property!
Stayed 45 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Aug 2025
You were the perfect guest, and we would love to have you back for the Williamstown Theater Festival season next year, or whenever you need a break!

About the host

Hosted by Venetia

Host profile image

I have been a property manager for more than 15 years in Williamstown and Vermont, and this is my family's compound. We live here with my father, our adult children, approximately 2,376 songbirds, boatloads of chipmunks, the occasional shy bear, a pair of pileated woodpeckers, a territorial kingfisher, a great blue heron or two, some intrepid porcupine, and (when we are lucky) our pet moose Peanut.

Why they chose this property

One of my great-great-grandmothers left us a cross stitch portrait of her home, Okenkarr, in Alvsborg, Sweden. It reminded us so much of our property here on the Mountain Meadow Preserve in Pownal, Vermont, that our family adopted the name.
It is an absolutely glorious and peaceful place in an ideal location, and we are delighted to share it with you!

What makes this property unique

We must be the only vacation spot where you can stand with one foot on your Vermont vacation property and one foot in Williamstown, MA. It's the ideal place for people who want to be close to Williams and Williamstown, yet feel as though their home base is nestled in a nature preserve.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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