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Modern Rustic Retreat- King bed, hot tub, wineries, waterfalls, hiking, Cornell

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Exterior
Private kitchen
Room
Room
Outdoor spa tub

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 6111.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi

Explore the area

View map
Ithaca, NY
  • Place, Cayuga Nature Center
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Place, Ithaca College
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Place, Cornell University
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Airport, Ithaca, NY (ITH-Tompkins Regional)
    ‪20 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bed

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Modern Rustic Retreat- King bed, hot tub, wineries, waterfalls, hiking, Cornell

Enjoy your next Finger Lakes vacation at the Rustic Red Retreat! Located just outside of Ithaca, and a short drive to Cornell, this home is nestled next to a peaceful pond and provides modern amenities with rustic charm. The beautiful hand-hewn beams, reclaimed materials, and fireplace offer a warm, cozy stay after a busy day exploring the area. Enjoy numerous state parks, incredible waterfalls, wineries, breweries, restaurants, and all the seasonal events that the Finger Lakes have to offer!

Located along Cayuga Lake, this beautiful home boasts reclaimed materials throughout - Douglas Fir floors from the bleachers in the previous Ithaca College gymnasium. Hand-hewn barn beams from the late 1800s create a sense of life and warmth on the main floor and hand selected stones from the area were used to build a relaxing front porch. Feeling adventurous? Grab your soap and suds up under the stars in the outdoor shower!

The rustic red retreat is perfect for a romantic getaway or to enjoy with family and friends. The main floor features a half bath with laundry, a well-equipped cook-in kitchen, a dining area, and a lovely conversation space with a cozy gas-burning stove.

The second level sleeps 5 to 6 guests - two private bedrooms with three beds, an open loft/living space with a sleeper sofa, 65-inch smart T.V., and a full bath.

With iconic Taughannock Falls just 3 minutes away, we’ve provided a state park pass for guests to borrow allowing for free parking at any of the nearby state parks. The property also offers a new Weber gas grill, picnic table, Adirondack chairs, and a corn-hole game for guests to enjoy.

Notable nearby attractions include Taughannock Falls State Park, Buttermilk Falls State Park, Robert H. Treman State Park, and many other local parks including Cass Park and Stewart Park, and hiking the Black Diamond Trail.

Our home is located at the beginning of the Cayuga Lake wine trail with Bet the Farm Winery just 4 minutes away. Want to explore even more? Venture to downtown Ithaca and enjoy many local shops and restaurants just around the corner from the Ithaca Commons and minutes from the colleges. For those who prefer a quieter area with great restaurants and parks, drive just 4 miles to Trumansburg where you’ll find unique shops and local restaurants.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels and store extra beds
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Please turn the heat down to 60 for the fireplace.
Please collect all used towels and place them in a laundry basket in the laundry room.
Please wash dirty dishes.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please keep pets off of furniture and bedding. Pets must be crated when left unattended, leashed when outdoors, and refuse disposed of properly.
No House parties allowed

Important information

You need to know

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
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
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
Property Registration Number 513

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Ithaca

Located in Ithaca, this holiday home is in a rural area. The History Center and Newfield Bridge are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Museum of the Earth and Hillendale Golf Course. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Newman Arena or Robert J. Kane Sports Complex. Power boating and fishing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and cycling nearby.
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Map
Ithaca, NY

What's nearby

  • Cayuga Nature Center - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Ithaca Commons - 13 min drive - 13.8 km
  • Buttermilk Falls State Park - 13 min drive - 15.5 km
  • Ithaca College - 13 min drive - 14.2 km
  • Cornell University - 17 min drive - 14.6 km

Getting around

  • Ithaca, NY (ITH-Tompkins Regional) - 22 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Sumo Japanese Sushi And Hibachi Grill - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Dunkin' - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Salt Point Brewing Co. - ‬21 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Modern Rustic Retreat- King bed, hot tub, wineries, waterfalls, hiking, Cornell pet-friendly?

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

How much does it cost to stay at Modern Rustic Retreat- King bed, hot tub, wineries, waterfalls, hiking, Cornell?

As of 28 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Modern Rustic Retreat- King bed, hot tub, wineries, waterfalls, hiking, Cornell on 21 June 2026 start from AU$586, 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 Modern Rustic Retreat- King bed, hot tub, wineries, waterfalls, hiking, Cornell?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Modern Rustic Retreat- King bed, hot tub, wineries, waterfalls, hiking, Cornell?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Modern Rustic Retreat- King bed, hot tub, wineries, waterfalls, hiking, Cornell?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Modern Rustic Retreat- King bed, hot tub, wineries, waterfalls, hiking, Cornell located?

Situated in a rural location, this holiday home is within a 15-minute walk of Cayuga Lake and Cayuga Nature Center. Taughannock Falls State Park is 1.9 mi (3 km) away.

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. 24 out of 24 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 24 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Megan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place. Everything in working order. Responsive hosts and good location. Plus a hot tub!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property was just as advertised, and in many ways even better. It was clean, cozy, well-appointed, and full of charm. We loved the design, including the narrow closet spaces on either side of the front door that allowed us to keep boots and jackets and dog food out of the loving area. The fireplace was lovely. The rooms were extremely well-lit so that reading was pleadirable. Our corgi loved the floor level wondow on the landing.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful cabin with great family friendly amenities!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place! Great location! Pup was very happy
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emily O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful location and well appointed home! No detail was lacking. We enjoyed our stay so much.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Charles M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Extremely clean, well appointed and comfortable, with everything in great working order. A lot of nice touches that made it feel like a home. Very conveniently located to state parks, wineries and town. Communication was flawless and the hosts provided great advice on the area. A great overall experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Judi F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This little red retreat was the perfect place for my family to spend Christmas together this year! Great location and very private, it had everything we needed -- and more. Comfy beds, a fully-stocked kitchen, well-appointed furnishings, gas fireplace and a hot tub. Impeccably clean! John was easily reachable and very helpful when we had a few questions -- a great host! We hope to return when the weather is warmer. (Tip: If you arrive after dark, look for the string lights along the driveway! So helpful!)
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

William S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great property, well-thought out extra touches, including snacks and an Empire Pass! The location was clean inside and out and the hosts had great communication and recommendations!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property as advertised -- easy to get checked in and setup. Hosts were able to communicate when needed. State park pass was a nice perk as well.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
John’s house was perfect for our quick stay in Ithaca. It is close to everything we wanted to explore, was cozy but well equipped. My kids especially loved the small pond out back for catching frogs, and my husband and I enjoyed relaxing in the hot tub at the end of the day. The beds were especially comfortable. We definitely will stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura L.

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

Perfect stay in Ithaca

We loved our stay at John's property. The house had everything we needed and the outside pond and yard were great for watching wildlife (deer, groundhogs, bunnies) and enjoying the outdoors. It's an easy drive to Ithaca and to parks. The state park pass was such a nice bonus! We'd be happy to stay here again and explore the area more.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kary C.

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

Excellent place

Everything was as expected. Excellent communication and place was top notch!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa G.

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

Lovely Cottage

We had a wonderful stay and everything about the house is as advertised. It's very clean, good air conditioning, has all the necessities, comfortable beds, etc. and good location. The owner, John, was also very responsive to any and all questions. We definitely plan to return in the future!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nathan L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a wonderful long weekend at the Rustic Retreat! One of the nicest rentals at which I've ever stayed. Extremely clean and well appointed. Outdoor space was wonderful too. My family and I found the location very convenient to everything we wanted to see and do (waterfalls, parks, restaurants, wineries, Cornell). I would absolutely book again and I highly recommend to anyone.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Janine E.

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

Graduation weekend

This home was exactly as advertised and exactly what we were looking for. It’s immaculately clean, comfortable and cozy with lots of amenities. John & Brenda were great hosts, responding super quick ! Would definitely stay here again !
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our past Ithaca hotel experiences were awful. This home is close to our favorites Ithaca weekend market and only 2 minutes from a wedding venue just outside of the city. It was nicely decorated, super clean, and kid & dog friendly property, Considerate owners though of many little things (kitchen items & soaps) Heat worked great. Easy exit, no stripping sheets off beds or doing laundry on the way out. New to VRBO but John & Brenda had quick kind responses to our many questions. Thank you & we will return!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eric R.

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

Ithaca

Great hosts, place was very clean, enjoyed the numerous amenities this place has to offer, host very quick to respond and very helpful with any questions. Great stay
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beth G.

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

Wonderful place and hosts

Our family stayed while in town for a wedding nearby. We loved being so close to town and the venue. It was very peaceful and we enjoyed the outdoor space and hot tub. The girls enjoyed all the kids books and games. John and Brenda are wonderful welcoming hosts, quick to respond, and checked in to ensure our stay was going well. Definitely recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robin D.

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

Best weekend

The property was amazing, and the pictures accurately depicted the beauty of the house and grounds. The location was perfect for the purpose of our trip. John was the best host. He went above and beyond to ensure our trip was perfect. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tyler H.

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

Bachelor weekend

Needed a place to stay for a bachelor weekend in ithaca and this placr was perfect! Cornhole and grilling outside Friday night was great and the hot tub was nice! As was the outside shower. Would like to be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

William S.

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

Great spot to explore the Ithaca area

This house is clean and well equipped, conveniently located not far from Ithaca up the west side of Cayuga Lake. The hosts have carefully anticipated guests' needs. We especially appreciated the string lights bordering one side of the property that made finding the driveway in the dark easy. The house is back off the road and surrounded by mowed lawn with a pond and woods in the back. The kitchen, bedrooms, sitting areas and baths are all furnished nicely, with quality appliances, AC units and TV. Highly recommended.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alisha E.

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

Visit to our favorite getaway

This is a gem. The house is super cute and although we were familiar with the area John gave us a heads-up to things happening in the area and a new winery to try. It was a super cozy stay and we couldn't be more grateful for a relaxing trip away from NYC. Also, the proximity to the wine trail, Ithaca, and Taughannock Falls State Park made this rental a gem. We would stay here again in a heart beat.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
You may wonder if the home feels small (1200 sq ft) or if "rustic" is a euphemism for run-down, but neither is true. The home feels spacious because of an open floor plan on the main level, and the upstairs bedrooms are spacious. Moreover, all of the furniture and decor are high quality and lovely. Even the bathrooms are beautifully decorated and fully stocked with anything you may need. The master bedroom's king bed is VERY comfortable - I slept like a baby. There is an awesome, high tech vanity mirror in the same bedroom - a very luxurious and fun item! The pull-out sofa bed is high quality and clean - our son slept there comfortably. The kitchen is not large but very nice, with high quality appliances, and fully equipped. John responded to all messages within minutes and was a great host. There was an issue with the hot tub but it was minor (low water level). We did not otherwise use the backyard amenities because we were busy with college drop-off, but you can see that there are MANY amenities in the backyard and it is vast! Overall, this is a very, very lovely home and we had a very positive experience!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barb K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Rustic house with interesting wood details, in a beautiful location surrounded by woods, with a little pond. The cozy decor that adds to the rustic vibe. Very nicely appointed kitchen with quality items. Super comfortable beds and pillows. It was nice to have the 1/2 bath that included a washer, dryer, detergent, dryer sheets and hangers. We enjoyed the outdoor shower! John and Brenda have thought of guests comfort by including little details like night lights, outdoor party lights (great for finding the house after dark), lots of soft blankets and towels, a wireless speaker, zero water pitcher, citronella candles and lighters, suitcase stands, good storage just inside the door for umbrellas, hiking gear, packages, etc., bath spray, CO detector, plastic baggies, paper bags, plastic food containers, etc. We really liked the nice outdoor swivel chairs and glider. Owners welcomed us via text, were available for questions and very responsive. We had an issue with the hot tub and they quickly had a man come to work on it. While the issue wasn’t resolved, they made it right for us. Bedroom window a/c units could be a tad loud but didn’t really disturb our sleep (they don’t run constantly). We would stay here again as we liked the easy access to town, parks and wineries. Yes, we would recommend this rental house!
Some of the outdoor chairs near the pond.
Living, dining and kitchen on first floor
We saw a great blue heron feeding along the pond one morning.
Front of house
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

About the host

Hosted by John Joly

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Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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