Cabin

Private Pond Retreat with Dome, Dockside Hot Tub and 3 Sleeping Spaces

Photo gallery for Private Pond Retreat with Dome, Dockside Hot Tub and 3 Sleeping Spaces

Wood-burning hot tub in use beside the pond
Second companion cabin with double bed, sink, and wood stove
Main detached companion cabin beside the pond
Main companion cabin kitchen with running water and wood stove
Main companion cabin sitting area overlooking the pond

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful

Highlights

  • Top-rated comfy beds
    Guests liked the comfy beds here.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Spa pool on site
  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue
  • Balcony

Explore the area

View map
Glenfield, NY
  • Place, Independence River State Forest
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Place, Black River
    ‪37 min drive‬
  • Place, Brantingham Lake
    ‪55 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 3

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Kitchen
Office
Balcony
Garden

About this property

Private Pond Retreat with Dome, Dockside Hot Tub and 3 Sleeping Spaces

Summary:

One secluded pond retreat reserved for your registered group. A king-bed geodesic dome and two detached companion bungalows create three separate sleeping spaces for up to six guests. Enjoy a wood-burning hot tub at the end of the dock, a heated outdoor shower, private hiking trails to a small hidden waterfall, watercraft, a fire pit, running water, off-grid solar power, and Starlink Wi-Fi.



The Space:

One private pond retreat. One registered guest group at a time.



Pondshire combines a king-bed geodesic dome with two detached companion bungalows, giving up to six guests three separate sleeping spaces. The dome remains the centerpiece, while the detached sleeping areas allow couples, families, and quiet small groups to stay together without sharing one room.



Created by experienced hosts whose distinctive vacation rentals have been featured by ABC and BuzzFeed.



RETREAT HIGHLIGHTS



- King-bed geodesic dome with panoramic pond views

- Two detached companion bungalows for separate sleeping privacy

- Wood-burning hot tub at the end of the dock

- Heated outdoor shower with hot water and a pond view

- Private hiking trails leading to a small hidden waterfall

- Pellet stove, vanity sink, and convenience toilet inside the dome

- Operational wood stoves in both companion bungalows

- Kayaks, paddle boat, and rowboat with paddles and life jackets

- Fishing poles, basic tackle, and binoculars for wildlife viewing

- Fire pit, grill, docks, hammocks, lounge chairs, and outdoor seating

- Running water, off-grid solar power, and Starlink Wi-Fi

- Quality bed linens and bath towels

- No unrelated guest group sharing the retreat





THE DOME



The geodesic dome is the visual and emotional centerpiece of Pondshire. It includes a king bed with quality linens, broad pond and woodland views, a pellet stove for cooler nights, mood lighting, fans, a mini fridge, a vanity sink with running water, a convenience toilet, and a private deck with outdoor seating.



THE MAIN COMPANION BUNGALOW



The main companion bungalow provides a separate sleeping space for up to two guests. It has a queen bed on an elevated sleeping level reached by fold-out stairs, an operational wood stove, fan, warm lighting, and a desk and chairs beside a pond-facing window.



This bungalow also contains the retreat's basic kitchen area, including a running-water sink, refrigerator and freezer, kettle, coffee and tea supplies, wine glasses, bottle opener, and Bluetooth speaker.



THE SECOND COMPANION BUNGALOW



The second detached companion bungalow provides another separate sleeping space for up to two guests. It includes a double bed, an operational wood stove, warm lighting, and its own running-water sink.



The separate sleeping spaces make Pondshire especially useful for couples traveling together, families, and quiet groups who want to share the retreat without sharing one room.



AROUND THE POND



The wood-burning hot tub sits at the end of the dock overlooking the water. Because it is heated by wood rather than electricity, allow time for it to warm before use.



The heated outdoor shower provides hot water with views of the pond and surrounding trees.



Guests can use the kayaks, paddle boat, and rowboat, relax on the docks, gather around the fire pit, grill outdoors, read in the hammocks, or settle into the lounge chairs beside the water.



Clear nights can bring excellent stargazing. Wildlife sightings may include loons, ducks, beavers, otters, deer, and other woodland visitors, although wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.



PRIVATE TRAILS AND HIDDEN WATERFALL



Private hiking trails wind through the Pondshire property and lead to a small, tucked-away waterfall. The trails offer another way to explore the retreat without leaving the property, whether for a quiet morning walk, wildlife watching, or time in the woods between the pond and hot tub.



The waterfall is a small natural feature, and the trail and surrounding rocks can be wet, uneven, or slippery.



CONNECTED SECLUSION



Pondshire uses off-grid solar power and running water. Starlink Wi-Fi is available, while cell service is limited or unavailable for most carriers.



Guests can remain connected when necessary, then step outside and disconnect whenever they choose.



THE NATURAL POND



The pond water is clear, with a natural soft or mucky bottom in some areas. It is best enjoyed as a peaceful nature pond for paddling, dock time, wildlife watching, and relaxing beside the water rather than as a sandy swimming lake.



Guest Access:

Your reservation includes exclusive guest use of the geodesic dome, both companion bungalows, pond, docks, wood-burning hot tub, heated outdoor shower, included watercraft, private hiking trails leading to the small hidden waterfall, fire pit, grill, hammocks, lounge chairs, and outdoor seating.



Paddles and life jackets are provided for the included watercraft. Fishing poles, basic tackle, and binoculars are also available.



No unrelated guest group stays at Pondshire during your reservation. Only registered guests are permitted.



The Neighborhood:

Pondshire is set in a quiet, wooded part of Upstate New York, surrounded by pond views, forest, wildlife, and private trails. This is a secluded destination stay rather than a walkable town, hotel, campground, or resort setting.



The exact address and complete arrival instructions are provided after booking.



Getting Around:

Plan to arrive by personal vehicle. Maintained dirt roads lead to Pondshire, and an ordinary passenger vehicle is generally suitable during the operating season under normal conditions. Severe weather can affect road and trail conditions.



Once you arrive, the dome, companion bungalows, pond, docks, hot tub, outdoor shower, and hiking trails are all within the retreat. Exact route and parking instructions are provided after booking.



Other Things to Note:

Please review these details before booking:



- Bathroom setup: The dome has a convenience toilet and vanity sink. Bathing is in a separate heated outdoor shower with hot water and a pond view. Pondshire does not have a conventional indoor full bathroom.



- The queen bed in the main companion bungalow is on an elevated sleeping level reached by fold-out stairs. This sleeping space may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.



- The hot tub is wood-burning rather than electric. It requires heating time and does not warm instantly.



- The private hiking trails and small waterfall are natural outdoor areas. Expect uneven ground, roots, mud, wet rocks, and slippery surfaces. Wear suitable footwear and closely supervise children.



- Pondshire uses off-grid solar power and running water. Cell service is limited or unavailable for most carriers. Starlink Wi-Fi is the primary connection.



- The pond water is clear, but the natural bottom is soft or mucky in some places. It is better suited to paddling, dock time, and nature watching than to a sandy-beach swimming experience.



- Maintained dirt roads lead to the retreat. An ordinary passenger vehicle is generally suitable during the operating season under normal conditions, but severe weather can affect access.



- Pondshire operates seasonally from April 1 through November 1.



- Children require close adult supervision around the pond, docks, watercraft, hot tub, outdoor shower, fire, stoves, trails, and waterfall.



- No parties or unregistered visitors. Smoking is not allowed inside any guest structure.



- The exact address and complete arrival instructions are provided after booking.



Interaction with Guests:

Your group has privacy throughout the stay. No unrelated guest group shares Pondshire. Support is available by message if questions or assistance arise.

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House Rules

Check in after 1:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 10:00 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 2 total)
Charge may apply
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Turn off the lights
Make sure the windows to the Dome are closed and door is shut.
Turn off all lights and fans before leaving.
Return items and furnature to where they were when you arrived.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 4283710vb
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Glenfield

Located in Glenfield, this cabin is in a rural area and on the waterfront. While the natural beauty of Independence River State Forest and Otter Creek State Forest can be enjoyed by anyone, those looking for an activity can head to Brantingham Golf Course. Take the opportunity to explore the area for water adventures such as fishing.
Map
Glenfield, NY

What's nearby

  • Independence River State Forest - 21 min drive - 11.5 km
  • Black River - 37 min drive - 20.2 km
  • Brantingham Lake - 55 min drive - 36.2 km
  • Tug Hill Vineyards - 58 min drive - 41.5 km
  • Moose River - 59 min drive - 39.7 km

Getting around

  • Rome, NY (RME-Griffiss Intl.) - 89 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Bucks Place - ‬48 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Private Pond Retreat with Dome, Dockside Hot Tub and 3 Sleeping Spaces pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much does it cost to stay at Private Pond Retreat with Dome, Dockside Hot Tub and 3 Sleeping Spaces?

As of 9 Aug 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private Pond Retreat with Dome, Dockside Hot Tub and 3 Sleeping Spaces on 4 Oct 2026 start from AU$1,440, 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 Private Pond Retreat with Dome, Dockside Hot Tub and 3 Sleeping Spaces?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Private Pond Retreat with Dome, Dockside Hot Tub and 3 Sleeping Spaces?

Check-in begins at 1:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Private Pond Retreat with Dome, Dockside Hot Tub and 3 Sleeping Spaces?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Private Pond Retreat with Dome, Dockside Hot Tub and 3 Sleeping Spaces located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cabin is 6.9 mi (11.1 km) from Independence River State Forest and 10.2 mi (16.5 km) from Otter Creek State Forest. Black River and Whittaker Falls Park are also within 20 miles (32 km).

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 1 out of 2 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 2 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 2 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 2 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 2 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

8.0/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Oleksandr P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great spot. Not a single person in 3 days. Loved it
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Aug 2025
Love the images Oleksander. So happy to hear that you loved the property and its solitude. Look forward to your return.
Verified review

8/10 Good

Erica s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location
An amazing getaway! This is a quiet, peaceful spot to visit and relax in the outdoors. The trails on/ near the property are beautiful to hike along. The cabins and dome are clean and the beds are really comfortable! Each is so unique. The kayaks, paddle boat, and row boats available gave us lots to do! (If you have young kids, I suggest bringing your own life jackets). The host is easy to communicate with and responsive. It is obvious when you are there he is working to make this spot even better, and we can’t wait to see the finished product! Our family with kids 11& 13 made so many great memories there. We hiked, chopped our own wood, and cooked dinner on a campfire.I gave it a lower rating because by August the beaver dam and low water levels made the streams impossible to paddle on. We had to stick to the main pond. Also, the electricity runs on solar panels, so with two days of clouds our family lost electricity & running water for a part of the day, which made the vacation a true camping experience. If you are looking to escape and hang out in nature, this is the place to be. Serenity is a perfect name for this place.
Great views!
Stairs to the pond
At night, lights make it seem like another world. It is a beautiful walk to the cabins/dome and bathroom.
The outdoor shower; this made us laugh but it was an easy way to wash off (and the water was warm!)
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

About the host

Hosted by John Paul Pfeiffer

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Languages:

English, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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