Under the Hemlocks – Refined Boutique Retreat Near Amherst & UMass

Escape to a private bijou studio under the hemlocks—a refined retreat designed for quiet focus, deep relaxation, reconnecting, and recharging.

Every detail has been thoughtfully considered with comfort, care and rest in mind.

Beyond the studio, the unique off-grid screened Writer's Retreat and private courtyards offer quiet moments to completely unplug.

A slow morning, a good book, evenings around the fire, or a long soak—Under the Hemlocks invites you to embrace the simple ritual of rest.

Conveniently located just minutes from Amherst College, Amherst Center, UMass Amherst, and the Emily Dickinson Museum,

A SCENT-SENSITIVE PROPERTY

UNDER THE HEMLOCKS AT A GLANCE
Here's a quick overview.

• Boutique bijou studio (small and elegant), designed for up to 2 guests.
• Completely private — no shared indoor or outdoor spaces with the host.
• Private entrance and dedicated parking.
• Open-plan studio — both beds share the same room.
• Optional second bed available ($40 setup fee; request during booking).
• Deep soaking tub with shower overhead.
• Scent-sensitive & allergy-conscious environment.
• Very well-equipped kitchenette, plus an outdoor grill with side burner.
• Writer's Retreat — a screened, off-grid space (not insulated; temperatures reflect the weather outside).
• Beautiful private outdoor spaces with a fire pit and grill (weather-dependent; please check availability).
• High-speed Wi-Fi throughout the suite and outdoor living spaces.
• Intentionally television-free, encouraging a slower pace.
• Minutes from Amherst Center, Emily Dickinson Museum, Amherst College & UMass Amherst.


IDEAL FOR
• Weekend getaways & quieter weekday escapes
• Restorative retreats & staycations
• Meaningful catch-ups
• College visits and local events
• Bleisure travelers balancing work and rest
• Fall foliage escapes & leaf-peeping weekends


LOCATION & PROXIMITY
(Approximate travel times by car)
• 4 min to the Emily Dickinson Museum
• 5 min to Amherst College & Amherst Center
• 6–8 min to UMass Amherst
• Close access to the Robert Frost Trail, Amethyst Brook, and Buffam Falls.


IN-DEPTH GUIDE
Explore the amenities, thoughtful details, and everything included to help you make the most of your stay.

SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS

• Primary Bed: Queen bed with adjustable head settings, premium linens, blackout blinds, and climate control for restful sleep.

• Additional Sleeping: An optional small double bed, converted from the seating area, is available for a $40 setup fee per stay.

As housekeeping prepares the sleeping space prior to arrival, please request this option during the booking process.

The optional second bed is intended for two guests travelling together who prefer separate beds, such as friends, siblings, or a parent.

Please note: Under the Hemlocks is an open-plan studio guest suite. When the optional second bed is set up, the queen bed, living area, kitchenette, and second sleeping space all share the same room, making the suite significantly more compact.

THE BATH

• Deep clawfoot tub with rain shower. Robes and premium towels provided.
• Shower is over the tub.
• Accessibility Note: The tub is deep and requires a high step-in to enter and exit.

KITCHENETTE & DINING

• Fridge/freezer, microwave, rice cooker, toaster, personal blender, and air fryer.
• Coffee machine and electric kettle with complimentary tea and coffee.
• Fully stocked with dishes, glassware, cutlery, and kitchen essentials.
• Compact dishwasher for easy cleanup.

OUTDOOR KITCHEN & COURTYARD

Your private courtyard extends the living space outdoors.

• Grill with side burner for alfresco meals.
• Outdoor sink and prep area for easy cooking and cleanup.
• Bistro seating and a fire pit for relaxed outdoor evenings.
• Available seasonally, weather permitting.

THE WRITER'S RETREAT

A rustic, airy, off-grid screened sanctuary for reading, writing, or simply slowing down.
**As it is not insulated, temperatures reflect the weather outside.
• Open seasonally from spring through November.
• A gel-fuel fireplace adds warmth during cooler months (approximately 2–3 hours of fuel included; additional fuel available for $15).
• Faux candles are provided during summer.
• The retreat may close temporarily during periods of heavy rain, snow, or freezing temperatures.

FOR WORK OR REST

• A modern transformer table adapts from coffee table to dining or workspace.
• High-speed Wi-Fi extends throughout the suite and into the Writer's Retreat for Zoom calls, reading, or focused work.
• The suite is intentionally television-free, encouraging a quieter pace once the laptop closes.

CLEAN & SCENT-CONSCIOUS

Unscented, EWG-rated cleaning products are used throughout the suite, with steam-cleaned surfaces and an air purifier between stays.

WELLNESS & NATURE

• Minutes from the Robert Frost Trail, Amethyst Brook, and Buffam Falls. Ideal for quiet walks, morning hikes, or time outdoors between visits and events.
• Includes a yoga mat, weighted calming pad, and a selection of reflective books.
• Forest bathing sessions with Todd Lynch, ANFT-certified guide, available April–November by inquiry (additional fee applies).

CELEBRATIONS

Thoughtful touches for birthdays, anniversaries, or special occasions may be arranged by request (fee applies).


HOUSE RULES & GUEST AGREEMENT

By booking, you agree to the following:

GUESTS: Only registered guests may stay overnight. The primary booking guest must remain on the property for the duration of the reservation.

ID & PROFILE: A current profile photo is required. I reserve the right to verify guest identification.

SMOKE-FREE PROPERTY: Smoking or vaping of any kind is not permitted anywhere on the property. A $150 restoration fee applies if evidence of smoking is found.

NO ANIMALS: Under the Hemlocks cannot accommodate animals due to a resident dog's reactive behaviour toward other animals.

PROPERTY CARE: Open-flame candles, incense, and fresh flower petals are not permitted. Flameless candles are provided.

PROVISIONS: Complimentary tea and coffee are provided. Guests assume all responsibility for checking ingredients and allergens before consuming any food or beverages on the property.

CANCELLATIONS: Reservations are subject to the cancellation policy in effect at the time of booking.

DAMAGES: Guests are responsible for damage beyond ordinary wear and tear.

LIABILITY WAIVER – FIRE FEATURES, PROPERTY & AMENITIES

Guests assume all risk associated with the use of fireplaces, fire pits, grills, decks, pathways, bathtubs, and outdoor spaces.

By booking, guests release the host from claims, injuries, damages, or losses arising from the use of the property or its amenities, including outdoor conditions, weather, wildlife, slippery surfaces, uneven ground, or fire-related features.