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Sunny Escape 2 - A new era for a well loved lake front home

Lakefront holiday home with fitness centre and Hot tub

Photo gallery for Sunny Escape 2 - A new era for a well loved lake front home

Southeast view of outside of house
View from street showing east side
Property grounds
Entry access control and doorbell
Kitchen view from balcony door

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
4 bedrooms3+ bathroomsSleeps 8334.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer

Explore the area

View map
Oakland, MD
  • Place, Deep Creek Lake
    ‪1 min drive‬
  • Place, Wisp Resort
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Deep Creek Lake State Park
    ‪6 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Lake level Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed

Lake level Bedroom 4

1 King Bed

Main level Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Main level Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

3 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Lake level bathroom 2

Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Main level Bathroom 1

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Hair dryer

Main level powder room

Towels provided · Toilet

Private Bathroom 3

Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Sunny Escape 2 - A new era for a well loved lake front home

Update October 2025 - We installed a "six person" hot tub just outside the door to the lower yard. It's just a few steps from the house to the tub. We also installed hardscape and turf in that same yard (between lake buffer zone and house). This provides a fenced yard for kids and pets. We have also been adding details to the interior that should make things more comfortable. This includes getting the fireplace operational for winter and adding furniture in strategic places. Later this month we will complete the driveway paving.


Re-building of Sunny Escape:
After 20 years of ownership of this 1940's former fishing cabin, we have decided to tear down the old home and rebuild on the same lot. We expect to make it available for vacation rental around September 2024, unless we are very lucky with demolition, construction, and provisioning. We hope that all of our former guests who have been so loyal and admiring for so many years will also be patrons of the new home.

The story of Sunny Escape started in the late 1930s when Deep Creek Lake construction began as part of the the New Deal electrification program. However, the lake has always been a treasured getaway with it's natural shoreline, many coves, fishing, and relaxed atmosphere. Originally, just a one room stone cabin, it was added to in the late 1950s and turned into a year round lakefront home. However, it took many remodeling and sometimes the quality of these were not always as great as we would like. This has lead to maintenance problems, pests, and high heating bills. We finally decided, after several expensive renovations of our own to cut our loses and build a "better" Sunny Escape.

For those who admired the original stone interior and exterior stone work and the wormy chestnut wood paneling, we realize those were hallmarks of the original building and we are taking as many steps as we can to retain and preserve these elements. We have stripped the chestnut panels and have contracted with a woodsmith to clean and prepare that lumber for reuse.

The headlines about the new house is that it is designed according to "passive house" standards, that will reduce heating and air conditioning cost, while providing fresh air throughout the house year round. We have also designed it to be friendly for short term stays in ways that we have learned from your feedback over our ownership. This includes plenty of common space, four bedrooms, generous parking, and easy moving in and out.

There will be four bedroom in the new house, two on the second floor and two on the first. Persons who have difficulties with stairs will have an easy time living entirely on the upper (street level) door, where the kitchen, dining, and great room provide plenty of space for gathering and relaxing with spectacular views of the lake.

As always, we will have the dock with swim platform, easy access to the lake, fire pit, and hot tub. We will also continue to allow well behaved dogs and will ensure that pet hair is removed between visits for those whom are sensitive.

Layout:
Great Room - Gas Fireplace, Lake View, TV, Table Seats 6
Balcony/deck - Located on second floor, covered, with furniture for relaxing and a dining table and chairs.
Kitchen - adjoining great room with eat-at island, plenty of food storage, dishwasher, ovens, induction range, and plenty of gadgets, dishes, and cooking gear.
Bedrooms 1 - Street level with Queen size bed
Bedroom 2 - Street level with King size bed - shared bath with tub and shower
Bedroom 3 - lake level with private bath with shower
Bedroom 4 - lake level shared full bath

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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 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
There is an unfenced dock area.
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
There are local noise ordinances.
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
Up to two dogs only.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Not inside property

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
If you bring a pet, we expect you to clean up and dispose of any pet waste and clean rugs and furniture of any pet hair. There is a vacuum cleaner available for guest use.
The combination washer-dryer on the street level is a technology wonder, but requires diligent cleaning of the lint filter. Please do this after each load of laundry.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
All other outdoor furniture must be returned to the fenced yard prior to leaving. The exception are the benches at the fire pit.
All interior furniture must be returned to the location it was in at the start of the rental. Bed linens should stay in the room they were found in.
Balcony furniture should not be removed from the balcony.

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 10
Note from host: There are local noise ordinances.
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 Parcel ID: 18032554

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Oakland

Located in Thayerville, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Garrett County Historical Museum and Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Station are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Wisp Resort and Lodestone Golf Club. Travelling with kids? Consider Funland, or check out an event or a game at Adventure Sports Center International. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Oakland, MD

What's nearby

  • Deep Creek Lake - 1 min drive - 1.4 km
  • Wisp Resort - 6 min drive - 7.0 km
  • Deep Creek Lake State Park - 6 min drive - 4.6 km
  • Ohiopyle State Park - 41 min drive - 51.4 km
  • Blackwater Falls State Park - 54 min drive - 71.9 km

Getting around

  • Morgantown, WV (MGW-Morgantown Municipal) - 49 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Casselman Bakery and Café - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Burger King - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Perkins American Food Co. - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪UNO Pizzeria & Grill - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Sunny Escape 2 - A new era for a well loved lake front home pet-friendly?

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

How much is parking at Sunny Escape 2 - A new era for a well loved lake front home?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Sunny Escape 2 - A new era for a well loved lake front home?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Sunny Escape 2 - A new era for a well loved lake front home?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Sunny Escape 2 - A new era for a well loved lake front home located?

This family-friendly Thayerville holiday home is located on the waterfront, 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from Deep Creek Lake, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Funland and Wisp Resort. Deep Creek Lake State Park and Lodestone Golf Club are also within 6 miles (10 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. 185 out of 196 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 196 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 196 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 196 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 196 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Bryce A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The location is ideal and the house was amazing. Communication with Mike could not have been better, we will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

joseph h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our group found the house to be clean, comfortable, and located right on the lake with a dock. We would certainly book the property again.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alisa C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an excellent stay at Mike’s lake house. The photos don’t do the home justice. It’s such a beautiful spot to leaf peep and enjoy lake activities. The home was clean, spacious and fun for all. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Emma S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful home with convenient access to the lake. Loved the deck and the lower outside area. Home was comfortable and neat.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Deborah L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful newly constructed home with all the bells and whistles. Perfect location. Close to everything but off the beaten path. Excellent accessibility to main living level from covered parking. Gentle slope to fire pit and dock with easy launching of kayaks. Pet friendly deck and yard.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Randy O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sunny Escape 2 is an amazing property on Deep Creek Lake! We truly enjoyed our week on the lake and the property had everything we could ask for! The owner was always extremely responsive and able to handle of our needs and answer our questions! We can't wait to return next year!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mrs. A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was our 4th time staying at Sunny Escape but our first in version 2.0. The remodel is stunning and spacious. We are always impressed with the cleanliness and comfort. We were a bit disappointed with the loss of the hot tub but had an amazing time regardless.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carol S.

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

Nice property

The home was clean and everything was brand new. Although the house wasnt finished, we enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tom S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The property is absolutely gorgeous. The lake setting, the porch and hot tub overlooking the lake and a fire pit. The newly built house is stunning-the rooms, the ample kitchen and dining area, the immense tvs-one in the family room by the gas fireplace and the other in the lower level. There are 3 really nice bathrooms and a powder room. There is a fitness area on the lower level with exercise bike, elliptical trainer and a ping pong table. Mike, the owner, did an outstanding job directing the building of this house. And Mike is the best at responding to issues quickly and expertly. We have been coming to Deep Creek for over 20 years with most of it at the previous Sunny Escape and now at Sunny Escape II. You can not go wrong with staying at Sunny Escape II. It is Outstanding.
View of lake from fenced yard with picnic table hot tub and dog area
Large tv in cozy room on lower level
View of lake from deck on main level
Gas fireplace in family room just across from the kitchen and dining area
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

JEROME Z.

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

Second time rentals. Place was clean, close to all restaurants.

Great time, everything was excellent
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

8/10 Good

Laura J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Great view of the lake

Nice location.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joe S.

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

Everything you need

Excellent location and everything was thought out for guests. Everyone loved this place.. can't go wrong staying here.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey W.

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

Great place

Great place and location. Exactly what we were looking for. Everything was super easy, communication was great.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

JEROME Z.

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

Excellent

Still great place after numerous trips. Enjoy the location.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ryan K.

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

Great stay!

Perfect place for a quick getaway. Hot tub was awesome and being rightg on the lake was great. Kids loved it. Quick drives to activities for the family!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joan K.

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

Sunny escape

Can't wait to go back
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Terry F.

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

Always a great stay at Sunny Escape.

We have been staying here a few years now. We are never dissatisfied.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

SHANE R.

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

Great family weekend

Really enjoyed our stay at this house. Great location, lots of ammenties, clean house. We brought our boat just a short drive to the launch but very easy to navigate back to the home. Would definitely stay again in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Terry F.

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

Great Stay as always

Love this house. Always very comfortable at Sunny Escape. Very clean, new amenities. Had great weather sunny all week with only rain on Friday night.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Angel W.

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

DCL

Great place, excellent view of the lake from the great room, and it had everything we needed. Loved the fenced in area for our dog.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Perfect Getaway!

The perfect weekend getaway! There was ample space for the family, lots of board games, clean, and it was a very convenient location. Beautiful inside and out. Quick responses from owner when we had questions.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marisa I.

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

A winter getaway

We had a lovely time at your cabin. It was very clean and comfortable, with a beautiful view! The short drive to Wisp made for an easy and fun ski weekend. Thank you!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Terry F.

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

Never dissatisfied !

Always a great stay at Sunny Escape ! This house is our favorite. It’s close to everything you may need for your stay. The owner keeps this house up to date on everything.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen L., Pittsburgh, PA

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

Best house ever!

This house, which will be rebuilt in September, 2023, has been a refuge for us and our two dogs. It’s extremely comfortable from the beds to the accoutrements to the stocked kitchen to the beautiful views and gas fireplace.
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2023

8/10 Good

Kristen T.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent getaway for dog owners

We stayed for a long weekend with our two dogs. Unfortunately the weather was not good, but the house was well equipped with everything we needed. The dog yard made things much easier and the views are spectacular.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

About the host

Hosted by Michael Matyas

Host profile image
Our family has been coming to Deep Creek lake since 2001 and it is a second home for us. We enjoy the slower pace and many outdoor attractions such as boating, fishing, horseback riding, cycling, swimming, wake boarding, or just going for a walk in the woods. We live in Arlington, Virginia and come here whenever we are able.

Why they chose this property

This location is convenient to attractions and a half mile from the main Rt 319 road. The current house was built shortly after the lake was filled in the late 40's due to the location and commands one of the best views around. It is also easy to get to and easy to get to grocery stores, coffee, and activities.

What makes this property unique

We rebuilt with an eye for comfort and affordable luxury. The new house is quiet, comfortable, and convenient year round. It will be the first "passive house" on Deep Creek Lake and as such provides a unique perspective on the future of sustainable architecture and low carbon living.

Languages:

English

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