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Private Retreat Minutes from Downtown DC and Surrounded by Trails

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Exterior
Property grounds
Interior
Dining
Interior

Reviews

9.6 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4223.0 sq m

Popular amenities

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

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Single Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

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

About this property

Private Retreat Minutes from Downtown DC and Surrounded by Trails

This is a charming house on a beautiful 17,000 square foot lot with a mature garden. It was built in 1903 by the founder of the Washington Post newspaper. It retains much of the original Victorian feel of the house, amplified by a hardwood floors, antique furniture and period phones from the 20s and 30s. It has three bedrooms upstairs plus a possibility for two guests to stay in the basement where there is a full bath. There is a great garden with a trampoline for kids, a fabulous swing hanging from an enormous elm tree and a garden full of fruit trees and plants. It is 10 minutes from Georgetown and from Bethesda. It is on the C&O Canal Towpath as well as the Capital Crescent Trail, making it great for walking and biking. There is a shopping mall five minutes away for nearby and convenient shopping, restaurants and groceries.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
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

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
Long-term renters welcome
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Bethesda

Located on a river, this holiday home is in Brookmont, a neighbourhood in Bethesda. Smithsonian Institution and National Museum of African American History and Culture are cultural highlights, and some of the area's popular attractions include Smithsonian's National Zoo and National Museum of Natural History. Check out an event or a game at Capital One Arena, and consider making time for National Air and Space Museum, a top attraction not to be missed. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Bethesda, MD

What's nearby

  • Sibley Memorial Hospital - 2 min drive - 2.1 km
  • National Mall - 13 min drive - 13.5 km
  • Arlington National Cemetery - 13 min drive - 14.4 km
  • Smithsonian Institution - 16 min drive - 12.5 km
  • White House - 18 min drive - 12.8 km

Getting around

  • Tenleytown Station - 6 min drive
  • Rockville Station - 18 min drive
  • Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) - 30 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Tatte - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Terrace Dining Room - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Millie's - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Cortado - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Private Retreat Minutes from Downtown DC and Surrounded by Trails pet-friendly?

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

How much does it cost to stay at Private Retreat Minutes from Downtown DC and Surrounded by Trails?

As of 5 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Private Retreat Minutes from Downtown DC and Surrounded by Trails on 31 Mar 2026 start from AU$354, 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 Retreat Minutes from Downtown DC and Surrounded by Trails?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Private Retreat Minutes from Downtown DC and Surrounded by Trails?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Private Retreat Minutes from Downtown DC and Surrounded by Trails?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Private Retreat Minutes from Downtown DC and Surrounded by Trails located?

Located in Brookmont, this holiday home is 0.8 mi (1.2 km) from Potomac River and within 3 miles (5 km) of American University and Chevy Chase Pavilion Shopping Center. National Mall and Smithsonian Institution are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 10 out of 14 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 14 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 14 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 14 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 14 reviews

8.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Hannelore K.

A lovely home away from home

A well equipped and beautiful home, lovely garden. We truly enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

CORIE D.

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

A peaceful, comfortable mini-oasis

We will forever have a soft spot for this house, its charming character, and beautiful outdoor space. Our family of five and two pets stayed here for two months while our nearby home was completing a year-long renovation, following 6 uncomfortable months in a 2-bedroom apartment. This house is charming, fun, and just what my family needed. It is quiet, wonderfully located near D.C. and beautiful canal trails I had never explored in my 17 years living in this region. The yard, that was always in some phase of bloom and beauty, was a constant source of joy for our kids (the swing! The trampoline!). The house is private and peaceful. We had everything a family needed for two months in the kitchen and living spaces. Also, Katherine was so kind and easy to communicate with. We would absolutely recommend this space and/or stay here again.
Stayed 32 nights in Mar 2022

8/10 Good

Benjamin C.

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

A beautiful house

This is a beautiful old house located in a great neighborhood. The backyard was great for our kids and dog.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jim S., Saint Augustine, Florida

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

Great location

Visiting family in D.C., we typically stay with family , yet decided to venture out to have more space for us and our 140lb Boerboel. Yet ,wanted something nearby with a fully fenced in yard . This place was perfect . 12 mins to 39th St NW. Fully fenced yard with even a gated driveway ..!! Close to grocery store , walking & biking trails . A very homey place to stay . Owner is incredibly proactive and responsive . Will stay here again when visiting .
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer D.

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

Exploring new territory

Family explored DC and surrounding areas. I wanted my home schooled children to experience DC like I did when I was young. The house gave a perfect ambiance to our "history" theme for our trip. DC was hard to maneuver so highly recommend downloading the Ober app. It was very convenient and they picked us up at this location no problem. House was great. Thank you Katherine for sharing it with us.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2019

8/10 Good

Joah F.

Quiet and peaceful

Was an easy place to find. A beautiful place and neighborhood. Only was there at night resting to hit D.C. daily. Would definitely recommended.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Denise C., San Francisco, CA, U.S.

Great spot for families with little ones

We had such a great time running around in the backyard with our kiddos (5 and 8), and enjoyed the bonus of board games and kids books! Thanks for a great stay
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Katie W., Verona

Comfortable, private historic home on large property in beautiful neighborhood easy access to DC.

Comfy beds, quaint rooms and extra updated bedroom and bathroom with second shower in basement. (Air mattress) Home was not musty or stiff. Home memorabilia, historic family photos place you in a different era. Easy quick pickup into the city for sightseeing rather than expending all your energy walking to and from the car. (You will still walk a lot in DC) Safe car parking and no close intrusive neighbors, noise or worry about safety/car. Homeowner not in area but not difficult to work with. Great for families, a couple and several adult children or single adults. Porch and backyard sitting areas. I loved it; great value if you’ve checked city prices. Not as far out as you may think. My only alert would be to be careful if arriving at night; some odd angled roads with gps throwing me off and could be dangerous if you don’t know the area or hadn’t seen in daylight. Wonderful stay. Sorry I didn’t get to walk or bike the river path or visit the French bakery.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2019
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

10/10 Excellent

Peter V.

Great property, easy access to DC and Bethesda roomy and comfortable

We completely enjoyed our stay in the house, a perfect spot to get on two bike paths for my husband's commute, and to get into the city; the close by shopping plaza made everything convenient. The big backyard was great for our kids and being able to have our dog with us during our stay made it stress-free. The owners were very helpful and communication was easy. The place is cozy and clean.
Stayed 16 nights in Aug 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

8/10 Good

adriaan r.

DC in style

Wonderful experience....classic and aristocratic residence.....beautiful spacious garden......secluded and private property.....conveniently locateded within 8 miles of downtown D.C......house has all the basic amenities that you will need......access roads easy to navigate......
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

10/10 Excellent

Le-Thanh N.

Excellent place for vacation in D.C, Virginia!

The house is in a perfect location! It only takes 20 min to D.C, Arlington Va. My kids enjoyed the trampoline and swing. The dogs are running free in the yard because the house is gated. Katharine is a very nice lady. I would recommend this house.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

8/10 Good

Karie T., Laguna Niguel, CA

Authentic Colonial in Quieter Bethesda Area - family of 5

We found this well-kept Colonial home to be a comfortable warm and inviting property for our family trip to DC. Stocked with the owner's cherished family treasures made the property appealing and fun to stay in with plenty of room, a trampoline and tree swing in a large park-like back yard. We had a car, so getting to/from area sites took only about 10-20 minutes (depending on traffic) and was a nice retreat from the bustle of DC. It is only minutes from Georgetown which we found to be one of our favorite places with excellent restaurants, shops and college town energy. The home is well stocked with all the kitchen tools/appliances we needed when we did decide to eat in. Owner was accommodating and helpful when we needed her. Overall this property exceeded our expectations and we would go back again!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kristina B.

Wonderful D.C. retreat

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this charming farmhouse. It is filled with lovely details. The decor is 19th century and has been thoughtfully put together, the furniture is clean and comfortable. There is a wonderful front porch with cushioned wicker furniture and a ceiling fan. It was the perfect spot to sit and sip morning coffee while watching the birds flit about the yard and the bees fly to and fro from their hive. The bamboo, bushes, and trees give you a real sense of privacy even though you are on a busy street. It has a private backyard with a patio as well. It grew on us more each day and we felt truly comfortable here. There are beautiful wood floors and oriental rugs. I particularly loved the upstairs bathroom with the cedar planking and the clawfoot tub. There were plenty of clean pillows, blankets, and towels. The house was stocked with paper towels, toilet, paper, laundry detergent, extra sponges, soap, etc. There was ample parking for at least three cars which was hard to find in this area. We were a 20 to 25 minute ride from downtown DC and all of its wonderful sights. We saw Mt. Vernon and Arlington National Cemetery as well. It was easy enough to find on street parking downtown so we drove in every day. There are countless restaurants nearby and in the city. There is a Safeway and a Starbucks about a mile away. Our daughter loved staying in the sunny room with all of the windows and the single bed. The house has central air as well as a window AC in the master bedroom which worked wonderfully and was lovely as it was very hot during our stay. The leading to the main entrance would not be good for anyone who is unsteady on their feet or handicapped. The owner was extremely responsive and polite. I hope to return here someday. We ate at: The Matchbox in Capital Hill- Yum, try the Salmon Namaste in Alexandria VA- Indian food and cheap cocktails- yum Farmers, Fishers, and Bakers in D.C.- pricy with small sized cocktails but very good and right on the Potomac The Irish Inn at Glenn Echo- nice pub, good food, Oyamel Mexican Restaurant in DC- good prices, great food, fun butterfly theme, cool cocktails. Olazzo Italian in Bethesda, great food, a bit pricy but maybe the best food we had.
This review was submitted before 2018 and can't be verified.

10/10 Excellent

David R., Traverse City

A very nice retreat within easy distance of downtown D.C.

Our family of 5 had a really lovely stay here this week. We were worried that it would be too far from downtown, that being old it might be musty, that being on MacArthur Blvd it might be loud. None of these fears proved true. It is an easy drive to Georgetown and downtown. It's a pleaaant atmosphete and it is quiet. It also has a very big backyard that our kids loved. And the owners were very accommodating. We have been to DC many times as visitors since we moved away from the area as residents several years ago. This was our favorite stay so far.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2017

About the host

Hosted by Katharine Feehan

Host profile image
I grew up in a family that loved old furniture, china and books. I was always surrounded by things from the 19th century and this house reflects that upbringing. I also love the outdoors and my husband and I bought this house because we wanted to be near downtown and city amenities but also be in proximity to the river and the Capital Crescent Trail and have the ability to get outside a lot.

Why they chose this property

The neighborhood is a small community oriented neighborhood where everyone knows each other and there are all kinds of holiday events and regular community events from a 4th of July parade to a Christmas/holiday service where all the neighborhood children participate in to a weekly farmers market in the warmer months.

What makes this property unique

Our house is near the District of Columbia while also being walking distance to one of the country's great wild and scenic but also urban rivers, the Potomac River. The river offers never ending opportunities for enjoying nature while being very close to downtown.

Languages:

English, French
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