Refined studio retreat – Under the Hemlocks, minutes to UMass & Amherst College

Escape to a private, tranquil boutique studio under the hemlocks—a refined space, small in scale yet elegantly detailed, that invites a slower pace. This is a fully self-contained modern wing attached to a 1910 farmhouse with your own entrance and driveway parking—no shared indoor or outdoor spaces. Sink into the dreamy bed or indulge in a long soak in the deep clawfoot tub. With a bespoke kitchenette and reliable Wi‑Fi, this space is designed for comfort and ease.

In summer, outdoor living is part of the stay: unwind in your private courtyard sanctuary with bistro seating, fire pit, and a full grill station with side burner plus an outdoor sink/prep area for effortless alfresco meals. Venture to the off-grid Writer’s Retreat—your own airy, screened sanctuary for reading, writing, or quiet focus.

IDEAL FOR
• Weekend getaways & Restorative stays
• Visitors to the Five Colleges & the Emily Dickinson Museum
• "Quietcations" & Bleisure travelers blending work and rest
• Wellness seekers & Eco-conscious guests

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
• 12 min to Hampshire College
• Close access to the Robert Frost Trail, Amethyst Brook, and Buffam Falls.

SLEEP SANCTUARY
• Primary Bed: Queen bed with adjustable head settings and premium linens. Supportive mattress, blackout blinds, and climate control ensure restful sleep.
• Additional Sleeping: A European small double bed (convertible from seating) is available for an additional $40 per stay.
• Important Note on Space: The studio is open-plan. Using the convertible bed shares the main living space and makes the layout feel significantly more compact.

SPA-INSPIRED COMFORTS
• Deep Clawfoot Tub: Indulge in a long soak or use the rain shower. Robes and premium towels provided.
• Shower is over the tub (rain shower).
• Accessibility Note: Please note the tub is deep and requires a high step-in to enter/exit.

THE WRITER’S RETREAT
A rustic, airy, off-grid screened sanctuary for reading, writing, or focus.
• Seasonal: Open Spring through November.
• Ambiance: A gel-fuel fireplace provides gradual warmth. Your stay includes approx. 2–3 hours of fuel; additional fuel is available for $15.
• Note: The retreat may close temporarily during extreme weather (heavy rain, snow, or freezing temperatures).

OUTDOOR KITCHEN & COURTYARD
Experience the luxury of open-air dining in your private courtyard sanctuary.
• Full Grill Station: A grill with side burner for effortless alfresco meals.
• Prep Area: Features an outdoor sink and prep area, allowing you to cook and clean up without constant trips inside.
• Ambiance: Includes bistro seating and a fire pit for a cozy, resort-style atmosphere.
*Available seasonally, weather permitting.

KITCHENETTE & DINING
• Appliances: Fridge/freezer, microwave, rice cooker, toaster, personal blender, and a versatile air fryer.
• Coffee & Tea: Coffee machine and electric kettle with complimentary tea and coffee.
• Essentials: Fully stocked with dishes, cutlery, glassware, and kitchen essentials.
• Cleanup: Includes a compact dishwasher for easy post-meal cleanup.

FOR WORK OR LEISURE
• Modern Transformer Table: A clever 3-in-1 design that adapts from a coffee table to a dining area or a spacious worktable.
• Connectivity: High-speed, dependable Wi-Fi throughout the suite—extending even to the Writer’s Retreat—perfect for Zoom calls and focus.
• Mindful Digital Detox: The suite is intentionally television-free to encourage a restful "quietcation" once the laptop closes.

WELLNESS & NATURE
• Nature at Your Door: Minutes away from the Robert Frost Trail, Amethyst Brook, and Buffam Falls. Perfect for a midday reset or a quiet morning walk.
• Restorative Touches: Includes a yoga mat, weighted calming pad, and curated self-reflection books.
• Forest Bathing: Enhance your stay with a personalized session guided by Todd Lynch, ANFT-certified guide (April–Nov). Inquiry required for details/fees.

ECO & SCENT-SENSITIVE
Unscented, EWG-rated cleaning products; steam-cleaned surfaces and an air purifier between stays for a truly clean, calm environment.

CELEBRATIONS
Elegant themed décor and special touches for birthdays, anniversaries, or “just because” moments available by request (fee applies).

WORLD CUP SOCCER GETAWAY
Experience the excitement at Gillette Stadium, then unwind in Amherst’s peaceful charm (less than two hours away).


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

THE ESSENTIALS
🌿 Is the property scent-sensitive?
Yes. To help keep the air fresh for everyone, Under the Hemlocks is a scent-sensitive space. Please avoid strong perfumes, sprays, or heavily fragranced products during your stay.

🚭 Is smoking or vaping allowed?
No. This is a completely smoke-free and vape-free property, both indoors and outdoors. To maintain fresh air for all guests, smoking or vaping of any kind will result in a $150 specialized cleaning fee.

🕯️ Can I use candles or fresh rose petals?
To keep the suite pristine and safe, open flames and fresh petals aren’t permitted. Flame-free candles are provided for ambiance, and faux rose petals are available exclusively through the Celebration Add-On.

🛌 Who can stay overnight?
Only registered guests listed on the reservation may stay overnight.

👥 Can I have visitors?
Visitors are welcome to enjoy the space with you between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.

🐕‍🦺 Can you host pets?
Unfortunately, no. My resident dog is territorial and reactive toward other animals, so the property must remain pet-free for everyone’s safety.

⏰ Can I arrive early or leave late?
I try to be flexible. Early arrivals or late departures may be possible if arranged at the time of booking. Last-minute requests usually can’t be accommodated, and fees may apply.

🤫 Are there quiet hours?
Yes. To respect the peace of the neighborhood, quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.

SLEEPING & SPACE
🛋️ How many guests can stay?
The studio is an intimate, open-plan space designed for a maximum of two guests.

🚫 Is the suite suitable for children?
Under the Hemlocks is designed as an adult retreat—a peaceful space for rest and reflection. The suite is not child-proofed and is unsuitable for infants or children under 12.

🛏️ Is there an extra bed?
Yes. A European small double bed (converted from seating with a custom topper) can be prepared for an additional $40 per stay.
Note: As this is a studio, the second bed shares the main living area and will make the space feel more compact.

AMENITIES & COMFORT
☕ What do you provide?
A selection of teas and coffee, high-quality bedding, plush towels, and all essential paper products are provided.

🍽️ What is in the kitchenette?
The kitchenette is fully equipped for real cooking. It includes a microwave, toaster, coffee machine, fridge/freezer, rice cooker, blender, and a versatile air fryer (with bake, roast, and broil settings). A compact dishwasher and a full suite of cookware, utensils, and glassware are also provided.

🔌 Can I bring my own kitchen appliances?
If you’d like to bring something specific, please check first to confirm it’s a safe fit for the space.

🛁 What should I know about the bathtub?
The deep soaking tub and rain shower are designed for relaxation. Please note it requires a high step-in (not ADA compliant), and the overflow is adjusted for a deeper soak—be mindful not to overfill.

📚 Is there a TV?
No. To preserve the calm, restful atmosphere, the suite is intentionally TV-free. Books, puzzles, games, and art materials are provided instead.

📱 Where are the instructions for the suite?
All instructions are available on the interactive touchscreen in the kitchenette. QR codes placed around the suite provide quick video guides for using the 3‑in‑1 table and remotes.

🧺 Is there laundry?
A hand-wash bowl, soap, and drying rack are provided for light laundry. Local laundromat details are listed on the kitchenette touchscreen. A clothes steamer is also available in place of an iron.

THE SURROUNDINGS
🌳 Is it quiet?
The neighborhood is peaceful and wooded, with mostly natural sounds and normal residential activity. It generally remains tranquil throughout the day and night.

🍂 Can I use the outdoor kitchen year-round?
In colder months, the outdoor kitchen is limited to countertop prep space only. Full use of all cooking appliances is available seasonally, weather permitting.

🔥 Can I use the grill and outdoor fire pit?
Yes. The grill and fire pit are available for guest use, weather and conditions permitting. Use may be restricted during local fire bans, high winds, or dry conditions.

🦊 Will I encounter wildlife or insects?
The property sits within a woodland ecosystem. Occasional insects or wildlife such as foxes, possums, or even black bears may appear—they’re part of the natural surroundings. Bears are typically shy and avoid people, but food should never be left outdoors or in vehicles to help keep wildlife at a safe distance.

✍️ What is the Writer’s Retreat?
The Writer’s Retreat is a rustic, off‑grid screened sunroom designed for reflection and creativity. It includes a writing desk, comfortable seating, and a gel‑fuel fireplace (2–3 hours of fuel included; additional fuel $15).
Note: Closed December–February and during severe weather.

🦊 Will I encounter wildlife or insects?
The suite sits within a woodland ecosystem. Occasional insects or wildlife such as foxes, possums, or even black bears may appear—they’re part of the natural surroundings. Bears are typically shy and avoid people, but food should never be left outdoors or in vehicles to help keep wildlife at a safe distance.

CANCELLATION POLICY & TRAVEL INSURANCE
💳 What is the cancellation policy?
Under the Hemlocks follows the refund terms set at booking. Once the refund period has passed, reservations are non-refundable. Guests are encouraged to include travel insurance with their booking for added peace of mind.