Under the Hemlocks: Getaway with Soaking Tub & Unique Off‑Grid Writer’s Retreat

Under the Hemlocks: A Boutique‑Style Retreat in the Pioneer Valley
Just a few minutes’ drive from Amherst Center, Under the Hemlocks occupies a private guest wing of the property’s original farmhouse—offering its own entrance and complete privacy. Tucked within a quiet residential neighborhood, it provides a calm, design‑led stay that blends boutique comfort with mindful simplicity. This scent‑free, eco‑conscious retreat is ideal for travelers seeking a restorative, wellness‑focused experience close to the Five Colleges, local cafés, and cultural attractions.

WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL
Private and Peaceful: A self‑contained guest suite with private entry and no shared guest spaces—your own peaceful sanctuary for rest and renewal.

Sleep Sanctuary: Drift into deep rest on a queen‑size bed guests describe as “dreamy.”

Boutique Comforts: Deep soaking tub, rain shower, robes, premium linens, and a private courtyard for morning coffee or evening relaxation.

Wellness‑Focused: A scent‑free environment, eco‑friendly amenities, and thoughtful touches for sensitive travelers.

Thoughtful Amenities: Another hallmark of Under the Hemlocks is its many well‑considered amenities—frequently mentioned by guests as enhancing their comfort and overall experience.

Mindful Design for Unplugging: Thoughtfully created to encourage rest and reconnection, the suite is intentionally television‑free—inviting guests to slow down, read, or simply enjoy the quiet. Dependable Wi‑Fi is available for work, streaming, or keeping in touch, offering balance between staying connected and enjoying a gentle digital detox.

Design Aesthetic: A distinctive, bespoke design that blends natural materials, repurposed décor, and harmonious textures, creating a warm, balanced atmosphere that feels both refined and grounded.

Creative Escape: Access to the Writer’s Retreat, a lightly off‑grid studio with a fireplace, writing desk, and open shutters that invite fresh air and inspiration.

Nature‑Inspired Design: Natural textures and garden and woodland views create a sense of calm and connection. The Robert Frost Trail and other scenic hikes are nearby, and from the courtyard or Writer’s Retreat, guests often see birds by day and bats at dusk.

Celebration Package Add‑Ons: Featuring elegant themed décor, special touches, and thoughtful details for memorable stays—perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, best‑friend getaways, Valentine’s, or “just because” moments.

Literary Connection: Perfect for literary exploration, Under the Hemlocks is just a few minutes down the road from the Emily Dickinson Homestead Museum. The Robert Frost Trail and other nearby landmarks celebrate the region’s rich creative heritage, making this retreat an inspiring base for readers, writers, and poetry lovers alike.

Close to Campus Life: Just minutes from UMass and Amherst College, Under the Hemlocks offers a peaceful alternative to campus lodging—ideal for visiting parents, conference guests, and those attending university sports, cultural events, or museum exhibitions.


YOUR SPACES
Queen‑Size Bed: Adjustable head settings, premium linens for restorative sleep.

Comfort Features: Blackout blinds, individual climate control, and a quiet tower fan for year‑round comfort.

Optional Second Bed: European small double daybed converts from a reading nook to a second sleeping space. Additional $40 per stay applies.

Spa‑Inspired Bath
Deep soaking tub for full‑body relaxation.
Rainfall shower and eco‑friendly bath products.
Soft waffle towels and spa‑like ambience.

Kitchenette & Dining
Microwave, coffee machine, toaster, mini fridge/freezer, and compact dishwasher.
Dishes, cutlery, and cooking essentials provided.
Complimentary tea and coffee.

Flexible table space for dining, remote work, or casual use.

Wi‑Fi, Charging & Mindful Unplugging
Reliable Wi‑Fi for work, streaming, or staying in touch.
Television‑free design encourages rest and creativity.
Multiple outlets, surge protectors, USB ports, and charging cords provided.

Outdoor Courtyard
Private courtyard with seating, fire pit, grill with side burner, and prep kitchen with sink.
Some outdoor amenities may be unavailable during winter or extreme weather.

The Writer’s Retreat
Rustic, airy screened sunroom blending indoor and outdoor living.
Ideal for reading, writing, or quiet reflection.
Gel fuel fireplace for ambience; complimentary fuel for up to three hours.
Available most months; may close during heavy rain, snow, or freezing conditions.

Parking & Access
Private parking beside the suite for one vehicle.
Additional parking available on request.
Secure personal door code provided at check‑in.



GENERAL POLICIES
Is the property scent-sensitive?
Yes. Under the Hemlocks is a scent-sensitive friendly property. To ensure a comfortable environment for all guests, please avoid using strong scents such as perfumes, sprays, or heavily fragranced products during your stay.

Is smoking allowed?
No. Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere on the property. Any evidence of smoking will result in an additional $150 charge.

Who is allowed to stay overnight?
Only guests listed on the reservation may stay overnight.

Can I have visitors?
Yes, visitors are welcome between 10a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Can I bring my fish, iguana, or chinchilla?
No, sorry—no pets or exotic companions are allowed.

Can I arrive early or leave late?
Early arrivals or later departures are sometimes possible if mentioned when booking. These requests depend on the reservation schedule, so they can’t always be guaranteed. Last-minute requests normally aren’t possible, as time is needed to prepare the space with care for each guest.

Does the primary booking guest need to stay for the entire reservation?
Yes. The primary guest who booked the reservation must remain for the full duration of the stay.

Are there quiet hours?
Yes. Quiet hours are observed from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. to ensure a peaceful environment for all.

GUESTS & SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS
How many guests can stay at Under the Hemlocks?
The studio guest suite is designed for a maximum of 2 guests. It is a small, open-plan space intended for 2 humans only.

Is the suite suitable for children?
No. The space is not equipped with child safety measures such as safety gates or child-proof locks. For safety reasons, the suite is unsuitable for babies or children under 12.

Is there an extra bed available?
Yes. A space-saving chair/bed combination converts into a European small double bed. If you require this second bed, there is an additional charge of $40 per stay.
Please note: The suite is an open-plan studio. Adding the second bed makes the space a little smaller, and the sleeping area is not separate from the main bed.

COMFORT & AMENITIES
Do you provide tea, coffee, bedding, towels, and paper products?
Yes. Tea, coffee, bedding, towels, and essential paper products are provided for your stay.

Are there lots of kitchen essentials?
Yes. Guests often comment on how well-equipped the kitchen is, with plenty of essentials provided.

How do I adjust the heating and cooling?
Heating and cooling instructions are posted above the bed for easy reference.

What should I know about the bathtub?
The suite features a deep soaking tub with a rain shower. It’s perfect for relaxation, but please be mindful of the tub’s depth when stepping in and out.

Is there a television in the suite?
No. The space is intentionally designed without a TV to encourage a calm, relaxing, and Zen-like atmosphere.

Where can I find Wi-Fi details, amenity instructions, and local guides?
Wi-Fi, amenity instructions, and local guides are available on the interactive touchscreen in the kitchenette.

How do I work the 3-in-1 table or remotes for fireplace candles, and other amenities?
The coffee table and remotes have QR codes linking to short tutorials that explain how to use them.

Is there an iron in the suite, and what are the options for removing wrinkles from clothes?
Due to limited space, an iron isn’t provided, but a clothes steamer is available in the suite for your convenience. I’m happy to iron garments by arrangement.

DAMAGES
Normal wear and tear from gentle, everyday use is expected and never charged. However, costs may be applied for damage that goes beyond this—such as broken items, stains, burns, or other clear signs of misuse or neglect.

HOUSEKEEPING & SERVICES
Is housekeeping available during my stay?
Yes, for extended stays. Please arrange this service during the booking process so it can be scheduled in advance.

May I bring a personal kitchen appliance?
Possibly, depending on the appliance, but please arrange this with me in advance.

How many parking spaces are available?
Parking is provided for one vehicle. If you need extra space, let me know and I’ll be glad to arrange it.

SURROUNDINGS & SEASONAL NOTES
Will it be completely quiet during my stay?
The suite is located in a cosy, wooded residential neighbourhood. While the retreat is designed for peace and tranquillity, occasional sounds may be heard. These could include the host’s dog, grandchildren playing, or normal household activity. Neighbourhood sounds such as lawn maintenance, snow removal, or delivery vans are also possible and beyond my control.

Can I use the outdoor kitchen year-round?
During winter, the outdoor kitchen is limited to the worktop only to prevent freezing.

Is the Writer’s Retreat open all year?
Yes, The Writer’s Retreat is open year‑round, though access may be paused during periods of extreme weather.

Will I encounter wildlife or insects?
The suite is nestled among the Hemlocks and is part of a vibrant woodland ecosystem. Despite regular treatments, you may occasionally see insects. Wildlife such as bears, foxes, possums are part of the natural surroundings.

Cancellation Policy & Travel Insurance No refunds once the refund period has passed. Guests are strongly encouraged to include travel insurance with their reservation.