Cons, which didn’t deter me from giving five stars:
* Not shown in pics is a neighbor, another rental. You are separated by a little land, but you can plainly see them, and they, you. The house basically shares a driveway w/ a dirt road leading to a parking lot for the wildlife refuge/a fishing access trail. If you’re sitting near the front door, you’re going to see cars pulling in/out often. Although you do feel sort of tucked away, it’s not total privacy or seclusion.
* We put sheets on the couches because we brought dogs. We probably would have done this even if not required because the couches are worn. They’ve been used, obvi, and that’s ok! But if you’re hyper-aware of the germs/dirt/buildup left on fabrics, you’ll want to cover them, too.
* If your pets bolt, bring a gate to keep the porch enclosed. A loose dog would definitely be in danger bc the high-speed road is right there.
* We gated off the basement, too, where the rooms are carpeted, to avoid our dogs smelling/adding to previous potty accidents.
* Lots of bugs; so many bites. Bring spray repellent & itch relief.
* You’re going to have to do some clean-up upon departure; prepare for a checklist of your expected contributions to the turnover of the house.
And so many pros:
* The view is unreal: uninterrupted Whiteface; no humans, houses, roads, etc. in sight; best view from a kitchen sink I’ve ever seen.
* The wildlife refuge is a 2 minute walk away and such a perk.
* So much to do right nearby: trails, gorgeous river, fishing, climbing, twisty-turny roads.
* Wilmington, tiny little town, is 5 mins down the road; good for essential supplies, restaurants, Whiteface access road.
* Lake Placid (charming, tourist friendly, far less secluded) is 20 mins away.
* No baths here, but the showers/water pressure were the tops.
* No shortage of kitchen utensils. We made pie, cake, sushi, breakfast every morning. Their kitchen had nearly everything we needed; we over-packed. Bring your fancy knife, a nonstick pan, and you’re golden.
* Sauna worked perfectly; hot tub worked perfectly.
* Fire pit was great.
* Beds were super comfy.
* Recycling!
* The house has clearly been treated well/been well-maintained. I appreciated the many reminders from the owners to show the property respect, as you would your own home. Prior renters treating the home respectfully, properly + the owners maintaining it, too = totally evident.
* Still thinking about that view... magnifiqnue!