SECLUDED PINE COTTAGE ON 70 ACRE WILDERNESS POND-SYMES POND

We enjoyed the design of the cabin's open architecture: the interior balcony overlooking the living room, the upstairs deck over the front porch, the quaint and more-than-adequate kitchen. The location can't be beat. From the front porch, we experienced the beautiful view of Lower Symes pond and the surrounding mountains, which showed no signs of civilization. The chairs on the deck were ultra-comfortable, and the hot tub, also with a view of the pond, provided an equally relaxing experience.

The narrow winding road to the cabin contributed to our feeling of seclusion.

The fishing was excellent. We caught a lot of pickerel and small-mouth bass on spoons and little green-and-white artificial minnows, working the shoreline and edges of the lily pads. With a worm, a hook, and an hour, a person could catch 20 perch, many over 8 inches.

Kayaking on the pond was a blast, and there was another pond connected to the north-west side of Lower Symes that is postcard perfect and equally untouched by man. Sliding silently across the reflection of the mountains in a kayak, I saw deer cautiously approach the water's edge for a drink. Many experiences were both peaceful and exciting.

We liked watching the kingfishers fish and the humming birds hum. Anyone interested in birds will enjoy seeing the grouse and turkey in the woods and loons, herons and ducks on the water, not to mention the countless other birds.

We took a few escapades to the north, including biking in Quebec and a quick stop for poutine. Cabot is a town in the proximity of the cabin, about 20 minutes away, and the Cabot Cheese Factory Tour was both educational and delicious.

Carl, the owner of the cabin, was pleasant. He made sure we were set immediately after our arrival, and he checked on us a couple of times during the week. I never felt like he was intruding, but I always felt like he would respond if we needed him. We didn't. Everything was perfect.

We brought an extra fan because I read a review that the air circulation in the cabin was poor. We didn't share this observation. There was a ceiling fan and two fans in the cabin, but nevertheless, one of the August nights, we didn't mind having our extra fan to quickly regulate the indoor temperature for comfort.

There is a strong Verizon signal throughout the location and satellite TV in the cabin, but I recommend keeping the electronic devices turned off.

So perfect. Everything as advertised. My husband and two Golden Retrievers, Trinity and Brady, and I spent our anniversary here. The dogs had a great time romping and swimming. We had a time great reading, cooking, enjoying a warm fire and the Milky Way! We did hear the coyotes howling and the beavers slapping the pond. Great to melt away the rat race. Can't wait to head back to paradise!
Thanks Carl and Kym!

I have been reluctant to give a review of this little wonderful place called Symes Pond and the cabins available there the reason for my reluctance is too good of a review, then we might not get to go because of the demand increasing). We have come the past 2 summers and haven't relaxed this much in ages. From fishing to swimming to horseback riding (my wife only) this is an outdoors persons paradise. Yes it can be a little rough getting there but well worth it. We are hoping to return for another 2 weeks this summer. Thanks Carl and Kym for sharing your wonderful cottages.