Our favorite house
Review Submitted: October 15, 2009
Date of Stay: August 2009
Sometimes you find a place that's really special and this is one of those places.
My wife and 3 sons and I have been renting a summer house for the last 15 years on the Cape, in Newport, RI and other coastal spots -- and have had some nice places and pleasant experiences.
But the Pond House is easily our favorite house.
I am a creative director and a surfer -- and a dad. And this house appeals to me on all levels. What you notice first and what grows on you while you stay, is how extraordinarily well designed this house is. Beautiful. Simple. Efficient. Not just a place to park your flip flops but a real pleasure to spend time in.
It was designed in the 60s and if you love a contemporary feel, you'll love this place. It's so rare to find a rental at a rate like this that has this level of thoughtful design and detail.
From the kitchen to the bedrooms, there are dozens of ingenious built in features that make the house very livable. There's a nice little dining room and a screened in porch with a picnic table where we ate breakfast with the boys every morning.
The heart of the house is a comfortable, casual family room that's all glass and overlooks the yard and the saltwater pond with the ocean in the distance.
There is a spacious back deck with plenty of chairs, grill etc. And we put it to use for cocktails and dining almost every night.
If you have kids (and I should mention that my sons are 4 1/2, 8 and 19) you'll love the saltwater pond that's basically in your back yard. As the tide moves in and out, our boys spent hours wading in the shallows and catching crabs and trying to catch fish. It's calm and it's safe.
We spent most of our days at nearby beaches that are easy to get to and easy to park at. No more than 5 minutes away by car or a 10 minute bike ride.
Last two thoughts: If you're a surfer. South Beach is not too far away 15 to 20 minutes. But the up island spots are a commitment. More like 30 minutes to an hour to get to.
And last but certainly not least: the owner is a guy name Sam who's a real cool cat. He's a genuine part of the culture and heritage of Harthaven. Ask him about his underwater archeological pursuits, or the books he's written or the documentaries he's made. Nice guy. Great stories. All of which just add to the vibe of the house.
Yep, you've found a good one here. Go for it.
Cheers -- Mark
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