Charming west-side cottage
Submitted: April 21, 2013
Stayed: April 2013
My husband and I stayed with our six-month-old daughter for three days in Lara's charming cottage. We have used VBRO for rentals world-wide and this cottage was one of the best outfitted we've yet to visit. Not just in terms of anticipating the needs of travelers (there even was a Pack n' Play!), but in being of the very highest quality. As foodies and recreational cooks, we were thrilled by the Nespresso machine and milk foamer, not to mention having a gas stove with a pristine broiler at our disposal. All the better to take advantage of all that great west-coast salmon! The bed was very comfortable as was the couch and our daughter really enjoyed taking a swim in the tub. All linens were excellent, including what seemed to be vintage sheets on the bed. The house is situated on the corner of two quiet neighborhood streets, though the 51 bus stop is right outside the living room. We didn't find the traffic on the busier of the two streets distracting, but we are city-dwellers ourselves.
Portland Heights is, as its name suggests, a very hilly area. Though we live a car-free lifestyle, we were very glad to have a rental car for our stay. While parts of Portland are very walkable, this area is VERY hilly. Think San Francisco-lite. We didn't bring our stroller, so schlepping around with our chunky monkey in the carrier made getting around on foot a little challenging in our immediate vicinity. While two grocery stores were within walking distance, I couldn't have carried the groceries and my daughter up the hill. The car however erased these issues. Many parts of Portland are very easy for walking. An added bonus of being in Portland Heights is that you are a very short drive to Washington Park, with all of its gardens, Children's Museum, arboretum, etc..
We wouldn't hesitate to go back with our daughter, but once she outgrows her Pack-n-Play, it would be difficult with the one bedroom layout. A family with an older child/teen could easily have him or her sleep on the couch, but for the little ones that go to bed much earlier it would be difficult. I would love to go back with just my husband for a romantic trip. It is a very romantic cottage!
Lara could not have been more accommodating before, during and after our stay. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend her cottage.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Families with Young Children,
Romantic Getaway
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