The Cottage by the Woods – 4 beds, firepit, cozy

The house and garden are space to enjoy time away from the business of life. Enter from the back door to an enclosed area for shoes and outerware. Take off your shoes and coats, and enter the kitchen or the stairway to the basement.
The kitchen has an island with seating and a pantry for extra storage or prep space.
The Dining and Living area are ahead, and three bedrooms and bathrom are to the left. Beyond the Living room fireplace with wood burning stove is the front door vestibule that we have converted to a small workspace with desk and chair for those "can't skip meetings" or homework.
The basement stairway leads to the laundry space and a large bonus room with a king size bed and additional desk area and seating. Beyond the laundry area is a project room; an old style workbench area where you can set up your own tools or art supplies and complete that picture you wanted to paint - - without worrying about getting it on the furniture - - crafts/tools/etc. not provided, just the room.
Outside is a yard with firepit and chairs - - and an open sky to watch the stars, catch up with friends & family or just you and that special person.... The garden has been planted to attract wildlife, butterflies and birds... and offers a space to clear your head and get back to what's important: your R&R.

Currently the garage is off-limits.

We give our guests their space. However, we do have exterior cameras.

Guest guide
Best for wine tasting
Gouveia Vineyards — about 15 to 20 minutes — scenic vineyard views and an easy local wine stop.

Paradise Hills Vineyard & Winery — about 15 to 20 minutes — another close option for tastings and a relaxed outing.

The Southern Connecticut Wine Co. — about 15 to 20 minutes — smaller, more local-feeling wine stop.

Tranquillity Vineyard & Winery — about 25 to 35 minutes — a bit farther, but still a manageable drive for a wine outing.

Rosabianca Vineyards — about 25 to 35 minutes — better for a longer visit than a quick stop.

Hawk Ridge Winery — about 30 to 40 minutes — good if you want to combine wine with a longer drive.

Sharpe Hill Vineyard — about 45 to 60 minutes — best treated as a day trip vineyard.

Best for outdoor time
Beaver Pond — fishing, nature, short walk — free — Easy local stop for fishing, casual walking, and a quick outdoor break.

Meriden Green — park, events, walking — free — Good for strolling, community events, and an easy downtown stop.

Hanover Pond — fishing, trail, nature — free — Popular fishing spot with nearby trail access; good for walking and bank fishing.

Hubbard Park — hiking, park, scenic views — free — Major Meriden outdoor destination with trails, picnic areas, and access to Castle Craig.

Castle Craig — hiking, overlook, landmark — free — One of the best scenic viewpoints in the area; road access is seasonal, so check before going.

Giuffrida Park — hiking, nature preserve — free — Strong choice for a quieter hike; trail system includes scenic overlooks.

Quinnipiac River Linear Trail / Quinnipiac Gorge Trail — walking, biking, trail — free — Flat trail option for walking, jogging, or biking; good if you want an easier outing.

Mirror Lake — fishing, nature — free — Another local fishing spot, typically more low-key than the larger parks.

Good guest note
The vineyards listed above are reasonable local drives from 78 Summit St, while the nature spots are better for quick outings, walks, fishing, and family time. For a guest guide, Hubbard Park and Castle Craig are the strongest outdoor recommendations, and Gouveia Vineyards is the easiest wine option to feature.

A vehicle is needed to get to the Cottage by the Woods.

We allow pets with paid fee and require that you pick up after your pet to avoid fees.
Our property borders a wooded area filled with attractive wildlife smells. We highly recommend that you keep your pet on a leash.