Wife and I went last year for the first time so we decided to go back again this year. First things first, a few changes since our last visit. The bicycles are now kept down by the farm instead of at your cottage. We were at the cottage area furthest from the farm so we really didn't feel like walking down to the farm to get the bikes. Easier to just go on foot. Second, there is now a daily resort fee which I despise at any resort. For 1br it is $35 daily and for 2br it is $50 daily. My wife emailed when she noticed this on our bill at time of booking and they waived it due to us being returning guests. There are no new or extra features since last year that warrants a daily fee. Also, to charge a daily fee when you are paying a minimum of $475 a night is not needed.
Little quirks we noticed. They either rearranged art on the wall or removed art and didn't replace it because there were nails exposed. While this is picky, for the price guests are paying things like this should be noticed. Our friends said that in their cottage they had exposed nails as well. Also, when we first got to our cottage's, a gentleman who was responsible for the mini bar was coming around. Doors were open and he just walked right in our friends cottage without knocking. Luckily our female friend heard him and was able to hide b/c she wasn't decent at that moment. That was mentioned to Jill, manager at the Lodge, and she appeared genuinely sorry and embarrassed.
Positives: The staff is extremely nice. Jill was super friendly. She made it known that she was on all weekend if we needed anything just ask. Her friendliness felt real. The restaurant on site, Earth at Hidden Pond, is damn good. While slightly pricey, you are getting high quality food and great service. Our server was Matt. We arrived an hour early to get drinks but the hostess said we could seat now. Why not? Better than hovering over someones shoulder at the bar. We told Matt when we sat down we were early and were going to just drink for a bit. No problem at all. Not once did we felt rushed.
When I posted last year people wondered how Hidden Pond compares to White Barn Inn. We stopped at this resort on our way out of town. We personally would find it hard to pay the price that they command. The basic room is SMALL. To have any space you need at least a junior suite. I did a quick search and for the beginning of October, 3 night minimum, the only room available is $928 a night. That is a poolside cottage. That room was nice and had a real wood burning fireplace. But in the summer I can see it being noisy for the fact it is right at the pool.
Ok, picture time!
