Yankee Magazine “Best of New England” Retreat — The Rocks: Historic Charm & Modern Comfort in a Stunning 1,400-Acre Mountain Retreat
Don't miss this rare opportunity to stay at the beautifully renovated Gardener's Cottage at The Rocks in Bethlehem, one of New England's most treasured destinations. Celebrated in the New York Times and Yankee Magazine—which named it "Editor's Choice Best of New England"—The Rocks is a breathtaking 1,400-acre property rich in history and natural beauty. Thanks to an exclusive collaboration between Bretton Woods Vacations and the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests (Forest Society), the beautifully renovated Gardener's Cottage is now available for short-term stays! You no longer need to be a daytime visitor to this stunning estate; you can actually live it, if just for a few days!
This unique retreat offers the perfect balance of history and modern convenience, including an EV charger. Once home to the gardener who tended the Olmsted-designed formal gardens next door (yes, the same Olmstead that designed Central Park in New York City and Golden Gate Park is San Francisco!), this cottage's interior has been completely renovated and thoughtfully updated with contemporary comforts, including air conditioning for year-round enjoyment. Stroll through trails lined with stone walls and historical buildings, visit the working Christmas tree farm and maple sugaring operation, or participate in seasonal events like guided hikes, wildlife programs, and the famous New Hampshire Maple Experience. Whether you're here to relax in the stunning landscape or explore the many nearby attractions—including Bretton Woods, Santa's Village, and the Cog Railway—this one-of-a-kind property offers a truly unforgettable White Mountains experience.
Step inside the Gardener's Cottage, where historic charm meets modern comfort. The fully renovated kitchen boasts new appliances and ample counter space, making home-cooked meals a breeze. Gather around the dining table, or relax in the cozy living room, where a Roku TV provides entertainment—if you can take your eyes off the spectacular mountain views! A second living area doubles as a bonus sleeping space with a sleeper sofa. The first floor also features a completely renovated full bathroom and a large laundry room for added convenience.
Upstairs, the charm continues with original, restored hardwood flooring and stunning views from every bedroom. The home is thoughtfully furnished to provide a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect retreat for families, couples, and history lovers alike.
With discounts for extended stays, a seamless check-in process, and management by Bretton Woods Vacations, this is more than just a rental—it's an experience you won't want to miss. Book your stay at The Rocks today!
Bedroom and Bathroom Layout
Entry Level
-Bathroom with a tub/shower combo
-Additional Sleeping Option: Full-size sleeper sofa
Upper Level
-Bedroom with a King bed and a Twin bed
-Bedroom with a King bed
-Bedroom with a Queen bed
-Half Bathroom
Unmatched Location for Year-Round Adventure
This home is located in Bethlehem, a beautiful Northern New England gem, home to many great golf courses, restaurants, pubs, and a vibrant community, only a stone's throw from all major White Mountains attractions. Bretton Woods, New Hampshire's largest ski resort, consistently rated #1 in the East for snow and grooming, and a 4-season destination with activities for all ages and all seasons, is less than 20 minutes away. Aside from the historical Mount Washington Hotel, one of the few remaining grand hotels of the White Mountains, you can enjoy its award-winning spa, restaurants, and a myriad of activities, from Canopy Tours/Zip Lining to Rock climbing, River Tubing, Mountain Biking, to Golfing, Scenic Lift Rides, Disc Golf, Archery, Tennis, Fly Casting clinics, and Horseback riding, Franconia Notch State Park, Lincoln, and Santa's Village are also all a short drive away.
In the winter, you will enjoy both downhill and cross-country skiing at any of the nearby resorts, from Bretton Woods to Cannon and Loon. But that's not all. In the heart of the White Mountains, this area is the perfect home base to explore the innumerable attractions that they offer: the Cog Railway, Santa's Village, Story Land, Clark's Trading Post, the Flume Gorge, and more. Looking for something different? Spend the day shopping at the outlets in North Conway! So much to do, you'll just wish you had more time! Littleton, one of "America's Top 10 Main Streets" with its fabulous restaurants and great vibe, is also just a few minutes away.
Why You'll Love Staying Here
-The charming cottage is dog-friendly (on-leash due to sensitive wildlife habitats), provides direct access to historical walking trails, has an EV charger, and offers a fire pit for cozy evenings under the stars.
-Keyless entry with virtual check-in/check-out for a seamless experience.
-Digital guidebooks and local insights at your fingertips, plus access to discounted Cog Railway tickets and discounts at selected local golf courses (subject to availability)
-Life happens! Our rentals are backed by a $1500 accidental damage policy. If something breaks accidentally, let us know and we will cover it up to $1500! Another reason why renting from Bretton Woods Vacation is the safe choice for the discerning guest
-Discounted tickets at Kahuna Laguna indoor water park in N. Conway, and option to purchase pool and gym passes at the Mountain View Grand Resort and Spa (subject to availability)
-Earn Bretton Woods Vacations Reward Points with each stay!
-Rates get cheaper the longer you stay, so treat yourself to a longer stay and save!
Professional, reliable, and responsive service by Bretton Woods Vacations
Rent with confidence knowing that this home is managed by Bretton Woods Vacations, recognized by Haute Living as one of New England's leading vacation rental companies and praised by USA Today for exceptional guest care. We offer competitive rates with the peace of mind of renting from the area's #1 Vacation Rental Company. With a broad selection of homes, from secluded cabins to luxury ski-in/ski-out properties, we deliver unmatched customer satisfaction and a proven commitment to the guest experience.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Arrival and Departure
-Check-in is at 4 PM and Check-out is at 11 AM.
-Early check-ins and Late check-outs are subject to availability.
-A Digital Guidebook is provided before arrival.
-Lock codes are provided 1-hour before check-in subject to signing the Rental Agreement.
-All interactions are virtual, but our office team and ground crew are available for assistance.
Occupancy and Pets
-The total number of guests at the property must not exceed the number listed in the booking. The guest count should reflect the correct number of adults (12+), children (2+), and pets. A nightly extra guest fee may apply for guests above the standard occupancy up to the maximum number of allowable guests.
-Dogs are allowed (5 max), any other types of animals require approval. All pets except for Service Animals are subject to a Pet Fee per pet.
-Dogs should not be left unattended in units if there is potential for them to bark and disturb neighbors or damage the property.
-Respectful Noise Levels: Let's keep the peace! Keep the volume down so all can enjoy their time here. Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 8 am.
Amenities
-Your unit will be stocked with a starter set of consumables including toilet paper, paper towels, a sponge, trash bags, dish soap, dishwasher pods, laundry pods, coffee filters, etc. Additional -supplies should be provided by the guest.
-Linens and towels are included in the cleaning fee, with beds made and fresh towels waiting for you upon arrival.
-This unit provides Roku TV in the living area.
-There are 6 remote-controlled AC mini splits; one in each bedroom, one in each living area, and one in the laundry area.
-There is an EV Charger at the main building, just a short walk from the Cottage. It is a ChargePoint paid terminal and has two connections.
-This unit has a propane grill.
-This unit has a fire pit.
-No Unauthorized Fires: State and Local Laws regulate the use of fire pits, grills, other open flames, and fireworks. Only use provided grills and fireplaces; permits are required to use fire pits in NH.
Driving Access, Parking, and Entryway
-Remember this area is home to many residents and children. Please follow posted speed limits and drive carefully for the safety of our community.
-Parking is limited to 2 CARS.
-Each property has parking limits based on capacity and/or potential rules of the Homeowner's Association. Guests must abide by these limitations to protect the physical property and the space of neighbors. Additional vehicles must be parked in specified overflow parking areas. Trailers or RVs may not be parked at any property without permission. Excess vehicles may be towed.
-Access from parking to the front door requires climbing four steps.
Trash and Recycling
-There is a dumpster located on-site for the disposal of trash.
Disclosures
-A signed rental agreement is required for all reservations
-Cancellation policies are followed to ensure fairness to all guests and owners. We strongly recommend purchasing trip insurance as exceptions cannot be made.
-Rural homes may encounter pests like bears, mice, lady beetles, and wasps. To minimize this, we ask that trash not be left outside. We actively manage these situations while prioritizing environmentally friendly methods and limiting the use of chemicals.
Our House Rules are designed to promote responsible behavior and respect for others. While we want to keep rules minimal, setting clear expectations is essential. We kindly ask that all guests adhere to all rules to ensure a positive experience for everyone.
*Operated by Bretton Woods Rentals, LLC, DBA Bretton Woods Vacations under New Hampshire Meals and Rooms License 060929*
Photos: Shanna Hale; Colleen Eliason, White Mountains Attractions Association; Chris Whiton Photography; Matt Kalinowski; Bretton Woods Vacations; Al Karevy
