My boyfriend and I spent a weekend here for an anniversary in the fall of 2004. The house was very humble, comfortable and personal. Nothing to overwhelm, distract, or wow you. Okay, except for the natural beauty and peace surrounding you.
Recommendations for local dining and sight-seeing were spot-on and breakfasts in the house were absolutely wonderful. Aside from visiting the artist workshops, galleries and attractions in nearby towns (went to see the Pioneer Valley Symphony one night and out for Blues & BBQ another,) exploring the attached walking trails with splendid beaver dam, a late-night soak in the outdoor hot tub under the starry November sky, driving the scenic roads into the Vermont, we also went on one spectacular autumn horseback ride.
I'm a longtime rider and horse-lover while it was my boyfriend's first time on a horse. Mark listened and matched us perfectly with horses that are obviously very, very well cared for. My boyfriend had a mild-mannered, smooth Tennessee Walker and I had a once-spoiled draft mix that needed only a little mindful, experienced attention to bring out his wonderful potential. The ride was wonderful for both of us. There are plenty of uptight, pretentious horse people and plenty of rough, careless horse people but Mark is far from either. I personally loved his thoughtful, gentle approach. It was such a relief.
Oh, and the green field of horses in every shape and size was a horse-lovers (and photographers) dream. Just beautiful, I was in heaven. We were having such a good weekend at High Pocket that my boyfriend decided to call in for a day off from work so we could add a third night and went for one more ride in the morning before we left.
That getaway remains one of the most memorable for me. Whenever I try to relax or meditate, my mind returns to our first day: the crisp autumn air, warming sun, the rustling sound and smell of decaying leaves, and the utter peace of the place. I'm not sure I've ever felt so perfectly content and unconsumed.
High Pocket is good for down-to-earth, low maintenance guests in search of authentic, peaceful experiences enjoying the quiet beauty of your surroundings and soaking up a slower pace of life. read more