Are you curious about the growing trend of “glamping” and tiny house living?
I decided to experience a tiny house vacation at the Tuxbury Tiny House Village in beautiful South Hampton, New Hampshire for a weekend. The train ride from NYC to Boston was scenic, passing by large spans of marsh and sea views dotted with idyllic white bottomed boats, and after a quick transfer I arrived in the quaint little corner of New England. What awaits you is fresh air, historic charm and nature.
The Tuxbury Tiny House Village is part of a collection of unique accommodations by Petite Retreats, and consists of thoughtfully named Emerson, Henry, Clara, Riley and Murphy. The tiny houses range in size from 180 to 310 square feet. Each house has its own personality, décor and comforts of home- just in a smaller sized space.
All materials are higher-end, giving in to the quality over quantity. For someone searching for something different, this could be the perfect retreat for multi-generational travel, family travel or a cute girlfriends getaway.
My house, named Emerson, was the largest of the tiny houses at 310 square feet. Inside, you find accommodations for up to four people. A simplistic kitchenette lines the wall, complete with coffee pot, fridge and a complete set of dishes. A full bathroom is located in the back, and over the couch hangs a flat screen TV. A window overlooks Tuxbury Pond, and the loft bedroom (sleeping 4) is comfortable and cozy.Right outside your door is a fire pit, perfect for an evening of s’mores.
On the grounds are also an outdoor pool, general store, adult game room, playground, arcade/game room, outdoor entertainment pavilion, ball field, horseshoe, basketball and volleyball courts.
To Do:
Tuxbury Pond
Tuxbury Pond is steps from your door, and our hosts were nice enough to have kayaks ready to go. The pond was a glossy deep blue, with dashes of bright green lily pads, creating the most serene paddling experience.
Cider Hill Farm
One of the highlights of the area is nearby Cider Hill Farm, a beautiful family-owned farm run by Glenn and Karen Cook in Amesbury. Started by Glenn’s parents, the farm has slowly expanded over the years to what it is today- 145 acres including 5 houses, a food truck, bakery, boutique, CSA, Cider Distillery & tasting room and fruit-picking orchards. Make sure to try the apple cider, and the apple cider donut is nothing short of heavenly.
Perfect for the whole family, the little ones will enjoy Glenn’s Trike Yards, the giant sandbox or hayrides, and everyone will love feeding the goats and chickens. Make sure to check out the event calendar for farm yoga, festivals and workshops, especially for specific fruit (blueberry, peach, raspberry, strawberries, apples and pumpkin) picking seasons.
Amesbury
Back in town, explore the quaint shopping district of historic Amesbury. A former mill town and home to several historic firsts (such as the inventor the wooden fishing dory, one of the first abolitionist voices against slavery and home to a signer of the Declaration of Independence) the small town is surrounded by waterways, greenspace and brick sidewalks. Mill spaces have been reincarnated into modern offices, small businesses and artist spaces.
If you want to check out the museums, head to Mary Baker Eddy Historic House, an antique house from the 18th Century or The Macy Colby House, from the Macy family dating back to 1654.
Grab a bite to eat at the original Flatbread Company, a comfortable eatery known for massive salads with homemade dressings, wood fired pizzas and decadent desserts.
SUP YO Class at Lake Gardner
Stand up paddleboarding has been trending, and the best way to enjoy nature and get a great workout is on the water. SUP YO is a local company that holds classes on Lake Gardner and throughout Massachusetts. Classes are 75 minutes long and include all equipment. I didn’t fall in, but prepare to possibly get wet.
