Located within a mile (2 km) of Lake Sunapee, this vacation home is within 2 miles (3 km) of Mount Sunapee State Park. The vacation home includes a private pool, a kitchen, and a fireplace.
John Hay National Wildlife Refuge - 4 min drive - 2.5 miles
The Fells - 5 min drive - 2.9 miles
Sunapee Harbor - 16 min drive - 7.8 miles
Colby-Sawyer College - 19 min drive - 10.2 miles
Getting around
Claremont Station - 35 min drive
Springfield, VT (VSF-Hartness State) - 56 min drive
Restaurants
Dunkin' - 10 min drive
Bubba's Bar & Grille - 3 min drive
Dunkin' - 14 min drive
Bradford Junction - 12 min drive
Sunapee Pizza Chef - 14 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
"Big Sky" Retreat Atop Sunapee / Ski + Lake Life
Summary: Welcome to "Big Sky" Retreat, a charming Cape Cod-style home 2 minutes from Lake and 5 minutes from Mount Sunapee. This spacious 4-bed, 3-bath (with bonus 2-bed, 1-bath apartment upon request) boasts ample space for relaxation and entertainment.
Perched atop a gentle hill and 13 acres, the property provides picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. The expansive yard (with pond!) is perfect for outdoor activities or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.
The Space: - Main Floor: Open-concept living area with a gas fireplace, cozy seating, and large windows. One king guest bedroom with mountain views. - Primary Suite (Main Floor): King bed, en-suite bath with spacious walk-in shower, and private outdoor access. - Upper Level: One queen bedroom with dormer windows and a single daybed, one full bedroom, and one spillover bedroom with queen + trundle beds great for kids or extra guests, sharing a full bath. - Lower Level: ** UPON SEPARATE BOOKING + ADDITIONAL PAYMENT ** Features a second living area with one king bedroom and one queen bedroom, lounge area with TV, and direct backyard access.
The "flex" apartment can either be sequestered from the main house, or flow naturally into it via permissioned access codes - entirely up to the guest! The separate apartment NEVER rents "separately," so this ensure the guest has private access to the property at all times (NOTE: host/owners may be staying in the lower-level apartment when it’s not rented as part of the stay to assist during periods of inclement weather or to address guest special requests)
Link to booking site for “Flex” Apartment: airbnb.com/h/bigskyretreatsunapeeoverflow
- Kitchen: Fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, marble countertop, coffee maker, toaster, and ample counter space. - Dining Room: Formal dining area and a breakfast nook, perfect for shared meals. - Outdoor Living: Outdoor grill and two decks with seating for dining under the stars facing west, and a home-length porch facing east to watch the sun from start to finish. Outdoor shower to rinse off the mountain or the lake, and private pond for water-borne activities (paddleboards, canoes, pedal boat, etc.)
** UPON REQUEST + ADDITIONAL PAYMENT ** Hot tub for 6+ available for $150 payment per stay
- Upstairs Lounge: Cozy den for reading and relaxation. - Proximity to Everything, Away from it All: Easy access to hiking trails, skiing/snowboarding, and the lake for year-round fun.
Guest Access: Guests have full access to the home except for the lower-level apartment, which may occasionally be occupied by the owners (see "Interaction with Guests" for details).
** UPON REQUEST + ADDITIONAL PAYMENT ** the lower-level apartment can be rented for an additional living space/2 additional bedrooms and 1 full bathroom.
- Remote Keyless Entry: Schlage "smart" locks provide seamless self-check-in. - Contingency Entry: A backup IglooHome smart padlock and emergency manual lockbox are available for peace of mind. - Pedestrian Ingress/Egress: To help keep the home clean, we ask that guests use the mudroom/breezeway entrance, especially when coming off the slopes or hiking trails.
The Neighborhood: "Big Sky" Retreat is conveniently located near Newbury, Sunapee, and New London, offering easy access to restaurants, activities, and outdoor adventures.
Local Dining: - Bubba’s Bar & Grille (Newbury) – Casual lakeside dining. - Fenton’s Landing (Sunapee Harbor) – Great sandwiches and coffee. - The Anchorage (Sunapee Harbor) – Classic New England seafood. - Millstone at 74 Main (New London) – Elevated American cuisine.
Outdoor Activities: - Mount Sunapee Resort – Skiing, snowboarding, and year-round adventure park. - Lake Sunapee – Boating, fishing, and water sports. - Newbury Harbor Public Beach – A scenic, family-friendly swimming spot. - The Fells Historic Estate & Gardens – Stroll through beautiful landscapes and trails. - John Hay National Wildlife Refuge – Excellent for nature walks and birdwatching.
Getting Around: Located just a few miles off Route 103, "Big Sky" Retreat is easily accessible from major cities. Guests will arrive at the base of Old Post Road before ascending the private hill to the home. AWD/4WD is highly recommended in winter months.
- From the North (Lebanon, Hanover, VT): Take I-89 South to Exit 12, follow NH-11 East to NH-103A, then NH-103 South to Newbury. - From the South (Boston, MA): Take I-93 North to I-89 North, exit at NH-103 West toward Newbury. - From the East (Portsmouth, NH): Take NH-4 West to I-89 North, then NH-103 West to Newbury. - From the West (Keene, NH): Take NH-9 East to NH-10 North, then NH-103 East to Newbury.
Other Things to Note: - AWD/4WD is highly recommended in winter months due to the private hill leading up to the house. - The home is family-friendly, but please be mindful of young children near the fireplace and outdoor spaces. - Cell service is reliable, but WiFi calling may be needed in some spots.
ADDITIONAL AMENITY FEES: All to be paid prior to check-in! - Pets: An additional $100 pet fee per stay (NOT per pet) applies for your dogs-only (2 total allowed)! - Hot tub: $150 per stay for chemical balancing/preparation
Interaction with Guests: Guests will have full access to the entire home, but on occasion, the host/owners may be staying in the lower-level apartment when it’s not rented as part of the stay (** UPON REQUEST + ADDITIONAL PAYMENT **)
- The owners are available to assist if needed but respect your privacy. - In case of inclement weather (heavy snow, icy conditions), they may provide on-site support to ensure safe access to the home.
The vacation home is heated and features a kitchen, 3 bathrooms, and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with 5 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find a TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a private pool, a washing machine, and a fireplace. Change of towels is available on request.
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Area rugs in public areas
Cobblestone flooring in public areas
Gravel flooring in public areas
Hardwood flooring in public areas
Smooth flooring in public areas
Stair-free path to entrance
Thin carpet in public areas
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Well-lit path to entrance
Smoking not allowed
Services and conveniences
Change of bedsheets (on request)
Change of towels on request
Iron/ironing board
Location highlights
In a rural location
In a village
In the mountains
On a lake
Things to do
Arcade/game room
Optional golf privileges
Water park
Cycling nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Mountain climbing nearby
Rock climbing nearby
Theme park nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
General
Bed sheets changed on request
Garden
Recycling
Towels (changed on request)
Unit size: 3,709 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Rules
*** Please respect "Big Sky" Retreat and approach your stay as if the home was your own! You will be liable for any damages done to the grounds or ...
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Note from host: Charge may apply
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 18
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
Long-term renters welcome.
Property is also known as
67db3e1dab23520011a04a25
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do around this vacation home?
This vacation home is located in Newbury, close to Mount Sunapee State Park, The Fells, and John Hay National Wildlife Refuge. You'll also find Lake Sunapee and Pillsbury State Park within a short drive.
Will I be able to park at this vacation home?
Yes, there is a garage.
Is this vacation home associated with a casino?
No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this vacation home?
No, this vacation home doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.
Is "Big Sky" Retreat Atop Sunapee / Ski + Lake Life good for couples?
At this lakeside vacation home, there are many amenities for couples, including a private pool and a fireplace in each accommodation with some featuring lake views.
Does "Big Sky" Retreat Atop Sunapee / Ski + Lake Life have a hot tub?
Yes, this vacation home has a spa tub.
Does this vacation home include breakfast service?
No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?
Although pets can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.
Are there connecting rooms at this vacation home?
No, there aren't connecting rooms at this vacation home.
What is the closest airport to this vacation home?
The closest major airport to this vacation home is Springfield, VT (VSF-Hartness State), which is about 24.8 mi away. Another top airport is Lebanon, NH (LEB-Lebanon Municipal), which is around 25.4 mi away.
Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at "Big Sky" Retreat Atop Sunapee / Ski + Lake Life?
Yes, every accommodation at "Big Sky" Retreat Atop Sunapee / Ski + Lake Life comes with a balcony with some featuring lake or mountain views.
"Big Sky" Retreat Atop Sunapee / Ski + Lake Life Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 8 out of 8 reviews
10 - Excellent
8
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 8 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 8 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 8 reviews
4 - Poor
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Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 8 reviews
2 - Terrible
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10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Luke D.
Oct 25, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
A cut above your standard rental! Great safe beautiful property and a fair price. Filled with real furniture and not the copy and paste stuff you find in other rentals. Just a fantastic spot.
Luke D.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lilly N.
Oct 9, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
We had an amazing stay! The property was beautiful and the hosts were awesome. It was the perfect place to host a big group. We particularly enjoyed the big kitchen for cooking large meals and the outdoor deck seating. This place was great and we would happily stay again!
Lilly N.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kevin O.
Aug 11, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Friend Retreat
Had 7 couples here for a weekend! Chris and Leah go above and beyond in providing plenty of fun amenities, where we felt like we didn’t have to leave the home! Everyone enjoyed the spacious house, beautiful front porch, fire pit, corn hole and jacuzzi! Each couple had their own room and bed which was great. Beautiful location, plenty of local options for food! 10/10 Stay, strongly recommend!
Kevin O.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Aditya A.
Aug 4, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great Stay. House is indeed a "Big Sky Retreat". Both Chrisn and Leah made the stay very comfortable. The hosts were very approachable whenever we had questions. We had agreat experience and recommend the property for everyone.
Aditya A.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kimberlee S.
Jul 27, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Exceptional property offering beautiful views and pure serenity. Photos do not do it justice. Do not hesitate to book today. We will return again!
Kimberlee S.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Brian B.
Jul 25, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Spacious, and very comfortable house, perfect for our family get-together. We had 12 in our crew, and while just the upstairs could have worked well, having the lower apartment allowed us to spread out further.The grounds are fantastic -- with the fire pit, the hot tub, sitting by the pond -- and the views that go on forever from the front porch... day and night. Super convenient to Newbury and Sunapee.Add to that, Chris was a fantastic, communicative host.
Brian B.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Andrew C.
Jun 5, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Our stay at Big Sky was everything we hoped for and more. The setting is stunning—wide open views, peaceful surroundings, and countless cozy and inviting spaces both indoors and out. Every detail of the home has been so thoughtfully considered, from the beautifully furnished common areas to the exceptionally well-equipped kitchen (a dream for anyone who loves to cook or entertain).This home is made for gathering. We loved the multiple social spaces, perfect for everything from quiet morning coffee to lively evenings with friends. The air hockey table and vintage arcade machine were a huge hit, and although we didn’t use the outdoor hot tub or fire pit, they added to the feeling that everything we needed was right at our fingertips. The kid-friendly zipline and little pond are charming additions that make the property feel playful and welcoming for all ages.Leah and Chris were outstanding hosts—warm, communicative, and clearly passionate about creating a memorable experience for their guests.Whether you're planning a family getaway, a retreat with friends, or simply looking for a beautiful space to relax and reconnect, Big Sky delivers on every front. We can’t wait to return!
Andrew C.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Emily W.
May 17, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Didn’t want to leave and can’t wait to go back!
We had the most amazing stay at Leah and Chris’s beautiful home! From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by how clean, spacious, and thoughtfully stocked the house was—it truly had everything we could possibly need and more.Our group of 12 (including young kids and dogs!) had tons of space to spread out comfortably, and every single bed was super cozy. The huge yard was perfect for lawn games, which were conveniently provided, and we spent hours outside enjoying the privacy and peaceful surroundings. The pond was a hit—we even caught a few small bass while fishing!One especially thoughtful touch: when the forecast called for rain, Leah and Chris brought over new board games for us to enjoy. It was such a kind and unexpected gesture that made our stay even more memorable.The hosts were incredibly communicative, friendly, and genuinely wanted us to have the best time—and we absolutely did. We stayed over Mother’s Day weekend, and it was so perfect that we’re already planning to come back next year.Can’t recommend this place enough. It’s a gem!