Magical Charming 1850s Barn on Idyllic Former Farm

One of two original 19th century barns nestled on a 4.5-acre property with pasture, woodland and wetlands in the heart of the Hudson Valley. Conveniently located on a lightly traveled country road just 10 minutes from the lovely town of New Paltz and the I-87 thruway, and 20 minutes from Poughkeepsie station. Easy access to the area's best hikes and towns like Kingston, Rhinebeck, and Woodstock. Very quiet and peaceful cocooned in blissful nature! Search "Plutarch Farmhouse" on YouTube for vids. The space This 1850s barn retains all its original charm -- a magical step back in time! Antique fixtures (wood-burning stove + clawfoot tub + farmhouse sink + mini chandeliers!), bright dining area, and stairs up to a romantic lofted living/sleeping area with exposed beams makes for a wonderfully comfortable and very special stay for nature lovers or anyone looking to get away and unwind. Search "Plutarch Farmhouse" on YouTube for videos. Originally a horse barn, the space has been modernized just enough for a very snug stay while retaining the original structure and feel as much as possible. The raw wooden walls and floors were too beautiful to be plastered over -- therefore the barn is not completely insulated/sealed, however, window AC units, fans, wood burning stove, electric heaters and electric blanket generally maintain a comfortable temperature year round (but please keep in mind if you are particularly temperature sensitive, during times of extreme heat or cold.) There is a short staircase (8 steps) leading from the dining area to the lofted living / sleeping area. Please take note if booking with children or guests who have trouble with stairs. The outdoor fire pit with designer teak Adirondack chairs, outdoor bistro table and chairs, grill, and a breathtaking view onto a stunning marsh and woodland make for a truly idyllic stay in a beautiful landscape. One queen bed sleeps two and an additional guest can crash on the daybed which is fantastic for lounging/napping. Formerly inhabited by a shaman and sound healer, this barn and property has been described by visitors over the years as magical and enchanted. The front of the property has a true farm feel with its weathered fence lined with crab apple trees and magnolias. The back of the property looks out onto marshland full of cattails and is a haven for a great variety of birds and rare amphibians. Enjoy coffee and breakfast to the sound of songbirds under an umbrella at the outdoor bistro table or inside comfortably seated in vintage chairs, explore one of many hikes at Minnewaska State Park or Mohonk Preserve, relax with a book in the gazebo or by the cattails, pick up fresh fruit and provisions at farmstands nearby, and use the outdoor grill to dine alfresco or take a quick drive to a great restaurant in Kingston or Rhinebeck -- while the postal address is Highland, the property is actually closer to the town of New Paltz -- before enjoying an evening fire and falling asleep to the sound of crickets! Guest access You'll have the entire barn to yourself and shared access to all outdoor areas on the 4.5 acre property: front fenced pasture, back lawn with firepit and lawn chairs looking out onto the marsh, gazebo, treehouse, grill & outdoor dining area. The quite, winding country roads are great for running and cycling. NOTE: There is another vacation rental on-site located about 50 feet away which does not overlook barn as can be seen in the exterior photos; other guests may be present during your stay Other things to note The property is cleaned and sanitized between guests visits to the highest standards in keeping with Airbnb's guidelines. As with any property surrounded by nature: there may be bugs outside! I recommend to close all windows and doors before disk in order to minimize unwelcome flying visitors from sharing the barn with you, but as with any home in the countryside a few may still get in. Bugspray is provided, please use at your own discretion and check for ticks if you venture into tall grass or the woods -- most of the walkable property is mowed so this is not really an issue. The neighbors keep chickens which you may hear them clucking -- just consider them, along with the songbirds/cicadas/crickets/frogs, a part of the joyous symphony of the countryside!