Mechums River Nature Retreat is a place to get away from it all, but only 10 miles from downtown C'ville. Newly renovated cottage is set on 35 private acres. Trails lead to creeks, waterfalls and the Mechums River. Hammocks, tubes, and paddle boards are provided. The surrounding area is a mecca for walkers, runners and bicyclists. The cottage was completely renovated in 2020. A large covered patio greets you upon entry with a swinging bench, hammocks, a mini-bar, and dart board. An extensive book, game and toy collection will entertain guests of all ages. WiFi service allows movie streaming from your phone or laptop to the provided TV. A Weber charcoal grill and a small chiminea are on the back patio Four mountain bikes and a car carrier are provided. Guests are welcome to enjoy a harvest from the small garden next to the cottage, with several kinds of mint, and seasonal herbs and berries. The private cottage is out of sight from the owners' main residence. Guests can use several nature trails including a creekside trail to several waterfalls, and a riverside walk. Jim will orient you to the trails when he is available. Property owners Jim and Elizabeth live in the main house, a few hundred yards away and out of sight from the guest cottage. The owners are available by cell phone. Jim is delighted, depending on his availability, to give an introductory hiking tour of the trails and waterfront activities, including a demo water tube or paddling float down the river. We also have several mountain bikes for guest use, ranging in size from children's (~10-13 yr) to adult sizes. Let Jim know if you desire the use of bikes and he will drop off at cottage prior to your arrival. Please provide your own helmets. We recommend you bring river shoes of some sort if you want to partake in river fun. Also, the river is often clear enough for river snorkeling, so bring mask and snorkel or goggles. Even though you'll feel as if you're staying in a national park, you are a short drive to grocery stores and restaurants--Duner's is a fantastic restaurant, only 3 miles away. Historic downtown Charlottesville and the University of Virginia are only 15 minutes away by car. Shenandoah National Park is 30 minutes away by car, and numerous wineries and breweries are located within a short drive from the cottage . In addition to the riverfront 35 acres, the surrounding area has several rural gravel roads that offer some of the best walking and cycling opportunities in the country. plenty of parking... Liability Waiver The Mechums River Nature Retreat is a delightful and safe place to relax and enjoy nature. However, all outdoor activities carry some risk. Please read and agree to the following before confirming your reservation: You understand that swimming, hiking and the use of kayaks, paddleboards and floating devices and bicycles is at your own risk and that special risks may be involved with swimming, hiking and using the kayaks, paddleboards floating devices or bicycles. You accept full responsibility for any bodily injury arising from swimming, hiking and use of kayaks , paddleboards and floating devices and hold owner harmless. You agree to waive any claim whatsoever against owner for accidents or claims arising from swimming, hiking or using kayaks, paddleboards or floating devices. All Airbnb Guests in my party acknowledge and agree that they have read and understand this waiver and they acknowledge that confirming below constitutes a binding and enforceable contract between Airbnb Guests and Airbnb Host.