First of all, Nick has got to be the most generous, thoughtful, accommodating VRBO host I’ve had the pleasure to rent from. When he found out one of my family members has allergies, he went out of his way to make sure that ALL of the bedding was laundered in fragrance-free soap ahead of our visit, and he even provided fragrance-free soap for us to use during the visit. Questions I sent by email were answered within a few minutes, very thoroughly, with explanations, pictures and even a video link on managing the HVAC (Nest) should we need it. And he was amazingly gracious and flexible about check-in and check-out, accommodating a late schedule change. In all, just the very best host.
As for Hidden Cove, so many reviews comment on how perfectly lovely it is (agreed!) that I’ll just add some important details: My extended family rented 3 Lake Anna cottages for a mini-reunion, including another lovely home on the same loop drive, but this was everyone's favorite. The home felt very safe and private. I think one could laze in bed while watching the morning mist rise over the lake from any one of the 5 ensuite bedrooms. Lake views from every room, comfort, serenity, and privacy! The well stocked kitchen includes a top of the line large microwave and a baking oven, plus plenty of sharp prep knives(!), baking dishes, and decent pans. The house was exceptionally clean; the beautiful hardwood floors were pristine and I happily walked barefoot while inside. The counter stools were easy to move into the great room for a larger gathering, while multiple porches, patios, decks and sitting areas served for quiet conversations. The screened-in porch was especially nice with October’s transitional weather. Parking was ample, more than enough for 5 couples arriving separately. The daybed in the loft appears to be a full length twin. We didn’t use it but it would have been fine for an adult. The Food Lion nearby has plenty of good wares, so no need to stop at Trader Joe's in Richmond as I did. And Nick provided excellent recommendations on restaurants that we took advantage of. I could not have been happier the afternoon my siblings and I were visited by several young adult nieces and nephews and their significant others who proceeded to play cards and catch up with us around the dining table. What a perfect way for a family spread across 5 states and DC to reconnect! And the topper, the eldest senior of our party (me) even swam in the lake!