Home Away From Home - On & Above Flathead Lake
Review Submitted: July 20, 2009
Date of Stay: July 2009
After 5 straight summer stays, Orchard House has become a home away from home; with neighbors/property managers Kathy and Claude making us feel like extended family. They are responsive, helpful, knowledgeable, and fun people, yet always respect our privacy.
Descriptions and pictures on the website understate the reality of Orchard House's beautiful setting, orchard/lake/mountain views, magnificent grounds, and privacy. There's a reason Sylvan Drive is considered one of, if not THE, gold coast Flathead Lakeshore address in Bigfork. Ann describes our overall experience as simply idyllic - peaceful, serene, and tranquil.
We normally do takeout and/or leftovers for lunch and dinner. Why? Because our top deck provides a private dining experience unmatched by any nearby restaurant we've discovered to date: a high broad view of lake, mountains and sunsets. While "Invite" and Rosa's Pizza are favorites, quality restaurant choices abound in nearby Bigfork.
Our almost daily 3 mile Sylvan Drive walk is special - along Cherry Orchards that remind us of Sonoma/Napa, blooming sweet peas, pastures where horses may be seen, periodic deer, lake homes and views. And the natives all seem to be very friendly.
Boatwatching (albeit noisy at times) is another outdoor sport we enjoy; from the deck, lawns or beach. Also Duck families diving for meals, Ospreys winging from treetop nests close by.
The house itself just works. Clean, fresh, and bright, well maintained always, simple user friendly layout. Suitable for a family reunion in '07 sleeping 6 adults and 3 grade school age kids.
As the reader has now discerned, we are outdoor folks who love nature and our privacy. The contrast from our hot summers in Arizona's high Sonoran desert is remarkable - enjoying lower temperatures, green manicured lawns and lush flower filled gardens.
The property is perfect for us in every way.
We can personally vouch for activities ranging from Flathead Valley golf venues, hiking Glacier National Park, racing around the lake in a speedboat, watching Kalispell's major summer equestrian event, browsing the shops in upscale Bigfork, etc. We've pretty much "been there - done that" ourselves, so activities are not what keep us coming back year after year. You will have to work very hard indeed not to enjoy your visit to the Orchard House!
Ann & Van
Carefree, Arizona
Summer '09
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