Testimonials From Our Guests

The first lodging guest came to Windekind and stayed in Studio in May of 2000. We recall the spirit and enthusiasm of their visit and how happy we were to have them here. Now, well over 2,000 visitors later, little has changed from that foretelling experience.

The comments below, gleaned from log books, guest evaluations and sometimes scraps of paper left after guests depart, reflect a mosaic of guest views and thoughts that both inform and inspire us. You can also vist tripadvisor.com where you can read more comments about Windkekind.

Mark & Marijke Smith, March 24, 2011.

 

General Comments:

"The setting, the owners, the buildings, the gardens, the railroad, the distance to the city, and that 'certain something' that can't be named but that comes home with us each time we leave and calls us back here to Windekind."
Melissa Miller, March 2008

"We are so grateful for your care and vision in creating such a beautiful landscape and in building this amazing farm and cottages. The entire atmosphere, decor and overall ease of use of this cottage and farm really met our needs for relaxation, appreciation of beautiful Vermont You have greatly contributed to a lasting memory of friendship and celebration of a life well lived."
Christa Drew, Boston, March 16, 2007

"There was a palpable spirit, a unity and warmth and feeling of joy amongst all--a tribute to you and the beauty of your surroundings we feel fortunate that our paths crossed; you are special folks indeed."
Barbara and Philip Wade
Lyme, New Hampshire
August, 2004

"This is exactly the type of architecture and landscape we adore. Loved the post and beam, gourmet kitchen, decor and views. It's more beautiful than we thought and I didn't realize we could hike so much right out the door."
Unknown guest and date.

"The Windekind Spirit has enlightened all of us!"
Donna, Dallas and Ginger, Wallingford Connecticut, September 2010

"You and Marijke are truly amazing people who have put such love and creative passion into Windekind, and that is reflected in every part of the farm. We felt so at home at Windekind and just cannot wait to return."
Tiffany & Blair Olszewski
September 2007

"We Love it here!"
Karyn Lord and her friend Kathie, August 2010

"What an amazing week we have had here at Windekind Farm. This cottage and this setting was exactly what we needed. Thank you for all the passion and hard work that has gone into this beautiful place. It is quite apparent that your hearts are in it which makes one’s stay all the better. We thank the Lord for providing us this week and this place and for the unforgettable experience we have had here. We surly will be back. Thank you and God Bless."
Scott and Erika Bales, Boston, MA
March 2008,

"Thank you for opening the farm to us. You have truly created a slice of peaceful paradise. Mark, your kind disposition is as enjoyable as the mornings I have spent sipping coffee and watching the snow fall with my toes warming by the woodstove. Windekind Farm is magical and we will continue to come back every year."
Rachel Rodriguez
Tampa, Florida, January 2009

"I was most impressed by the open, 'communal' feeling of the farm. I felt less like a guest and more like a friend. Mark & Marijke's generous attitude and sincere interest in our visit was wonderful and unique. While the physical landscape is beautiful, it is the overall tone that makes the 'Windekind impact.'"
Laura Regis & Heather Pena
Medford, Mass. 2009

"It was a nice time in paradise in the middle of nature. Windekind is the best place in New England; many thanks and good bye again."
Jochen and Eva Maria
Germany

"Hiking trails in abundance; the farm is remote but essentials can be met with only a short drive. We very much appreciate the beauty, hard work/dedication in keeping the farm in the wonderful condition it is in. … Your generosity and care are natural attributes, and are very much appreciated by Lisa and me."
Lisa and Tommy Ricard
June 2010

"We had one of the best weekends of our lives and so did our pup, Mitilda. We do want to leave."
Emmet and Nancy Dunn
Montreal, Quebec
November 19, 2010.

The Studio:

"From the description and photographs on your web site, I assumed Windekind would be a unique place. Still the natural beauty of the farm, the charm and warmth of the studio, and the personal hospitality that made my stay an experience I’ll always treasure overwhelmed me."
Suzanne Reeder Kukolla
Indianapolis, IN
May 2004

Breidablick:

"We are so grateful to you and Marijke for a spectacular winter stay. Breidablick opened its doors and warmth to the snowy wonderland and us invited us in! Everything about this cottage was perfect—the decor, the gourmet kitchen, the fluffy bed, the music, and especially the view."
Trina and Andrew Bernard
February 2008

"The farm is gorgeous and so are the trails. You immediately feel at peace here and this is crucial. The view from Breidablick is exceptional. I loved the mountains and the old farmhouse and the barn and the studio. I would have liked to explore even more of the trails. You both have a lovely, exceptionally warm demeanor and it flows through to your property. People feel at peace here."
Beth McFadden and Art Chung, New York, December 2008.

"The setting, atmosphere, and cozy homey-feeling were just superb and exactly what we desired in our fun-filled and reflective weekend. Thank you for creating such a place and I'm so glad it started off what we hope to be a 5-year tradition annually for us all to have stored in our memories forever! Sharing Assa was also a great addition! Thank you again."
Jerri Wagner
2008

"Windekind is a masterpiece! Breidablick Cottage is a work of art. Thank you."
Carole and Malcolm Woodier
Cos Cob, CT
August, 2010

"Each time we come to stay awhile Windekind shows us a new face to her beauty—and what could be more beautiful than a full moon pouring light on the valley and a fresh layer of snow? Forget daffodils blooming on the 1st day of spring—we'll gladly take Breidablick, a fire in the stove, and a good blizzard!"
Mellissa, Eli, Charlotte and Iris Miller
2008

"The best part we didn’t really go anywhere or do anything but enjoy Windekind Farm and its beautiful surroundings. Who could ask for more? Our stay at Breidablick Cottage meeting our wonderful host Mark and Marijke and our perfect White Christmas in Vermont."
Adam, Chris, Arthur and Duke Hanky
Surfside, SC
Christmas 2010

Weddings:

"Your hospitality is beyond compare...your home is lovely, your warmth contagious, the flowers from your gardens are gorgeous. You even had the sun appear at the right time! Everyone we have spoken to since Saturday says emphatically that it was the best wedding he/she has ever attended."
Mary & Bob McKee
Cambridge, MA
2004

"There was, of course, the unbelievable Vermont backdrop, the unique architecture of the various buildings, and the perfectly manicured gardens, but what really sold Windekind Farm was the knowledge, hospitality, and warmth of Mark and Marijke Smith. After our first meeting with them, we left feeling not like customers, but like friends. As the wedding approached and we contended with some of Vermont’s most unpredictable weather, any worry we had was assuaged by Mark and Marijke’s years of knowledge and experience, and the great teamwork we all displayed."
Liz and Dan Hall, October 2010.

"The hospitality and pride of our hosts warmed and welcomed everybody. 'Thank you' does not cover the depth of our gratitude."
Tracy and Tim Dart
October 2010.

The Landscape:

"We have returned for 4 years. It is a combination of beautiful spot, comfortable surroundings, great skiing. We could not come if it was not for the skiing but the totality keeps us returning."
Emily Feinberg, Robert Restuccia
Boston, MA
January 2009

"The flowers, scenery, peace and incredibly happiness, it's almost too hard to take in all at once. I am very proud that my children choose this paradise to get married, because it reflects their values in life. Nature gives back what you put in, and this is so obvious in this place."
Allerbeste Wensenen
Holland
2008