$879,000

Tucked away on five private acres in Monterey, this singular handcrafted Berkshire cottage feels as though it emerged from a storybook. Natural-edge wood siding, steep rooflines, a massive fieldstone chimney and a tower-like upper level rise from a landscape of hydrangeas, woodland and a grape-covered arbor. Inside, the house is an irresistible mix of rustic character and thoughtful updates. Original wood floors, reclaimed hand-hewn beams, paneled walls, arched doors and unexpected architectural details give each room its own identity. The dramatic great room is the heart of the house, where soaring volume, exposed beams, richly paneled walls and an immense fieldstone fireplace create a space that feels far removed from everyday life. French doors open to a stone patio, while an open staircase rises through the room to the upper level, adding to the home's storybook quality. A sun-filled pink living room offers a dreamy contrast - soft, light-filled and wrapped in windows overlooking the hydrangeas and surrounding woods. A pleasing counterpoint to the darker, more rustic great room, it is an inviting place to read, relax or gather. A remodeled kitchen combines form and function, with white cabinetry, stone counters, a farmhouse sink, center island and a stunning commercial-style range beneath a stainless-steel hood. The adjoining dining room creates an easy flow for entertaining. Four bedrooms are arranged in two separate wings, offering privacy and flexibility. The south wing begins with a first-floor bedroom and bath, continues upstairs to a second bedroom with a newly added bath, and culminates in a third-floor office tucked beneath the peaked roof. On the opposite side of the house, in the north wing, two additional bedrooms each enjoy their own bath. Thoughtful bathroom updates, including the addition of the upstairs bath, bring modern comfort while remaining true to the character of the home. The story continues outdoors. Hydrangeas spill across the front of the house, mature grapevines climb the arbor, and lawns fade into woods and wild garden areas. The west-facing hillside brings seasonal mountain views through the trees, along with places to dine outdoors, wander, garden or simply enjoy the quiet. Private and quietly tucked away, yet only about 15 minutes from Great Barrington, with access to Monterey's Lake Garfield town beach and close to the lakes, trails, and outdoor recreation that make this part of the Berkshires so appealing. Low Monterey taxes and high speed internet on site.