Hinata Retreat owners Jeff and Jen Neilsen.
The on-site restaurant, The Perch, is an intimate upscale dining room, bar, and lounge serving both Hinata Retreat guests and the public by reservation. To preserve its relaxed atmosphere, reservations are limited to parties of four or fewer, with resort guests receiving priority. Executive Chef Corey Weber leads the culinary program, while signature desserts are created in partnership with local pastry chef Lucy Damkoehler of neighboring Sweet Lucy’ s Bakeshop.
What is most important, says Jen, is the peace and quiet of the property.“ When you’ re in the cabin, it’ s you and your person, or just you, and even though you know there might be someone in the cabin next to you, you don’ t know that you’ re in your own little space in your own little world.”
“ Hinata is adults-only for a reason,” adds Jeff.“ We want people to truly be able to escape and rejuvenate because that’ s what we were able to do down in Tennessee. You’ re in nature. It’ s designed for couples or singles to be able to unwind from the crazy world that we live in— decompress, rejuvenate, and reconnect.”
People learn about Hinata through social media and word of mouth, and bookings are done directly on its website.
The Firehouse on the Hill
In the fall of 2023, a building in the heart of Shelburne Falls that once served as the village fire station for decades found a new purpose. It became home to Shelburne Falls Firehouse Studios— three vacation apartments that feel more like carefully designed homes than traditional vacation rentals. From the largest unit’ s windows, guests can look toward the fire tower on the opposite ridge. Below, the Bridge of Flowers stretches across the old trolley bridge, connecting visitors to the heart of the village.
Before it became a place where travelers stayed, the former firehouse was where Jay and Jen Heilman built their design-build company. Jay is the founder and owner of JPH Building, Inc., a custom builder who has earned a reputation throughout Western Massachusetts for his craftsmanship, integrity, and commitment to quality. For more than 35 years, Jay has built and
Janet Rickus, Four Sugar Bowls, 2025, Oil on canvas, 12 x 18 inches
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