This Vermont riverfront cottage at 114 Lower Notch Road is listed at $199,000 and offers 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, and 436 square feet of well-designed living space on 0.65 acres. It’s cozy, charming, and comes with an outdoor shower, a wood stove, high-speed internet, and access to a private swim hole. With a proven history as a successful Airbnb rental and a brand-new roof, this home is a ready-to-go retreat or income property just minutes from downtown Bristol.
Escape to Simplicity in the Vermont Woods
There’s something about hearing the river outside your window, waking up to filtered sunlight through the trees, and knowing there’s nothing on your schedule but breathing it all in. That’s what this cottage offers. It’s small, yes—but it’s also simple in the best way. You’re not buying a house just to maintain it. You’re buying a place to enjoy it.
Located at 114 Lower Notch Road in Bristol, Vermont, this 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom cottage sits on just over half an acre and backs up to a stream. It’s the kind of place where the important stuff isn’t what’s inside—but what’s just outside your door.
A Small Home That Feels Just Right
This is a single-story, 436-square-foot home that’s been cleverly designed to include everything you need and nothing you don’t. The layout combines the kitchen, living, and dining areas into one open space. With large windows and southwest exposure, sunlight fills the cottage during the day and lingers into the evening.
The kitchen includes a gas stove and refrigerator, and while the space isn’t large, it’s efficient and easy to use. Vinyl plank and wood flooring make it easy to clean and give the space a cozy, rustic feel.
There’s one three-quarter bathroom. If you haven’t heard that term before, it means it has a shower, toilet, and sink—but no bathtub. It saves space while still giving you everything you need.
There’s also a wood-burning stove. Beyond just heating the cottage, it adds a comforting vibe—perfect for cold Vermont mornings or evenings curled up with a book.
Outdoor Features That Steal the Show
Where this property really shines is outside. You’re on 0.65 acres of lightly wooded land with 204 feet of road frontage, but the rear of the property opens up to a river and stream. There’s space for a firepit, a few chairs, and plenty of room to explore.
One of the most unique features is the outdoor shower. If you’ve never used one, imagine taking a hot rinse while surrounded by trees and the sound of the river—it’s peaceful and refreshing, and it’s something guests rave about when they visit.
There’s even a nearby swim hole—essentially a naturally deep part of the river that’s perfect for cooling off in summer. Whether you want to barbecue, play a few yard games, or just sit quietly by the water, you’ll find room for it here.
Proven Rental Income That Makes This a Smart Buy
This isn’t just a vacation home. It’s also a proven moneymaker. The current owner has used it as an Airbnb with consistent bookings and a strong income history. Guests love the mix of rustic charm and convenient amenities—especially the reliable high-speed internet and the short drive to downtown Bristol.
As an investment, it works. You don’t have to guess. You can step into an income-producing property that’s already established and operating. That’s rare to find at this price point, especially in such a sought-after area.
Why Bristol, Vermont?
Bristol is one of Vermont’s most loved small towns. It has a walkable downtown with coffee shops, restaurants, a historic general store, and local events year-round. People from all over visit for the hiking trails, nearby ski resorts, and just the small-town charm.
The cottage is just a short drive from town, which means you get the feeling of being far away—without being cut off from groceries, entertainment, or neighbors. It’s also close to Sugarbush and Mad River Glen ski areas, so there’s plenty to do in the winter months too.
Smart and Practical Upgrades
Although the cottage was built in 1964, it has been well maintained. One of the most important upgrades was completed recently—a brand-new roof. That means one less expense for you, and added peace of mind heading into Vermont’s winter season.
The property has electricity with circuit breakers, a septic tank, and access to cable internet and phone service. That’s not always a guarantee in rural Vermont, but here, it’s already set up.
While there’s no basement, the pier and column foundation keeps the structure stable. The wood frame construction and wood siding give the home a natural, cabin-like feel that fits its surroundings.
Easy to Care For and Maintain
Because the home is small and the land is manageable, you won’t spend your weekends on home repairs. You also won’t be overwhelmed by heating bills, mowing, or constant upkeep.
This is a place designed for low-stress living. That’s true whether you’re living here full time, visiting on weekends, or hosting short-term guests. If you’ve ever dreamed of going smaller—downsizing to something that gives you more freedom—this property might be your chance.
What’s the Catch?
It’s small. You’re not getting a multi-bedroom family home. This is a cottage or “camp,” which is a term often used in Vermont for small, rustic homes meant for vacation or part-time use. That said, many people live full-time in homes like this.
There’s no garage, no second bedroom, and no central air. You won’t host large dinner parties here—but you will finally get some peace and quiet, and maybe a better night’s sleep than you’ve had in years.
Who This Property is Perfect For
This cottage is ideal for solo buyers, couples, remote workers looking for a quiet change of scenery, or anyone ready to leave the noise of the city behind.
It also works well for investors who want a reliable short-term rental with low overhead. With its Airbnb history and strong demand for Vermont getaways, it could pay for itself faster than most properties.
Property Highlights
- 1 bedroom
- 1 bathroom (three-quarter)
- 436 square feet
- 0.65 wooded acres
- 204 feet of road frontage
- Riverfront with swim hole access
- Outdoor shower
- Wood stove
- Brand-new roof
- High-speed internet
- Gas stove and refrigerator included
- Proven Airbnb rental income
- Close to Bristol, skiing, hiking, and swimming
Listed Details
- Address: 114 Lower Notch Road, Bristol, VT 05443
- Price: $199,000
- Style: Cottage/Camp
- Lot size: 0.65 acres
- Year built: 1964
- Zoning: Rural Agriculture RA-2
- Utilities: Septic, cable internet, electric, propane
- Listing agent: Paul Hayes, Vermont Real Estate Company (802-540-8300)
- MLS#: 5044259
Final Thoughts
114 Lower Notch Road isn’t trying to be fancy. It’s not built to impress with square footage. It’s built to help you slow down. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee on the porch, rinsing off in the outdoor shower, or just watching the light flicker from the wood stove, this place offers the kind of calm that’s hard to find these days.
It’s rare to find riverfront property in Vermont that’s affordable, livable, and already generating income. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance place to escape—or to build your next chapter—this cozy cottage in Bristol is ready for you.
See this listing on Zillow!
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