River Barn CT

This was bar none the perfect spot for our girls weekend. Every single detail in this home was special and intentional. There were slippers for us, gorgeous plates and serving ware, tea options, a record player (with an amazing selection!), books, and the coziest bedding of all time. The decor is objectively stunning and seemed to nail both a cozy and a minimal/lodge vibe that made everything feel special. The fireplace was easy to use and instructions were clear, and the hosts were extremely communicative. We all agreed it would be hard to top this place, so we may just need to come back year after year.

We really enjoyed our stay at the River Barn! The furnishings were comfortable and the kitchen was well appointed. We also appreciated the quality of the porta crib and highchair. For the music enthusiast, the home contained a Martin guitar and extensive record collection. Our focus was the walkability into the town of Essex and enjoying the expansive back yard.

A Perfect Family Getaway in Essex, CT We recently traveled all the way from Australia to visit Essex, CT, and stayed at River Barn for four nights—and it was absolutely perfect! From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by the charm and beauty of this property. The River Barn feels like a hidden gem—immaculately designed, cozy, and surrounded by the most peaceful scenery. It was the perfect spot for my wife, our two daughters, and me to relax and truly feel at home. Every detail in the house has been so thoughtfully curated, and the combination of modern comfort with historic character is second to none. The location is also ideal, just minutes from the beautiful town of Essex with its quaint shops, cafes, and waterfront views. After exploring the area, coming back to the serene setting of River Barn was a highlight each day. We can’t recommend this place highly enough—whether you’re traveling as a family or looking for a quiet, luxurious retreat, this is the place to stay. Thank you for a wonderful experience. We’ll carry the memories of this trip with us for years to come.