Frequently Asked Questions.
Here are some common questions about The House at the Lake.
Check in and check out times?
The check-in time on the day of arrival is at 4 pm. Check-out time on the day of departure is at 12 pm. Check-in and check-out times must be strictly adhered to as a courtesy to our cleaning crew and incoming guests, unless previously negotiated at lease signing.
How many house keys are issued?
No keys are necessary. The house has a combination lock on the front door. You will be issued a one-time unique combination code via email.
How many cars can we park at the house?
There is enough room to park 4 cars/SUV’s.
Is there a cleaning fee?
Yes, there is a cleaning fee of $175 dollars.
What do you provide?
We want your stay to be as easy and enjoyable as possible
Arrive and settle in
We will provide:
Bed linens for each bed
Bath towels per person
Beach towels
Bathroom: Shampoo,
Kitchen: ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, olive oil, salt & pepper and collection of spices also foil, parchment paper, assorted storage bags, cling wrap, Bounty paper towels, trashbags and napkins. Also an assortment of cleaning supplies and linens
How do we deal with the trash?
We have a large trash bin outside the house which we will empty. In the event that the trash bin outside becomes full, please keep excess trash bags tied up and stored in the basement. If left outside animals will spread the trash all over the property. There is a recycle bin in the kitchen, should that get full we ask that you secure the bag and put it in the basement.
What is expected to be done by guests upon departure?
The house should be returned in much the same condition as it was handed over to you with exception of cleaning.
The trash needs to be put in the trash bins provided or secured in the basement.
There will be an extra charge if the house is left in an unacceptable and dirty condition!
What is your cancellation policy?
We will refund 100% if given 30 days notice or more before the arrival date!
A 50% refund will be given if canceled within 15 days or less from the arrival date.
How many people can stay in the house?
The house sleeps 6 people comfortably. The dining table and the patio table seats 6. Place settings of cups,
What happens if something breaks down?
While we make every effort to have all things in full working order, sometimes breakdowns happen at the most inconvenient time. We will do everything possible to address and repair the issuse. If for some reason the repair will be lengthy then we will work with you to resolve the rest of your stay. All breakages should be reported. Our contact phone numbers are printed on a list above the desk in the great room, as well as on the paperwork you received from us.
How far are the nearest grocery stores?
We have 4 groceries and drug stores for you to choose from:
1. Micknuck’s 507 Main St Sturbridge, approx 7 mins 3.2 miles
2. Stop & Shop 100 Main St Sturbridge, approx 12 mins, 6.2 miles
3. Shaw’s 178 Main St Sturbridge, approx 12 mins, 5.8 miles.
4. Walmart 100, Main St Sturbridge, approx 12 mins, 6.2 miles
Where is the nearest Liquor Store?
We have a fantastic store called Yankee Spirit:
Located 376 Main St Sturbridge approx 9 mins, 4.3 miles.
Where is the nearest hospital and Pharmacy?
In an emergency please call 911.
For any other medical help, there is
Harrington hospital,
100 South St, Southbridge, MA 01550
+1 (508) 765-9771
Poison Control phone number 1-800-222-1222
and is also printed above the desk in the great room.
C V S Pharmacy
362 Main Street Sturbridge MA
1-508-347-7220
Are there many restaurants near by?
We are fortunate to have several restaurants close by. Everything from fine dining, fast food, great Breakfast places, Sushi and Breweries.
There are way too many to list, please refer to the interactive map at the base of this page for further information.
Lake Rules
Lake Rules
Boating and Swimming Rules
Boats run counterclockwise at speeds over 10 mph to dusk.
Running lights required dusk to dawn.
Do not exceed 5 mph from dusk to dawn.
Moving of buoys is illegal, and punishable by fine and/or imprisonment.
Boats stay 50 feet from bouys and docks and 150 feet from public swimming.
No motorboats pass between rafts and shoreline.
Swimmers stay within 150 feet of shoreline unless accompanied by a boat.
Non-swimmers or children under 12 must wear life preservers when boating.
All non-powered boats have the right of way.
No skiing before 10 am or after dusk.
Jet Skis, Surf Jets and Wet Bikes are prohibited on this lake.
Remove weeds from propeller, anchor, etc. and place in barrel before launching.
Fishing
Safety First…. Life Vest must be worn at all times!
We have a fishing row boat for use.
Fishing on Little Alum is a very popular hobby and for good reason. You can relax, let your blood pressure drop, get a sun tan, and maybe even have a little excitement by reeling in a big fish. The species of fish in Little Alum at the time of print are:
Bluegill
White Perch
Bullhead
Pickerel
Perch
Largemouth Bass
Baits
It is common knowledge that fish love worms.
For live bait:
Sportsman Cellar, 552 Main Street Sturbridge MA. 508 347 3214
For lures:
Walmart 100 Charlton Rd, MA 01566. 508-347-4993
Do not forget your fishing license.