Gwen's Cottage at Water's Edge

Gwen’s Cottage is located on the privately owned and operated estate, Water’s Edge, which was recently re-established in January 2022 by Western Pennsylvania native, Gwendolyn Reno. This cottage is a newly renovated, 490sqft, studio-style accommodation, perched along side the Slippery Rock Creek adjacent to McConnells Mill State Park. This charming cottage has a wrap around deck that quite literally over-looks the creek and faces the state park land located just across the water.

Gwen’s Cottage is a studio accommodation and includes one full bathroom, a generous full kitchen and french doors leading out of the bedroom onto a wrap around deck. While this space is under 500sqft, we’ve furnished it very intentionally with everything you need and nothing you don’t. We think it’s perfect, but if there’s something you need, just reach out to your hosts and they can provide anything from extra cookware to a mid-week linen refresh.

Your cottage is all your own. Your deck is your private space as well. The Lodge is located just below your accommodations and you’re welcome to come inside for a tour and visit! Our office is located in The North Wing of The Lodge and that’s where you’ll usually find us!

There are 6 full-time residents at Water’s Edge. The owner & founder Gwen, her dog Katie, and 4 adorable kitty brothers that stay outside unless they’re resting in their kitty condo in the garage! Gwen and Katie currently live in the North Wing of The Lodge. You’re sure to meet Katie and the kitties when you’re out and about but they are not allowed inside any of the accommodations. If you love on them, they’ll spend lots of time with you outdoors! (If pets are not your fav, no worries, they’ll be able to tell. They’ll leave you alone if you leave them alone.)

Guests of Gwen’s Cottage have 2 dedicated parking spaces. You should be aware that there is a considerable climb of two full staircases up to the cottage doorway at this time. We will always offer to help you with your bags.

We host small events in The Lodge and at times your stay at Water’s Edge may overlap with other guests stays, workshops, dinners, celebrations etc. We take boundaries very seriously here, and we always share the details of which spaces and times are private or occupied throughout each event we’re hosting. The property is a total of 78 acres. While there may be other guests on property, there’s plenty of room to spread out! Outside of your private space, you may see other guests or residents enjoying the Slippery Rock Creek or the many hiking trails.

We have been working on restoring this estate since the acquisition in January 2022 and we have a good bit left to do. During your stay you may see some construction or grounds work being done. You may also hear some tools or machines at work!! We are extremely mindful about our guests experience and do our best to avoid making noise while you’re here. We thank you for understanding that we are a work in progress!!

We can’t wait to share Water’s Edge with you!!!

There are MANY staircases at Water’s Edge. If you’re interested in walking around the property, you will be navigating inclined trails and outdoor staircases. If you are unable to, or do not want to embrace the climb, the creek is accessible by truck or suv.

We incorporate as much accessibility as we possibly can, however, Gwen’s Cottage is not an accommodation that we recommend if you have any limitations when navigating a staircase. We have more accessible options in Nate’s Cabin, which is accessible with only a few steps to enter.

Due to the nature of the terrain and proximity to the Slippery Rock Creek, it is of the utmost importance that you are aware of the dangers present on this property. All guests must be 18 or accompanied by a legal guardian. All adult guests are required to sign a waiver upon arrival.

This cottage offers its guests a water dispenser. The front desk is open around the clock.

This Ellwood City cottage is smoke free.