Lady Lydia's Cottage on the Pond

Nomadomia Rating: 4.03 stars

• Lydia's Cottage has potential but needs significant work to address maintenance and cleanliness issues.
• The location remains a strong point, but the property's condition is a major concern.
• Guests should be prepared for potential issues and manage expectations accordingly.
• Lydia's responsiveness is a positive, but the property itself needs attention.
• Recommendation: Lydia should prioritize addressing the maintenance issues and updating the listing photos to accurately reflect the current state of the property.

Good points:

• Location: Consistently praised for its peaceful setting, close proximity to attractions (Dollywood, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge), and scenic views, especially the pond.
• Host Communication: Lydia is generally described as responsive and helpful.
• Amenities: Appreciated features include the porch, fishing supplies, fully equipped kitchen, and comfortable beds (though some mention firmness).
• Pet-Friendly: Many guests appreciated the pet-friendly policy.

Bad points:

• Maintenance: Recurring complaints about cleanliness, outdated decor, and maintenance issues (broken appliances, exposed wiring, overgrown grounds, etc.).
• Accuracy of Listings: Photos often don't reflect the current state of the property.
• Wi-Fi: Inconsistent Wi-Fi is a frequent complaint.
• Cell Service: Lack of cell service mentioned by some guests.
• Bugs: Guests report issues with bugs, especially mosquitos.

Time trend:

• 2014-2017: Mostly positive reviews, highlighting the charm and peaceful location.
• 2018-2020: More mixed reviews, with increasing complaints about maintenance and cleanliness.
• 2021-2023: Negative reviews dominate, highlighting significant decline in upkeep and accuracy of listings.