This Massachusetts Airbnb Looks Like It Belongs in the Nordic Countryside

Hidden in the peaceful village of Mill River in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, the Black Abbey is an Airbnb that looks like the Nordic countryside. This stunning 1862 church conversion features a striking black exterior, original stained glass, and a four-person cedar sauna that transports you across the Atlantic without ever leaving New England.

The moment you see its dark facade rising from the Massachusetts woods or step into the warmth of the sauna, you'll understand why guests describe the experience as a Nordic escape.

What Makes This Airbnb Look Like the Nordic Countryside

The Black Abbey's dark exterior catches your eye immediately. The nearly black wood siding mirrors the traditional timber buildings of the Nordic countryside, specifically evoking the historic stave churches of rural Norway. With its pointed steeple and arched windows, the design creates a perfect balance of old-world Gothic charm and clean, modern Nordic style.

Inside, you'll find original stained glass windows that fill the space with colorful light. Handcrafted brass fixtures and vintage light switches add character throughout. The owners spent four years restoring this church, creating a cozy, one-of-a-kind atmosphere that feels like a faraway retreat.

The real showstopper is the traditional cedar sauna. In Finnish culture, saunas aren't just an extra; they're a way of life. After a day exploring the Berkshires, nothing beats relaxing in this four-person sauna, especially when it's snowing outside.

The Best Features of This Massachusetts Airbnb

This unique Airbnb in Massachusetts sleeps up to 10 people in three bedrooms and three bathrooms. You'll find a king bed in the main bedroom, a queen bed with private bathroom in the second, and a full bunk bed with its own bathroom in the third. There's also a pullout couch in the loft for extra guests.

The upstairs loft is an absolute haven for hanging out, featuring a pool table, shuffleboard, darts, and a bar area. There's no TV on purpose, which I find so refreshing. Instead, the space is designed so you can actually talk to each other, play the grand piano, or just enjoy the spectacular acoustics of the church space.

You won't miss any modern comforts either. The bathrooms have heated floors and rainfall showers. The kitchen comes fully stocked with everything you need, from a seasoned cast iron pan to wine glasses and a blender. Outside, the deck has a grill and looks out over the quiet forest.

Why Travelers Love This Airbnb

The Black Abbey consistently wins over everyone who stays here. Guests call it "one of the most unique Airbnbs" they've seen, and many book their next visit before they even leave.

"The attention to detail in the restoration of the church and all the furnishings is incredible," wrote one guest from New York. Others mention spending hours just exploring all the thoughtful touches throughout the property.

Anthony and Hanna, the couple who restored this church, get rave reviews for being helpful and quick to respond. Guests love their local tips, like the nearby hiking trails and the village bakery where you can take a sourdough-making class. The checkout is super simple too, which guests appreciate.

Nearby Attractions To Explore While Staying Here

Great Barrington puts you right in the heart of the Berkshires, one of the best cultural spots in New England. Butternut Ski Resort is just 10 minutes away for winter fun. In warmer months, you can hike the trails around the area, including a pretty path along the river behind the local cemetery.

If you love music and art, you're in luck. Tanglewood, where the Boston Symphony Orchestra performs in summer, is 20 minutes away. The Norman Rockwell Museum is also a 20-minute drive. MASS MoCA, one of the country's biggest contemporary art museums, is worth the 50-minute trip to North Adams.

Downtown Great Barrington is about 15 minutes away and has great restaurants, antique shops, and galleries. The whole region looks beautiful year-round: colorful fall leaves, snowy winter scenes, fresh spring flowers, and green summer forests.

How To Book and Experience This Unique Stay

Ready for your own Nordic getaway without the long flight? I’d highly recommend booking a stay at the Black Abbey on Airbnb to experience that rare mix of history and modern comfort for yourself. From the glow of the stained glass to the quiet heat of the sauna, every moment here just feels a bit more atmospheric.

Before you pack your bags, be sure to browse our list of other unique stays in Massachusetts or start mapping out your full Berkshires adventure using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.