Winter has quietly set in across the Kumaon hills, and with it comes the familiar chill that makes the mountains even more magical. At Katie’s Abode, Hartola, the season arrived with our first fire of the year; lit just a few days ago in our cozy sitting room for our guests.
And when you are here you will agree with me that there is something deeply comforting about watching the flames flicker in our open brick fireplace as the cool mountain air drifts outside. The fireplace at Katie’s Abode isn’t just a corner of warmth; it is actually the heart of our home; a place where conversations flow easily, laughter fills the room, and time slows to the rhythm of the crackling firewood.
A Cozy Space for Conversations and Comfort
The hosts of Katie’s Abode, Hartola on one wintry day in front of the fireplace
Our sitting room in our Hartola homestay, where the fireplace glows through winter evenings, has been designed to bring people together. The open brick fireplace, set against the wooden interiors, adds an earthy charm that reflects the natural spirit of Hartola.
The wooden ceiling wrap the room in a natural warmth, while soft lighting and comfortable seating make it the perfect place to unwind. The firelight casts a golden hue on the walls, creating an inviting glow that welcomes you after a day spent exploring the hills.
we have seen that guests always love to gather here, to sip a cup of freshly brewed coffee, enjoy a quiet drink, read a book, or share pre-dinner snacks prepared by our caretakers. Between the gentle warmth of the flames and the comfort of the sofa, evenings seem to stretch timelessly.
The wooden chest box placed between the fireplace and the seating area serves as a handy perch for your glass, cup, or a plate of snacks. Whether it is conversation, reflection, or simply soaking in the quiet, this corner of Katie’s Abode feels like home even to those visiting for the first time.
Safety First: A Few Fireplace Precautions
While the fireplace adds warmth and charm, we also want every guest to enjoy it safely. To ensure everyone’s comfort and wellbeing, we request our guests to follow a few simple guidelines:
Do not handle the fire yourself.
Please ask our caretaker to tend to it. We’d hate for you to suffer a burnt finger while enjoying your stay.
If you’re travelling with children, please supervise them at all times.
The glow of the fire can be fascinating, but safety must come first. Children should never be left unattended near the fireplace.
Do not throw anything into the fire.
Even small items can spark or produce smoke that can disturb the air indoors.
A nominal fireplace charge applies.
We take great care to keep this space warm and safe for our guests. A small fee of ₹1,000 helps us maintain the fireplace, wood, and related setup during the winter season.
Bonfire option available outdoors.
For guests who prefer the open air, we can also arrange a bonfire on the lawn, where you can sit under the stars and enjoy the crisp mountain air. However please inform our caretakers in advance for arrangements.
So A Warm Welcome Awaits in Hartola
Fireplace at Katie’s Abode, Hartola Last Christmas
At Katie’s Abode, Hartola, every space tells a story, but none more heartwarming than our sitting room, where the fire burns bright against the cold of the mountains. The soft glow of the open brick fireplace, the hum of conversation, and the scent of pine in the air together create the essence of mountain living.
As the temperature drops, there is no better place to be than curled up by the fire, with a cup of coffee in hand and the quiet of Hartola beyond the window. For those who seek peace, warmth, and the slow rhythm of life in the hills, our home is ready to welcome you this winter, with comfort, care, and the gentle glow of our first fire.
And on some winter days, when luck is on your side, you may find yourself watching gentle snowflakes fall outside the window ; a truely magical sight best enjoyed from the warmth of the fire within.
So plan your winter escape to Katie’s Abode, Hartola homestay where every evening ends by the fireside, and every guest leaves with a little more warmth in their heart.
