Our family decided to spend a few days in the Red River Gorge area and wanted to find a place to stay where we could continue our enjoyment of nature as well as give us some space to unwind. The Sneaky Bear Hideaway was the perfect spot for this. While not the closest property to the Red River Gorge (or anything, really), the drive was pleasant and not too far. Also, being out in the middle of nowhere provided a peaceful relaxing time.
The overall property is several acres and includes the owner's residence and two other cabins. The Sneaky Bear is up on a hillside overlooking the lake, giving it a good deal of privacy, yet the convenience of being right near the lake and its own private dock, and little boat. If you want to be right on the water, the other two cabins would be ideal for you, but we thought the Sneaky Bear was perfectly situated.
The property is beautiful with a lake and some scenic hiking trails that should not be missed, with caves, shelters, and a lot of natural Kentucky beauty. It boarders undeveloped land that adds to the nature and beauty of the area.
The cabin itself its pretty new, and is modern, clean, and comfortable. The kitchen is well-stocked is comfortably upscale. We only cooked one meal during our stay, but could have easily used it for several meals. There are several decks perfect for relaxing, and the living room is spacious, open, and comfortable.
Some notes to consider: 1) If you want to enjoy nature and explore -- this is the perfect place, but if you're looking for something near shops, restaurants, etc . . . its a little drive (but doable -- Beattyville has a couple restaurants and a couple discount stores -- one of the days after exploring/hiking we drove to Hilltop Pizza, ordered, went to Dollar General to grab a couple items, went back to pick up the pizza, and went home to eat and watch a movie -- minimizing the travel). 2) Use Google Maps, NOT iPhone's map app (when I typed the address into the iPhone map app, it changed the road name to a very similar road name, leading us to the wrong location, but the Google Maps app worked great). 3) The drive up to the Sneaky Bear cabin is steep -- we did it fine with just a 2-wheel drive SUV, but I would have not wanted to try it during a time of year when it may be icy. 4) The trails are a must see, but we needed to get directions to them, so be sure you ask.
Great place -- if ever back in the area, we would stay here again!