(Provided by Gilbert Guide's on-site reviewer)

Columbia Cottage sits adjacent to Ursinus College in a quaint town alive with activity. Dark green window shutters accent the red brick building. Residents enjoy sitting in rocking chairs on the covered front porch, which offers a great view of passersby. The structure surrounds two lovely outdoor courtyards, with brick surfaces, walkways, wrought-iron furnishings and beautifully tended gardens. The interior evokes a feeling of a private residence with an attractive den stocked with books. A small living room with more bookshelves and a big-screen TV sits opposite the den. Shades of cranberry, beige and hunter green adorn the facility.

The dining room is attractively appointed and feels like home, with a wooden breakfront against one wall. Tables are formally set, and staff serves residents from the nearby kitchen. A second full-size country kitchen sits closer to the resident apartments and offers casual or private dining, and the opportunity to enjoy yummy snacks and leftovers all day long. Meals include one main entrée; all are prepared with minimal salt. The selection served on the day of our visit looked delicious: roast beef, parmesan chicken, tuna salad, fruits and sweet rolls. Residents were enjoying lunch when we visited, and seemed quite content. The residents were nicely dressed and appeared very comfortable with each other and staff, who engaged them in friendly, meaningful conversation.

All resident apartments face a courtyard or lawn area, the large windows giving way to streams of natural light. Rooms are spacious and have a separate living area; some boast nine-foot ceilings or bay windows. Large closets and private bathrooms are standard. Residents participate in a varied menu of activities that includes exercise, manicures, card games, balloon volleyball, cooking, arts and crafts, bible study, and trivia games. A recent Lawrence Welk social with wine and cheese was a big hit! Residents also enjoy shopping trips and programs involving the college next door. With an excellent and attentive staff that seems very in tune with the residents, Columbia Cottage does seem like a truly pleasant place to live.