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October 8, 2020 derrick

Posted by derrick on October 8, 2020October 8, 2020

Wonderful!

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Reviews from our guests:

4.9

258 reviews

5

244

4

13

3

1

2

0

1

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Andy J.

Cool place, will look to come again - 8/16/2026

Marcia S.

Everything was perfect! The house was beautiful, spacious and well appointed. We brought our children, grandchildren and parents and had a great time! There were large areas to gather in inside and out. There was also enough space for people to have privacy if they'd like. The hosts provided everything we could have needed for bedding, towels, kitchen appliances, accessories, etc. We also enjoyed the outdoor area with the trails, grill, picnic table and firepit. Derek and Christine were very responsive. They proactively communicated with us but also responded to questions very quickly. We even got to meet them onsite and had some nice conversations. I'd rent this home again! Thanks! - 9/07/2019

Kate F.

Perfect spot for hiking and enjoying nature. Would love to return! - 4/15/2023

Neil S.

Excellent in all regards. This is a beautiful well-equipped property and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Derrick and Chris answered all of our questions and provided lots of information about the area in general. They were excellent with whom to work and made us feel welcome from the onset. While there were only six in our group, the home could certainly accommodate larger groups. I recommend them and their property highly! - 6/11/2021

John D.

We had an incredible time at this spacious home. The amenities were top-notch, and the location was perfect for our family reunion. Highly recommend! - 6/01/2023

John Doe

We loved our time at this cabin! The views were stunning and the amenities were top-notch. Perfect for our family reunion. - 9/22/2023

Tammie

We had 10 senior ladies on our annual kayak trip to explore the Root River. The accommodations were excellent! Plenty of space and bathrooms for all of us. Comfort and ease in all the details. Highly recommend! - 8/19/2025

Samantha K.

We loved our stay here! The cabin was cozy and inviting. The trails were a nice touch! - 3/25/2023

Thomas

My wife and I had a wonderful stay in the shack at the Bluff Country Retreat. It must be a new structure because it was so immaculately clean that it had to be new. Communications from the host were friendly and helpful. I gave five star ratings across the board. If we travel back to the area we will certainly look to book at the Bluff Country Retreat again. - 8/05/2021

Nicole

This place is fantastic - clean, tastefully decorated, well appointed. Great walking trails. We had an amazing weekend, thanks Derrick! - 8/30/2020

Mike T.

This was exactly what we needed to relax and unwind. Very clean and well-kept. - 5/30/2023

Pauline O.

Trail was beautiful on the property. We would definitely stay again. One of the bests stays we have had in a long time. It was just awesome. The fireplace was really nice!! The shower was extra nice and clean (good water pressure with hot water). It was a wonderful way to celebrate our Anniversary and Birthday. So much nicer than the pictures advertised. Thank you! - 10/20/2023

Julie K.

We had a three night stay with our group of sisters, husbands, cousins and grandparents. The home was great and had everything we needed. Plenty of beds, showers, and a wonderful outdoor fire pit with an exceptional view of the surrounding bluffs. The kitchen was well equipped. We made almost all our meals there and sat out at the picnic tables to eat. We played lots of card games, read books, took naps. The miles and miles of grassy pathways was a real treat. We took several sunset walks (and a few stargazing walks as there was a meteor shower happening.) We spent each night by the fire pit. In the morning, we drank our coffee out back and watched the fog lift from the valley.. breathtaking. The home is a short drive to Whalen to hop on the bike trail (gravel hilly road prevented us from riding to the trail, but that was not a big deal.) We also spent an afternoon floating down the Root River. The home was a wonderful place to come back to and relax after that adventure. You really do feel like you're away from everything. The home is very clean and well organized and the Hongerholts were super attentive and easy to work with. - 8/16/2018

Sarah K.

Great place, great service! We had an amazing time! The home was beautiful and in amazing condition, and we had access to everything we needed. Thank you!! - 6/04/2019

Tasa Scanlan Deden

This place exceeded any and all expectations! Absolutely God's Country and the house has EVERYTHING you could possibly imagine! Highly recommend this house! ❤ - 10/22/2018

Tonia Scanlan Boysen Fix

beautiful home, the owners have thought of EVERYTHING! - 10/19/2019

Samuel

Great place. The trails were really awesome and it was a thoughtfully constructed stay. - 9/06/2020

Nancy R.

Beautiful, knotty pine accommodation! Lots of room. Was just crow of us, but a family of 5 could be accommodated easily. Beautiful vistas! - 8/09/2026

Brent V.

Summer Fun Great spot. Will stay again if available. - 7/25/2023

Kim

Extremely clean and well kept property. Everything as described. We did not have time to explore the property and walk paths but found it peaceful and restful while at the property. - 6/18/2023

Sarah Davis

Absolutely loved it! The patio and fire pit were perfect for evenings. We will return! - 8/20/2023

Dannette C.

This place is so beautiful and quiet and has mowed trails available to hike conveniently on the property. It’s about 5 min drive from the Whalen root river trail crossing: very convenient.. the host was very nice and provided prompt answers to my many questions. The patio out front is awesome for breakfast and just resting and there is a fire pit with wood available in the back. Very nice, very clean -And the washer and dryer were a bonus!!!! - 6/21/2025

Kevin P.

This place is perfect for relaxing and unwinding. The outdoor space was fantastic. Will return! - 2/14/2023

Chris W.

Our family loved this house! It was close to the river, which was ideal for our fishing trip. The facilities were fantastic, and we felt right at home. Thanks for the great time! - 5/15/2023

Melinda Selchow

- 12/15/2020

Emily Johnson

Lovely view of the valley and great amenities. Would recommend! - 9/15/2023

Jeffrey T.

Great place, very remote The facilities were clean and modern, very nice. I was under the impression this was close to the bike trails. This is not the case. If you want a retreat from everything this is perfect. If you want cycling, you will need to commute to the trail. - 9/15/2020

Jessica

Beautiful spot over looking the valley. Clean, provided everything we needed, and quite. Perfect spot for a nice peaceful get away! - 6/08/2025

Michelle Karjala Torrey

Bluff Country Retreat was a fabulous experience. Absolutely stunning views and an amazing work space. The owners have thought of everything. A full kitchen with almost everything you might need to cook a meal. Amazing accommodations including walk in showers and a jacuzzi tub. - 9/16/2018

Sa

This was perfect for our family of three! Very clean, kitchen had all the necessities, and it was actually bigger than we expected. We took several hikes and saw deer and other wildlife on the property. A short (less than 10 minutes) drive to the bike trail entrance in Whalen. We will definitely be back! - 6/02/2021

Eileen B.

Great place for large family gathering Beautiful setting in bluff country with great views. Spotless home, perfect for our 3 generation family, ages 8 to 70. We enjoyed cooking in the best equipped kitchen ever and all the space to spead out and relax. The hosts were very helpful with suggestions and quick to respond to any questions. We enjoyed the walking trails on the property, the firepit for smores, visiting Mystery Cave, watching movies and playing games from the large selection provided in the home. Thank you Derrick and Christine for a fabulous vacation experience. - 6/18/2019

Brian C.

Wonderfully relaxing Fantastic, quiet, clean, and central location to so much! We loved our stay!! - 10/12/2021

Henry F.

The large, roomy facility was spotless, kitchen extremely well-supplied with everything, location remote and quiet with trails and birds. The kitchen faucet broke, but the host responded immediately and went to search for replacement part. This place was comfortable and scenic. - 5/13/2026

thomas m.

Would stay again! - 9/01/2025

mary r.

cabin stay Great experience. Loved the bluff top trails. Cabin was well appointed and very comfortable. The bluff country is so relaxing. Caught my personal best brown trout in the Root River. - 5/03/2022

Heather McClellan

This place is so great. There’s more than enough space here to have a big group of crafters. The house is stocked with so many supplies, the owners thought of everything. The view is amazing also. - 2/10/2018

Dana B.

The property is beautiful with great hiking trails. My friends and I stayed at this place to have a girls trip to lanesboro. The property is a perfect retreat. The owners were friendly and the cabin was clean and had the perfect amount of space. We will definitely revisit! - 6/14/2021

Emily

The bunkhouse was very clean and had everything we needed. The property was beautiful. We walked the trails in the evening as well as the morning. We saw and heard lots of wildlife. Nice quiet, private location. Thanks Derrick! - 10/17/2021

David

Wow, both my wife and I were very impressed with this place - from start to finish! Excellent accommodations, very friendly hosts, newer place and so very well furnished! Thank you Derrick, I hope that many others will be able to enjoy this place like we did! - 6/04/2023

Janet C.

Beautiful, clean properties with all the amenities we needed! Will definitely be coming back to this place another time! - 8/07/2022

Maribeth L.

Excellent accommodations for a family getaway! Family vacation with 7 children five years and younger! Very spacious for the kids inside and outside! Adults also had plenty of room. The home was generously furnished from the kitchen, to the bathrooms, to the patio and everything in between! Owners great to work with! Highly recommend! - 8/08/2021

Brian

We really enjoyed our stay. The property is beautiful with lots of trails to walk. Derrick is great and provided information to all questions and very responsive for any questions. Probably the most detailed list of items, utensils, etc. we have seen at an ABNB. Makes it easy to plan for what to bring. The bunkhouse is attached to large machine shed and across the parking lot from the main house and is very nice inside, with beautiful touches to make it feel very homey. The small kitchen had everything we needed to make meals during our stay. It is 3 miles from the Root River trail at Whalen. We enjoyed the 4.6 mile bike ride to Lanesboro, where we spent an enjoyable afternoon. This was a 5 star stay! My wife and I are excited to go back again to enjoy what the area offers. - 9/19/2021

Beautiful house and gorgeous setting. This house is beautiful! It is immaculate and is so well stocked with absolutely everything you might need. The outdoor areas are great for hiking, grilling, and campfires. It’s also close to biking trails, tubing, and shopping. We had a great time! - 7/29/2019

Todd Lori Henderson

Bluff Country Retreat worked great for our family get together. The views were beautiful, there was more then enough room for people to spread out and spend time together and relax. The place is very well stocked and when we had an issue with the pump on the well not working and we ran out of water, they went above and beyond to get it fixed, even in the middle of the night! Thanks for providing a great place for a large group gathering. - 8/06/2018

Joseph

Beautiful cabin on a beautiful piece of ground. Derrick was great to work with to rent out his cabin. - 6/07/2026

Rachelle M.

Beautiful & peaceful. Quiet and beautiful location in the bluffs. Extremely clean, comfortable bunk house. We'll stay again! - 7/29/2021

Emily Brown

The home was clean, spacious, and has everything we needed for a relaxing stay. - 5/05/2023

Todd Henderson

Bluff Country Retreat was a great place for our annual summer get together! We have people aging in range from Senior Citizens to 6 years old, including teenagers and they all enjoyed the atmosphere and location. It was very clean, very comfortable, spacious and overall and very relaxing fun place to be. The morning views of overlooking the fog in the valley below and seeing the wildlife added to the enjoyment of the weekend. Highly recommended by all in the Henderson family. Thanks for a great weekend!My dad mistakenly gave it a 1/5 stars, he meant to leave a 5 : ) - 4/15/2019

John D.

We had a fabulous family reunion at this spacious home. The kitchen was well-equipped, and the outdoor fire pit was a hit! - 8/01/2022

Ceil

We enjoyed our stay. Comfortable beds and clean. - 5/04/2026

Wayne

What a great place! It was easy to get into and very clean. Derek was a great host and we would definitely stay here again. - 6/23/2024

Nancy F.

Highly recommend it! - 6/01/2026

Dan B.

Communication with the owner was great and he even updated me on a road closure situation due to storms. It’s a small place, basically one room, which was just great for the wife and me.Everything was well maintained and clean. We would choose it again if we need a place in the area. - 7/02/2025

Shelly Ochsendorf Herrmann

Best scrapbook retreat I have ever been too! Fantastic country setting, spacious for scrapbooking & relaxing! - 4/30/2018

Paula H.

Gorgeous spot out on the bluffs. Beautiful accommodations and great host! - 7/12/2026

Briget Fields

- 10/09/2017

Tasa Deden

This place has EVERYTHING you could possibly need AND more. It seriously deserves more than 5 stars. To say this is "God's Country" is an understatement. Owners are FANTASTIC! We have stayed twice and foresee many more stays! - 2/25/2019

Adam and Mariah J.

Quiet Escape! Great place for our family of three to stay! Comfortable and very clean. We found the kitchen to have everything we needed and some nice additional items. Convenient to area sites, as well as restaurants for take out. Appreciated the ability to take hikes/walks right on the property! Very nicely maintained trails. Would definitely stay again! - 11/02/2020

Iain W.

Pristine bunkhouse Very clean well appointed bunkhouse. Drive time to Lanesboro is not an issue. - 9/30/2020

Kim W.

Attention to Detail We had a wonderful stay at Bluff Country Retreat Bunk House. The attention to detail was amazing all the way down to the light switches being labeled, which I appreciated. The walking paths throughout the property we nicely mowed for evening walks. This place is truly a paradise! - 7/25/2022

Jody Houghton

Beautiful home located in the country with all the amenities one needs! our group loved the spacious, warm cozy concept. We enjoyed the natural light, comfortable beds. For crafting we enjoyed working on solid wood tables, having individual cutting mats and optional extra lighting for work areas. we had sewers and scrapbookers and plenty of space for all! Bluff Country really thinks of their guests so time can be well spent enjoying commeraderie! - 3/03/2019

Linda White

This place is fantastic for larger groups! The space is well thought out, and we had everything we needed. Great hosts too! - 3/30/2023

Andy

Derrick is a fantastic host!!!! He worked with us on a "washed out" because of local flooding in his community. Despite having to cancel at the last minute he worked with us to make it a positive experience. We really look forward to getting down to his beautiful place and enjoy everything that the community there has to offer. - 7/05/2026

Kate Hoover

Definitely enjoyed my weekend! By far the nicest retreat I’ve stayed at. Beautiful house that is very well maintained, beautiful location and the workroom and workstations are large and comfortable. I will definitely return for another weekend of crafting! - 10/07/2018

Suzanne

An excellent getaway with a cute bunk house and friendly owner. The cabin is very clean with everything you need. Over 4 miles of walking trails with awesome views. - 6/14/2020

Beautiful quiet getaway. Thank you for sharing your property with us. The trails on the property are beautiful. We enjoyed our getaway to southeastern MN. - 8/01/2020

Andy J.

Thank you! It was great meeting this couple. Very pleasant. - 8/01/2026

Steve L.

This was our second time staying in this spot. We were here last September as well but this time we stayed for 3 nights instead of 2. We love coming to the Lanesboro area in September. We highly recommend this spot and this host. Derrick is great to work with. - 9/18/2024

Shawna

This place is amazing! We loved our stay with my husband’s family! We were able to enjoy the outdoors, games and puzzles! We hope to be able to enjoy staying here next year!!! Thanks for making our stay amazing!!! - 6/30/2019

Carolyn T.

Great weekend get away. Well stocked and maintained cabin on a beautifull bluff overlooking the Root River. Nicer than we expected...listing does not do justice. Close to Lanesboro and multiple trouts streams. We saw tons of wildlife and the views from the groomed waking trails were beautiful. Would recommend 👌 - 6/17/2024

Jenny Overby

What an amazing place to stay! Everything has been thought of! Cozy and fun! A Scrapper’s paradise! Loved everything about it!! Lots of space for all! - 4/15/2018

Paul

na - 9/13/2021

Chris Lee

The owner was responsive and the place was well maintained. A great experience! - 11/14/2022

Sarah D.

Excellent by every measure! Highly recommend. - 10/12/2025

Tamai

You won't be disappointed with this place! It is everything that is advertised to be. You do travel on gravel roads to reach this destination which didn’t bother us because we are from Iowa and have gravel roads. There is a house on the same property that can also be rented which it was while we were at the Bunkhouse. There was no problem or noise from the people who rented the house during our stay. Also, a good place to watch the sun set! - 9/10/2022

Jen

Pictures do not do this place justice, easy checkin, quick response, beautiful surroundings, and SUPER clean! - 3/28/2021

Sarah Davis

Great place for families. Kids loved the outdoor fire pit! - 7/23/2023

Janet C.

Beautiful, clean properties with all the amenities we needed! Will definitely be coming back to this place another time! - 8/07/2022

Vrbo

Private setting on 80 acres overlooking the Root River Trail. The Bunk House is attached to the shed and includes heat, air, bath, and a Kitchenette. It is decorated with a log cabin theme, has tile, carpet, and granite counter tops. The Kitchenette has a full size refrigerator, microwave, hot plates, and coffee makers (Keurig also - bring your own k-cups). There is a charcoal grill available, stored behind the bunkhouse. We also supply firewood for use in the fire pit.

For single night rates you can make a request and we can evaluate.
The house on this property is also rented out. It is about 100 feet from the bunkhouse. Guests do not share common areas such a fire pits or patio areas. Trails are accessible to all guests.

The property is ~3miles from the trail access in Whalan, MN and ~7 miles from Lanesboro. We have several miles of mowed walking trails throughout the property that are available to all guests. Great opportunities for walks, snowshoeing, or cross country skiing.

There is a security camera mounted to south side of the house above the garage. It provides a view of the driveway as you enter the property.

Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees. - 4/01/2024

Lisa S.

The views were breathtaking! The kitchen was perfect for cooking large meals. Very clean! - 5/01/2023

Teresa

I have stayed in numerous air b and b’s. This one has moved to the top of the list as my all time favorite! I have never stayed in one as well appointed as this one. Right down to kitchen drawers labeled what’s inside of them! Seriously! No searching to see where something is, and if it’s even provided! I guarantee it’s provided! Communication with Derrick was easy and prompt. The House manual was extremely detailed and greatly appreciated! If I had one complaint it’s that we only had 4 nights there. That’s our fault! If we ever need a large accommodation in the Lanesboro area again we will certainly look to book again! Thank you Derrick! - 6/19/2023

Star T

This place is AMAZING! I recently spent a weekend at Bluff Country and was not disappointed. The lodging is comfortable, spacious, inviting, and extremely clean (and I'm a clean-freak so that's saying something). The kitchen is well equipped. There's even a nut roaster, which I realized after I toasted some on the range. I spent time on the walking trails which were very peaceful, private, and scenic....plus I saw 19 deer! The hosts are very accommodating and responsive to any questions. Bluff Country is the place to stay if you're planning a stay in the area. I'll definitely stay there again! - 3/01/2018

Tammy Iverson Schoppers

Excellent retreat home for a relaxing get away! Highly recommend!! - 11/13/2017

Katrina

Beautiful home, great walking trails on the property. The perfect weekend getaway! - 1/01/2019

Heidi Hanson

- 4/11/2021

Tommy

Derrick’s bunk house was great! It’s a great rural setting. Very private. The bunk house was very clean and as advertised. Very comfortable and they have everything you need. Already planning a return trip for next year. - 5/18/2025

Edward T.

We stayed for a long weekend that ended up being both snowy and cold outside, but it was nice and cozy inside. Derrick, the owner, went the extra mile in communicating since we were going to be having some weather, but it was fun to be able to hunker down here. The property is great if you are looking to get out for cross county skiing or maybe winter hiking, and we saw all sorts of animal tracks and deer several times. We’ll have to come back in the summertime. - 1/21/2024

Melinda Ritola Knuttila

- 5/09/2018

David

Great quiet place to get away and work remotely. Snug little cabin with beautiful views. - 1/28/2024

Nanette G.

This rental property was comfortable, clean, and inviting. There isn't one thing we needed that wasn't already provided. We actually spent more time at the property then we have other years on our annual "Girl's Weekend" when we have rented VRBO's. This by far was the nicest and most accommodating place we have stayed at. Everyone loved it. Thank you Derrick and Chris for a wonderful experience. - 10/22/2018

Deborah Ely

This is a super awesome place to go for a weekend scrapbooking retreat! Love it. - 2/06/2022

Alex T.

We loved the trails around the house. The kids were entertained the entire stay! - 7/10/2022

Jane Doe

We had an amazing time at this property! The views were breathtaking and the house was beautiful and spacious. Perfect for our family reunion! - 8/01/2023

Sylvia

Beautiful place to stay! Was very satisfied! - 6/22/2024

Colin

The guest house was great. It was small and cozy but provided everything we were looking for. The walking trails were a great option as well to get out for an hour and walk. It was also off the highways and very quiet and relaxing to just sit outside and enjoy the time. - 5/24/2020

Marla

What a perfect place for our family of 12! Such a beautiful home inside and the views outside match it. Never have we stayed in a more clean place. SO, SO clean! WE enjoyed the surrounding towns and Niagara cave. Such nice hosts. We didn't need anything from them however because this house already had everything we needed! WE are making plans to stay here again next year. We would love to tube down the Root river and bike the trail! - 5/19/2019

Jane

Very clean and comfy accommodations! - 5/29/2021

Mike Johnson

Had a great time with friends. The amenities were top-notch and location was serene. - 4/22/2023

Mary

Feels like the top of the world! Views from the property are stunning. High quality furnishings and very clean! Peaceful and comfy, just what we needed after a long day on the bicycle! - 10/09/2022

Olivia W.

One of the best rental experiences ever! The owner was responsive and helpful. Highly recommend! - 1/10/2023