Frequently asked questions...

  • Is food provided by Bluff Country Retreat?

    No.  You and your group will be responsible for all meal planning.  Our kitchen is completely stocked with dishes and kitchen items that you may need during your stay.  We also have flour, sugars, cooking spray, vanilla, salt, pepper and a few common spices on hand for your use.  We also have several small appliances that you may wish to use to make your meals as simple and hassle free as possible!

  • How close is the nearest grocery store?

    There are three small grocery stores within a short drive of the retreat.  Preston, MN (Preston Foods IGA), Rushford, MN (Rushford Foods IGA) are both approximately 15 miles away and Harmony, MN (Harmony Foods IGA) is approximately 20 miles.  There is also a gas station with a small grocery section in Lanesboro, MN (BP Gas Station) that is approximately 6 miles away.  It is recommended that you plan all of your meals in advance of your stay and bring groceries, beverages and snacks with you.

  • How close is the nearest 'Big Box' Store?

    Bluff Country Retreat is located in rural Fillmore County.  There are three larger towns within 1 hour (one way) of our home that would offer big box stores such as Wal Mart, Target, Michaels, JoAnn Fabrics.  Decorah, Iowa (approximately 38 miles one way) has Wal Mart and a larger grocery store.  Rochester, MN (approximately 46 miles one way) has Wal Mart, Target, Michaels, Joann Fabrics, a shopping mall, etc.  LaCrosse, WI (approximately 48 miles one way) has Wal Mart, Target, Michaels, Joann Fabrics, a shopping mall, etc.  Again, it is HIGHLY recommended that you bring all of your scrapbooking/crafting supplies, photos, paper, food, beverages, etc. with you.  We do offer a small selection of solid core card stock, patterned paper and adhesive available for purchase at the retreat.

  • Does cell coverage work in the area?

    It depends on the provider.  Verizon and AT&T work in most parts of the home with reasonable signal.  Sprint is not as strong and being outside is better. 

  • Is Internet service available?

    We now have fiber optic service!  Broadband wireless is available throughout the house at speeds of 200mbps and greater.  This easily streams movies off Netflix for your entertainment and provides the capability for digital scrap booking.

  • Is there a computer available for use?

    A desktop computer is provided with Windows 10 software.  A color printer is also provided.

  • Does my group need to clean before we leave?

    We ask that you leave the home in a broom clean condition.  Bluff Country Retreat will be clean and ready for your group upon your arrival.  We ask that before you leave you strip all beds and place sheets and towels in a designated area; ensure all dishes are washed and put away; empty all garbage cans and take trash/recycling to the outside containers; and empty the refrigerator of all food.

  • I'm not a scrapbooker or crafter. Can I still stay at Bluff country Retreat?

    Yes.  Bluff Country Retreat is the perfect location for your girls weekend or gathering with family and friends!