Skip to content

logo

  • Home
  • About
    • FAQ
    • Other activities
    • Directions
  • Accommodations
    • Main House
      • Craft room
      • Bedrooms
      • Bathrooms
      • Living
    • Bunk House
  • Reservations
    • Rates – main house
    • Policies
    • Availability – main house
    • Availability – bunk house
  • Contact
  • Photo Gallery
  • Posts & Reviews

November at Bluff Country Retreat

November 21, 2018 derrick
Posted by derrick on November 21, 2018November 23, 2018

Reviews from our guests:

5.0
193 reviews
airbnb logofacebook logogoogle logovrbo logo
5
186
4
7
3
0
2
0
1
0
loading image
Wayne AvatarWayne
Nice, cabin like accommodations close to cross country ski trail and property to ski or snowshoe on.
Very clean and welcoming, Derrick’s hospitality is great, with frequent information before our arrival. - 2/21/2021 
airbnb logo
James M. AvatarJames M.
Beautiful bluff top property! Centrally located and a comfortable clean cabin. Would use again! - 10/12/2020 
vrbo logo
Chichong L. AvatarChichong L.
Great getaway home This property is very well maintained and organized. The check-in process was easy and everything met our expectations upon arrival. The property felt very welcoming to us with everything we needed to enjoy our stay. It's a huge property with plenty of things to do in and out of the house around the property; plenty of games for the family and a long trail to enjoy nature with a beautiful view of the valley. We got to see the thick fog passing though the valley which was amazing. It was a great home to get away from the city and just enjoy quiet family time. Thanks. - 9/05/2020 
vrbo logo
Nicci Songas AvatarNicci Songas
Chris is an amazing host! She went well above and beyond a typical host. It’s a bit tough to get to with fresh, not yet plowed snow and we got stuck. Chris came to get us in her truck, helped get us unstuck, and then found a place for us to keep the car until the plow came through. Then she and her dad went to get the vehicle once plowed so we didn’t need to go out in the bitter cold! The place is amazingly beautiful and comfortable. Great place for getting projects done! - 2/12/2019 
Google Logo
Stanley AvatarStanley
We had an excellent stay at this beautiful location. Derrick was helpful in solving a problem that we had - 6/26/2024 
airbnb logo
Tammy Iverson Schoppers AvatarTammy Iverson Schoppers
Excellent retreat home for a relaxing get away! Highly recommend!! - 11/13/2017 
Facebook Logo
Janet C. AvatarJanet C.
Beautiful, clean properties with all the amenities we needed! - 8/07/2022 
vrbo logo
Elvis AvatarElvis
Beautiful Location , Great Communication, Easy access , Plenty of pillows and linens. Very very clean . Great Place . Highly recommended. - 12/30/2023 
airbnb logo
Randy & Bonnie G. AvatarRandy & Bonnie G.
Exceptional place to stay. Quiet and peaceful.
Further away from the Root River bike trails than we anticipated. - 10/03/2024 
vrbo logo
Lisa AvatarLisa
Great stay in the clean and cozy Bunkhouse. Stunning setting atop a bluff, quiet and away from it all yet conveniently located near Lanesboro where we enjoyed cycling on the Root River Trail. Outstanding communication from Derrick from start to finish. Recommend without hesitation. - 10/14/2021 
airbnb logo
Sylvia AvatarSylvia
Beautiful place to stay! Was very satisfied! - 6/22/2024 
airbnb logo
Sara AvatarSara
This house is amazing. Our family of 11 , ages 7-86, stayed here for the long weekend for a fun family get together. The house and bunkhouse exceeded our expectations 100 fold. The entire house was immaculate. The kitchen is among the best equipped in the state of Minnesota, I dare say, if not the country. The beds are comfy and there are plenty of thick towels, extra bedding, pillows, etc. to fulfill the needs of groups of most sizes. My 7-year-old niece loved playing hide and seek in this expansive home. The extra number of bathrooms and closets made the game extra fun for her. The outdoor patio/fire pit area was lovely. We ate all of our meals outside. There are walking paths on the property, meandering through woods and prairie, and also a grill for guests to use, complete with charcoal provided by the host. I can't say enough nice things about this house. It is filled with beautiful artwork, comfy furniture, and tasteful decorations. And the bunkhouse is just as nice as the main house, only more compact! Derrick, the host, is an excellent communicator. He was always available to answer any questions I had. My family loved Bluff Country Retreat. We all hope to stay here again! - 7/05/2021 
airbnb logo
Susan M. AvatarSusan M.
Great place to be away from all the hub bub of everyday life. Peace of heaven. - 5/19/2024 
vrbo logo
Shelly Ochsendorf Herrmann AvatarShelly Ochsendorf Herrmann
Best scrapbook retreat I have ever been too! Fantastic country setting, spacious for scrapbooking & relaxing! - 4/30/2018 
Facebook Logo
Brian AvatarBrian
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 
airbnb logo
Paul AvatarPaul
na - 9/13/2021 
airbnb logo
Eileen B. AvatarEileen 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 
vrbo logo
Peter Martin AvatarPeter Martin
What an absolute perfect find! We hosted a number of married couples at the Shack during the day and everyone was very impressed by everything. It is perfectly located and the trails were well-groomed allowing for many people to enjoy the scenery. Amazing! - 10/08/2018 
Google Logo
Brian C. AvatarBrian C.
Wonderfully relaxing Fantastic, quiet, clean, and central location to so much! We loved our stay!! - 10/12/2021 
vrbo logo
Kristina Lynne AvatarKristina Lynne
positive review  Awesome place for scrapping - 3/30/2019 
Facebook Logo
Steve M. AvatarSteve M.
Great stay in the Driftless region! Came to the area for a trout fishing weekend with friends. The very peaceful and expansive property in the country was central to numerous great rivers and streams. Spent much of our time outdoors (fire pit view is awesome) but must also say the luxury house is excellent as well! - 10/13/2020 
vrbo logo
Tasa Deden AvatarTasa 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 
Google Logo
Robert G. AvatarRobert G.
Great Getaway - Has everything a group would need My group was very impressed with this beautiful home. It was clean, organized, big, and there is a lot to do. This is a great retreat. We really couldn't ask for anything more. We hope to be back next summer. The hosts were also great and communicative.

-Robert - 8/06/2019 
vrbo logo
Verified traveler AvatarVerified traveler
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 
vrbo logo
christopher K. Avatarchristopher K.
Great base for exploring Lanesboro The bunkhouse is very nicely situated at the top of a hill overlooking a number of farms which provides for some great views. There are also a lot of trails cut into the surrounding land which are fun to explore.

There's not a lot of privacy in the bunkhouse since everyone is sharing the same sleeping/living quarters, but we found it easy enough to just head outside to the porch (or use the firepit) after the kids went to bed, to create some separation. All in all, this was a nice, affordable place for our home base as we explored Lanesboro, Whalen and Preston during the day. - 8/10/2020 
vrbo logo
Carol B. AvatarCarol B.
Great Stay We came to Lanesboro for a biking weekend. My mom, sister and I enjoyed the small, cozy bunk house. Everything was clean and working. The walking trails were great- lots of butterflies in the prairie. The owner communication was outstanding. Thanks for a great weekend! - 8/29/2022 
vrbo logo
stanmary henderson Avatarstanmary henderson
23 of us: 4 children and spouses, 12 grandchildren and one grandchild is engaged, that makes 24 of us that really enjoyed our stay at Bluff Country Retreat. Activities included touring the town of Lanesboro, talk around the fire ring, golfing, tubing down the river, Kiaking down the river, playing some yard games, playing cards, eating and walking the trails.Stan Henderson - 4/15/2019 
Google Logo
jane Avatarjane
Most gorgeous settings......loved every minute!! Lovely home....perfect in every way!!! The view was amazing and having outdoor fires in the evening, priceless!~~ - 8/19/2020 
vrbo logo
Tamai AvatarTamai
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 
airbnb logo
Sandy Olson AvatarSandy Olson
positive review  Just spent our annual cousin's reunion at this fabulous location. This was our second year at Bluff Country and we are already planning on 2020! This property has everything you can possibly need, kitchen has everything you could possibly need, beds are super comfortable, it is quiet and peaceful and only minutes from Lanesboro. We all enjoy the large crafting room for our projects and love playing cards in the family room and of course the view is unbelieveable! Can't wait to go again next year! - 7/23/2019 
Facebook Logo
Fred O'Connor AvatarFred O'Connor
My first retreat and it was fantastic! This place is so cozy and relaxing. - 2/11/2019 
Google Logo
Shawna AvatarShawna
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 
airbnb logo
Micah AvatarMicah
The Bluff County Retreat house was clean, well-prepared and in a beautiful location. It was a great experience for my friends and I. - 8/13/2023 
airbnb logo
Laura C. AvatarLaura C.
Peaceful It was the best! So fully stocked . Fully equipped kitchen . It was so peaceful and beautiful for our family to be together !! Very kind owners too! And homemade honey down the road ! We loved it all! - 7/05/2023 
vrbo logo
Julie K. AvatarJulie 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 
vrbo logo
Steven L. AvatarSteven L.
We were only able to stay for 2 nights, but it was perfect. It's a very nice quaint & quiet place in the country. The home is like new and very well maintained. We liked the fact that it was a quick drive to the Root River trail in Whalan. We really enjoyed the trails around the property. Our only issue was the charcoal grill (because I've never been able to master grilling with charcoal). It would have been perfect if there had been a gas grill, but that's our personal preference. We hope to come back next year and stay 3 nights next time. - 9/26/2023 
vrbo logo
Brent V. AvatarBrent V.
Summer Fun Great spot. Will stay again if available. - 7/25/2023 
vrbo logo
Zach J. AvatarZach J.
Beautiful little spot on top of the SE MN bluffs. The cabin was very clean and cozy. The only thing it was missing was an oven. Close to lots of local attractions and a variety of opportunities for outdoor fun. The host was great, easy to communicate with and very accommodating. Would certainly stay again! - 4/26/2024 
vrbo logo
Deborah Ely AvatarDeborah Ely
This is a super awesome place to go for a weekend scrapbooking retreat! Love it. - 2/06/2022 
Google Logo
Jody AvatarJody
The Bunk House was even better than we expected! Derrick thought of many details that made our stay pleasant and comfortable like shampoo, conditioner and body wash in the shower, ziploc bags to take home leftovers, plenty of extra blankets, comfy chairs to sit and have a chat. The grounds were beautiful with lovely views. Derrick was particularly considerate by texting me about a forecast storm with hail. He gave me the code to put our car and bikes in the garage. So thoughtful! - 5/16/2021 
airbnb logo
Julie Broadwtaer AvatarJulie Broadwtaer
Bluff Country Retreat is a beautiful home located on the bluff above the Root River in southeast Minnesota. The amenities are numerous and the description and pictures on the website do not do this retreat justice. Ample craft space on the main floor, large soaking tub, walking trails, fireplaces, TVs...it's just amazing! This is my fourth stay and I'm looking forward to the two weekends booked for 2019! This is the perfect get away! - 10/28/2018 
Google Logo
Tammy Price-Troska AvatarTammy Price-Troska
What a wonderful place to gather and create. We will definitely come back! - 3/16/2020 
Google Logo
Keith AvatarKeith
we very much enjoy our stay. The first thing we noticed when we walked in was how beautifully decorated it was, how clean it was and how nice it smelled. We loved the peacefulness and watching the deer out the windows. Derrick was quick to respond to booking or any questions we may have had. - 6/29/2023 
airbnb logo
Marika AvatarMarika
Derrick was easy to communicate with and had a clean place on beautiful property. We had a few hiccups (WiFi, fireplace, construction workers) but Derrick was responsive and courteous. Overall, a nice getaway. - 10/23/2021 
airbnb logo
Linda W. AvatarLinda W.
Spectacular! The owners went to great trouble to be sure guests have everything needed for a comfortable get away. Beautiful location, beautiful little nest. We couldn’t have been more pleased. The owners are great communicators and followed through with a special request we asked for. You won’t be disappointed. We will book again. 😊 - 7/02/2022 
vrbo logo
Sa AvatarSa
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 
airbnb logo
Jesse AvatarJesse
As advertised. Great place, location, views, etc. - 3/23/2025 
airbnb logo
Star T AvatarStar 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 
Google Logo
Kelly K. AvatarKelly K.
The bunkhouse was perfect! The bunkhouse exceeded my expectations! It was perfect for our girls bicycling weekend. The hosts thought of everything to make our stay perfect. The location was beautiful and the bunkhouse was perfect! I’ll definitely be back!!! - 8/16/2023 
vrbo logo
Twila F. AvatarTwila F.
All in one cute room Everything was great and nothing about the inside of this “little” cabin grossed me out! Clean sheets, everything was easy to find, we watched many Laura Ingalls shows as we took our own movies along. The only thing maybe a new mattress would be a good ide?! I woke up with back ache both nights and thought it’s just because I’m 22 weeks pregnant and that’s just part of growing a human. But hubby said something on Sunday about a sore lower back that he thinks might have been the mattress. Just something to keep in mind if anyone else says something! Thanks for going “the extra mile” with a fully stocked kitchen, games, movies, extra towels and washcloths, privacy/good blinds and the many light options thruout the house. Loved the lights about the kitchen cupboards for an extra touch at night when I woke up to, you know, use the restroom again🙈🙂 - 12/07/2021 
vrbo logo
Jenny Overby AvatarJenny Overby
This place is well stocked! Kitchen has high end items, well organized, small scrap store even!!! Highly recommend it! Booked for November and April! - 11/12/2017 
Facebook Logo
Douglas C. AvatarDouglas C.
Country charmer. Enjoyed our stay in this "shack" combining cabin-like country charm with modern conveniences. - 10/16/2020 
vrbo logo
Xiong AvatarXiong
If you are looking for a place to stay that is both beautiful and convenient with a large group of people, Bluff Country Retreat is the place to stay. It is a place that is beyond one's imagination. The home is located on a beautiful and peaceful location that offers a great view of the surrounding hills.

Derrick was super responsive to questions and requests. Check-in and check-out was super easy. Instruction was simple and clear.

In all honesty, we had a truly wonderful time during our stay. Derrick made our family-getaway a wonderful experience this summer. Bluff Country Retreat is a place where you will want to return year after year. - 7/16/2023 
airbnb logo
Jessica AvatarJessica
Beautiful spot over looking the valley. Clean, provided everything we needed, and quite. Perfect spot for a nice peaceful get away! - 6/08/2025 
airbnb logo
Heidi Hanson AvatarHeidi Hanson
- 4/11/2021 
Google Logo
Jill M. AvatarJill M.
Great stay Clean and spacious. Well stocked with the comforts of home. Garage parking was a bonus. Location was great and fit our hunting party amazingly. Wifi was not strong enough to work, was able to do low quality netflex. Wish the living room accommodated more sitting and had a bigger TV. - 1/08/2022 
vrbo logo
Colette AvatarColette
Great place worth the extra drive. Loved the view and the bunkhouse was comfortable and well stocked with every need. - 8/26/2023 
airbnb logo
Kim AvatarKim
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 
airbnb logo
Iain W. AvatarIain W.
Pristine bunkhouse Very clean well appointed bunkhouse. Drive time to Lanesboro is not an issue. - 9/30/2020 
vrbo logo
Mary AvatarMary
What a great find in Lanesboro! Cabin was so welcoming and homey, had everything we needed. Very clean. Our host Derrick was reachable and timely in his responses. Wifi was very strong, including clear (Hidden by Airbnb) video calls needed for work. Wonderful mowed walking paths to explore behind the cabin, we greatly enjoyed our stay! - 5/23/2022 
airbnb logo
Sarah K. AvatarSarah 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 
vrbo logo
Jane AvatarJane
Very clean and comfy accommodations! - 5/29/2021 
airbnb logo
Suzi AvatarSuzi
If you want extra clean, beautiful, very comfortable, and totally delightful...consider this place! If you want it close to small towns with charm, character, beautiful bluffs, great food, art AND fun family outdoors, consider this place. This beautiful log home is just a few miles travel but when you're there, you feel like you are on top of the world! This was a GREAT place. We will be back! - 9/07/2020 
airbnb logo
Kristie Brunsvold Curtis AvatarKristie Brunsvold Curtis
Was an absolute gorgeous place for our Christmas! Very spacious yet so cozy and warm! Beautifully decorated for the holidays!! Felt like home! - 12/24/2017 
Facebook Logo
Todd Henderson AvatarTodd 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 : ) - 8/06/2018 
Google Logo
Stephanie Jaeger Paulson AvatarStephanie Jaeger Paulson
positive review  Great craft room, beautiful scenery, fully stocked kitchen, nice bathrooms. love a good crafting weekend with my girlfriends! - 3/10/2020 
Facebook Logo
Kenneth N. AvatarKenneth N.
Peaceful cabin in the country Wonderful cabin in the beautiful country. Everything was very clean on our arrival. It was just 2 of us that stayed. Don’t plan on watching muchTV as it’s Netflix only and kept freezing up. We came to bike the Root River trail which was pretty quiet and not much bike traffic during the week. If you want to get away from the world and relax this is the place. - 9/17/2022 
vrbo logo
Sarah D. AvatarSarah D.
Excellent by every measure! Highly recommend. - 10/12/2025 
vrbo logo
Melinda Selchow AvatarMelinda Selchow
- 12/15/2020 
Google Logo
Jody AvatarJody
The grounds and the house are awesone the Host has thought of everything you might need on your stay. Kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms, outside.......Derrick has created an awesome experience. You will enjoy yourselves! - 5/27/2019 
airbnb logo
Laura AvatarLaura
Derrick had superb communication and was overall a great host. We took advantage of the bike path's in Lanesboro and Derrick's place had everything we needed after a long day on the trails. Thanks for the accommodating stay! - 7/14/2024 
airbnb logo
Christina AvatarChristina
This place is perfect for relaxing in such a beautiful area. Very quiet and has everything you could possibly need. Very clean and organized. We enjoyed it so much we are hoping to come back next year! - 9/26/2021 
airbnb logo
Melinda Ritola Knuttila AvatarMelinda Ritola Knuttila
- 5/09/2018 
Facebook Logo
Bou V. AvatarBou V.
Best Cabin Ever Spacious cabin. There were a lot of supplies to utilize in the kitchen. Many activities/games to use as well. There were enough beds/bathrooms. We had a great time hiking and using the bonfire. It was nice meeting Derrick. He was very nice and accommodating overall. We had a great stay and would rent again. Thank you! - 8/28/2019 
vrbo logo
Sheryl Strain AvatarSheryl Strain
Very very nice. - 3/06/2022 
Google Logo
Tammy Schoppers AvatarTammy Schoppers
Breathtaking views, gorgeous home with every anemity you can think of! Highly recommend to everyone! - 4/15/2019 
Google Logo
Baylea AvatarBaylea
Derricks place was beautiful, clean, quiet. The shack has everything you need for a perfect get away. We wish we could’ve spent more time there but will definitely be back. Hospitality was amazing! We were more then satisfied with our stay! - 7/13/2020 
airbnb logo
David AvatarDavid
Beautiful place on top of the bluffs. Derrick is an excellent host. - 6/19/2021 
airbnb logo
Adam and Mariah J. AvatarAdam 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 
vrbo logo
mary r. Avatarmary 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 
vrbo logo
Rachael AvatarRachael
My mother and I stayed in the bunkhouse for 3 days for her 73rd birthday. We chose the place because of the location (close to the root river trail and local hiking). When we got there, we were amazed at the beautiful property! Derrick had trails mowed for us to hike, the place was spotless and the wildlife was all around us! We look forward to coming back to stay here and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in taking in the beauty of SE Minnesota! - 6/18/2020 
airbnb logo
Tanya AvatarTanya
The little 'Shack' is absolutely a dream to stay at!! For starters, communication with Derrick was great from the get-go....I got an immediate response (within 30 minutes, I'd say), and he stayed consistent with his great communication up til our check-in day, even texting that if we wanted to use the grill, he had some charcoal & fluid he'd leave out for us. How nice is that? The place itself is about an 8 minute drive outside of downtown Lanesboro, and the drive is just beautiful, along the river and then up a winding gravel road to the top of the bluffs, with a crazy pretty view. The little bunkhouse is on the same property as the larger cabin with a shared driveway, but it sits far enough away to allow for privacy. From the outside, it just looks like a little unassuming add-on space next to the large pole-barn shed, but inside, it's really pretty and cabin-y. A beautiful, large river rock gas fireplace off in the corner is a lovely main attraction of the room, with a very comfortable log bed (queen size, I believe?), great vaulted wood ceilings & awesome lighting, a beautiful kitchen with microwave, hot plate, full fridge/freezer, and really nice ceramic tiling throughout (including the backsplash). The bathroom with shower is just as nice. The entire place is just really pretty & classy, with a lot of beautiful details. There's also a bunk-bed off on the side of the living/bed room (it's kind of a large studio area), so it'd really be nice for a family with a couple of kids. And I need to add, it is *immaculate.* They have clearly taken lots of extra precautions in this crazy Covid time, and it shows. Oh! I almost forgot to mention the trails!! He has mowed an incredible, extensive network of trails on his property, winding through the grasslands, through the woods, overlooking the huge bluff and down into the valley, and winding back around again. Absolutely a must-do when you visit. One of the paths winds down to a pond, which we didn't have time to go down to, but will on our next visit back -- and we will be back. Lanesboro itself was a great place to do some shopping and kayaking down the river, and Bluff Country Retreat was a great place to come home to to unwind. - 10/08/2020 
airbnb logo
Dannette C. AvatarDannette 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 
vrbo logo
Tart Farms AvatarTart Farms
Bluff Country Retreat is a beautiful home located on the bluff above the Root River in southeast Minnesota. The amenities are numerous and the description and pictures on the website do not do this retreat justice. Ample craft space on the main floor, large soaking tub, walking trails, fireplaces, TVs...it's just amazing! This is my fourth stay and I'm looking forward to the two weekends booked for 2019! This is the perfect get away! - 10/28/2018 
Google Logo
Pamela D. AvatarPamela D.
Perfect Getaway We had a fabulous long weekend. We have rented many VRBO places and this was one of the best. The bunkhouse was very well equipped and was impeccably clean. There was plenty of wood for fires and mowed trails for exploring. It is only a few miles to access the Root River trails. The host was easily reached when needed. The property is very private but yet close enough to town in case you are interested in shopping or eating out. We hope to visit the property again. - 9/21/2021 
vrbo logo
Briget Fields AvatarBriget Fields
- 10/09/2017 
Facebook Logo
Kate Hoover AvatarKate Hoover
positive review  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 
Facebook Logo
Melanie D., Chicago, USA AvatarMelanie D., Chicago, USA
I regularly stay at VRBO’s throughout the US. The Shack was exceptionally clean, well maintained, provided excellent amenities as well as a beautiful private property for a retreat and getaway. I will certainly reserve again. - 8/24/2020 
vrbo logo
Christina AvatarChristina
We enjoyed staying at the Bunkhouse! It is hands down the cleanest Airbnb we have stayed at. It felt just like home and was well stocked. It was close to Whalan and Lanesboro to bike the trail, eat pie and enjoy a fantastic play at the Commonweal. We would definitely stay here again! - 7/07/2025 
airbnb logo
Todd Lori Henderson AvatarTodd Lori Henderson
positive review  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 
Facebook Logo
Samuel AvatarSamuel
Great place. The trails were really awesome and it was a thoughtfully constructed stay. - 9/06/2020 
airbnb logo
Marcia S. AvatarMarcia 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 
vrbo logo
Jess B. AvatarJess B.
Wonderful Getaway We had a great time in the "bunk house" over a 4-day weekend. Perfect location, within 20 minutes of all of each of the quaint small towns you want to see. Just a 3 minute drive in to the heart of Lanesboro and the beautiful Root River bike trail. The location is very private with great walking trails that are very well maintained if you want to stay on the property. The unit has everything you would need for a home-away-from-home. Even without an oven/stovetop, you have everything you need to make a great meal with the people you are with. The owners have thought of everything for you. We just can't say enough wonderful things about the stay we had and hope to be back! It was a weekend in the 90 degree weather, and the air conditioning worked great - kept up with the heat very well. The place is spotless, comfortable, and all we needed was there. My husband has an achy back on soft mattresses, and the Queen mattress was a little too soft for him, but he slept great in one of the twin beds. And I got the Queen to myself! haa. Wonderful place and very easy-to-work-with owners. Highly recommend if you are visiting the area. - 6/22/2021 
vrbo logo
Brian C., Iowa City, IA AvatarBrian C., Iowa City, IA
Fantastic, quiet, clean, and central location to so much! We loved our stay!! - 10/11/2021 
vrbo logo
Anne Kuderer AvatarAnne Kuderer
What a great place! Every amenitiy you can think of is provided. Beautiful setting, great walking trails and plenty of space to craft! Highly recommend booking your next getaway with friends here! - 4/15/2019 
Google Logo
Edward T. AvatarEdward 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 
vrbo logo
Alex AvatarAlex
Had an Excellent weekend at the Bluff Country Retreat. The Bunkhouse was perfect for two people, and was exceptionally clean. The property is also fantastic to stroll around. Would visit again. - 10/25/2020 
airbnb logo
Jenny Overby AvatarJenny 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 
Google Logo
Andy AvatarAndy
Derrick is a great host, and again, did not disappoint! We love the place and would love to come back again next year, for our annual guys retreat! So much room for our larger group, and the amenities are all awesome! Everything is clearly labeled and extremely well organized. We love it. 10 out of 10 would recommend this place to anyone! - 2/09/2020 
airbnb logo
Maribeth L. AvatarMaribeth 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 
vrbo logo
Button to load more customer reviews

Recent Comments

    Recent Posts

    • New microwave
    • New sign
    • Live From The Field
    • New dishwasher
    • New water management at entry door to garage.

    Archives

    • May 2025
    • April 2025
    • November 2024
    • March 2024
    • August 2023
    • February 2023
    • December 2022
    • September 2022
    • July 2022
    • May 2022
    • November 2021
    • January 2021
    • December 2020
    • November 2020
    • October 2020
    • June 2020
    • May 2020
    • November 2019
    • October 2019
    • April 2019
    • March 2019
    • November 2018
    • October 2018
    • September 2018
    • July 2018
    • June 2018
    • April 2018
    • March 2018
    • December 2017
    • October 2017
    • September 2017
    • August 2017
    • July 2017

    Categories

    • Uncategorized

    Meta

    • Log in
    • Entries feed
    • Comments feed
    • WordPress.org
    • Home
    Theme by Tesseract  Drawing
    Verified by MonsterInsights