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Lester’s Cottage - Riverfront Retreat

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Living area
Riverfront Fire Pit
The Kitchen Space. Well appointed, stocked with coffee, tea, and spices
Quaint front entrance
Cozy Space perfect for relaxing after your day on the river

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Stevensville, MT
  • Rooster's Casino
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • St. Mary's Mission
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Missoula, MT (MSO-Missoula Intl.)
    ‪45 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 2

2 Double Beds and 1 Single Bunk Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Common spaces

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Kitchen
Garden

About this property

Lester’s Cottage - Riverfront Retreat

With private riverfront access and sweeping views of the majestic Bitterroot Mountain Range, our bright and cozy cottage sleeps 6 and is full of amenities. Step outside to experience Montana's Blue Ribbon trout fishing or use as a local hunting base. Bring the family for some Big Sky fun or enjoy a romantic retreat. Across from a National Wildlife Refuge offering walking trails, a golf course, abundant Montana wildlife and migrating birds. A walkable mile from Historic Downtown Stevensville.

Our bright, cozy, 2 bedroom riverfront cottage was lovingly renovated in 2021 to reveal warm hardwood floors and a classic brick fireplace. Remodeled to maximize the space and bring in abundant natural light - the cottage also features updated appliances, brand new furnishings, and casual rustic-meets-modern Montana style.

Our oversized leather sectional and large dining table invite the family to gather for food, games, puzzles and lounging.

Plush mattresses are encased in quality linens with lots of pillows for propping and enjoying lazy mornings or a good book.

Though compact, the kitchen is big on functionality and has everything you’ll need to craft a meal for dining in or dining outside on the parked out grounds along the riverfront.

Every season has it’s charm in the Bitterroot valley. Rent equipment from local shops and/or hire a local guide to help you to optimize your trip.

Adventure awaits! Prepare to enjoy spectacular hiking, biking, floating, fishing, hunting, dining and experiencing local culture. Or just relax and watch the light change on the water. These are just a few of the activities you’ll enjoy while calling our space your home base.

The rural setting means the road is walkable and bike-able. Easy access with plenty of parking.

I’m happy to interact with you as much, or as little, as you like. Giving you privacy and space to make your vacation your own is my top priority. If I can help in any way to enrich your experience, I’m absolutely delighted to do so. As a born and raised Western Montana local…I love sharing my home state with visitors...so please do not hesitate to utilize me!

Peaceful rural neighbor on a quiet stretch of country road, lined with homes, which runs parallel to the Bitterroot River with uninterrupted views of the Selway-Bitterroot Mountains.

Located on Stevensville River Road, which runs parallel and adjacent to the Bitterroot River; offering quiet and peaceful walks, strolls, and bike rides along the river. Great for strollers and those with activities limited to level, hard surfaced walks. Also great for morning or evening walks and runs along the river and into the town of Stevensville (approximately 3 miles).

The indoor brick fireplace is not functional, but we do provide an outdoor fire ring and a stack of split, dry wood for your enjoyment.

Please be aware that the Bitterroot river is dynamic and ever changing. The seasonal flow levels can be very dangerous and there are times when it is not safe to be in the water or too close to the bank.

There is not a fenced yard and the grounds are open to the river front. Take appropriate precautions with your children and yourselves to stay safe during your visit.
- If you plan to access the Bitterroot River from the property or utilize any water equipment, we will require that you sign a "Waiver and Release of Liability Agreement" prior to entering the water.
- Maximum of two dogs allowed. Pet fee is per dog, per stay. Pets not to be left alone in the house, are not allowed on furniture, and must be on leash while on property. While at the river, off leash is allowed (pet owner assumes all liability).
- No waders or boots in the house, please store in the utility room.
- Please remove shoes while in the cottage.
- No fires allowed in the interior fireplace. You may use the fire pits behind the cottage. A wheelbarrow, kindling and wood is under the blue tarp behind the white shed. Fire starters and bug spray are in the rear entryway.
- You may smoke outside; please clean up after yourself.
- A green trash can is located near the back of the neighboring shop. Please deposit bagged trash as needed.
- The white shop behind the cottage is off limits.
- Please access the river directly behind the cottage and across the walking bridge. You may travel along the river bank to the south and access the water between the solar lights at the river's edge (behind the neighboring log home). Please attempt to remain behind the cottage as you enjoy the river. The rock island and river is public property and can be accessed as you wish.
- For events, please discuss additional numbers and requirements with the host. Guests may be required to have a portable outhouse delivered for larger gatherings, upon approval.
- Commercial filming and photography is negotiable. Please discuss terms and arrangements with the host.

Property manager

Jim and Andrew Lester

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
Property Registration Number 2577456

About the area

Stevensville

Located in Stevensville, this cottage is on the waterfront. Victor Heritage Museum and Hamilton Performing Arts Center are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include St. Mary's Mission and Traveler's Rest State Park.
Map
Stevensville, MT

What's nearby

  • Rooster's Casino - 4 min drive - 2.2 km
  • St. Mary's Mission - 6 min drive - 4.0 km
  • Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge - 15 min drive - 10.7 km
  • Whitetail Golf Course - 15 min drive - 8.5 km
  • St Mary's Peak - 48 min drive - 24.6 km

Getting around

  • Missoula, MT (MSO-Missoula Intl.) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Heritage Market & The Coffee Shack - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Frontier Cafe - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪CJ's Den - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Blacksmith Brewing Company - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Wildwood Brewing - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Lester’s Cottage - Riverfront Retreat pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Lester’s Cottage - Riverfront Retreat?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

Where is Lester’s Cottage - Riverfront Retreat located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Bitterroot Valley and Bitterroot River. Rooster's Casino and Fort Owen State Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 37 out of 36 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 36 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jamie W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible place!

We had the best time here! Gorgeous views and amazing location. Great hikes nearby and walks to take out the front door. Can't wait to come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Babymoon Summer Getaway!

We had the best stay for the past 10 days with us two dogs! Jim is a fabulous host with a fantastic property that couldn’t be better situated right next to the Bitterroot. We loved the amenities of the outdoor space, how close we were to both Missoula and Stevensville and all the fishing/hiking close by. Hands down one of the nicest and best stocked VRBO properties we have ever stayed in and we will absolutely be back!
Stayed 10 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Karen G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Thanksgiving at Lester Cottage

Wonderful, cozy place to spend Thanksgiving. The kitchen is fully equipped, beds cozy and warm, and views are beautiful. Hosts attentive and communicative. We hope to be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Phil G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Place

Great place to stay and great people around. Jim is awesome and super helpful.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Denette J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hidden Gem

What a great little place to get away. River access was perfect - close enough you can enjoy the view from the kitchen window, but not so close you would worry about the kids or dogs when playing in the yard. Aug. the rivers are quite low so we were able to cool off and dip our feet, watching the fly fishermen (think A River Runs Through It). Stevensville is such a cute town with a cute little hardware and Amish Stores and the Bitterroot Valley is absolutely breathtaking. The home included everything we needed and more for a comfortable stay and Jim was an excellent host.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brian K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Attention to Detail

Beautiful well put together Property. Grounds were immaculate, river was winding and beautiful, and the cottage setup was was perfection.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jen W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing mountain getaway right by the river

Jim’s property was the perfect place for our family during our time in the Bitterroot! The house is amazing and had everything we needed and more. The view of the mountains from the front door as well as the proximity to the river from the back door provided such a peaceful and beautiful escape. And our 4 year old twins had an absolute blast playing and sleeping in the built-in cubby beds! We definitely plan to stay here again the next time we come to Stevensville!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rae P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Too short a stay

This property was amazing. Very clean, updated and well equipped home. The grounds, outdoor sitting areas, and river views and access were j believable. My only regret is not having booked a longer stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gina H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A slice of paradise along the Bitterroot River

A slice of paradise along the Bitterroot River with breathtaking views all around. Lester’s Cottage is spotless, dog-friendly, and the most well-stocked home we have visited. Jim has thought of EVERY detail and amenity. Lester’s Cottage is a great home base for hiking, floating, bike riding, and relaxing along the river. The cottage is a 5-minute drive to Kootenai Creek trailhead. This is an easy hike along the rocky creek and there are plenty of spots to dip your feet in the water to cool off. St. Mary’s Peak is a 45 minute (17 mile) drive south. We gained about 2,000 feet in elevation on this difficult 3.5-4 mile hike to the fire lookout tower. The tower sits at 9,100 feet and the views are well worth the effort. We floated from the bridge to the cottage and Jim has paddle boards and tubes to borrow. He even shuttled us back to our car. There are 2 campfire rings to chose from on the property and firewood is provided. There are grocery stores and restaurants just up the road. We had great thin crust pizza from Kodiak Jax and delicious Montana made Wilcoxson’s Ice Cream from the ice cream shop inside Valley Drug. We really enjoyed our visits with Jim. It was nice to hear about the history of the property and all he has done to restore it. We hope to be back again in early summer to float the Bitteroot and in the winter to ski Lost Trail. If you choose Lester’s Cottage you will not be disappointed!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katie Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family of 4

Our boys couldn’t wait to get back to the house each day to play football or frisbee in the backyard or fish in the river. The cottage was so cute and a perfect place for us to stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Pamela K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

River Oasis

It’s the perfect place to go relax and enjoy family and friends. Jim has thought of everything for everyone. Very accommodating. The house is clean and tidy. Tastefully decorated with all the right details. Our littles loved everything. No one wanted to leave and go home. We will for sure be back. The perfect summer get away.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

James R., Stevensville, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

a little bit of paradise

it was like staying at a rustic but new piece of history with a view of majestic mountains to the front of the property and a park attached to the most beautiful river in the back of the property the fishing was awesome! It was the most amazing eye candy where ever you looked!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shelley M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay!

What a wonderful place! Perfect home base for exploring the Bitteroot Valley. We will be back. I’d give it 6 stars if they would let me 😊
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Beth M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay

We were in the area for a wedding, this was a wonderful place for a relaxing stay. Beautiful home, beautiful location.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mindy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The best little cottage!

This cottage was the absolute best place to stay! It had so many amenities, the hosts thought about everything! Perfect location next to the river, super close to town, and has the most beautiful scenery surrounding it. It was also super clean! Would 10 out of 10 recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend getaway

Fabulous cabin by the river for a perfect weekend getaway!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Danielle M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beyond amazing!

The location was Absolutely beautiful and Jim was such a pleasure to speak with and had tons of recommendations for sight seeing, food, etc.. the decor inside was great and you have literally anything you need. 10/10
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Liesl U.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful location and Creative touches throughout

Great location, riverside with great outside fire pit area, just bring your bug spray this time of year. Cozy interior living with creative space usage and touched. Great option for family get together for escape! Host were very responsive and easy to work with!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amy R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Slice of Peace

This is the best place to stay ever. It is super clean, cute and comfortable. Our daughter even nicknamed the tub the "Spa" :). The cabin has lots of handmade hidden gems in it. (You will have to visit to see them) I love the design and the build. The scenery is something that can never be beat. We saw deer, ducks, geese, tons of birds and the constant beautiful flow of the river. The property is very well kept with lots of areas for just being out and enjoying life and good conversation. The only negative thing that can be said about Lesters Cabin is that we had to leave & the Post Vacation Depression was real! I would highly recommend...just not the last week in May, it's ours! :)
Stayed 6 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mary N., United States

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

It was a great time.

Jim is as on site and it was a very nice home. Jim was very helpful to attend every need you have. I’d recommend this property
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Wyn B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful stay in Bitterroot Valley

What a wonderful find! We came to the valley to celebrate a family birthday and could not be happier with our choice to stay here for a long weekend. The river is just steps away and so peaceful. The wildlife refuge is directly across the river and the quaint town of Stevensville is very close by. The house, itself, is immaculate and very comfortable - every amenity you could need. We really appreciated the attention to detail, cleanliness and Jim’s hospitality. Will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Therez P., Duluth Mn

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome home away from home!

Jim was an awesome host. He had everthing we needed to make our stay comfortable. We loved all the wildlife on the river and beautiful Mountain View’s. Our son enjoyed fly fishing and caught a few rainbow trout. My favorite was relaxing by the fire pit enjoying the views! Thanks Jim
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Wanda K., Edmonton

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Gem of a Cabin on the Bitterroot

A wonderfully comfortable and welcoming cabin. It is well maintained and pristine clean; bright and spacious interior. Super comfortable, quality furnishings and bedding. A real little gem. What distinguishes this place is how thoughtfully and generously it is equipped - every little detail has been considered! A real bonus was the mudroom - great place to stow our fishing gear and coolers; hang raincoats without cluttering up the cabin interior. Could not ask for a more gorgeous and peaceful location with outdoor space overlooking the Bitterroot river. We loved sitting by the river watching the quails, doves, geese, Kingfishers etc. Deer were regular visitors. Jim is a wonderful host - checks in to ensure that guests are settled, readily accessible and responsive to inquiries, and just an all-around really nice guy. I cannot say enough good things about this place and its host.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Todd D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Such a cool spot right on the river.

This is an excellent place to stay. House was very clean and well stocked with any items you might have forgotten. Beautiful fire pit right next to the river and fishing out the back door!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Matthew Chet S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Host was Great

Jim & Andrew were amazing hosts, they made sure our crew members had a great place to stay. Definitely recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022

About the host

Hosted by Jim and Andrew Lester

Host profile image

Languages:

English