Entire home

Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.

Photo gallery for Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.

Lilac Cottage is behind apple tree and among lilac bushes bordering the yard.
The cottage sits behind the owners' home. This is the backyard.
Lilac Cottage guests have a sweet yard to enjoy.
Entry to cottage. Bathroom and kitchen in view.
Eating area.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bathroomSleeps 246.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
  • Air conditioning
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
Gardiner, MT
  • Parks' Fly Shop
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Roosevelt Arch
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Yellowstone National Park North Entrance
    ‪14 min walk‬
  • West Yellowstone, MT (WYS-Yellowstone)
    ‪97 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

0 bedrooms (sleeps 2)

STUDIO

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Kitchen
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.

Access to Yellowstone Park from our north entrance was fully restored October 30, 2022 with a beautiful new road! Our sweet backyard cottage is nestled among the fruit and flower trees of the yard. It is easily within walking distance to the grocery store, coffee, shopping, restaurants, laundromat, post office, and local arch park events. It is at the north entrance to Yellowstone Park, as is all of Gardiner. The cottage is in the heart of town but shielded from the main street by the owners' home. The yard is shared with the owners but privacy is afforded by the layout. The owners' home was built in 1930 and its cottage was built in 1940 by former owners, the Eastons. It is believed that their intent was to rent the cottage to visitors of Yellowstone, making it a very early vacation rental in this town. The cottage is a perfect fit for two people who want to day trip to northern Yellowstone, book local activities like rafting, biking, horseback riding, and return to a simple, basic, clean environment to relax. Our guests note that the well cultivated green and floral landscaping add to the charm and character of their experience. The stucco cottage still has the details of its early history with the old style glass door knobs and kitchen cabinets. There is a comfortable queen bed, sitting area with Smart tv, eating area, full but small kitchen, and full bathroom. It is clean, well cared for, and you are welcome! We keep our reservation calendar updated to the minute and our description on this page accurate. So as you're reading this page if Lilac Cottage sounds like a good fit for you and if the dates you want are open on our calendar and you have no questions, you are welcome to book directly without contacting us (use Instant Booking option). Just follow VRBO's process with your credit card. We'd be in touch immediately upon booking, through VRBO. If you do have specific questions not answered here, please email Eleanor through VRBO. NOTE: Because the lilacs and other historic bushes and trees were planted in 1930s and 40s, Tom is constantly pruning and removing sections for new growth.

Property manager

Eleanor Stone
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 24
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
Groups staying nearby cannot congregate here
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Pets

No pets allowed
There are no exceptions.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking is not allowed on the entire property.
Follow checkout list that is on the welcome letter in Cottage.
Entrance gate needs to be closed and latched each time that you exit/enter the property.
Maximum number of nights allowed to book - 18

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
Note from host: Groups staying nearby cannot congregate here
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 deadlock

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Gardiner

Located in Gardiner, this cottage is in the city centre. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Yellowstone National Park North Entrance and Yellowstone National Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Gardiner, MT

What's nearby

  • Parks' Fly Shop - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Roosevelt Arch - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Yellowstone National Park North Entrance - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Yellowstone Hot Springs - 9 min drive - 12.1 km
  • Mammoth Hot Springs - 16 min drive - 8.6 km

Getting around

  • West Yellowstone, MT (WYS-Yellowstone) - 97 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Wonderland Cafe & Lodge - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Cowboy's Lodge & Grill - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Mammoth Hot Springs Terrace Grill - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Yellowstone Perk - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Yellowstone Grill - ‬1 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location.?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Perfect for two! Less than half mile from Yellowstone. 'Downtown' location. located?

Located in the heart of Gardiner, this cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Gallatin National Forest, Yellowstone National Park North Entrance and Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone River and Parks' Fly Shop are also within 5 minutes.

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. 189 out of 199 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 7 out of 199 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 199 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 199 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 199 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

christopher h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect Retreat
Everything two people could need. Yes, it’s a small cottage, but it doesn’t lack for anything and has a nice sitting area just outside. Conveniently located with a grocery store just down the street and the North entrance to the park a few minutes away. We plan to return next May. Eleanor and Tom are wonderful hosts.
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessica S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute place in great location
We enjoyed our time in Gardiner. Host was very communicative. The unit is very well equipped with kitchen supplies, games, and park information. Easy commute into the park.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

JoAnn J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy Cottage
We enjoyed our stay at the Lilac Cottage. It was perfect for the two of us. Everything we needed for a great stay was provided by the hosts. The courtyard garden was beautiful but we did not get to enjoy it as our weather was cold and rainy. This is a great location while visiting Yellowstone.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cullen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing cozy cottage
We loved our stay at the Lilac Cottage! After spending the whole day in Yellowstone we were ready to relax and enjoy a comfortable and clean place and the lilac cottage provided just that!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Casey G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great little house in Gardiner
My wife and I stayed here during our visit to Yellowstone National Park. If you are looking for a small place for a couple, then this is the place for you. The hosts were great.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cathy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lilac Cottage Comfort
Our second time at this lovely home, and enjoyed it just as much as the first time. The location is ideal to YNP, and the tourist stops if you want. We cooked our breakfasts and dinners at the cottage, the kitchen having everything you need. The owners are marvelous, and close but it is still very private. Sitting in the yard is ideal after a long day.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Holly R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lilac Cottage
Wonderful!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debbie w.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely little cottage
We really enjoyed our stay the the Lilac Cottage! Eleanor thought of everything. It was perfect great location, walking distance to everything. Would absolutely stay there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Franziska B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
All around Perfect!
Ideally located just a few minutes from the North Entrance of Yellowstone Park, the Lilac Cottage offered all amenities and more. Very attention to detail and extremely comfortable for even a longer stay. The cottage was in top notch condition and very well looked after. The backyard was a serene place in the afternoon to relax with a book and glass of your favorite drink. Perfection!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alex M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Convenient and Clean!
Perfect for 2 and minutes away from the North entrance. If you're going to the park don’t pass this cottage up!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laurie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Yellowstone
We stayed our first night after a day at Yellowstone, then a second night after another day at Yellowstone. Very close to the North entrance and we had a very comfortable stay. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Daniel L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Place to Stay Near Yellowstone
This cute and comfortable cottage was the perfect base camp for our visit to Yellowstone. The property was nicely equipped with all the essentials for our stay. The next visit to the park may be in early fall to avoid the summer crowds; I'm hoping we can land this property again when we return!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ada D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Handy to Yellowstone
Gardiner is right by the north entrance of Yellowstone N.P. We were able to visit the park two days, going two different directions and returning to this cottage. Well stocked and a treat was waiting for us in the freezer! Thanks for sharing!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenny R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Yellowstone visit
This is an amazing place to stay! Can walk to restaurants and grocery store. Eleanor is super friendly. There is an information book that is put together with all the restaurants and is super helpful! Just a wonderful experience all together!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Janice W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quaint, convenient cottage
We recently stayed at this lovely little cottage in Gardiner. Check in was easy, cottage is in back yard of owners, they are available if needed but give you your privacy. Cottage is in walking distance of many restaurants, activities. Close to Yellowstone, which we visited several days we were there. Cottage was small but just right for two of us & had everything we needed. A lovely, relaxing stay. Would highly recommend
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Collin M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely cottage in a lovely town
We had a great time in Gardiner while we visited Yellowstone. This cottage was a perfect place to come back to after a long day in the park. It was quiet, clean, safe, and private. It had everything we needed. Eleanor and Tom are great hosts. Check in and out was very simple and easy. I would recommend this cottage to anyone!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carrie G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay
Everything as stated in listing. Owners gave great information!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

G. Spencer B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect for two!
The Lilac Cottage was wonderful! We loved our stay. The owners thought of everything! We enjoyed the beautiful views and cozy cottage. We had a great time relaxing in the recliners after a day of exploring Yellowstone. It was so close to everything in Gardiner. Our only regret is not being able to stay longer. 10/10
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Connie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stay in Gardiner at Lilac Cottage
This cottage was absolutely beautiful and was equipped with everything anyone would ever need to be comfortable and feel at home. The English garden type yard was lovely and I could watch the birds play in the water as I downloaded the photographs that I took each day. The hosts were extremely nice and overall the stay was very pleasant and enjoyable. I highly recommend this cottage in Gardiner. Parking was really nice, too, as there is a dedicated spot. The cottage is right downtown so the store and station are minutes away.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debbie

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
We love Lilac Cottage!! Very comfortable, quiet, and clean! Hosts have made this darling cottage available with everything you could possibly need and more!! We will stay here again!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Valerie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Montana Trip for Niece's Wedding '24
This property is the perfect cottage for a quiet, comfortable vacation spot for two with easy access to YNP. Just as advertised! The hosts are accommodating, friendly, and thoughtful, providing everything you need to make your stay feel like home. I recommend the Lilac Cottage highly.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amanda B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect for Two
Very clean and convenient location. The owner is super sweet and helpful. The property is well maintained and extremely clean. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ed F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Yellowstone Getaway
This was a perfect location for my wife and I to spend 3-4 days exploring Yellowstone. Tom and Eleanor are fantastic hosts and were very accomodating. Location was great and we would stay here again in a heartbeat!!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

paula L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely cottage
We loved the Lilac Cottage. It was so comfy, nestled in a lovely yard. The cottage had everything we needed to cook a meal. The owners are super people, great communicators and respect your privacy. Definitely worth a visit on your trip to Yellowstone, as it is very close to the parks north entrance .
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Chris

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Friendly and welcoming hosts, comfortable cottage, fantastically well-equipped kitchen and in an area with lots to see and do: a great location for visiting Yellowstone.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

About the host

Hosted by Eleanor Stone

Host profile image
Tom and Eleanor Stone came to Yellowstone Park in the late 70s and early 80s, met and were married here. We worked in the interior of the Park for a number of years and then settled in Gardiner in 1989. We raised our two daughters in Gardiner. Newly retired in 2019 from work in Yellowstone, Tom enjoys gardening, cooking, fly fishing, reading, home projects, and learning Italian. When not working at a local cattle and guest ranch, Eleanor loves to read, take walks, nordic ski, volunteer in the community, keep in touch with her very large family, and help Tom care for the house and cottage. We have been hosting family and friends in the Lilac Cottage for years and it makes us HAPPY to have opened it in 2014 to newcomers and folks who want to enjoy the area.

Why they chose this property

We have lived in Yellowstone/Gardiner for over 40 years and have owned our home and backyard cottage since 1995. The neighborhood is a mix of residential and commercial. With all the TLC we've poured into this property you can see from the reviews that the folks who love it most are the ones who enjoy that charm of the old cottage and the beautiful, outdoor space to relax. If you prefer a "newly built place" kind of character, or a vacation rental with owners far away, this may not suit your vacation.

What makes this property unique

We love our home and cottage because of its location. It is handy to go out the door to run errands, grab a meal, raft, rent an e-bike, shop, or hop into Yellowstone, and yet this downtown property has a surprising ability to tuck you away. We love the old fashioned comfort of this small, historic property and work to keep it that way. We purposely keep the nightly rate of Lilac Cottage reasonable for this area. The reason is that we think that the additional 12% taxes (8% state and 4% local) plus the $50 cleaning fee plus the taxable VRBO Service Fee add enough to your charges! We are making our rate fair in comparison to small vacation rentals in the area and even to Gardiner motels.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests