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Peaceful Cottage Retreat near Shawnee National Forest

Photo gallery for Peaceful Cottage Retreat near Shawnee National Forest

Outdoor dining
Outdoor dining
Spacious cottage with cathedral ceilings and lots of natural light.
Eat in kitchen with microwave, coffeemaker, toaster & mini fridge.
Living area

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bathroomSleeps 455.7 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Pet-friendly
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Vienna, IL
  • Vienna Public Library
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Vienna City Park
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Tunnel Hill State Trail
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Marion, IL (MWA-Williamson County Regional)
    ‪32 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

0 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchenette
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Peaceful Cottage Retreat near Shawnee National Forest

This cottage has everything you need for a relaxing vacation. Queen bed with luxury bedding (plus a sleeper sofa) allow comfortable accommodations for 4. Mini-kitchen, fireplace, large patio, gas grill and shady hammock compliment the space.

This cozy cottage is the perfect place to get away from it all! Located in a lush green field surrounded by pine trees, you get all the tranquility of a quiet country setting. It's the perfect place to unwind and relax, while enjoying the sounds of nature, gorgeous sunsets, and the magical evening stargazing!

Enjoy a morning cup of coffee on your private patio, and maybe even get a glimpse of deer crossing through the yard.

Afternoons can be spent curled in the shady hammock with your favorite book. The hammock, with its pine tree oasis, is the perfect place to completely unwind and read, listen to music, or just daydream in this idyllic setting!

In the evening, relax with a glass of wine while grilling your own dinner, then dine alfresco at one of our many outdoor dining spaces.

End your night with a cozy fire in the firepit, and roast marshmallows as you bask in the seclusion and relaxation of this quiet country setting.

The cottage is also a perfect location for stargazing, as millions of stars twinkle overhead, away from the lights and sounds of the city.

The cottage has a mini-kitchen, with an under-the-counter refrigerator, a microwave, toaster and coffeemaker.

Other indoor amenities include a gas fireplace, DirecTV, DVD player, wireless internet, and a variety of books and board games. Outdoor amenities include a gas grill with an additional side burner, shady hammock and a firepit with free firewood.

Although the cottage is located on the grounds of our residence, you enjoy complete privacy. The cottage is surrounded by trees and green fields, allowing you to truly enjoy and unwind in its country setting.

If you do need assistance during your stay, or have questions about the area, we are happy to assist you.

The cottage is located in a small rural town with a home-town feel. We have a few local restaurants, some great antique shopping, and are easily accessed from Interstate 24. Opportunities for hiking, biking, canoeing, hunting and fishing abound.

The cottage serves as the guest house on the 7-acre grounds of our private residence. It affords guest complete privacy with its own separate yard, patio, and parking. It's a great place to relax in a quiet, secluded setting.

We are also conveniently located near the Tunnel Hill State Bike Trail, Shawnee National Forest, and the Southern Illinois Wine Trail. We are less than 30 minutes to Paducah, Ky (to the south) and Marion, Illinois (to the north).

The cottage is a non-smoking facility, but smoking is allowed outside. Well-behaved dogs are also welcome. (Pet fee $50.)

Property manager

Joan
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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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 only with a pet fee of $50.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking is permitted outside.
A cleaning fee of $250 will be charged for smoking inside the cottage.
Wifi is available but is not 100% reliable due to our rural location and limited service provider options.

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
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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Vienna

Located in Vienna, this cottage is in a rural area. Shawnee National Forest and Ferne Clyffe State Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Henry N Barkhausen Cache River Wetlands Center and The Chocolate Factory. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and fishing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with rock climbing and hunting.
Map
Vienna, IL

What's nearby

  • Vienna Public Library - 6 min drive - 2.8 km
  • Vienna City Park - 6 min drive - 3.4 km
  • Tunnel Hill State Trail - 6 min drive - 3.5 km
  • Ferne Clyffe State Park - 20 min drive - 20.7 km
  • Lake of Egypt - 26 min drive - 21.9 km

Getting around

  • Marion, IL (MWA-Williamson County Regional) - 32 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Casey's General Store - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Vienna Diner - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Family Pizza - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Peaceful Cottage Retreat near Shawnee National Forest pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Peaceful Cottage Retreat near Shawnee National Forest?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Peaceful Cottage Retreat near Shawnee National Forest?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Peaceful Cottage Retreat near Shawnee National Forest located?

This family-friendly Vienna cottage is located in a rural location, within 3 mi (5 km) of Vienna Public Library, Vienna City Park and Tunnel Hill State Trail. Shawnee National Forest and Ferne Clyffe Lake are also within 12 miles (20 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. 71 out of 76 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 76 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 76 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 76 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 76 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Candace C.

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

Great place!

This is a really nice place conveniently located close to town. The host are extremely helpful and very prompt with answers to any questions. Definitely recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Esther E.

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

Perfect Experience

Having several therapy dogs, I enjoy travelling with them when possible. I also enjoy the beauty of Southern Illinois. This property was the perfect location to do both. The dogs had great freedom and space to enjoy the outdoors at the cottage, and since the area is very dog-friendly, we enjoyed many hikes/wineries during our four day stay. The hosts were most accomadating, and the cottage meet our needs perfectly! Planning to stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Taran B.

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

Perfect Getaway

Beautiful place centered between all that southern Illinois has to offer!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ray M.

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

Stay in Illinois

It was very clean. It had everything we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

J B.

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

Fantastic Cottage Beautifully Tucked Away!

Wonderful stay! Very quick communication with host! Such a clean and well cared for cottage! My family and I enjoyed our stay very much!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

kathy e.

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

Cabin

Was a great place, close to everything and owners were very accommodating ❤️
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dennis S.

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

Charming Cottage

Perfect little cottage retreat with a beautiful patio area nestled in a country setting to relax and unwind. We will definitely return to lovely little home away from home💕
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patrick H.

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

Country getaway

Beautiful, private rural location just minutes outside of Vienna with a huge yard and mature landscaping. There is a nice patio with a wood-burning fire pan where we watched the full moon rising through the trees. There are a number of small parks in the area with hiking and biking trails. Great restaurants in town as well.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Danielle E.

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

Very peaceful and beautiful property!

We were visiting the area for an archery tournament. The host was very accommodating, and the cottage was clean and very peaceful. Quiet area with deer in the mornings!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steve V.

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

Great Place To Stay

Subject property is clean, quiet, and located just outside of Vienna, IL city limits; however, is a short bike ride away from the Tunnel Hill Trail. A perfect place to stay at for bicycle riding the Tunnel Hill Trail or participating in the Tunnel Hill 10 Mile Trail Run, Marathon, 50 & 100 mile races. This property is centrally located within the Shawnee National Forest for easy access to many activities to include wineries, and other surrounding parks and communities. The patio area, landscaping, and grounds are very nice. Outdoor lights automatically turn on should you arrive after dark. Thank you for a great stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carol M.

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

Nestled in the woods

It is a little cottage but lacks nothing, the host was very accommodating. We saw deer, raccoon and a squirrel. We hope to go back.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Janet M.

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

Comfortable Cottage

Such a cute and comfortable place! It’s very private and the outdoor space is lovely. We appreciated the fact that we could bring our dog and the spacious yard was perfect for her. Would definitely stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Shelli M.

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

Cozy Cottage Getaway

Clayton's Cottage was everything you would expect from the pictures. Quiet, comfortable, well accommodated and clean! Tucked away in a picturesque meadow, this private Cottage is perfect for a romantic retreat! Conveniently located near amazing state parks.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jim E.

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

Great Vacation!

Very cute and comfortable. Manager was very ready willing and able to do anything to make our stay as amazing as possible.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer R.

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

Perfect Stay

My dad, husband, and I came down for the weekend to visit Jackson Falls. Clayton Cottage was perfect in every way - clean, beautiful, comfortable! Had everything we needed. Will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brian W.

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

Shawnee Forest

The location and the accomodations were perfect for a weekend getaway. Clayton's Cottage contained all the amenities and it was beautifully decorated inside and out. We would highly recommend 5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sandy D.

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

Peaceful country stay

The cottage was exactly what we were hoping to find for our stay with our dogs. The property was beautiful with a big yard for our dogs to explore and relax. We appreciated the gas grill, and the fire pit with an abundance of dried wood was so nice for evening fires! There were plenty of outdoor places to hang out and eat meals including a table with a big umbrella. Checkin and out were super easy and the hosts were communicative and friendly. The bed was super comfy and linens were spotless and inviting. I appreciated the soft lighting inside the cottage, the fireplace, the Hallmark channel, and the spare linens for our doggos. We were all welcomed and comfortable. We will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Francine L.

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

Will absolutely be back! Clean, peaceful, private base for bicycling, hiking, and visiting wineries.

This cottage is extremely clean and everything is in excellent shape. We’ve stayed in dozens of VRBO‘s over the past 10 years, and I was very impressed with the upkeep and thoughtfulness of the owners. There were fall decorations up indoors and out, shower worked good, heating/air worked perfectly with two ceiling fans in the room. Towels and bedding were super comfy. It was peaceful and quiet both inside and out. The outdoor patio area was exceptional! We picked up a couple steaks at the grocery store and grilled them on the gas grill, it was like new. Firewood was provided, so fun, we made a fire in the firepit and enjoyed drinks By it before dinner (and after:) We chose this cottage because of the location, it was perfect access to bike from Vienna to Tunnel Hill. We took our bikes into the Vienna park and got on the trail there, 10 miles out and 10 miles back. The trail has a slight incline most of the way, therefore it is an easier ride back. During our stay we hiked at Giant City State Park, enjoyed a lunch at Blue Sky Vineyard, and hiked at Ferne Clyffe State Park. They are each about 30 minutes from the cottage, but since they are in closer proximity of each other, it was perfect to do a day trip from Vienna and do all three without a lot of driving. The owners have excellent communication and are very responsive, yeah you have total privacy at the cottage. We hope to stay here again next year!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Julie K.

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

Cute, private serene cottage near many parks and wineries

This was our second visit to the Clayton Cottage and this place just fills my soul. It is so private and serene. It is immaculate. We enjoyed the fire pit on the cool evenings and our dog loved all the room to run. I highly recommend this place if you’re looking for a nice quiet qetaway and enjoy the parks and wine tasting, look no further!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sara B.

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

All VRBO properties should be like this one

This cottage will make a believer out of someone who is afraid to rent a property on VRBO. It is clean and separate from anyone else, so in these days of COVID and general suspicion about germs, you will feel safe. The cottage is so well-equipped that you will begin re-thinking how you host guests in your own home. We wish we had had more time to spend there. We especially enjoyed the soft towels and strong shower spray, which are unusual in any hotel or other accommodation. We also enjoyed the views of the fall foliage. There are so many windows and places to spread out that you do not feel cooped up on rainy days. I messaged the host before the stay to ask a question and received a reply almost instantly. I highly recommend this cottage.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Alissa C.

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

Great getaway

Cute, clean and quiet. I would 100% recommend this lovely cottage.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Shauna B.

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

Wonderful Stay

My spouse and I made a last minute stop in Vienna to get in some miles on the Tunnel Hill State Trail. This was a wonderful relaxing place to leave from and return to. Easy ride to the trailhead and a couple of family restaurants. Very cute, clean, super private cottage with a wonderful yard.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

8/10 Good

Cassie L., Wisconsin

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

Comfy cottage

My husband and I traveled to Vienna with our 9 month old baby for hiking in Shawnee National Forest and to visit the wine trail. The cottage was the perfect evening retreat after our days of exploring. There was plenty of space for his pack and play next to the bed. Everything was very comfortable and we had everything we needed! Loved enjoying the patio in the mornings and evenings. The owners put together a wonderful packet of information on things to do in the area. Our first family vacation and it was a hit thanks to the cottage!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Beth R., Central IL

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

2 night get away

Enjoyed relaxing at Clayton's Cottage. I was a little worried about it being pet friendly and my allergies, but I had absolutely no problem. The cottage was spotless and fresh smelling. The bed was comfortable, and slept great.. The outside area was nice and relaxing. We would definitely return.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Janelle H.

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

Perfect getaway!

The layout of the “studio” was very well thought out. The wonderful windows let in lots of nature and light but we still felt very secluded and private. The outdoor space was very expansive and had everything you could want or need. Can’t wait to plan another getaway here.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021

About the host

Hosted by Joan

Host profile image

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests