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≋ The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake ≋

Photo gallery for ≋ The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake ≋

Exterior
Interior
Property grounds
Unclassified image, 4 of 37, button
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 9134 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air conditioning
  • Kitchen
  • Dryer

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

≋ The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake ≋

Welcome to The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake, where unforgettable memories are waiting to be made! Our lake-front vacation rental in Southern Iowa offers the perfect retreat for your getaway. With 2 bedrooms plus a bunk room and 2 large bathrooms, we have the capacity to sleep 9 guests in this charming home that ensures a comfortable and relaxing stay.

Set on a generous lake-front lot, our vacation home features ample sun access throughout the day, whether you prefer lounging in the yard or on the 20x12 floating dock. The property is adorned with beautiful mature pine and deciduous trees, providing refreshing shade when needed. Positioned at the middle point of the lake on the main channel, you'll be treated to breathtaking views and a tranquil ambiance. The rental also includes two kayaks with universal-sized life vests, a paddle board, and a lily pad, ensuring endless fun and relaxation in the warm summer waters, an under-deck patio with an outdoor TV and grill, plenty of lounge chairs and a fire pit with camping chairs for cozy evening around the fire right at the water’s edge. Bring your bicycles! There are plenty of roads all around the lake for an enjoyable ride enjoying the quiet scenery.

Inside, you'll find an inviting open living room space, perfect for gathering with your loved ones. The cottage also boasts a fully equipped kitchen with bar seating for 5, allowing you to prepare delicious meals during your stay. The expansive screened deck is an absolute highlight, featuring a 10-person farmhouse table and cozy, comfortable outdoor sofa seating area where you can dine, relax, and enjoy the lake views. During the cooler seasons, cozy up by the wood stove for a warm and inviting atmosphere.

At the Cottage, we understand the importance of staying connected, which is why we included amenities such as WiFi, Live TV via Roku and all the streaming services that you can sign into directly with your own accounts, a DVD player, and a retro Wii gaming system for entertainment (this is actually one of the biggest indoor hits our guests love because it’s all about social games!)

For a secure yet convenient experience for our guests, our home features a unique-to-you digital code for entry access upon arrival. The code will be sent to you within a few days prior to your stay, guaranteeing a hassle-free check-in process.

Come and create cherished memories at The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake. Book your stay now for an unforgettable vacation in Southern Iowa!

Property manager

Jeff & Ingrid Williams

Languages

English

Property amenities

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Onsite parking

Kitchen

  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Toaster
  • Blender

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Soap
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Smart TV with cable/satellite service
  • Video games
  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Stereo
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Patio
  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Firepit

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • On the lake

Things to do

  • Kayak on site
  • Bicycle on site
  • Tennis on site
  • Golfing on site
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby
  • Golf nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Kayaking nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector installed (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 1440 sq ft (134 sq m)

Similar properties

Firepit next to the late

Waterfront lake home at Sun Valley Lake 1 hour 15 minutes south of Des Moines

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, 24 reviews
Waterfront lake home at Sun Valley Lake 1 hour 15 minutes south of Des Moines

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Property is also known as

Cottage Sun Valley Lake
The At Sun Valley Lake Ellston
The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake Cottage
The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake Ellston
The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake Cottage Ellston

About the neighborhood

Map
Ellston, IA

What's nearby

  • Graceland University - 45 min drive
  • Lakeside Casino - 56 min drive
  • Osceola Country Club - 57 min drive
  • Little River Recreation Area - 58 min drive
  • Roseman Bridge - 90 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪South Shore Bar & Grill - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Silver Spur Cafe & Bar - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Sun Valley Community Center - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Eagles Nest - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Grand River Rodeo & Arena - ‬20 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is ≋ The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake ≋ pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at ≋ The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake ≋?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at ≋ The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake ≋?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is ≋ The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake ≋ located?

Situated on a lake, this cottage is within 25 mi (40 km) of Ringgold County Hospital, Murray Roadside Park, and Murray Public Library. Murray City Hall and Graceland University are also within 32 mi (52 km).

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≋ The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake ≋ Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 68 out of 72 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 72 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 72 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 72 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 72 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Lisa M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family getaway for refreshment
The property and accommodations were perfect! Clean, comfortable, and calming! Beautiful views too! The screened porch was our favorite place to be! We loved the kayaks and pickle ball courts too! A wonderful time for my whole family!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

James L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great spot
We have stayed at this property quite a few times. It it's always restful. A nice spot for a getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing Beauty
My husband and I stayed a long weekend joined by our family which included a pair of 2yr twins. The home was situated perfectly to enjoy the views and fun of the lake. The furnishings and bedding we very comfortable, and the tap water was very drinkable and tasted great when we made our ice. I'd like to keep this place a secret- so its available more often!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joanna L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great time as always!
Sixth time back in just a few years so i think that says it all!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sharon M., Omaha, Nebraska

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice Place on the Lake
Well stocked house in a nice location. Property owners very responsive. Wish they allowed fishing
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relax & Chill
Great spot on the lake. Loved the big screened deck for meals, games, reading and naps. Nearby golf course was easy to walk on (check women and men's member times for unavailable). Very quiet - weekdays. If you're looking to getaway and relax this is great.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dave L.

Nice Oasis
Very clean and updated! Nice views of the lake, especially on the screen porch which was great for eating meals or just relaxing. Nice place for a romantic getaway and also great setup for families. The hosts were very communicative, informative and flexible, no issues at all. The only downside of the area is there is no convenience store or grocery store close by, so come prepared with the items you will need. Also dining out options are limited to the golf course club house overlooking the lake. Loved the place and would highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2018

8/10 Good

Twila C.

Relaxing and Comfy
We enjoyed a girls weekend in early October. Although it rained the whole weekend and we weren't able to be outside, we really enjoyed our time on the enclosed porch where we could enjoy the fresh air while staying dry. The property has amazing views, and was clean, comfortable, and cozy. The only reason it isn't 5 stars is because the rain really interfered with the satellite reception for the TV and there wasn't a DVD player or WIFI. The owner mentioned we likely wouldn't have cell service with some plans, but we did maintain a weak signal. We would stay here again and recommend it to others.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2018

8/10 Good

Cathy P.

Very clean and charming. Having our meals on the screened porch overlooking the lake was wonderful!
This was a cozy getaway for all nine of us. We all enjoyed the kayaks and paddle board, and the grandchildren had fun on the Lily Pad. Bonfires in the evening were enjoyed by all. The kitchen was well stocked with items needed to prepare our meals. The owners made themselves available for any needs we might have. The house was very clean and well kept. The area was very beautiful. We were able to enjoy the sunrise in the mornings on the screened porch, and the shimmering moon on the lake in the evening as we sat around the bonfire. The owners provided firewood which was a definite plus. Aside from the fact that we were not allowed to fish unless the owner was present, this property exceeded our expectations. When reservations were initially made, fishing was a major part of why we chose this property. We found out several weeks prior to our stay that we would not be able to fish, and we decided to keep the reservation. We still all had fun and enjoyed our peaceful weekend away. We would definitely consider returning for another family getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fall long weekend- perfection
This property was perfect. Everything has been recently redone in this fresh, clean and stylish lake cottage. Spotless condition. We did not know much about Sun Valley Lake prior to our visit. A small private lake without a lot of people and no public access. Very clean water. Plenty of room for 9 people to spread out and enjoy. Loved using the lake toys. The lily pad and kayaks are a great way to be on the water. The yard seems private thanks for the mature pine trees out front. The screened in porch and morning views of the lake make this place extra special. Owner had even stocked wood for the lakeside fire pit for us. Kitchen had everything you need to make meals. Plan ahead with all your supplies and any real grocery store is about 30 minute drive. But that is what also makes it perfect....how you really feel like you have escaped. Good quality bed linens and comfy beds. Stocked with laundry soap, tp, and other essentials- shows how thoughtful the owners are. Kids liked the wii and board games the house also has on hand. Can't say enough positive things about this home!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Kitt W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very quiet stay.
We wanted peace and quiet and 5hats exactly what it was. Good choice!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Aubrey S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet little getaway
We had a great stay at Sun Valley Lake. The Cottage house worked great for our family of four. We LOVED the screened in porch. Everything about the house was great. It was clean, had everything we needed, had fun lake toys for use, etc.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joanna L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing weekend
We've been here a few times and always love it! Such a great location and the house has everything you need!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Big sky and peacefulness
A wonderful, well-appointed home. Just what we needed!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ross F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Making Memories
Very impressed! Shaded back yard on the water perfect for staying cool in the hammock, playing yard games, and closing out the evening with smores around the fire pit. The home is very clean and had everything needed for home cooked meals. Looking forward to visiting again next summer!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jen F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome!
We enjoyed all this property had to offer. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Deborah S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
13th Birthday celebration
My family and I loved our stay at Jeff and Ingrid's property! Everything was perfect!! We took full advantage of everything this property offered, stunning views, recreation and the screened in porch. A great place to unplug and just relax...we will be back!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Christy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hidden gem
Sun valley lake is beautiful and peaceful! Our stay her was so relaxing and enjoyable. The house is super nice and the "extras" they provide make it so fun! There were some toys for the kids in the house, we had a bonfire, played bags, used the kayaks and the lily pad (which was great for our cooler weather because you could be in the water without being all the way in). Great location on the lake, too!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Susanna S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Rainy but beautiful!
Unfortunately it rained for the entirety of our stay, so we were limited to enjoying the inside of the house. However, we were able to use the many amenities The Cottage has for indoor entertainment, including streaming services, the Wii, and board games. The house is absolutely beautifully done and well-equipped. Great location on the lake. We will have to come back and hope the weather allows us to enjoy the outdoor spaces. Would definitely recommend staying at this home!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joanna L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Total relaxation
This is the 4th time we've stayed here in less than 2 years and always enjoy the great location and comfortable house. We can't wait to come back again!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jim D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Weekend getaway
We had a great stay at The Cottage at Sun Valley Lake. The community was well kept up, and the listing was very accurate. Since Covid, my wife and I have stayed at (4) different VRBO's for a 'long weekend'. Two of the four, you can tell are simply 'rentals' to the property owners (you probably know what I mean). This Cottage is not one of those. Rather, you can tell the owners really put a lot of love/care into this property. We could tell all the decor, flooring, etc. were all recently renovated, which added to the allure of staying there. We made use of the (2) Kayaks, which was one of the reason's we booked this property in the 1st place. The one negative (albeit, a very small negative) is that they have a great firepit near the lake. We tried to use it one night, but both lighters they had in one of the drawers were both out of gas / not working. The location is so far from a store, so we scrapped our firepit idea during our stay. Otherwise, I'll reiterate, it was a fantastic stay, and I'd recommend to all.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Barb W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Making Family Memories at the Cottage
We want to thank the property owners for providing such a great property to spend a few days with our 2 older granddaughters & our brand new granddaughter! Our time at the lake was HOT but with the wonderful screened porch we were able to make LOTS of family memories! With the heat it was wonderful to have the WII to keep the older ones entertained!! We would be honored to spend more time at the cottage on the lake!!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Amy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet Girls Trip
My sisters, Mom, and myself had a relaxing quick girls trip. The cabin is beautifully decorated and cozy. It is in a very remote area so if you need a very quiet getaway this is a great spot. Plan ahead as there are very few grocery stores or restaurants near by/open during the week.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

James L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great spot
3rd time we've been here this year and totally enjoy it. Very highly recommened.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mariah H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relax at the lake
We went as as as girls getaway. We loved our relaxing time there. It was a well deserved break!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021