Vacation Rentals by Owner

Amazing time!

Guest: Jeanne (Iowa)
Date of Stay: 05/07/12 Review Submitted: 05/17/12

Thank you so much for the memory making stay at your lovely home! Everything was exactly like it was described and pictured on the VRBO website...We had a fantastic cousin reunion at the most perfect place for 7 adults...With cousins coming from NV,MN,WI,and IA, we did not need much to keep us entertained other than a pot of coffee, a little wine later in the day, and comfy chairs to sit and visit and laugh, while watching movies of our childhood... It was fun to see Sharon and John's new project that will be another fantastic VRBO that is just a few yards away...(which would be a perfect location if you needed more room)...Sharon and John made their homes so accommodating with every amenity that you would ever need, even down to the brochures and maps of things to do! Our first night there, we ate supper at the Skyline...It was very good...(FYI...for our group of 7 we should have made a reservation for a table with a view of the water, which would have been fun)...And we had lunch at the St. James Hotel in Red Wing, which was excellent, too...other than that we basically ate at 'home'....the grill worked out great and all the charcoal etc was provided... Loved the Uff Da Store in Red Wing, all the stores in Lake City, especially the Treats and Treasures; and the antique store...fun quaint shops along the Mississippi River towns...definitely need to spend more than 2 nights...lots to see and do... We highly recommend this VRBO, because you'll not only be enjoying the amazing views, you will also be making amazing memories!! the Larson cousins

Owner response:Wow. thnak you! Lovely people who have a lovely time write lovely reviews. We hope to see you and your cousins again.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Memories we will never forget!

Guest: Kerri (Minnetrista, MN)
Date of Stay: 04/20/12 Review Submitted: 04/23/12

We had an excellent time at your rental. The girl’s weekend was a success and lots of fun! We enjoyed the accommodations and found it plenty big for all 8 of us girls to spread out and relax. We spent a majority of the weekend talking, eating, walking around Lake City and shopping. We never miss an opportunity to stop at the Old Bank for great burgers. There was interesting people watching as it was a flood run weekend with lots of bikers. The photographers in our group got in lots of good shots and were particularly fond of all of the bald eagles hanging out in the trees in front of the property. The house was stocked with all of our needs and very nicely decorated. We loved having two full baths because of all the ladies :) Our only small gripe... a funny skunk smell in the front bathroom. It was there all weekend and we really were not sure where it was coming from. We would not hesitate to rent again. John and Sharon were very accommodating!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Most Wonderful Weekend

Guest: Margie, Heidi, Brandy, Jenny, Kirsten, Jocelyn (MN)
Date of Stay: 02/02/12 Review Submitted: 02/06/12

There's not anything new I can add that hasn't been covered in other reviews. We also had a great time! This is a fabulous property which is decorated beautifully and stocked very well. It was winter so we mostly enjoyed spending our time inside with a glass of wine, a good meal and entertaining conversation. We did venture to Stockholm on Saturday and although most stores were closed for the winter season, we did have great pie at the Stockholm Pie Company and then browsed the art gallery next door. We also stopped in at The Palate (kitchen store) and Ingebretson's Swedish butik. The vacation rental owner, Sharon, recommended both the Rabbit Bakery and the Button Factory antique store in Lake City. They were both fabulous and we recommend them as well. This is a beautiful, clean vacation home with fabulous views in an interesting little city.

Owner response:It's nice to know that you and your 'gal pals' enjoyed the home so much even tho it was winter outside. The views are exceptional all four seasons. Thank you for your favorable comments.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

McCauley Small Group from Woodland Hills Church in Maplewood, MN

Guest: Ms. Mac (Woodbury, MN)
Date of Stay: 01/27/12 Review Submitted: 02/05/12

We love the accomdations and the owners are great. We plan to return.

Owner response:We look forward to your return. You're always welcome in Lake City.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

This place is beyond amazing

Guest: Lydia (Viroqua, wi)
Date of Stay: 11/23/11 Review Submitted: 12/02/11

We felt immediately at home in this house and absolutely fell in love with it. It was homey, comfortable in every way, beautifully decorated, furnished with anything you could think of!! The furniture was comfy and sturdy to sit on and the beds were highly rated by us all. Oh, and because of all the windows, you look out on Lake Peppin (even from the kitchen area). These owners have gone above and beyond to provide an inviting space for family and friends to gather. It is everything that was listed and more. Sharon met us at the house and gave a personal tour of the place. She was so helpful in telling us about things to do in the area and important details about the house. We especially enjoyed walks along the lake and the National Eagle Center. Most of our time was spent eating, talking, playing games, and watching a little footfall--it was Thanksgiving time so some of the summer fun was not available. The bald eagles who decided to pay a visit to the tree in front of the place were a special treat. Thank you John and Sharon for an incredible setting for some wonderful memories with our family. It could not have been perfect.(we all definitely want to come back!!!)

Owner response:Glenda & family, Thank you for your very kind words. We so appreciate it when our guests take the time to comment on their stay in Lake City. You're very welcome and we do hope you find your way back to visit again.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Good times, great views, beautiful place and amazing hospitatlity!! Highly recommend!

Guest: Lynne (Chisago City, MN)
Date of Stay: 07/08/11 Review Submitted: 07/17/11

Our family (5 women/girls, ages 11-70) spent last weekend at the Amazing Views property in Lake City. I’ve made many day trips to beautiful Lake City, so I knew how gorgeous Lake Pepin is, but this was the first time I stayed overnight. Amazing views is an understatement! The lake is right across the street and the windows give you a panoramic view. I was torn between wanting to go outside and not wanting to leave the “cottage”.  Th AC & ceiling fan made for perfect breaks from the hot weather. Furniture very comfortable and lake/sailing/sea shell décor in every room is beautiful. I walk with a cane and really appreciated the ramp to the door of the cottage, the upstairs walk-in shower & no slip floor in the spacious main floor bathroom. Someone in a wheelchair could easily fit through the main bathroom door & the double door to the master suite (ask about the width of the door to the house before reserving for wheelchair guests-I’m not sure about that). Everything you can think of is provided, including many super-soft fleece blankets which we all used in the evenings when watching movies in the living room, towels, full dishes/utensils/cookware, toaster, coffee maker, fridge/freezer has water & ice maker, microwave, washer/dryer, lg tvs & dvd players in living room & master suite, stereo & wireless for internet. Many brochures (maps, attractions, restaurants etc), a dvd collection, 2 inner tubes, beanbag toss & bocce ball. Outdoors: Adirondack chairs, end tables & a fire pit on the patio, a picnic table & charcoal grill in a covered area. The driveway parks 2 full size vehicles. No details are overlooked: even all the switches are labeled-which lights they turn on/ceiling fan etc! Sharon gives you a very friendly tour of everything when you arrive, including pointing out area attractions & recommending local restaurants. She made special accommodations for our allergy needs. The trip was my birthday gift from my sister so I was extra spoiled by having the master suite, which has the best view in the house (270 degrees?). The Sealy posturepedic bed was more comfortable than mine: it was the first time I wasn't sore when I woke up for quite a while. We all hated to leave on Sunday and I hope I can stay there again, the sooner the better! Thanks Sharon, your place really IS “Amazing”!

Owner response:Wow. We are so happy that you and your family (3 generations) found Amazing Views so amazing and so much to your liking. It's personally rewarding to know that families can have such fun in Lake City at our 'cottage' and create great memories. We look forward to your return visits. Sharon & John

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

AMAZING VIEWS IS AMAZING

Guest: Arne & Susan (Plymouth, MN)
Date of Stay: 06/11/11 Review Submitted: 06/20/11

My husband and I just returned from a week stay at Amazing Views and truly fell in love with the house and the Lake City area. Amazing Views is so comfortable for just two people, but lends itself to easy entertaining when you have stay-over guests. Everything is so organized in the house and it is so comfortable inside and out. The views of Lake Pepin are truly amazing. It is so close to the charming town of Lake City. Sharon and John are wonderful hosts and we ended up going on a pontoon boat ride with them as well as some old acquaintances from Rochester, MN. We highly recommend "Amazing Views".

Owner response:Thank you, Arne & Susan. for choosing "Amazing Views" for your vacation rental. It was such a pleasure and honor to have you in Lake City, and we hope you are frequent visitors to our wonderful area again - soon. Lake City is unique.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Girls Week-end 2012

Guest: Christi (Hawkeye, IA)
Date of Stay: 05/27/11 Review Submitted: 05/15/12

Our 3rd annual girls week-end was a success. The house was beautiful and looked even better in person!! All you need to bring is the food and beverage. We had people from Minnesota and Iowa and Lake City was a wonderful place to meet in the middle. Amazing views of the lake and we even seen the bald eagle. The weather was rainy for a while and the double sided fireplace was really an asset to have. The house was within walking distance of downtown and all the shops, so we got our exercise. Everyone was so nice and friendly and treated us like we had known them forever! Our theme this year was the 70's and we dressed the part Saturday night when we went out. Sharon and John have a fantastic property which is very accomodating for everyone. We all had a blast and can't wait to see everyone next year!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Fantastic Girls' Weekend

Guest: Marcy (Lakeville, MN)
Date of Stay: 10/01/10 Review Submitted: 10/05/10

This is the second year that we have rented one of John and Sharon's properties. Last year, we rented the duplex on Lake Pepin, which was gorgeous. Our group grew this year and we moved to this property which sleeps a few more people. We thought it couldn't get any better than the duplex, but we were wrong. This property is truly amazing. The entire house is decorated East Coast coastal home/cottage style. Every last detail is perfect. The views from the living room and master bedroom are fantastic. Honestly, the description on this site doesn't do it justice. If you have a really large group, you could rent both of their Lake City properties. They are within a block or two of each other. Lake City is a fun little town. Everything in town is within walking distance and there are many additional attractions that are just a short drive away. I'd recommend The Bank for a good burger and we had really great service at The Bronx. I'd recommend the Chickadee Cottage for breakfast. There are lots of cute shops and some good antiquing to be had. To top it all off, John and Sharon are great hosts. Thanks for the great weekend John and Sharon!

Owner response:Marcy, et.al. - We're so glad that you and your 'galfriends' found the new vacation rental to your liking. Lake City is a beautiful town/area with lots of things to do. Thank you for the nice review, and hopefully we'll see 'you all' next year.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Coming Home

Guest: Maggie (St Paul)
Date of Stay: 09/24/10 Review Submitted: 10/11/10

What a special weekend for our family. John and Sharon thank you for making our homing coming so wonderful. For all you future visitors, I can tell you what a marvelous job John and Sharon have done to remake this lovely home as this use to be my parents house. Walking through the front door our family felt like we never left except its even better now. My son said the pantry still smells like grandmas pantry....... in a very good way. The gathering spaces are cozy and warm, beds are comfortable, and decor just perfect for those of us who love coastal living. I don't think you can find a better location to spend an evening, weekend, or a week. If you think its nice in the summer, try it in the winter. Each season brings a different experience and should be tried. The house is perfect for multiple families or couples and great for entertaining. I can't say enough positive things, but my advice is book your time "Amazing Views" before the word gets out and you won't have your opportunity to feel ......... you know I deserve this.

Owner response:Maggie, We so much appreciate your kind words, especially since this was your family's home/summer home for so many years. We will be good shepherds, and we look forward to your visits.

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

SISTERS AND DAUGHTERS GET TOGETHER

Guest: SISTERS AND DAUGHTERS (NEW HAMPTON IA)
Date of Stay: 08/29/10 Review Submitted: 02/07/11

This is a much overdue review for a perfect vacation spot. There were seven of us and we spent 3 days last August (2010) at Sharon and Bob's very clean cozy New England Costal style vacation home in Lake City. Arriving into town from the north and some of us from the south we were able to locate the home without problems, your directions were great. (We will also give some credit to the GPS!) We felt like we entered into a community that you read about in books. The photos on line were great but the area was even more senic than we had imagined. We had the time of our lifes with the lake view, watching the lake traffic and injoying the people of Lake City, very friendly community!. We came together from New Orleans, La; Atlanta, Ga; Denver, CO; Allman, Denver and New Hampton IA. The time we spent together touring the area around the lake, taking a paddle boat ride, playing games, evening fire pit, celebrating a 50th birthday, enjoying the community and a chance to reminisce was outstanding. Sharon and Bob, thank you for your hospitality. We all would highly recommend your rental and who knows we may do it again someday!

Owner response:Hi Ruth & family - Thank you for the very nice review (we're so glad you found your accommodations and the area so much to your liking); and because it was so well written, I'll forgive you for getting my name wrong. John

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

wonderful place!

Guest: Lora (Rochester)
Date of Stay: 06/24/10 Review Submitted: 07/10/10

Wow, what a perfect vacation home. My sisters family and my family stayed there and thoroughly enjoyed it. The upstairs is setup great for the cousins to sleep and hang out. The place is very well decorated with quality and comfort in mind. Everything is well maintained and they are very interested in making things well suited for everyone. The owners are kind, helpful and gracious. We were able to go on the sailboat ride which was a great way to view Lake City from the water. Each morning we went for runs along the lake path. We walked to the beach each day for swimming. We played bocce ball in the yard and games inside (they have bocce ball and other games available for your use). At night we had many campfires on the front patio, enjoying the lake and making s'mores. We will be returning!

Owner response:Thank you, Lora, et. al. You have a wonderful family, and we're happy you had such a good time. We look forward to your return visit next year. John & Sharon

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway.

Summer vacation

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 06/12/10 Review Submitted: 06/26/10

The house is fantastic! There are outstanding views of the lake and you are within walking distance to restaurants and the marina. The house is beautifully decorated and everything was better than the pictures. Our family enjoyed the house so much we intend to come back for a week next summer. I'll bet the view during the fall leaf turning is stunning. I highly recommend this property and look forward to more family vacations in this wonderful house.

Owner response:Thank you for your kind comments. We, too, look forward to your return visit next year. You and your lovely family made for the perfect guests. Sharon & John

Recommended for:People with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Delightful Place To Stay!

Guest: Sheri (Chanhassen, Minnesota)
Date of Stay: 06/04/10 Review Submitted: 06/30/10

"Amazing Views" has everything promised in the description - and more. Our group - 8 adults and three small children - gathered there for the weekend to attend a wedding. The home and its furnishings are both attractive and comfortable. With windows across the front facing Lake Pepin, the home did indeed have an amazing view - and a pleasant breeze coming off the lake. Both the view and breeze could also be enjoyed from the patio, which had comfortable chairs for everyone - even small chairs for the children. The owners are wonderful. They were helpful and patient with our many questions prior to our visit and also gracious and accommodating after we arrived. Sharon met us when we arrived, showed us around and then left us to enjoy the place - which we did! Sharon returned briefly once to bring an additional child-sized patio chair. She wanted to be sure each of the three small kids had a patio chair of their own. On the practical side of things: The neighborhood is quiet. The beds are comfortable. The floor plan and furnishings of the home are arranged so that we never felt as if we were stumbling over one another (and yet it had a cozy, intimate feel). The kitchen is very well planned, clean, attractive and easy to work in. It has a wide counter top on one side with comfortable swivel chairs - great for conversation and for feeding breakfast to little kids. If you like to go for daily walks as I do, there is a sidewalk across the street from the house that runs along the lake to the marina. The walk is especially pleasant in the morning but is also very nice the evening, even after dark. Beyond the marina, there is a playground where we took the children; we walked back through the neighborhood and enjoyed the lovely gardens along the way. Everyone in our group thoroughly enjoyed their stay at "Amazing views". I have already recommended it to others!

Owner response:Thank you for the kind words. I'm sure our future guests will benefit from your description about your stay.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, sightseeing.