Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets
If you love Frank Lloyd Wright you will love this cottage. Taking over 2.5 years to build in a secluded cedar woods, surrounded by bluffs and perched on top of the landscape. The original Frank Lloyd Wright cottage (Seth Petersen) is the inspiration to build this cottage.
When you walk in, you still feel like you`re outside. The flying roof with only the glass to hold it up. The original structure was built in 1959, we tried to create the 50`s feel with retro appliances and a space age feel (in the bathroom).
Once you`re all set we`ll provide instructions how to access the key pad with your door code. Or, in other words no need to find us or where the key is hidden, rather punch in your code and wa-la the door unlocks.
We both work, but, we are around in the evenings and weekends. Only five minutes away if you have questions or concerns.
Hello, this is a remote cabin, or cottage in the woods perched on the bluff side overlooking a valley. When you stay, you will start at the bottom of the valley and drive all the way up to the top. This is where the cabin (or cottage) is located. Wildlife, trees, very peaceful as you are quite alone. No neighborhood for many miles.
You must have a automobile. This is a country cottage experience. The closest township is St. Donatus and good 1.5 mile hike.
You`ll be over a mile away from the nearest township. Plan on being quite alone. I will recommend to go HyVee in Dubuque on Locust street. Quite a large selection (the flagship store in Dubuque) of food and spirits. Only 12 minutes away. If winter booking, automobile must have front wheel or all wheel drive. No climbing on bluffs No outdoor shoes, bring inside shoes.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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If winter booking, automobile must have front wheel or all wheel drive.
No climbing on bluffs
No outdoor shoes, bring inside shoes.
Important information
You need to know
Property # 2782839
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 indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
About the neighborhood
Bellevue
Bellevue is home to this cottage. Young Historical Museum and Grand Opera House are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Aqua Park and Storybook Park & Zoo. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at ImOn Ice Arena or Five Flags Center.
Mines of Spain State Recreation Area - 18 min drive - 21.0 km
Diamond Jo Casino - 22 min drive - 26.6 km
National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium - 22 min drive - 26.6 km
Five Flags Center - 23 min drive - 26.6 km
Getting around
Dubuque, IA (DBQ-Dubuque Regional) - 21 min drive
Restaurants
Casey's General Store - 36 min drive
McDonald's - 36 min drive
Los Aztecas - 36 min drive
Kalmes Hilltop Bar & Grill - 27 min drive
Taste! Country Marketplace - 29 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets?
As of May 12, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets on May 13, 2026 start from $475, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking?
Onsite parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets?
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Frank Lloyd Wright · Gorgeous Views, Sweeping Valley, Amazing Sunsets located?
Situated in Bellevue, this cottage is 5.5 mi (8.8 km) from Mississippi River and within 12 mi (20 km) of John Henry Weber Park and Aqua Park. Mines of Spain State Recreation Area and Bellevue Golf Club are also within 12 mi (20 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Brandy and Ryan simply wonderful guests. Very respectful and lovey. My wife cleans the cottage and she said to me, “I love these guys, that’s why I love this cottage”. I think what you wrote Brandy touch her heartstrings.
You guys are most welcome anytime
😊
JoeO
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Lisa
Jul 6, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Absolutely stunning property, very thoughtful hosts. Cottage was very comfortable and had everything we could need. Lots of places to go hiking in the surrounding areas. Loved being surrounded by nature. People in the area very friendly.
Needing a much overdue getaway, we found this gem and can’t say enough positive things! Beautiful architecture….perfect setting…gracious hosts! We hope to come back in fall or winter to spend more time here.
This place is a 10 of 10 for sure! It is quiet and cozy and so thoughtfully well stocked and clean and prepared. Can’t say enough about it except we can’t wait to go back!
Our third stay in six months reveals our pleasure in this serene getaway. The O’Donnells have created an ideal retreat for two. They are responsive and generous hosts.
Jeffery F.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 2, 2023
These guys are wonderful! Super clean, very respectful. Jeffery if you reading this let me know what type of wine you guys like and I’ll make sure we get it right! Kelly and I like wine but we are not connoisseur of the fine fruit. Haha.
This is a unique property that fulfills its implied promise of a wonderful architectural experience in a quiet countryside setting with an expansive ridge top view. We thoroughly enjoyed discovering all the site and building had to offer.
Jeffery F.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 2, 2023
Jeffery and Lynette are perfect guests. Super respectful of the cottage and great at communicating. You guys are most welcome anytime!
JoeO
We will be back. The O'Donnell cottage is the perfect getaway for 2. Look at the photos, though when you are there it's even better. The most gracious hosts.
This was an incredible property, so much care went into every detail of the cabin. My husband and I found the time we spent in this hilltop retreat both inspiring and relaxing. Great place to work through creative ideas and reconnect. Thanks Joe and Kelly!
We booked this for our anniversary getaway. There is no detail left undone, it is such a peaceful and relaxing oasis. There are many good places to eat and explore a short drive from the cottage. We are thankful and blessed to have found this treasure. We will definitely be back!
Amazing hosts, incredible views/sunsets, where technology meets comfort, a perfect location to break away from it all yet close enough to lots of dining and adventures, 10/10!! We will be back :)
Traci T.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 2, 2023
Mitch and Traci are wonderful! Super respectful and clean! Highly recommended. These guys are most welcome 😊
A beautiful, tree-top setting.
Amazing architecture.
Beautiful craftsmanship and attention to details.
A lovely and thoughtful welcoming gift.
One of our best VRBO stays - EVER.
Bill T.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 2, 2023
The Thomas are great. Bill is super at communicating. I’ll admit I dropped the ball with the door code. Super respectful of the cottage clean you guys are most welcome anytime
Highly recommend these guys
JoeO
The house and property are beautiful. Communication with owner was great and instructions for how everything works in the house was helpful. What a wonderful place to relax, and the view is amazing. Thanks for a great stay. I will be booking again.
Jessica T.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on May 20, 2024
Jessica is awesome, the cottage was left super clean, my cleaning lady said I love her! Come back as much as you want! Jessica is the perfect guest, she is most welcome anytime.
This place is unique, clean, perfect temperature, wildlife to watch and just simply well worth the daily rates. You will not be disappointed! Joe was the perfect host. I have no complaints!
We enjoyed a serene weekend at this amazing property that is built in the Frank Lloyd Wright style with every up-to-the -minute modern convenience. The hillside setting offers amazing views, only rivaled by the inside architectural details. It was easy to access and we were given a detailed list of nearby places to visit as well as how to operate all the homes' electronics!
This is truly a special place to enjoy any time of year!
Mary M.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 2, 2023
Hi Mary,
Thank you for your wonderful words!!
To all Mary and her hubby super respectful of the cottage highly recommend .. actually guys don’t go anywhere else just come back to the cottage, hahaha.
In all Seriousness, great people, most welcome anytime
JoeO
We were amazed by the quality, beauty and attention to detail. The features and detail are attentive FLW style. The facilities and amenities are top-rate and completely up to date. The setting is private and remote. The beauty of the area including rock formations, is awesome. The owners are the best and are happy to talk about their inspiration and process.
Martha M.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on May 31, 2025
Martha is just wonderful, super clean, a delight to chat with, highly recommended. Martha is most welcome.. Anytime!
Loved, loved the Frank Lloyd Wright inspired modern cabin. Very new construction and very clean. The amenities are all top notch(5 star) and make the stay very comfortable. Beautiful outdoors and amazing sunset view! Will definitely come back! :)
Plus the owner is very kind and helpful!
:)
Deepak V.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Jul 2, 2023
Hello, My wife said, “I cannot believe how clean the cottage is, it’s ready rent now”. Deepak and Sheri are wonderful. Super clean, great communication, we would and hope to host Deepak and Sheri soon!
About the host
Hosted by Joe ODonnell
For over 35 years Kelly and I have lived out here in the Driftless Area of Iowa, with the rolling hills and and small community of St. Donatus. I worked for John Deere for over 28 years, and love the outdoors, ranching, and keeping busy. My wife Kelly came up with the idea to build a cottage for our retirement years, and although successful at this project we felt we should share it when we are not retired.
Why they chose this property
A long time ago, 1993 we started looking for land out in the country like most people. Kelly found this place of 60+ acres and I fell in love immediately, it was a financial miracle to procure, but as luck would have it we were successful. The property has a few ridges overlooking the valley. One ridge has a beautiful view of the valley below with amazing sunsets. it was here we decided to build a cottage.
What makes this property unique
The cottage is an inspiration from Frank Lloyd Wrights “Seth Peterson”. Sadly, Seth never saw it completed and like many FLW projects ran out of money. However, if Seth had all the money, this is what the cottage would have looked like. Over a 100 tons of stone, heated floors, mitred windows, and best of all when you walk in, you feel like you are still outdoors. Simply amazing.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests