Verified
10/10 Excellent
Jamie S.
May 19, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Experience
Jamie S.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Entire home
Restored 1910 Cottage Near Shawnee Forest, Lake of Egypt, Wineries, Pet Friendly
Photo gallery for Restored 1910 Cottage Near Shawnee Forest, Lake of Egypt, Wineries, Pet Friendly
Reviews
9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 14
Popular amenities
Rooms & beds
4 bedrooms (sleeps 14)
Bedroom 1
1 Double Bed
Bedroom 2
1 King Bed
Bedroom 3
1 Double Bed
Bedroom 4
1 Double Bed and 2 Twin Beds
2 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Bathroom 2
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
Restored 1910 Cottage Near Shawnee Forest, Lake of Egypt, Wineries, Pet Friendly
Fully Restored 1910 Craftsman Cottage – Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort
Tucked away on 15 private acres, Sandbank Cottage is a fully restored 1910 Craftsman home offering the perfect blend of historic character and modern convenience.
Decorated in a Victorian style reminiscent of the early 1900s, this charming retreat is ideal for those seeking privacy, relaxation, and adventure. Located just minutes from Shawnee National Forest, Lake of Egypt, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, it provides easy access to some of Southern Illinois' most popular attractions.
Timeless Charm with Modern Comforts:
• Original claw foot tub and luxurious rain shower with an in-line water heater for unlimited hot water
• Marbled wood-burning fireplace for warmth and ambiance on chilly evenings
• Fully stocked kitchen with cookware, dinnerware, and full-size appliances
• Front porch with antique wooden rocking chairs, perfect for morning coffee and sunrise views
• Back deck with a patio set and grill for outdoor dining and relaxation
• Pet-friendly property with plenty of space for your furry companions
• Fully functioning old-time merry-go-round for children to enjoy
• High-speed Wi-Fi and Smart TV for entertainment and convenience
• Accommodates Up to 8 Guests
• Three upstairs bedrooms with cozy beds
• Double-thick air mattress available for additional sleeping space
• Optional basement bedroom available upon request
• Perfect Location for Outdoor Adventures
• Minutes from Shawnee National Forest, Giant City State Park, and Ferne Clyffe State • Park for hiking and sightseeing
• Near the Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, a scenic 45-mile path through forests and tunnels
• Close to Lake of Egypt and Crab Orchard Lake, perfect for boating and fishing
• Explore the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, featuring award-winning wineries and scenic vineyard views
• Visit local antique malls, novelty shops, and unique boutiques
A Peaceful and Private Escape:
Whether you're looking for a quiet countryside retreat, a family-friendly getaway, or an adventure-filled vacation, Sandbank Cottage provides the perfect setting. Relax, enjoy the beauty of Southern Illinois, and make unforgettable memories in this historic home.
Book your stay today and experience the charm of Sandbank Cottage.
Tucked away on 15 private acres, Sandbank Cottage is a fully restored 1910 Craftsman home offering the perfect blend of historic character and modern convenience.
Decorated in a Victorian style reminiscent of the early 1900s, this charming retreat is ideal for those seeking privacy, relaxation, and adventure. Located just minutes from Shawnee National Forest, Lake of Egypt, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, and the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, it provides easy access to some of Southern Illinois' most popular attractions.
Timeless Charm with Modern Comforts:
• Original claw foot tub and luxurious rain shower with an in-line water heater for unlimited hot water
• Marbled wood-burning fireplace for warmth and ambiance on chilly evenings
• Fully stocked kitchen with cookware, dinnerware, and full-size appliances
• Front porch with antique wooden rocking chairs, perfect for morning coffee and sunrise views
• Back deck with a patio set and grill for outdoor dining and relaxation
• Pet-friendly property with plenty of space for your furry companions
• Fully functioning old-time merry-go-round for children to enjoy
• High-speed Wi-Fi and Smart TV for entertainment and convenience
• Accommodates Up to 8 Guests
• Three upstairs bedrooms with cozy beds
• Double-thick air mattress available for additional sleeping space
• Optional basement bedroom available upon request
• Perfect Location for Outdoor Adventures
• Minutes from Shawnee National Forest, Giant City State Park, and Ferne Clyffe State • Park for hiking and sightseeing
• Near the Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, a scenic 45-mile path through forests and tunnels
• Close to Lake of Egypt and Crab Orchard Lake, perfect for boating and fishing
• Explore the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, featuring award-winning wineries and scenic vineyard views
• Visit local antique malls, novelty shops, and unique boutiques
A Peaceful and Private Escape:
Whether you're looking for a quiet countryside retreat, a family-friendly getaway, or an adventure-filled vacation, Sandbank Cottage provides the perfect setting. Relax, enjoy the beauty of Southern Illinois, and make unforgettable memories in this historic home.
Book your stay today and experience the charm of Sandbank Cottage.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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Lakeside Fun and Entertainment!
Lakeside Fun and Entertainment!
- Kitchen
- Washer
- Dryer
- Pet friendly
House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0-17
1 Crib w/ Linens
1 Pack and Play w/ Linens
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
All trash removal is responsibility of guests.
Pets
Pets allowed: dogs less than 50 lbs per pet (limit one pet total)
Must notify if bringing pets-Must be house trained
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 50
Note from host: All trash removal is responsibility of guests.
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, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
We should mention
This property does not have elevators
About the neighborhood
Creal Springs
Located in Creal Springs, this vacation home is in a rural area. Kokopelli Golf Club and Hogg Hollow Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Williamson County Fairgrounds and Marion Cultural and Civic Center. Traveling with kids? Consider Ross Cottom Lanes, or check out an event or a game at Marion Stadium. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Creal Springs, IL
What's nearby
- Lake of Egypt - 15 min drive - 14.2 km
- Williamson County Fairgrounds - 20 min drive - 25.0 km
- Marion Cultural and Civic Center - 22 min drive - 26.3 km
- Marion Carnegie Library - 22 min drive - 26.3 km
- Ferne Clyffe State Park - 24 min drive - 27.6 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Phil’s Bar And Grill - 20 min drive
- Route 166 Treats - 13 min drive
- Big Blues Que - 5 min drive
- The Mississippi Queen - 18 min drive
- Stonefort General Store - 6 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
9.0
Wonderful
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
9.0/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
Verified
10/10 Excellent
George V.
Jul 11, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderfully exceptional and beautiful stepping back to a more peaceful time and place!
George V.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024
Verified
6/10 Okay
Jerri H.
Oct 19, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location
Jerri H.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Maria C.
Oct 18, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Maria C.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
About the host
Hosted by Ellie Tanner
First of all, I would say that I am a totally imperfect, but born again believer in Jesus & have been blessed in this life far more than I ever deserved. I’m a proud Momma of four, MeeMaw to one, big sister, & Daddy’s girl. Family is incredibly important to me & they are the very beat of my heart. I’m also a Mommy to Piper, my English Bulldog (the official mascot of SBC). She’s adorable & quite a character to be sure.
I grew up on the farm that sits directly across the road & anyone who knows me well would say I’m a country girl through & through. I drive a pickup truck, ride a Harley & have a sports-car… or two. I enjoy most outdoor activities but my favorites are riding horses, hiking, gardening, & photography. Indoors, I enjoy playing basketball, scrapbooking, playing piano, reading classical literature (& anything by Max Lucado or Lee Child), as well as, various types of “crafting” (especially making old time pin & sequin Christmas ornaments). Travel is another hobby that makes me happy. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in different cultures, meet amazing people & be allowed to share incredible experiences with them. Alaska is my favorite state to visit domestically (especially if there’s dog sledding involved!), & Italy (specifically the Sorrento/Capri area) is my favorite European place to sneak off to… at least so far. I hold a master’s degree in nursing & retired from labor & delivery a few years ago. I did, however, keep my IBCLC credentials active & I still, on occasion, do some consulting work with new mommies & babies that are having issues with lactation. I continue to work at our family business, Tanner CPA Firm & am absolutely the busiest “retired” person I know.
I grew up on the farm that sits directly across the road & anyone who knows me well would say I’m a country girl through & through. I drive a pickup truck, ride a Harley & have a sports-car… or two. I enjoy most outdoor activities but my favorites are riding horses, hiking, gardening, & photography. Indoors, I enjoy playing basketball, scrapbooking, playing piano, reading classical literature (& anything by Max Lucado or Lee Child), as well as, various types of “crafting” (especially making old time pin & sequin Christmas ornaments). Travel is another hobby that makes me happy. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in different cultures, meet amazing people & be allowed to share incredible experiences with them. Alaska is my favorite state to visit domestically (especially if there’s dog sledding involved!), & Italy (specifically the Sorrento/Capri area) is my favorite European place to sneak off to… at least so far. I hold a master’s degree in nursing & retired from labor & delivery a few years ago. I did, however, keep my IBCLC credentials active & I still, on occasion, do some consulting work with new mommies & babies that are having issues with lactation. I continue to work at our family business, Tanner CPA Firm & am absolutely the busiest “retired” person I know.
Why they chose this property
I grew up here & still reside on my family’s farm nearby. I know this location to be very peaceful & just being here brings about a sense of calm. The front yard stays shaded most of the day & the covered front porch is the perfect place to grab a good book & spend a leisurely afternoon rocking in the fresh air. The swing set & merry-go-round in side yard are the very ones I myself played on as a child. ;) There is a small pond & a large variety of fragrant flowers growing spring through fall. You can find many vibrant, albeit oddly shaped, wild mushrooms in the woods. (While they are pretty to look at, they are completely inedible!). The old barn is currently enjoying a face lift of its own, but still a pleasant sight. It will soon offer guests the opportunity to feed, pet & interact with small farm animals - should they desire. Summer vegetables are grown in the back yard garden & is open seasonally for guests to enjoy. Those veggies are especially delicious when grilled on the back deck.
While returning the cottage fully to days when it was newly constructed is impractical, the skill & craftsmanship used in creating this space 115 years ago remains apparent. The detail found the woodwork is stunning & understanding that it was all completed by hand, without the aid of modern tools & lasers, is
impressive indeed. Most of the furnishings are antique, but far from fragile, & were chosen with comfort in mind.
Sandbank Cottage was opened to provide guests a retreat from the craziness & fast pace of everyday, normal life. There simply is no better place to relax & just breathe.
While returning the cottage fully to days when it was newly constructed is impractical, the skill & craftsmanship used in creating this space 115 years ago remains apparent. The detail found the woodwork is stunning & understanding that it was all completed by hand, without the aid of modern tools & lasers, is
impressive indeed. Most of the furnishings are antique, but far from fragile, & were chosen with comfort in mind.
Sandbank Cottage was opened to provide guests a retreat from the craziness & fast pace of everyday, normal life. There simply is no better place to relax & just breathe.
What makes this property unique
If an escape to the country for
some privacy & tranquillity is what
you are looking for, this is the
place! Sitting on 15 acres, there's
plenty of space to explore. While
the property is definitely in a rural setting, it is centrally located among many of the wonderful things Southern Illinois has to offer. The Shawnee Forest, SIU-C, Shawnee Wine Trail, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, Lake of Egypt, Crab Orchard Lake, many state parks & a plethora of wedding venues, antique & unique stores, & golf courses, are all only a short drive away.
There's a variety of wildlife in this area & during your stay you will be able to see white-tail deer,
squirrels, rabbits, & maybe even
fox or a wild turkey or two. You
can hear all the sounds nature has
to offer: crickets chirping, birds
singing, bullfrogs bellering & barn owls hooting. The sunrises & sunsets are beautiful & the stars take on a glory all their own at night.
The decor is reminiscent of the style poplar at the turn of the century. Although there have been upgrades made to the kitchen, along with the installation of a rain shower & HVAC system, much of the house remains as it did over 100 years ago. The wood floors, staircase, wood trim, fireplace, columns, front door... all are original to the home. Coming for a visit allows you to enjoy modern amenities, while taking a step back in time.
some privacy & tranquillity is what
you are looking for, this is the
place! Sitting on 15 acres, there's
plenty of space to explore. While
the property is definitely in a rural setting, it is centrally located among many of the wonderful things Southern Illinois has to offer. The Shawnee Forest, SIU-C, Shawnee Wine Trail, Tunnel Hill Bike Trail, Lake of Egypt, Crab Orchard Lake, many state parks & a plethora of wedding venues, antique & unique stores, & golf courses, are all only a short drive away.
There's a variety of wildlife in this area & during your stay you will be able to see white-tail deer,
squirrels, rabbits, & maybe even
fox or a wild turkey or two. You
can hear all the sounds nature has
to offer: crickets chirping, birds
singing, bullfrogs bellering & barn owls hooting. The sunrises & sunsets are beautiful & the stars take on a glory all their own at night.
The decor is reminiscent of the style poplar at the turn of the century. Although there have been upgrades made to the kitchen, along with the installation of a rain shower & HVAC system, much of the house remains as it did over 100 years ago. The wood floors, staircase, wood trim, fireplace, columns, front door... all are original to the home. Coming for a visit allows you to enjoy modern amenities, while taking a step back in time.
Languages:
English
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