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Beautiful Mountain Get Away! CLOSED FOR THE WINTER

Photo gallery for Beautiful Mountain Get Away! CLOSED FOR THE WINTER

Historical School and area
Play ground equiptment from school days.
Cozy seating area
Back board guest book
night view

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Pet-friendly
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Mountain view

Explore the area

View in a map
Montrose, CO
  • Place, Ouray Hot Springs Pool
  • Place, Telluride Ski Resort
  • Place, Telluride Gondola Station
  • Airport, Montrose, CO (MTJ-Montrose Regional)
    ‪98 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

0 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

bunk house style

2 Single Beds and 1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Outdoor play area
Dining area

About this property

Beautiful Mountain Get Away! CLOSED FOR THE WINTER

Enjoy this scenic get away. Off the beaten path! Cozy and unusual. Worth the trip into the beautiful national forest of the Uncompahgre Plateau, 37 miles west of Montrose on a gravel county road. For those seeking an unusual but enjoyable vacation destination.

Nestled quietly in the beautiful mountains of Western Colorado at 8000 Feet, on the south slope of the Uncompahgre Plateau. Surrounded by pine forests and aspen groves. A cozy, quiet get away, for anyone interested in a peaceful setting.

If your looking for a great place to stay, away from the crowds of the city. If you like being outdoors, camping with facilities, beautiful mountain scenery and clean mountain air, hiking, walking, camp fires and starry nights as well as other amenities, then this is the place for you. Remember to bring your own bedding and sleeping bags, it is still camping.

It is hard to describe it in words, so please take a chance and come and stay with us. You won't be disappointed.


Unique historic one room school used as a bunkhouse with sitting area. Placed here in 1935, it had been used almost full time until its last students graduated and moved on to high school in 1979.

Joined by a short path, is the teacherege. This building contains a modern, rustic bathroom with roomy shower, a small kitchenette with a large farmhouse style table for eating, playing board and card games or just enjoying your morning coffee. Kitchen is equipped for simple cooking: Microwave, 1 tiny refrigerator (coolers recommended with ice), coffee pot and dishes for up to six. Electric crock pot and assorted pot and pans. An outdoor grill and fire pit.

A great place for artists and families. Find creativity as an artists' retreat or anyone looking for a quiet, peaceful place for small group gatherings including weddings or workshops. Perfect for hunters looking for a place to stay while hunting in the permit only, Area 61 or adjoining nearby Area 62. Nature lovers will especially enjoy this place as well. Fishing is just a short distance to the San Miguel River and Miramonte Reservoir near Norwood.

Hiking all around on designated areas, ATV or motorcycle riding, horseback riding, if you bring your own horse and ATV/motorcycle, of course. These are not provided. Picnic area. Bring your bicycle. The roads are easy and walking is great too.
Did I forget to mention the Stars? Enjoy cool, sweet, summer nights and gazing at the stars from on top of the world! Watch the Moon come up!

You can get cell service, but NO TV! (Sorry). There are cots available, but please bring your own sleeping bags, bedding, towels and other amenities. Bedding services may be furnished for an additional charge but you will need to call for availability. This isn't a motel or lodge. You can even pitch a tent in the yard if you desire. Always prepare for cool nights and occasionally rainy days. Bring the kids; the play ground equipment is still there from the school days. It is all sturdy, but old so use at your own risk

If you are interested in day trips, you are only 40 minutes from Telluride, and an hour from Ouray. Norwood is our nearest town, just about 30 min. away. The county road is graveled, so no need for 4-wheel drive. Coming up for the first time, I would recommend the route off of HWY 145 at mile marker 96 onto Sanborn Park Road. About 10 miles. We can provide you with directions and maps. Please call if you need more specific information. Whichever way you come, from Montrose via the Davewood/SanbornPark roads, also called Forest Service 530 road or alternate route from Hwy 145 to Sanborn Park road, the views are stunning and the destination into our pristine area well worth the trip. The drive provides spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains.

We are providing this opportunity for people who love the outdoors! Hope you will come and see what we have to offer. Get out of the city! It is cooler here too.
Enjoy the area's solitude. You will love it! For those looking for the extraordinary!

Call owner if interested in adding a camper to the sight for an addition fee..
Limit 6-7 adults
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
A great venue for weddings and other one day events.
Do not book if there is a chance you may cancel. Cancelations are not good for anyone and tie up our Calendar.
Smoking is not allowed in the buildings or at times of High fire danger.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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: 10
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 that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Norwood

Located in Norwood, this cabin is in a rural area and in the mountains. San Miguel County Fairgrounds is a local attraction and the area's natural beauty can be seen at San Miguel River Canyon and Norwood Community Garden. Take in the nearby slopes with skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging.
View more Cabin rentals in NorwoodOpens in a new window
Map
Montrose, CO

What's nearby

  • San Miguel River Canyon - 28 min drive - 18.8 km

Getting around

  • Telluride, CO (TEX-Telluride Regional) - 60 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Beautiful Mountain Get Away! CLOSED FOR THE WINTER pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at Beautiful Mountain Get Away! CLOSED FOR THE WINTER?

As of 13 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beautiful Mountain Get Away! CLOSED FOR THE WINTER on 14 May 2026 start from £93, 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 at Beautiful Mountain Get Away! CLOSED FOR THE WINTER?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Beautiful Mountain Get Away! CLOSED FOR THE WINTER?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Beautiful Mountain Get Away! CLOSED FOR THE WINTER?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Beautiful Mountain Get Away! CLOSED FOR THE WINTER located?

Situated in the mountains, this cabin is within 16 miles (25 km) of San Miguel River Canyon, Norwood Community Garden and San Miguel County Fairgrounds.

Reviews

9.6

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. 35 out of 40 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 40 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 40 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 40 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 40 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.4/10

Location

9.0/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

John L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin(s) are great for a secluded getaway
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Norman H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice cabin in the country
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Jacqueline B.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Advertised location was more than an hour away from actual location.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tony P.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Overall, great stay!

We had a great time! The school house was cozy and the night skies were amazing! There were some spiderwebs inside but what would you expect for an almost 100 year old school house.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary M.

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

Peaceful

Peaceful and quiet. Everything just like the description.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tim A.

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

Fourth of July Vacation

This has been one of the best vacations we have had. The experiences we created as a family were priceless. We are so blessed to learn the history and take in all the beauty of your property. Such a much needed peaceful vacation. Thank you for your kindness. We highly recommend this spot for any type of vacations, reunions etc.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott M.

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

Perfect Getaway!

This is a great spot! Ella (owner) is a class act. She is so engaging and is a wonderful story teller! Read Ella's description. It is glamping in a secluded spot yet still convenient for day trips to Telluride, Ouray, Silverton and tons of prime hiking and off roading close by. Save your money and stay here. You will never hear silence or see the stars like this place!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Gerald R.

4th of July

This was an awesome vacation! Love getting to stay in the old school house! You won't find many of these around anymore. Looking forward to spending time here during Elk hunting season! I would highly recommend giving this one a try! You won't be disappointed!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rob B.

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

A true mountain getaway

What an amazing week our family of six (husband, wife, kids 12, 10, 8, 5) just had at Ella's property. It is truly a getaway, secluded, beautiful. Your kids will get a chance to explore, wander, build a fire, play. Move slower and reconnect. Look at the stars. Read about the history of the schoolhouse. Meet Ella, the artistic, kind host. Wake up every chilly morning to a view of snow-capped peaks and wind in the ponderosas and aspens. We will be back.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Nate S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication

Peaceful Mountain Retreat Off the Beaten Path

Charming. The place and its host, Ella. We loved staying at this converted schoolhouse as a family. Main qualm is the lack of accuracy of the posting. This Vrbo posting does not match up with its position on the map. Its actually miles and miles outside of Montrose down a very long dirt road. It feels very peaceful but only for those vehicles that can take such an extended dirt road excursion. If you want to experience the wild of Colorado... this is a good fit.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Grant R.

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

Dreamy mountain trip

We enjoyed our stay very much. The description and photos let you know what you are in for, and we couldn’t have asked for more. Being so far removed from civilization is just what we needed. Both adults and kids were thrilled, as was our dog, who needed an off leash vacation as much as we did. Wildlife is abundant! Our first night we saw a bear on the road, and the wildlife sightings just kept happening. We saw elk, marmots, turkey, deer, and tons of birds. One night returning to the school, we even had a mountain lion jump out in front of us and we got a full broadside view! The night sky in the yard was beautiful. Our host was very sweet and accommodating, and she even left homemade cookies on the table for us when we arrived. For those who are adverse to the pretty long gravel road from Montrose, the road to Norwood is much shorter, with Telluride, Ridgeway, and Ouray just down the way. Just be prepared for a mini million dollar highway to get up and down. We were old hands at driving it by the end of our trip though, and it was a non issue. All in all, a very enjoyable trip. We would return here in a minute.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tricia F.

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

Foster Family Colorado vacation 2023 (7/23-7/28)

This was our 3rd time staying at the cabin and one room Sanborn School house. We stayed 5 nights/4days. It’s always a pleasure. Wonderful sights and sounds of Colorado. Far enough away from civilization but yet a short drive down the mountain to many surrounding towns with breathtaking views. Both dwellings were clean and was perfect for the 6 of us (4 adults and 2 kids (17 and 14). The 2 small refrigerators worked great to keep our food cold and we use a cooler for drinks that didn’t fit in the fridge. We made many meals on the small cooktop stove. Shower and bathroom worked great. The kids played games out side. We came to stay for a couple reasons. 1. We absolutely love this place and 2. Four of us were training for the Pikes Peak Ultra on 7/29/23. So we use the altitude and miles of roads to do our running/training. Then did sightseeing at Telluride, Ouray, Ridgeway and Norwood. The sunrises and sunsets are absolutely beautiful. As well as the Mountain Views. We highly recommend this place and will be back again and again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Tricia H.

One of a kind get away!!

We absolutely loved staying at this property. You feel a little bit like you have stepped back in time! The white structure pictured was a one room school house dating back to the early 1900's, and it didn't close until late in the 1970's. The history behind this property is fascinating. You are in a pristine wilderness, but you are also close to lots a great places to go for day trips. Some days we just enjoyed being there, and others we went into Telluride and Montrose which are only about 45 minutes away. Our five kids (ages 10 - 19) loved sleeping on the comfortable cots in the school house. They danced on the wood floor at night, and enjoyed breakfast over an open fire. (The kitchen has everything you need to prepare meals, excluding an oven, if you aren't up for cooking over a fire!) The kids took the boat out on the pond, and enjoyed exploring to the area. It was worth the trip just to see the stars and a lightning show that the lit up the entire canyon. The host, who has lived up on this plateau for about 60 years, is incredibly gracious and hospitable. We highly recommend this property. It is a great place for a family to enjoy being together. It would also be a great place to come as a bigger group to do a modified campout; the feel of camping out but with a nice shower and kitchen and an indoor sleeping option for those who prefer that. An awesome week for us at an awesome place!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2017
Verified

6/10 Okay

Chandra K.

Liked: Check-in
Disliked: Location

Bring toilet paper!

Cons: my daughters and I arrived late in the evening after driving the hour away from civilization to discover there was NO toilet paper. Every VRBO I’ve ever stayed at has provided at least half a roll. We were forced to use coffee filters until visiting telluride the following day. A mouse lives under the couch in the kitchenette/bathroom cabin. Although understandable, wilderness and all, it made for an unpleasant, persistent smell. All the screens in the schoolhouse (sleeping cabin) are torn. I wised to allow some fresh mountain air into the school house, but again, wilderness (bugs); my girls requested vehemently I not do this. The listing says 4 wheel drive is not required. After driving for a bit in 2WD I switched to 4WD. Particularly for the drive to Telluride, which is switchback after switchback on a gravel dirt road with mountain on one side and shear death on the other; I was VERY happy to have 4WD! No wifi: in the theory, nice when you want to get away, but in practice, a person who doesn’t naturally have a good sense of direction needs GPS. The beds: the two twins in the school house were fairly comfortable; everything else is just springs. Even the fold out couch in the other cabin, where the mouse lives, is only springs surrounded by some fabric. Pros: it is serene and peaceful in a remote, unique location. THE NIGHT SKY!! We saw deer grazing in the yard. It was a great place to connect with my children without electronics. The kitchen is nicely stocked.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gerald R.

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

Great place

Was just what we were looking for
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Greg O.

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

Elk hunt

Rough conditions (heavy snow) this year for elk hunting. Very glad to have a warm cottage and shower at end of a long day.
Stayed 9 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Punam O.

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

Remote beautiful haven!

We had a wonderful and relaxing four days at this unique location. Ella is a fabulous host and a great artist. Ella, thanks for sharing the history of the area with us and sharing your art.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angelique E.

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

Nice property with accommodating host

Ella was great to work with. Nice stay in a beautiful area.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chris F.

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

Perfect

As described. Perfect to get away. I will be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lara H.

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

Get away from it all

Ella has generously shared a magical experience. Her family property is absolutely charming. We loved the quiet, the playground and the proximity to hiking in Ouray and Telluride. We took a break from technology and enjoyed reconnecting with each other and the out of doors! Thank you, Ella!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paulynn K.

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

Dark Sky Remote Gem

One of the most remote locations I’ve ever stayed in the lower 48 states. The dark sky was phenomenal. Ella is a wonderful woman and the most gracious host. I loved speaking with her and viewing her art. The property couldn’t be more charming. Highly recommend!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ray B.

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

Wow...what a unique place!!!

Stayed at the Sanborn school and cabin for one week and words can’t describe what it’s like to get up in the mountains and see beauty, breathe clean air and hear only nature sounds that you normally wouldn’t hear anyway else! Also, the host Ella is one of a kind!!! Meeting her was the best part of the trip and someone you would want to stay in touch with and like I said words can’t describe this place...both are a very rare find!!! Can’t wait to go back for longer than a week stay! Thanks again, Ray.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda a.

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

Absolutely perfect!

This was such a wonderful place to stay. My teenagers and I had a blast. It was such a great experience staying in an old historic school house. Thank you Ella!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kendal M.

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

Alternate Reality

This place was like a picture from a storybook, the wildflowers were everywhere, the nature was abundant. The sky was clear and the stars are plenty. Everywhere you turn there was something amazing to look at. It's next to a little dirt road but there was rarely anyone driving by, I couldn't think of a better place to get away to. I'd love to go back there again as soon as possible.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kenneth V.

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

Peaceful and Quiet

A great spot. Very private. If you want peace and quiet thus is your place.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

About the host

Hosted by Jeanett Marolf

Host profile image
This property is part of our Ranch in Sanborn Park. Our parents lived here for over 60 years. It is family enterprise and my sister's and my families took over managing it when our parents passed away.
The school was built by members of this community in 1935 and has remained on this spot ever since. It has been the goal of our family to keep it's historical integrity over the past years, since it was last used as a school in 1979 at which time all 4 remaining children attending went into Norwood. Two transitioned into High School.
Along with our ranching, our dad maintained the county roads, as well as saw-milling and various other occupations that enabled them to remain in this beautiful area where he was born and raised.
Our mom was a ranchers wife and mother but also a successful artist and sculptor.

Why they chose this property

It is a beautiful, historic sight, as well as a great "Vacation Destination".
It has been a great place to entertaining friends and family for many years we wanted the opportunity to share it with the public in a small way.

What makes this property unique

Everything about it is unique. You must visit, to appreciate it.
Remember, it is a summer place and the seasons are short in the Colorado mountains.
So therefore, we are closed from November until June.
You will enjoy camping in a historic school. so check us out!
Call owner if interested in adding a camper to the sight for an additional fee.

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English
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