Charming cabin in Afton perched high on bluff, river views! Swim, hike, explore!
Originally built in the 1920s - lots of history and clean updates. Perfect for outdoors, explorers, creative, romantic. King and queen beds, very homey and cozy wooded lot past farms, down a long gravel drive. Fall in love with the St Croix River area and enjoy the magic it has to offer. This cottage is river front but there is not river access. It is high up on the limestone bluffs with views of river below. Access to river is possible at one of the many amazing beaches and Afton State Park a stones throw away.
30 minutes from shopping, but you will feel like you are miles and mile away from it all - no need for 2-4 hour drives "up north". You’re just minutes from Afton State Park and all it offers! Multiple beaches and two small towns (Afton & Prescott) within 15 minute drive: Lake St Croix, Prescott City Beach, and Point Douglas Beach.
Year round proximity: Many quaint river towns to explore such as Ice cream in Afton, Hudson for its restaurants and riverfront vibe. . Antiques in Stillwater and Osceola. Prescott for beaches and scenic drives in Wisconsin. If you're up for it take a drive to Wabasha and visit the Eagle Center. Drive is spectacular! Before returning have dinner on Lake Pepin.
Quick drives: See the moon rise in Hudson, it is amazing! Do this after a night out to dinner at San Pedro’s restaurant…. If antiques and boutiques are your thing hop over to Stillwater. Grab a picnic at the Co-Op and eat by the riverfront. Up for even more adventure rent an electric bike there and cross over the new pedestrian bridge that leads to Osceola…. Riverfalls is 30 minutes away and there you can rent Kayaks and go down the Kinni a trout stream that runs into the St Croix.
Afton State Park is 5 minutes away for 1400+ acres of hiking with its miles of trails and a public beach and St Croix Bluffs is around 10 minutes away. For a longer drive you have even more options:, William O'brien, the cliffs of Interstate, Willow River waterfall, the sand bars and river of Kinnikinnick
After one of these come back to a quaint cottage built in the 1920’s and listen to the sounds of nature or have a bon fire in the Chiminea.
In winter you have snowshoeing, downhill skiing, cross country skiing.
In autumn: berry picking, orchard, pumpkins, leaves.
In summer St Mary's point Riverfront Park with its gorgeous beach or the Historic Docks in Afton at Windmill Marina just to see the boats and take in the activity on the river.
In spring hear the birds as the spring migration takes place!
In Winter ski Afton Alps and Snow shoe Afton State Park. Beautiful trails with views of the river!
Please review all photos carefully.
A couple of considerations: In WINTER a good vehicle with AWD or 4x4 is essential as the driveway can get long and icy.
Also NOTE: that the steps in the photo with the a green handrail are steps to the cottage entrance. They are lovely historic limestone steps that are uneven and a bit long. Although charming and quaint it may not appeal to all. Please consider other stays if you feel that you struggle with balance and or vision issues and access would be a problem. Even though you are 20 minutes from a mall and 35 from the airport this feels like the WILDERNESS.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Please wash dishes you used.
Have a safe trip home! Please consider leaving a review!
Thank You!
Kate
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
There is only room for 2 cars no more
Quiet neighborhood so just try to respect that and enjoy the sounds of nature. Thank You
Important information
You need to know
Property # 4282988vb
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
About the area
Hastings
Located in Hastings, this cottage is in a rural area and on a river. Leduc Mansion and LeDuc Historic Estate are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Mississippi River and Afton State Park. Wilson Park and Roadside Park are also worth visiting. Swimming offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and cycling nearby.
Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center - 10 min drive - 11.3 km
Point Douglas Marina - 11 min drive - 13.4 km
Getting around
Saint Paul Union Depot - 29 min drive
St. Paul, MN (STP-St. Paul Downtown) - 33 min drive
Restaurants
Philander's Grill & Bar - 17 min drive
Dairy Queen - 15 min drive
Beach Bar - 15 min drive
Enrique's Taco House - 15 min drive
Highlands Bar at Afton Alps - 8 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Charming cabin in Afton perched high on bluff, river views! Swim, hike, explore! pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Charming cabin in Afton perched high on bluff, river views! Swim, hike, explore!?
As of 9 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Charming cabin in Afton perched high on bluff, river views! Swim, hike, explore! on 18 May 2026 start from £153, 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 Charming cabin in Afton perched high on bluff, river views! Swim, hike, explore!?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Charming cabin in Afton perched high on bluff, river views! Swim, hike, explore!?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Charming cabin in Afton perched high on bluff, river views! Swim, hike, explore!?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Charming cabin in Afton perched high on bluff, river views! Swim, hike, explore! located?
Situated on a river, this cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Afton State Park, Saint Croix River and Kinnickinnic State Park. Afton Alps Ski Area and Afton Alps Golf Course are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
“Amazing, peaceful cabin full of character and charm. We loved the great location—close to Afton with so much to do nearby. The beauty of the surroundings made it even more special. Thank you for such a wonderful stay!”
We had an absolutely fantastic stay and can’t say enough good things about this host or the property. From the very beginning, communication was clear, friendly, and incredibly helpful, everything you want when booking a trip. The host truly goes above and beyond to make sure guests feel welcomed and taken care of.
David K.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Jan 2026
Wow! Thank You so much for your thoughtful review! I am so glad your stay was fantastic!
Thank you,
Kate
The location was amazing incredibly private, but close to anything I could want or need. I was able to get some writing done and enjoy the beautiful scenery and it was a romantic oasis for me and my partner. I have never had a cabin rental experience be this wonderful and I will definitely be staying there again.
April K.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Dec 2025
I am so pleased to hear that you and your partner enjoyed the cottage! Even more that the writing went so well!!! Thank You!
Very tranquil & enchanting experience with our stay at this wonderful Afton cabin. Our host was wonderful and very accommodating to our needs.Would definitely recommend this charming cabin!
Virginia K.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Sept 2025
Thank You so much! Glad you found the cabin tranquil. Please come back!
Loved this cabin! Quiet, quaint and charming. Enjoyed coffee and birdwatching every morning and a fire under the trees and stars every evening. Close proximity to hiking, dining out, and shopping. Kate was a wonderful and responsive host. Look forward to staying again.
Heidi B.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept 2025
Thank You for coming and so glad you loved the sounds of nature and the birds! Please come back!
This cabin was a treasure. It felt like a hug from your quirky Grandma. This place has a kind soul. If you're looking for peace, pack your bags and go. You'll leave feeling rested and loved.
beth e.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Oct 2025
Your graciousness and kind words mean a lot. I am happy you got to enjoy the experience and the vibe. If we can make more people happy in nature and relaxing away from it all we are winning in the world.
Lovely little property, quiet and cozy tucked in the woods. Kate was great to work with. We had everything we needed. Bed was very comfortable. Very close to Afton State Park. Stillwater was an easy drive.
Charming property overlooking the St. Croix. Friendly and easy to reach management. Gave us the cabin experience we wanted with a beautiful view and a comfortable, cozy vibe. Thank you so much!
s e.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Aug 2025
I am so glad you got the cabin experience you were looking for and you enjoyed The St Croix River Valley! Hope to see you again!
Charming historical cabin dressed in its cozy finest! Great location on the river with trails and great views. Perfectly appointed with everything one needs. I wish I could live here full time ! Wonderful host as well, I ’ll be back !
paul j.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 May 2025
Please come back! A great guest. Thank you for the warm review!
The location of this cabin is amazing. It is within 15 minutes of Hastings, Prescott and Afton but feels far out in the country. You can see the beautiful St Croix River through the windows and there is easy access to Afton State Park a 1/4 mile down the road. The cabin itself is quaint without many frills but has everything that is needed and the beds were very comfortable. I couldn't have asked for a better place to stay for the week to have a time of silence and solitude.
Elijah T.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 May 2025
Thank You So much Elijah! I am so glad that you enjoyed your stay! Please come back sometime.
Sincerely,
Kate
My wife and I really enjoyed our 3 night stay at Kate's cabin. It brought back memories for me as a kid staying at me grandfather's cabin in northern WI. Peace. Quiet. Tranquility. Wildlife. It might be my favorite place Ive stayed using vrbo for the past 12-15 years.Kate was a wonderful host.
Ryan K.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Oct 2025
Your comments mean a lot and it's its grandpa's stuff you see all over the cabin! Nothing could make us happier that someone else got to enjoy this and was lucky enough similar experiences as a kid. I know he is smiling that right now.
My husband and I really enjoyed our stay at this charming cabin. Just 40 minutes from St. Paul and surrounded by nature. We enjoyed exploring Hastings and Afton and hiking in Afton State Park. The perfect get-away close to home.The cabin is just as shown in the photos, the check in process a breeze, and the hosts very friendly. We made a simple dinner one night and the kitchen was equipped with everything we needed. The living room was especially cozy.
Lillian L.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 May 2025
It was a pleasure to have you as guests! We are glad you had a good time ❤️
We had a wonderful, calm and relaxing stay in the woods overlooking the serene St. Croix river. Kathryn was a fantastic host and the cabin was immaculate and inviting. So much attention to detail. Photos highlighted the history of the property and the natural surroundings. Right next to Afton state park and Afton Alps. Close to Hudson as well. Exceptional!
Renato L.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 May 2025
Thanky you for the review! We see u booked again! Thanks for the repeat business.
Although it was initially difficult to find due to the pinpoint on map not being in the right spot Kathryn answered very quickly and even came out and showed us the way there! Super sweet. The stepping stones down to the cabin are alittle scary to go down so becareful. The lights on the house at night are super cute. We unfortunately had to cut our trip short but they were very accommodating with everything and tried their best with any issue we may have had. Would definitely come here again.
Mai L.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Oct 2025
Thank you for the positive review and we have since focused on making it easier to find!
Very quiet property. Occasionally could here some of the campers in the park. About 3/4 of the way down the lane in the evening there is a little grass area where the deer would come out to graze. Depending on the time you came back to the cabin you could see a few. One evening there was probably close to 20 out there. If you are a nature lover it is an awesome site to see. The host was very responsive to anything i messaged her for. Had a few issues with the internet and it probably could have been resolved rather quickly if i had contacted Kate right away. As it wasnt really a big deal to us i lat her know before leaving. Overall had a good experience here. Stayed 6 nights.
Stacey D.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Oct 2025
Thank you for sharing valuable information with people and we are glad you got to enjoy the surroundings. We have since fixed the internet so thank you for the valuable feedback.
Check in was so quick and uncomplicated, Kate was so wonderful and responsive. It's was so freaking cozy you could die and the park and river are so close! Absolutely and utterly lovely.