Escape to the country - Ranch style country lodging

Rest, Relax and Recharge by yourself, friends, family or a romantic get away in the heart of Jo Daviess county, countryside. Explore the northwest corner of Illinois and surrounding tri-state area staying in a renovated country ranch style house located on a 150 year old working farm in a small valley surround by limestone hills. Perfect get away from the fast pace busy life for those who want to take a quiet break, history buffs, explorers, and making lasting memories with family or friends.

Guests have total privacy access to the farmhouse with large yard. Separate driveway entrance for convenient parking. Self check in upon arrival and self check out departure. A host or hosts are always available to answer questions.

Guests may look at the animals as long as they do not disturb them. Some of the animals feel they are free range and will be out grazing in the gardens. Not to worry they know where they belong. If guests want to interact with the farm animals it’s best to make arrangements with the animal handlers. Teddy a livestock guardian dog lives on the property, has been well socialized with other dogs and roams freely in order to perform his duties protecting the livestock from coyote attacks. Though we welcome you and your pets, please be advised that Teddy will greet you and your pets upon arrival. He is still young and excited to meet new people and loves attention. Please understand this is a working farm and to be cautious of not only the farm animals but farm equipment and machines as well. Large tractors do not always see small people or pets. Please DO NOT enter barns or outer buildings for safety reasons.

In the winter: the rolling hills are wonderful for sleds, cross country skiing, and people learning to ski due to the short hill sizes. Guests must bring their own equipment - none will be provided. Please make arrangements with hosts on where you may use your equipment.

In the spring, summer and fall guests will spot variety of wildlife perfect for bird watchers. You will see and hear owls, turkeys, eagles, hawks, other birds, frogs, crickets, insects, fishers, foxes, coyotes,raccoons, ground hogs, opossums, plus more. Please respect their space and the environment - it’s their home. At night you will feel like you can reach up and touch the moon and stars in the sky.. Wonderful places to take photographs, draw, paint, write, and so much more. Gazing at the most spectacular sunrises, sunsets, and the full moon as big as life rising over the hills. The stars bright enough to reach and touch. We even have campsite areas if you’re interested in spending a night under the stars.

Neighboring Farms that host fall events Pumpkins and apple picking. Tree farms where you can cut your own Christmas tree for the holiday
DNR hiking and fishing property located less than a mile north of the farmhouse along the Apple River
Local villages have museums full of history of the area, first Kraft plant, general Grant’s home, civil war re-enactments, ghost tours, parades, fireworks, fairs, Christmas walks, live window displays special events such as the largest Halloween celebration in Illinois
Wineries ,Breweries, Unique shops, plenty of Golf courses
Fireside and Timberlake playhouses
Local Wedding venues
Shenandoah Riding Center ( annual rodeo event)
Apple canyon lake within 3 miles
Apple canyon state park with its trails and picnic areas
Palisades state park trails bluffs over looking the Mississippi
Long hollow canopy tours
Stonehenge replica
Charles mound -highest point in Illinois
Mississippi River (45 min West) -dinner cruises
Mississippi roadway and the Galena trail
There is plenty to do In Wisconsin
Largest Amish colony
Prairie du sac - eagle watching
House On The Rock just to name a few

Many many more things to discover within driving distance of the farmhouse. I’m sure you wonder why to still book with us after a day of venturing? It’s simple - home away from home atmosphere. A place to put up your feet, hang your hat, rest, relax and recharge.