The emerging Iowan preference for private vacation lodging has spawned a new self-catering industry in the state. It’s the personal touch, as much as the facilities, that makes the difference. These new innkeepers are playing the off-premises concierge to a fault. Most will book lessons with local instructors (horseback riding, guided fishing tours with all gear supplied, tickets to area attractions, and much more), and they will point out some favorite local walks and the best attractions in the area. And no question of arrangement fees, unlike some hotels and resorts in popular tourist areas.
Superior self-catering: the top Iowa properties
THERE’S ONLY ONE association representing superior self-catering properties in Iowa right now, it is the Iowa Bed & Breakfast Innkeepers Associaton (IBBIA). This association has high quality standards and all members are inspected.
Inspection are important, because Web sites and brochures can give you a feel for a property, but they can be deceptive as well. The association takes the guessing out of the equation. When you stay with a self-service lodging facility that is an member of the IBBIA, you know the owners have met health and safety regulations, along with other quality standards.
Here is listing of some of the top Iowa self-service/self-catering lodging accommodations from around the state.
1. IOWA GREAT LAKES AREA - OKOBOJI
The Prairie Cottage, a recently refurbished four to six-person cottage is available for nightly, week-end and week-long family getaways. The price includes a self-service kitchen, cable TV, a computer connected to Wireless High Speed Internet, bottled water and sodas upon arrival, a variety of cereals and snacks in the cubboards, a top-of-the-line gas Bar-B-Qer with the most popular condiments in the cuppboards, a complete video library and VHS, board games for the kids, and library of priaire flower identification books to be used in conjuntion with the native prairie garden planted on the property. The staff can also arrange a wide range of activities, including canoeing, fishing tours with all gear and bait supplied, or they can simply point out some of the fabulous attractions in the area. Open May - thru October, call: 712-580-3117.
2. ELKADER
Barn on the Bluff is intended for groups of families, quilter, retreaters, hunters and other small groups, this self-catered facility can sleep up to 20 adults comfortably. You will find plenty of room to play, not only in the spacious living area, but also in the huge game room and on the porch. When you reserve the barn, the entire barn is yours. The 30x60 foot hayloft has been converted into five levels for living and sleeping. Ranging from three private bedrooms to two dorm-style bedrooms to two lofts (accessible by ladders for the younger set), 20+ could sleep quite comfortably. You will find a full kitchen, dining for 20 guests, 3 bathrooms, a fireplace, game room, 60’x12’ covered porch and a fire pit, where you can sit outside to enjoy the view that Elkader forefathers affectionately named "Little Switzerland". Some of the many area activities include productions at the 1903 Opera House, first-run movies at the refurbished Main Street Cinema Theater, golfing, hunting, fishing, canoeing, horseback riding, hiking/biking trails, historical sights, museums and many unique shops and restaurants. Open year round, call: 563-245-2820 Lodge or 319-231-9195 Cell.
3. DOWNTOWN ELKADER
Cedar Street Suites is afully furnished two-bedroom apartment like setting with keyless entry. The suite is near the downtown shops, establishments, and the historic Elkader Opera House. It is also near the river's dam and the river's walking path -- it is a peaceful and and enjoyable lodging choice with lots of privacy for the couple wanting to getaway, yet be close to all downtown amenitites. Open year round, call: 563-245-3211 or 563-880-1233.
4. IOWA FALLS
What was once a small cabin on the Iowa river has been beautifully restored and converted into a self-catering cabin/cottage. You will enjoy your own private hide away in a two-bedroom cabin overlooking the Iowa River. A nature lover's paradise! It is handicap accessible, has a complete kitchen, a gas fireplace and log beds for that "rustic feel." Some meals can be supplied, and your stay can include a 90 minute Iowa River Cruise where you will see limestone bluffs, beautiful park scenery and the Iowa Falls Swinging Bridge. Your captain will provide a historical narrative of the river as well. This cruise is based on the date you plan to visit and availablity. Open year round, call: 641-648-9571.
5. SHANNON CITY
Timberview is a 1900 four-bedroom Farm House that is handicap accessible and near shopping in Afton, Creston and Mount Ayr. It is perfect for small reunions, receptions and children's parties. Hunters, fishermen and other sports enthuasist are welcome. This facility can be rented with a country-style breakfast included or with a self-service option. Open year round, call 877-339-2431.
6. SHENANDOAH
Denise's Sweet Retreat is located above Denise's Desserts Parisian Bakery. The private suite is Parisian-themed and features an office/sitting room, one-bedroom with a queen sized bed, a full kitchen and a fold-out sofa bed above the bakery. (Kitchen features a stove, refrigerator and microwave oven.) Guests are welcome to stay in the suite for breakfast with a choice of homemade breakfast casserole, ham and cheese croissants, cinnamon roll or granola parfait or join the public in the bakery downstairs for a full homemade meal and their favorite gourmet coffee or they may have the option to do their own shopping and prepare their own meals in the suite's kitchen. Accommodations are fit for corporate travelers, honeymooners or singles. Private suite rates are $75 - $95 depending on the number of people staying. Open year round, call 712-246-2295.
7. Mount Ayr
Lesanville Inn at Ramsey Farms is a historic working farm and village (circa 1802 - 1950s). Restore Victorian Farmhouses, a School House, Church, Depot/General Store are all to be found on this unique property. Visitors cal elect to have a typical Bed & Breakfast option or rent their own separate farmhouse by the day, week or month. Groups and family reunions are welcome. Open year round, call 641-464-3178.
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