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Driftwood Retreat on Tennessee River/Pickwick Lake

Lakefront holiday home with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for Driftwood Retreat on Tennessee River/Pickwick Lake

No houses across river, just nature and a great view of Smithsonian island!
Lit pier
Staircase in the island down to bunk room and downstairs bathroom
Perfect spot for morning coffee to watch sunrise
Door in downstairs bathroom heading out to pier

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8102.2 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View map
Cherokee, AL
  • Place, Alabama Music Hall of Fame
    ‪27 min drive‬
  • Place, Ivy Green
    ‪30 min drive‬
  • Place, University of North Alabama
    ‪42 min drive‬
  • Airport, Muscle Shoals, AL (MSL-Northwest Alabama Regional)
    ‪40 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bunk Room

1 Single Bunk Bed

Living Room

1 Double Sofa Bed

2 bathrooms

Downstairs Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Main Leval Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

Driftwood Retreat on Tennessee River/Pickwick Lake

Time to Relax! This home away from home right on the Tennessee River/ Pickwick Lake is the perfect place to do just that. Enjoy all the water has to offer from fishing and boating to simply watching wildlife and barges go by from the chairs on the pier or the wrap around deck. The 270' of water frontage will give the view of that beautiful sunrise along with space to pull your boat up on shore and swim. We have kayaks and life vests for guests to use with a signed waiver. Whether watching the family in the water on summer days, leaves drift down in the fall, the beautiful American White Pelicans in the winter, or new blooms in the spring, this gem has year round views with a tree house feel.
Inside, you'll be greeted with comfortable furnishings, live plants, wifi and everything else you could possibly need to make yourself right home. The living room has seating for 7 to watch the large flat screen tv or to gather around to play some of the games provided. The kitchen/dining has large windows that bring the outside in! The kitchen is stocked with all the gadgets you need to make a delicious meal to serve on the huge island. Seating for 4 at the table and 3 at the island. There are 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom on the main level all with crisp white linens. All bedrooms are equipped with Smart TV's. The staircase that goes under the huge island (bet you've never seen this) leads to a downstairs bunk room and another full bathroom. Both have doors that go right outside.
The upstairs wrap around deck has an area for grilling, large table that seats 6 and additional seating at the ledge. There are seasonal herbs available for guests to enjoy such as fresh basil, parsley, lavender, rosemary and mint. The other deck area is covered and has a wonderful lounging area with a sofa and two chairs (You'll be hoping for rain, just so you can sit out and listen to it on the metal roof:)) It also has a small table with chairs for morning coffee to watch the sunrise. Morning yoga your thing? A couple of mats are in the basket...
The front yard is perfect for watching sunsets! It has a large circle drive, a fire ring lined with chairs, a couple of hammocks, horseshoes, and a large parking pad. The pad would be the perfect place for a boat. It has electricity and water. There is a courtyard area by the front door for guests to enjoy corn hole, we have that too!

This is an old "Fish Camp" as the former owner called it. We have completely renovated it from bottom to top. We tried to stay true to the original character of the house while bringing all the modern amenities. We have even refinished some of the furniture that was left in the old camp. There are some old fishing lures that were found during the renovation displayed in a shadowbox. A lot of love has gone into this place. It is our vacation home as well as yours.
This is quiet neighborhood on a dead-end road out in the country. There are children that play right in the road. Doby, the neighbor's dog, will more than likely stop by. He is used to getting treats (bottom cabinet in the kitchen), he is very sweet and older. Please use caution while driving. There are a couple of bikes on the property, you are welcome to use them, just put them back in place when you are done with them.
The address is Cherokee, but it is an easy drive to the Shoals. There are gas stations, a grocery store, Dollar General, local pizza place, Subway, liquor store, pharmacy, and even a hardware store within 10 minutes' drive. Along the way to the Shoals, there are lots of attractions, Coon Dog Cemetery, Rattlesnake Saloon, Alabama Music Hall of Fame, etc. There are drawers full of brochures and info to choose from. There is a couple different options if you have a boat to put in the water. We do not have a boat launch on the property. Cane Creek boat ramp and Colbert County Natchez Trace boat ramp are about 10 minutes' drive. But we do have two trailers on the shore you can pull up on while you stay there, use at own risk. We take no responsibility for accidents or injuries incurred on our property. All guests should take caution in or near water. The current can get fast, and children should always be accompanied by an adult than knows how to swim well while in or near the water.
Parties are strictly prohibited, 8 guest MAX on the property at all times!
If you are looking for perfection, this is not the place for you. I do not iron sheets. Everything will be clean and in working order. If you are looking for a place to relax and take the simple beauty that lake life has to offer, this IS the place for you!
We hope that you decide to pick our place to become your place.
Jay and Melissa Black

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Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
This property is not ideal for small children.
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Events

No events allowed
No loud music
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 9 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Please keep dogs off all furniture and linens.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking or vaping in the house or on back porch

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Check Out list is on the refrigerator.
If used the kayaks, put them back upside down and lock up.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
8 person limit for decks and 8 person limit on pier.
Dogs must be on a leash while outside. Please pick up and dispose of all feces.

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: No loud music
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

Cherokee

Located in Cherokee, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Alabama Music Hall of Fame and Tennessee Valley Museum of Art are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Ivy Green and W.C. Handy Home. Jet skiing and kayaking offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and rock climbing nearby.
Map
Cherokee, AL

What's nearby

  • Alabama Music Hall of Fame - 27 min drive - 27.8 km
  • Ivy Green - 30 min drive - 29.9 km
  • Pickwick Lake - 35 min drive - 24.0 km
  • University of North Alabama - 42 min drive - 41.0 km
  • Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve - 44 min drive - 40.9 km

Getting around

  • Muscle Shoals, AL (MSL-Northwest Alabama Regional) - 34 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Subway - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪JJ's Restaurant - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Smoking Border Grill - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪family diner - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Ring's Pickwick Playhouse - ‬32 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Driftwood Retreat on Tennessee River/Pickwick Lake pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 9 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

What time is check-in at Driftwood Retreat on Tennessee River/Pickwick Lake?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Driftwood Retreat on Tennessee River/Pickwick Lake?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Driftwood Retreat on Tennessee River/Pickwick Lake located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is steps from Tennessee River and 9.7 mi (15.6 km) from Gibson Towhead. Pickwick Lake and Alabama Music Hall of Fame are also within 16 miles (25 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 91 out of 93 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 93 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 93 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 93 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 93 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Ben M.

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

Awesome place

Grand little cabin on lake pickwick. Perfect for our needs with family close by. Super clean and friendly
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrew J.

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

Great weekend getaway

Second time staying and just as good as the first time! Highly recommend
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dustin P.

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

Spring Break

My family was able to travel to the BASS Nation Regional tournament with me as it aligned with our spring break. They had a great time being on the water through the day. The views from this property are awesome. We really enjoyed the stay and hospitality.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Debbie V.

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

Great place to just chill!!

Manager was so nice to work with. Great place for kids. Even came with a wonderful Corgy pup to welcome us.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Pat H.

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

Great Place

My friends and I really enjoyed our stay. The house felt warm and welcoming and felt very cozy and inviting. The kitchen was stocked with everything needed and had plenty of room for us to gather and socialize.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Paul H. B.

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

Perfect relaxing getaway!

We were riding dirt bikes at 7 springs. After being worn out from riding the deck dock and beautiful views were a welcome relief!! Couldn’t have had accommodations any better! Hope to be able to return in the near future!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tonya D.

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

So Relaxing!

We had a great time! Everything was as expected and there was a lot of thought put into things that made our stay even more enjoyable. We were celebrating a birthday and they even left a happy birthday message!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

LYNN R.

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

2021 Memorial Day Weekend

This place did not disappoint! We were looking for a weekend get away to spend relaxing with family. I love the personal touches; live plants everywhere. The owner thought of everything! The kitchen is amazing and the view is spectacular!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Sabrina G.

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

Amazing Father's Day getaway with the family !

This was a Father's Day trip for my husband . We absolutely fell in love ! The property was beautiful,private, and unique Loved the layout ! The kids loved it as well. They have a couple of kayaks that were so fun, the grill and patio were awesome. The hosts made the whole process effortless .They were very attentive, prompt, and available .Definetely recommend!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Taryn M.

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

A little river getaway

This house is the cutest and coziest little river house! It is exactly like the pictures online! We loved all the views of the river in almost every spot of the house. My girls loved swimming off the pier and Kayaking. They went out at 9 and stayed outside ALL day! It was simply the BEST! Communication with the owners were 5 stars, very quick to respond.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Paula D., Jackson GA

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

Beyond your expectations

The photos do no justice to the decor & work put into this place. Everything about this house is inviting the minute you pull in the driveway. The decor & the view setup a calm as soon as you step foot in the door. The detail that was put into the rebuild is beyond any thoughts I would have imagined. Melissa was wonderful & even though I probably drove her crazy was very pleasant & easy to contact. This is a little piece of heaven that we already look forward to visiting again soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jacquelyn B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The home was clean and beautiful. Caught plenty of catfish. My famiy loved it!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Patricia R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property was exactly as described. The owner went above and beyond to accommodate our reservation. The year was spectacular. It was great place to kick off her shoes with a glass of wine and relax
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Daniel R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a great time staying at the cabin, everything was exactly as described.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cortney P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect home! Super clean and hosts were great!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sheryl S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This little gem exceeded our expectations! Our family of three generations, all loved it! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay, and had a wonderful time!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Hillary B.

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

Peaceful

What a nice little cabin on the lake. The views are absolutely stunning. We enjoyed most of our time on the pier and in the water!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our stay was magical! This cottage is gorgeous, and the owners provided so many extras! The kitchen was truly equipped with everything you could possibly need. The views are amazing, and it’s so quiet and peaceful. Like being in a treehouse. We enjoyed the birds and even saw the beaver, Beatrice! Being able to have our boat there was so wonderful, my husband and I owned a vacation rental property for 21 years, and know what it takes to provide for guests, so do the owners of this wonderful piece of paradise.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

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

Anniversary Celebration

Was as described and the views are spectacular. The home seems to be just that; a home that is shared by the owners who frequently stay at this cozy retreat home. Very clean and accommodating with a well appointed kitchen.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tommy B.

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

Great time

Cozy relaxing
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stefanie T.

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

Amazing!

My husband and I stayed for our 6th anniversary and it was amazing! We loved the hand written note! The view was perfect! Even got to check in a little early! Thank you so much for everything!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Phillisa J.

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

Great place for a quick getaway!

Our second stay at this property, and we will be back! This place is well-equipped, and the owners have made it a stand-out place!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Susan Renee W.

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

Weekend Getaway

Beautifully decorated, warm, and comfortable in every way. We loved the view of the river and watching the birds and squirrels in the trees. This little cottage and the peaceful surroundings were just what we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Justin K.

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

Fun & Relaxing Memorial / Weekend

Wife and I loved it here, great place to watch the weather over the water - perfect simple boat dock / trailer winch system for most medium/small fishing or run-abouts. Love the kitchen/bar/common area!
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

April H.

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

Lovely stay

We really loved our stay. We had everything we needed and couldn’t have asked for a better experience. We left the windows closed as instructed but still had some tiny bugs that made their way through. It didn’t bother us though. We are used to lake life and know that sometimes goes with the territory. We fished off the dock and caught a couple of nice large mouth bass. We would definitely book this property again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

About the host

Hosted by Jay and Melissa Black

Host profile image
My name is Melissa Black and my husband of 27 years is Jay Black. We live here in the Shoals. I guess we are transplants. We moved here 19 years ago from out of state. We have 3 boys, 1 is a college graduate, 1 is currently attending UNA and 1 is at Shoals Community College. We fell in love with the Shoals area immediately. There are so many things to do, camping, hiking, boating, great restaurants, and can't forget the live music!

Why they chose this property

We have always loved camping near the water. Anytime we camp, we always request to be waterfront. Years ago, we started talking about where we would like to retire. And anywhere with water came up. I am a Realtor. I have shown some amazing houses in the Shoals, but the ones on the water have me 'Wowing" every time! But, we could not afford a big nice house on the water. A neighbor there at lake house works with Jay and told him about it. It was in really bad shape, like REALLY bad! It was a family's "Fish Camp". They had owned it for 50 years. The appraiser said, "You're going to tear this thing down aren't you? All that's any good is the foundation!". We decided to renovate the whole cabin. The renovation started 3/20. Our family has done every bit of the work. Well, except for a little of the gutters and bulldozer work. We have replaced electrical, plumbing, roofing, refinished old furniture, scrubbed light fixtures, and probably dug up 100 bricks from the yard along with lots and lots of other work. Now, we have this beautiful gem that we want share with the world! :)

What makes this property unique

There are so many unique things about this property! First off, it's right on the water! The wildlife is entertaining on its own. If you're sitting on the pier late in the evening, Beatrice the Beaver (Yes, we named it. Not really sure on gender just liked the name) will swim by. If you hear a loud clap noise, it's her letting you know she's there. There is great fishing, we ate catfish last week that our boys caught from the pier. With the treehouse feel from the deck, the squirrels are everywhere! Careful, I think they aim for your head when throwing nuts. Just playing, they only got me twice. We have bought birdhouses locally made and put them out for the birds, there are a lot of birds. The boating is great! There is an island right across from the house! It is Smithsonian Island. We are pretty much right in the middle of Waterloo and Florence marina on the water on Colbert County side. Mulberry Creek is really close, it's a nice paddle in the kayaks.
Another unique feature of this property is the care and thoughtfulness that we have put into every detail to make it feel like a home away from home. From the time you walk in the front door to the time you're sitting down on the pier. We want everyone that stays here to feel at home.

Languages:

English

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