Entire home

Oak Hill Retreat

Photo gallery for Oak Hill Retreat

A house with a covered porch, a bench, and a table with chairs.
A bedroom with a bed, a ceiling fan, a nightstand, a chair, a bookshelf, and a patterned wall.
A bathroom with a shower curtain, toilet, sink, vanity, and a window with a view.
A cozy living room with a fireplace, a large window, and various framed pictures on the walls.
A staircase with wooden steps and a blue couch in a living area.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
Located in a rural setting, this vacation home features 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, accommodating 4 guests. Enjoy adventures like mountain biking and fishing nearby. The property includes a patio, with golf options available nearby. It is also pet-friendly and situated near Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. and Decorah Bald Eagles.

Highlights

  • Sledding nearby

    A rare find — snowy slopes for sledding are just minutes away.

  • Centrally-located

    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Toys
  • Patio
  • Dog-friendly
  • Onsite parking available
  • Air-conditioning
  • Internet

Explore the area

View map
Decorah, IA
  • Place, Toppling Goliath Brewing Co.
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Decorah Bald Eagles
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Decorah Fish Hatchery
    ‪9 min drive‬

Where you'll sleep

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Main Floor Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Upstairs Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Main Floor Bath

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet

Upstairs Bathroom

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

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden

About this property

Oak Hill Retreat

Oak Hill Retreat is located just outside Decorah. It is minutes away from the world famous Toppling Goliath Brewery. But there is SO much more to explore in Decorah! Did you know we have 3 waterfalls? This house is the definition of eclectic cozy. I have spent the last 6 years finding the right mix of color and light to give this space its unique personality. Staying here gives you the peace and quiet of the country but you are just minutes from town. Each bedroom has its own private bath.
Main floor bedroom has a private bathroom with shower/tub right across the hall way. Upstairs bathroom has an attached bathroom with a shower. Each bedroom has a queen bed in it and a full closet. Note: I do live in the basement, but it is a separate apartment. There is no shared space.
You will have access to a full kitchen, dining and living room. There are two queen bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The upstairs also has a sitting area with a desk.
Note: This house is located on a gravel road, so please be weather aware. Property has three exterior cameras.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 21

Check out before 10:00 AM

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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

I don't have any cribs or pack n' plays available

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Events

No events allowed

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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)

Please pick up after and leash your dogs outside

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:

Gather used towels

Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish

Turn off the lights and lock the doors

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

This house has 2 queen beds and a max of 4 people. $25/night charge for over 2 beds or over 4 people. Must be pre-authorized with host

Important information

You need to know

Property # 3969936vb
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
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Decorah

Located in Decorah, this holiday home is in a rural area. Porter House Museum and Locust School are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Decorah Bald Eagles and Ice Cave Hill Park. Decorah Fish Hatchery and Agora are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as ice skating, sledging and snowmobiling.
View more Holiday homes in DecorahOpens in a new window
Map
Decorah, IA

What's nearby

  • Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. - 5 min drive - 3.2 km
  • Decorah Bald Eagles - 9 min drive - 9.2 km
  • Decorah Fish Hatchery - 9 min drive - 9.5 km
  • Upper Iowa Speedway - 9 min drive - 9.9 km
  • Agora - 10 min drive - 10.3 km

Getting around

  • Waterloo, IA (ALO-Waterloo Regional) - 91 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Dixie's Biergarten - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Family Table Decorah - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Casey's General Store - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Impact Coffee - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Culver's - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Oak Hill Retreat pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much does it cost to stay at Oak Hill Retreat?

As of 18 September 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Oak Hill Retreat on 17 November 2026 start from NZ$299, 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 Oak Hill Retreat?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Oak Hill Retreat?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Oak Hill Retreat?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Oak Hill Retreat located?

Situated in a rural location, this holiday home is 1.3 mi (2.1 km) from Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. and within 6 miles (10 km) of Mayo Clinic Health System and Winneshiek Medical Center. Decorah Bald Eagles and Decorah Fish Hatchery are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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 43 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 43 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 43 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 43 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 43 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Place was fantastic! Would stay here again!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great experience at the Oak Hill Retreat in Decorah! We moved our son to Luther College and went to the house to relax. It’s such cozy home, beautifully decorated with unique artwork, and super comfortable beds. We were only there one night, but it was perfect for us!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is such a cool property, it was perfect for us. It really feels like you are out in the country, yet it is not far from any of the places we wanted to visit in Decorah, including Topping Goliath. It is beautifully decorated and very comfortable. We enjoyed sitting on the front porch, watching fireflies while cuddling with the super affectionate barn cat Soot. We would love to stay here again next time we are in Decorah.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a beautiful home and so close to Decorah. We will definitely go back again!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Clean, quiet, nice country setting,
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location for visiting Luther College.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
We loved the home so much what a beautiful space it felt so cozy and very close to everything in town as well
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Serene and charming- perfect spot to recover after a busy day.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 12 January 2026
Denise was a quiet, communicative guest! Thanks for staying! Welcome back anytime!
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved this cozy retreat as a base to enjoy all Decorah has to offer. Lovely setting and comfy accommodations!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
House was clean and owner was extremely responsive!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean and nicely decorated. It had everything we needed to have a fun Thanksgiving.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful location. Very welcoming. Happy to go there again!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful place, and the sweet kitty made so warming. The area is interesting as well.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My friend and I went for a girls weekend trip and this place was perfect!! Having 2 separate bedrooms and bathrooms was very convenient. The home was very clean and cozy. The host had extra blankets in the living room and the bedrooms, and we were even greeted with a gift basket of goodies and a house plant for a present! We felt very welcomed. Our host even had handmade items around the house that you could buy for gifts or souvenirs. The house is out remotely located, not high traffic. It was peaceful and quiet (there is no TV). It was perfect for us because that is what we wanted. The host even had a small library of books you could read or buy while you were there. And of course, I can't leave Soot(the outside cat) out! Even he made us feel welcomed! If you want peace, quiet and beautiful nature scenery, then this place is for you! We will definitely be back! Thanks Elise for being an amazing host and sharing your space with us!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very cute property in a rural area but close enough to all of Decorah’s adventures. Our host was very accommodating and the home was clean and exactly what we needed for our stay. Would stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great place to stay

Clean and convenient. Make sure you bring shampoo and conditioner
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was the PERFECT getaway for a babymoon! We were able to unplug and enjoy each other’s company before we welcome our little one. Elise was very easy to communicate with and I will definitely be trying to plan another trip back soon! We loved having a little outdoor friend to pet too :)
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 January 2026
Thank you Peyton! Be glad to have you back. I'm so glad you enjoyed your stay!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Decorah trip

Nice place. We enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Family vacation

Wonderful, quiet location near town. Lots of space for the kids to spread out. We cooked most of our meals and found the kitchen to be very functional.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice country atmosphere. We really enjoyed sitting outside and chatting with our friends and not dealing with traffic noise.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Great Spot

Very clean, good communication with host.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

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

Fishing trip

Fishing trop. Good location for Driftless fishing.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice. Quiet. Relaxing.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

Oak Hill Retreat stay

Wonderful, quiet retreat under a canopy of trees in the countryside. Clean and cozy, with updated technology. We will be back.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

About the host

Hosted by Elise Skellenger

Host profile image

I have lived in Decorah since 2008 and I work as a realtor, so please let me know if you have any questions about the area!

Why they chose this property

I enjoy living in the country but still being close to town. I have great neighbors and it is very peaceful out here.

What makes this property unique

The house is surrounded by woods, so you really feel tucked in. I've also had a lot of fun decorating the house with the fun artwork that I have collected and made throughout the years. Why be boring when you can be extra?

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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