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The Redbud Cottage--Beach & Quiet. Lake Sara Waterfront & Wood Fires.

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Our Redbud Cottage in Summer
Fires by the lake all year. Swimming dock, great in the Summer, Spring, or Fall.
Canoe, kayaks, and calm water. Beautiful Lake Sara in the Fall.
Come inside to enjoy our wood burning fireplace, with wood stacked by the door
Living room with fireplace. Master suite is upstairs.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 12139.4 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View map
Effingham, IL
  • Place, Lake Sara
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Effingham Performance Center
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Place, Lake Shelbyville
    ‪52 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Glenna's Room

1 King Bed

Master Bedroom

1 King Bed

Redbud Room

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms

Main Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Master Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Redbud Cottage--Beach & Quiet. Lake Sara Waterfront & Wood Fires.

Located in the heart of central Illinois, the Redbud Cottage at Lake Sara is a great destination for families or friends, or a perfect stopover for a trip through the Great Midwest. With your own swimming beach, a floating dock to play on, a beautiful wood-burning fireplace, a dock for fishing, and a large deck for sitting in the sun, enjoy the peace and quiet of our little wooded cottage on the lake.

Our beach is SHARED by the Hartmann's grandchildren a few days each Summer. But our grandchildren are still young, will be supervised by adults, and won't use the beach while guests are using the beach or the dock (for example while fishing).

Every season is beautiful on Lake Sara, with Spring and Fall being particularly pretty and quiet. The Summer water is wonderful for swimming, and warm from May through September. Enjoy eating on our old family picnic table by the water. Watch the kids swim or play on the beach, or have fun taking a lovely float yourself in Lake Sara's clean, warm water.

Wake boarding, tubing, and water skiing are local favorites. There is good fishing for bass, crappie, catfish, and blue gill, especially in the Spring and Fall. Lake Sara sets aside special quiet hours for fishermen. Winter is a great time for crisp woodsy walks and warming fires.

Our 3 bedroom, 2 bath cottage sleeps ONLY 6 adults (per local regulations) and a "reasonable amount" of children. We have 3 "very comfortable" [Guest reviews] king size beds and a couple of wonderful wide sleeping couches in front of the fireplace. We have sleeping bags for children and a crib for babies. Our kitchen and downstairs were completely remodeled in early 2021. We have a Keurig Coffemaker, a French coffee press, a dishwasher, and all new dishes and pots and pans. Our washer and dryer and two-car garage make this a perfect spot for an extended stay. A canoe and 5 kayaks are available for the use of our guests.

Inside, enjoy the separation of a master suite upstairs, as well as the two-and-a-half story, book-filled living room with its massive stone fireplace. You can burn local wood that you'll find stacked at your door. One of our favorite sports is sitting with a book in front of the fire--wine and s'mores are optional.

Our lot is full of tall, beautiful oaks and maples, and is in a pretty neighborhood on the quiet western end of Lake Sara. Redbud trees line Lorton road and are being planted among our woods, bringing their vivid purple/pink flowers in Spring. Views from our huge deck are all water and trees--you can only see one other house. The Lake is surrounded by good Illinois farmland, so it's a wonderful spot for long flat bike rides and walks.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
On lake--Lifejackets needed! We have many sizes.
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Events

No events allowed
Renters having loud parties will be ejected.
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Pets

No pets allowed
Sorry. We are always a No Pets property.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking allowed out in our yard and by the lake.

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights
Please leave the kitchen as clean as you found it, as far as possible. Our housekeeper has plenty of work to do without doing dishes. Also, please make sure all trash is bagged & in tall garage can.
Please leave all linens on the beds, and all towels hanging in the bathrooms. Our housekeeper will deal with them – – and it is not always clear if she will arrive quickly after your departure!
Please moderate heat or air conditioning on departing. And leave house door unlocked, and depart using the large garage door. Travel safely!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please leave Kitchen as Clean as you found it! We'll have the rest of the cottage & laundry cleaned for you.
Please, No Outside Noise (on decks or by the water) after 10 p.m. and before 8 a.m. We live in a quiet neighborhood with mostly retired neighbors!
Please use your heads when using Cottage Linens and Blankets. Our Housekeeper has to Wash Every Item you pull out! Please use just what you need.

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: Renters having loud parties will be ejected.
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

Effingham

Located in Effingham, this cottage is in a rural area and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Ballard Nature Center and Lake Sara, while Effingham Performance Center and Mid America Motorworks, My Garage Museum are cultural highlights. Travelling with kids? Consider Bliss Park and Effingham County Fairgrounds. Kayaking and waterskiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and cycling nearby.
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Map
Effingham, IL

What's nearby

  • Lake Sara - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Cardinal Golf Course - 13 min drive - 9.3 km
  • Effingham Performance Center - 20 min drive - 17.5 km
  • Effingham County Courthouse - 22 min drive - 15.3 km
  • Lake Shelbyville - 52 min drive - 61.0 km

Getting around

  • Effingham Station - 23 min drive
  • Champaign, IL (CMI-University Of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Williard) - 80 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Casey's General Store - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Sbarro - ‬19 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Redbud Cottage--Beach & Quiet. Lake Sara Waterfront & Wood Fires. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at The Redbud Cottage--Beach & Quiet. Lake Sara Waterfront & Wood Fires.?

As of 3 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Redbud Cottage--Beach & Quiet. Lake Sara Waterfront & Wood Fires. on 12 May 2026 start from NZ$378, 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 The Redbud Cottage--Beach & Quiet. Lake Sara Waterfront & Wood Fires.?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Redbud Cottage--Beach & Quiet. Lake Sara Waterfront & Wood Fires.?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Redbud Cottage--Beach & Quiet. Lake Sara Waterfront & Wood Fires.?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Redbud Cottage--Beach & Quiet. Lake Sara Waterfront & Wood Fires. located?

This family-friendly Effingham cottage is located on the waterfront, steps from Lake Sara and within 9 mi (15 km) of Bliss Park and Village Square Mall. Ballard Nature Center and Cardinal Golf Course are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

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. 430 out of 486 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 51 out of 486 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 5 out of 486 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 486 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 486 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dustin C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great property. We had a relaxing stay. It's kind of close to the neighbors, but also feels isolated. We would stay again if in the area.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shana D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Dave's stay in Effingham has become our go-to for when our family gets together. There's plenty of space to not feel crammed and the patio is super nice to grill and be by the water. We ran into a few minor issues but nothing that took away from our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

BUNNY N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was great!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cathy W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything as described, very cozy!!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
great house on the lake
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Melinda G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was wonderful. The property clean and stocked with all we could need for our stay. Plenty for the kids to do outdoors as well as inside. The kayaks, firepit and fishing/boat dock made being outside in 60 degree weather comfy for the whole day. So much firewood. The hammock was nice and relaxing also!! We will be back again and again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

ERIC A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The fireplace was incredible and gave such a cozy feel in winter and the view of the lake is a thing of dreams. It is an incredibly relaxed and serene place to stay!
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jill G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is our third (or fourth?!) time staying at the Red Bud Cottage. The peaceful lake and cozy fireplace keep us coming back! The beds are comfortable and David is always the most gracious and accommodating host. It won’t be our last visit for sure!
An early March dusting of snow at the cottage!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bkab M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was amazing! Everyone who stayed had nothing but good things to say when leaving. Definitely would love to come back sometime in the summer!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Zhen yu O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The lake house is beautifully situated in a peaceful and serene area. It is modern and cozy with nice rustic features. A well layout place that felt larger inside with it's grand fireplace and cathedral ceilings. It also has an attached garage for your convenience. There were plenty of amenities that will provide hours of entertainment both inside and outside. Supply depots and restaurants are just 15 minutes out. The owners were very informative and responded to questions promptly. You couldn't ask for more a pleasant and accommodating host. We look forward to staying here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Teresa M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Overall we do enjoy being there its a great place to just relax and enjoy the outdoors. The weather was perfect. The cottage does need some TLC, furniture in the main family room needs to be replaced. Beds are very comfortable. Outdoor grill needed some bolts to hold the lid on, brother fixed that. Windows outside need to be cleaned more often, cobwebs all over the place. Railings inside going upstairs are wobbly. Arcadia doors are hard to open and close. Just in general more maintenance neeeds to be done.
Stayed 10 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a great, relaxing stay! View from the wall of windows in the living room was stunning! Beds were comfortable and hosts were so helpful and responsive!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Greg F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay, the home is very comfortable, great view and well located. The host was extremely responsive as well.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Jason M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Host was very responsive, had a good time on the lake
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mariah S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an incredibly accommodating stay at rosebud cottage! The location was perfect; right on the lake yet very quiet and peaceful. The cottage had everything we could need, specifically the easy access kayaks!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Gretchen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very lovely location. Beautiful lake experience.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Redbud Cottage is a cozy and inviting place. Owners were so helpful and responsive. We had a lovely, relaxing weekend!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maria W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had the BEST home away from home stay at beautiful Redbud Cottage! Host David was so kind, and great to communicate with. He let us check in early, which we really appreciated getting to start our getaway a little earlier! The cottage is very clean, the kitchen updates are beautiful, elevated, and convenient- very easy to use! We slept in the master bedroom- bed was very comfortable! Our kids are older, but the cottage is thoughtfully set up for families with young children too (crib in master, stairs are safeguarded with paneling, things we would have appreciated when ours were younger). Lake views are stunning! March weather over our stay was not as outdoor friendly (we’ll have to come back to enjoy the kayaks and fires by the lake!), so we enjoyed cozy inside activities and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The book collection they have is fabulous and fun to peruse also! Can’t say enough great things about the hosts or the cottage. Every touch of home was here, we’re leaving with beautiful new memories made, and we appreciate it so much.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ahmet S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
It was a great lake house, clean, calm and peaceful.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dawn R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We thoroughly enjoyed this property and the hosts were so kind and helpful. Beds are super comfortable and we had plenty of room to spread out and enjoy our little getaway. Super clean, too! The neighbors and their dogs are really sweet, too! We do plan to revisit Redbud Cottage again!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Darrell D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved it
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marie R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
I have never rented with VRBO until this visit. There is no particular reason aside from that we have Wyndham, like to cruise and other random reasons. This was EXCELLENT! The cottage was exactly as described and the owner was very responsive with my questions. Everything was in good working order and had everything that would be needed for a stay. I would 100% rent this cottage again!
We really enjoyed the fireplace
Plenty of room
Even has some water sports
Serene
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hannah S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely loved the house it was so convenient to everything and the lake was wonderful.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Peter B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful house and even better setting on the lake with all the amenities that make it perfect. Just wish more fish would bite! Enjoyed the kitchen/fireplace and hanging by the lake-even enjoyed an outing on a kayak. Great place to restore our souls!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pete H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
House was nice great location. We definitely stay there again
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

About the host

Hosted by David Hartmann

Host profile image
Dee and I grew up in Effingham, and I spent all my Summers on Lake Sara from the time I was five. We love this beautiful quiet lake, and own the white brick house next door, which we purchased in 1987.

We regularly swim laps from our dock around the point to the Redbud Cottage dock and back. This quiet cove is a gem for swimming, and has beautiful views across the lake to the undeveloped public land one sees there. Many of our nights here are spent out by our fire pit overlooking the lake, where we get to watch the sun set and the stars rise over the lake's calm waters.

We live on Lake Sara full time now, though often travel so see our children and grandchildren. My extended family still owns my Mother's house--the 'famous' Green House--on the far end of the lake by the dam. So, we're very familiar with Lake Sara, with Effingham, and with our lovely Central Illinois area. We're happy to answer any of your questions, and make suggestions for dining or day trips here in the Great Midwest.

We hope you'll enjoy your stay on Lake Sara as much as we enjoy living here.

Why they chose this property

We were happy to be able to secure this pretty cottage with its stunning fireplace after our long-term neighbors decided to give it up. We admit to lusting after the pleasant little beach that is a feature of The Redbud Cottage. We are now able to play with our grandchildren on it!
Our neighborhood, in fact our whole end of the lake, is very quiet and wooded. Things are much less developed around us than they are on most of the rest of Lake Sara.
We have five grown children, all of whom are married. They spent most of their holidays and hundreds of long weekends here as they were growing up. They learned to swim like fish here, became very capable skiers and wake boarders, and built forts in our woods (you can still see the ruins).

What makes this property unique

I don't think you can beat the view from the cottage out to the lake. And, sitting on the dock, one has unobstructed views the full length of Shumway cove, Lake Sara's smoothest and quietest water.

Few of Lake Sara's lots have their own beach. This one has a long sloping sand entrance into the water, perfect for children or for those who want to cool off without actually swimming. This quiet cove, just off the main lake channel, is narrow enough to swim across, but wide enough to be private. The land just across from the Redbud Cottage is public land that will never have houses built on it.

Languages:

French, Spanish

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