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Large Historic Estate on the shores of Lake Winona

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Dining
Exterior
Interior
Property grounds
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

9 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 124400 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Alexandria, MN
  • Place, Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Place, Big Ole Viking Statue
    ‪11 min walk‬
  • Place, Douglas County Historical Society
    ‪1 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Alexandria

This vacation home places you within a leisurely stroll of Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum and Runestone Museum. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a refrigerator.
View more Vacation Homes in AlexandriaOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum - 10 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Big Ole Viking Statue - 11 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Runestone Museum - 11 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Douglas County Historical Society - 1 min drive - 1.0 mile
  • Big Splash Indoor Waterpark - 8 min drive - 5.3 miles

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Taco John's - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Eagles 3063 - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Great Hunan - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬3 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Large Historic Estate on the shores of Lake Winona

Welcome to {Starling House}. This spacious historic home is an architectural gem nestled in the heart of Alexandria’s historic district on the shores of peaceful Lake Winona. This elegant estate built in 1909 boasts 8 bedrooms plus a seasonal sleeping porch totaling 11 beds and 2.5 baths. With original features such as solid wood floors, stained glass, gorgeous built-ins, a grand staircase, a sleeping porch, and more, Starling House exudes charm and character on all 4 levels.

Amenities:
- Fully equipped kitchen & original butler’s pantry
- Luxurious bedding, towels & toiletries
- Complimentary Wi-Fi & smart TV
- Gas fireplace
- Pack ‘n play available for guest use
- Ample on-site parking
- Peaceful waterfront property on non-motorized lake with dock and paddleboat(Note: not an ideal swimming lake due to excessively nutrient-rich water)
- Outdoor fire pit with plenty of firewood
- Fishing rods & tackle
- Yard games
- Ping-pong table
- Seasonally decorated for fall and Christmas

Location:
Starling House is situated in the silk stocking district of Alexandria renowned for its rich history and walking distance to historic downtown. We are extremely close to the following local attractions:
- Historic downtown featuring shops and restaurants
- Legacy of the lakes museum and gardens
- Alexandria Chamber of Commerce
- Big Ole Park (Home of the farmer’s market, art market, skating rink, Big Ole statue, bike trail access)
- Runestone Museum
- Central Lakes Trail

Ideal for:
- Lodging for groups
- Family reunions
- Retreats
- Book clubs
- Bridal parties
- Holiday parties
- Photoshoots
- Weddings

Short-Term Rental License #2175
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and 2.5 bathrooms, and there's space to spread out with 9 bedrooms. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 9 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace

Entertainment

  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Porch/lanai

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 4,400 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 50
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 50.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do around this vacation home?

This vacation home is located in Alexandria, a short 11-minute walk from Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum and also 14 minutes on foot from Big Ole Viking Statue. You'll also find Lake Latoka and Big Splash Indoor Waterpark within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Large Historic Estate on the shores of Lake Winona?

No, there isn't parking available at the vacation home.

Is this vacation home next to a casino?

No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?

No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Large Historic Estate on the shores of Lake Winona?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this vacation home include a fireplace, a smart TV, and a kitchen.

Are there hot tubs at Large Historic Estate on the shores of Lake Winona?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this vacation home.

Does this vacation home include breakfast service?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.

Are there connecting rooms at Large Historic Estate on the shores of Lake Winona?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this vacation home.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Large Historic Estate on the shores of Lake Winona?

Yes, every house at Large Historic Estate on the shores of Lake Winona comes with a porch/lanai.

Large Historic Estate on the shores of Lake Winona Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 28 out of 28 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 28 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 28 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 28 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 28 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cristina P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A wonderful and charming house for a writers’ retreat! The hosts are very responsive, and the rooms are lovely.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is a beautiful home to stay in. We were having a girls weekend and absolutely had a great time. The place and hosts were very accommodating. We would definitely stay here again if we came to Alexandria.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tommy F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was very beautiful! Great location, plenty of parking, plenty of space. Host was very communicative about check in and check out. Everything went smoothly and was a great stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debbie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful old home

Great house to be with family
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Drake W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful 100 plus year old homr with true character. Plenty of rooms for all of us. Perfect for our family!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael N.

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

Mike

Plenty of space and the game room on lower level is a great place for the family.We enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lynn F.

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

Great Golf Weekend

Beautiful Old Mansion with lots of room.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

TonyPJommas p.

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

Xmas

We had a wonderful weekend get together here. Beautiful house and the hosts are excellent!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alex A.

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

Annual Buddies Golf Trip

The perfect location for our large group playing golf in the area. The many bedrooms and the several common areas, inside and outside, provide the perfect setting for a relaxing stay. Impeccably decorated and maintained historic property.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Randall D.

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

Starling 2024

Beautiful home in a nice neighborhood close to downtown and great shopping! Great place for a family to stay. Has all the amenities you need. Check-in was simple. We loved our stay!
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Charlene L.

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

Beautiful Historic Home!

We truly enjoyed our annual family ladies weekend at this home. We each had our own room and the common spaces were very comfortable. Loved the historical aspect of the home. Communication from the owners was great! Would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Starling House was perfect for a women’s gathering. We enjoyed the historical information on the home. The host was very responsive when we had a question. Everything was clean and well-maintained. This setting gave us easy access to pontoon rental and a visit to a winery.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lauren D.

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

A Trip to Remember

We booked this stay for my sister and her bridal party. We had the most wonderful time. The house is absolutely beautiful, every single detail was so well thought out. The location of the house was perfect. I cannot recommend this place enough! Thank you so much for making this trip so memorable for my sister and her ladies!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amy N.

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

Perfect for our large family

The house is beautiful and no detail went un-noticed. Loved how the decor and furniture felt like it fit with the history and era of the house. Plenty of space amongst the 4 levels and yard. Ample parking. Loved the dock and paddle boat. Would love to come back and do it again sometime!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wanda D.

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

Gathering of Friends

Loved the property, communication with the owners, and their careful attention to details of the historic property. This was a perfect place for 8 women to connect. We each had our own room with beautiful common areas to cook, eat, and hang out together. We biked, kayaked, and hiked nearby. Loved how walkable the area was for listening to music and visiting area businesses.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bonnie A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wow! Just wow! Stayed at The Starling House for my the weekend of daughter's wedding at Carlos Creek Winery. The home is beautiful and the pictures don’t do it justice! Everything we needed was provided and our large family enjoyed every minute of our stay. The bridesmaids all got ready at the house and we took some amazing photos around the house. Thank you for helping make great memories! Will definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emily S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Starling house was beyond amazing! I think we said 100 times how cute, pretty, and beautiful the house was. We loved that history of the house has been preserved. The amount of bedrooms was a bonus for our large group, as we didn’t have to share rooms with one another. The house is furnished with anything you could think of, and was very clean. I could go on and on about the house. 10/10 would come back to stay there again. We loved it!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brenda S.

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

Carlos Creek Girls Weekend

This property is amazing. We love the historical homes and pretended we lived in that era. The beds were comfy ,cozy and we all slept great. Easy check-in and check out is a breeze. We thought 10am was a bit early as at previous properties it was always 11am. Everything was absolutely wonderful for our stay. I would like to stay over Christmas just to see the house decorated.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Skye T.

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

Our laughter filled the house during our restful weekend stay

We had an amazing stay here for a long weekend celebration of friendship and sisterhood! The atmosphere was lovely and the accommodations had everything that we needed. It was great being so close to downtown, but also having a (mostly) quiet neighborhood. The race track was loud from 6:30-10:30 on Saturday and Sunday night for the holiday weekend. Other than that, it was a very peaceful experience. We want to make this trip an annual tradition!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Danielle F.

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

Love the Starling House!

My husband, some friends & family, & myself stayed at the Starling House the weekend of our wedding. We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful place for our grooms dinner, to get ready at, & take our bridal party photos. There was plenty of room for several people to stay with us , have our dinner (& be stuck inside due to rain!), & each room was gorgeous. It is easily to tell the heart that went into this home. Thank you for making our wedding weekend so special!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Della J.

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

A Christmas to remember

This was absolutely the perfect house for the ten of us. The house is gorgeous, the linens are superior. The hosts left the house decorated for Christmas and it was beautiful. We loved this old house and the history of it. Thank you so much for sharing your home with us. It was a Christmas to remember.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stacy N.

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

Goddess Weekend

6 women spent a restful and challenging weekend together in this beautiful home. Beds are comfortable. Home is beautiful and cozy. Our chef commented that this was the most comfortable kitchen she has ever worked in. For an old house, it was remarkably quiet and not drafty! May or may not be haunted…depends on who you ask. ;). Would definitely recommend and would definitely stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jerolyn J.

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

Girl Cousins' Annual Getaway Weekend

The Starling House was a perfect spot for our annual girl cousins’ getaway weekend. We are all 60+ and the beautiful home brought us back to the past because we all lived in similar houses during our childhoods. We loved the convenient location, privacy, spacious rooms and gorgeous woodwork throughout the house. Old homes have a lot of quirks, and this one did not disappoint! The owners did a great job of combining modern conveniences with vintage appeal. We will book again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

L. S.

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

Annual Writing Retreat

Nine of us gathered at the Starling House for a full week, each with our own bedroom. We gathered each evening for in the living room for sharing our writing done during the day-- the living room was the perfect size for conversations with comfortable couches and chairs, good lighting and even a smart TV for sharing visuals, if we needed. The porches were perfect for morning coffee and places to write during the day. The beautiful dining room was where we dined together every night and the kitchen and pantry were stocked to meet all of our needs. The beds were so comfortable! Everything was comfortable and lovely. We are definitely coming back!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

cam d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025