Entire home

Zen Den Oasis: Retreat in Nature, 4-Bedroom Home on 10 Acres of Private Land

Vacation home in Cottage Grove with kitchen and patio

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Photo gallery for Zen Den Oasis: Retreat in Nature, 4-Bedroom Home on 10 Acres of Private Land

Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Smart TV
Interior
4 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, travel crib, WiFi
Dining

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms2 bathrooms

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
  • Gym
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Cottage Grove, MN
  • Place, Afton State Park
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Afton Alps Ski Area
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Airport, St. Paul, MN (STP-St. Paul Downtown)
    ‪24 min drive‬

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About the neighborhood

Cottage Grove

This vacation home places you within a 10-minute drive of Afton Alps Ski Area and Afton State Park. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a patio, and a refrigerator.

What's nearby

  • Afton State Park - 9 min drive - 6.5 miles
  • Prestwick Golf Club - 9 min drive - 4.9 miles
  • Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park - 9 min drive - 6.6 miles
  • Afton Alps Ski Area - 10 min drive - 7.1 miles
  • Afton Alps Golf Course - 10 min drive - 7.3 miles

Getting around

  • Saint Paul Union Depot - 24 min drive
  • St. Paul, MN (STP-St. Paul Downtown) - 28 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Junction 70 Grill - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Carbone's Kitchen & Pub - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Burger King - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Wendy's - ‬9 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.

Zen Den Oasis: Retreat in Nature, 4-Bedroom Home on 10 Acres of Private Land

Discover the perfect balance of peace and convenience at this Zen-inspired retreat just 20-30 minutes from the cities and 10 minutes from Afton State Park. This tranquil home offers a calming escape without sacrificing urban accessibility. Relax in the spacious yard surrounded by nature or explore nearby trails, parks, and city attractions. Whether you’re unwinding or adventuring, seeking a quiet escape or family getaway, this harmonious haven has everything you need.

THE SPACE:
Escape to this peaceful, Zen-inspired retreat nestled in the heart of a serene forest. This spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers tranquility and comfort, making it the perfect getaway for families, friends, or those seeking a quiet refuge.

Inside the home, guests will have access to:
- High-speed wifi
- Two inviting living areas, each with:
- A 65" smart Roku TV for cozy movie nights
- A plethora of games and books (kid-friendly)
- A fully equipped kitchen with the following amenities/appliances:
- Toaster
- Oven
- Stove
- Water boiler/kettle
- Rice maker
- Air fryer
- Slowcooker/Crockpot
- Ninja blender
- Microwave
- Kid-safe plates, bowls, utensils, and cups
- A 55" TV in the master bedroom
- Clean towels

Outside the home, this 10-acre private property boasts:
- A patio, where guests can sip their morning coffee or practice yoga
- A fire pit
- A gazebo
- Open areas for picnics and lawn games
- Numerous walking trails, perfect for getting in mindful exercise

Parking: this property has a single-car attached garage, as well as a spacious driveway with space for up to six additional cars.

Located away from the hustle and bustle, yet close enough to local trails and attractions, this home offers the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience. Whether you're seeking relaxation, inspiration, or time to reconnect with loved ones, this forest sanctuary awaits.

HOUSE RULES:
1) Please do not wear shoes inside the house. You may remove them in the garage or keep them near the front door (preferably on the shoe rack).
2) No pets of any kind are allowed on the property.
3) No smoking inside the home. Extra cleaning fees to remove odor and stains may be applied.
4) No hunting of any kind is allowed on the property.
5) Please do not pick or cut any flowers, berries, mushrooms, or other plants from the property. We would like to preserve the natural beauty and serenity of the property.
6) Please wash your dishes after use. If dishes are not washed, extra cleaning fees may be applied.
7) Parking: please only park on the driveway or in the garage (NOT on the grass). If additional parking is needed, please park on Lamar Avenue S.
8) Please do not rearrange the furniture.
9) If guests are suspected of carrying and/or using illegal drugs of any kind, the authorities will be engaged, and GUESTS WILL BE ASKED TO VACATE THE PROPERTY IMMEDIATELY.
10) Please be respectful of the property and keep it clean during your stay and before you leave.
11) No parties.

OTHER THINGS TO NOTE:
We also have some baby equipment like a high chair and Pack 'N' Play crib and mattress on the premises should you need them.

Early check-in or late check-out can sometimes be available with advance notice for $25 if within two hours of check-in/out or $50 if more than two hours before check-in or after check-out. Please check with the host for availability.

Also please note that we have security cameras placed on the exterior of the home, pointing outward. They are located:
- On the doorbell
- On the garage keypad
- On the side of the garage by the garbage bins
- On the side of the house facing the side yard (2)
- Overlooking the patio
- On the back of the garage facing the backyard
- On the front of the house facing the driveway
These cameras are for safety and security. There are no cameras inside the home.

LOCATION:
This home is located:
- 10 minutes from Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park
- 12 minutes from Afton State Park and Afton Alps
- 12 minutes from Afton Apple Orchard
- 23 minutes from Science Museum of Minnesota
- 25 minutes from Minnesota Children's Museum
- 25 minutes from Minnesota History Center
- 25 minutes from James J Hill House
- 25 minutes from MSP International Airport
- 25 minutes from Mall of America
- 28 minutes from Fort Snelling State Park
- 30 minutes from Xcel Energy Center
- 31 minutes from Como Park and Zoo Conservatory
- 35 minutes from Target Center
- 35 minutes from US Bank Stadium
- 35 minutes from Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms. Other standard amenities include a coffee maker, an ironing board, and a travel crib.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Ski

  • Close to skiing
  • Snowboarding nearby

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

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

Entertainment

  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Garden
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa

Things to do

  • Gym
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

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
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden

Policies

Check-in

Contactless check-in available

Check-out

Contactless check-out available

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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

No hunting of any kind is allowed on the property.
Please do not wear shoes inside the house. You may remove them in the garage or keep them near the front door (preferably on the shoe rack).
Please wash your dishes after use. If dishes are not washed, extra cleaning fees may be applied.

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

No events allowed

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
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 first aid kit and a deadbolt lock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • 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.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Long-term renters welcome.

Frequently asked questions

What can I see near this vacation home?

This vacation home is located in Cottage Grove, close to Afton Alps Golf Course, Afton Alps Ski Area, and Afton State Park. You'll also find Tamarack Village and Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park nearby.

Is there parking available at this vacation home?

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.

Is there an indoor pool at this vacation home?

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

Is Zen Den Oasis: Retreat in Nature, 4-Bedroom Home on 10 Acres of Private Land good for couples?

Couples staying at this vacation home will appreciate amenities like a kitchen and a smart TV as well as a garden.

Are there hot tubs at Zen Den Oasis: Retreat in Nature, 4-Bedroom Home on 10 Acres of Private Land?

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

Does this vacation home offer breakfast?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?

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

Are there connecting rooms at this vacation home?

No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Where is the closest airport to this vacation home?

The closest major airport to this vacation home is St. Paul, MN (STP-St. Paul Downtown), which is 17.7 mi away (28 minutes by car). Another top airport is Minneapolis - St. Paul Intl. Airport (MSP), which is located 20.7 mi away (32-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies at Zen Den Oasis: Retreat in Nature, 4-Bedroom Home on 10 Acres of Private Land?

Yes, every accommodation at Zen Den Oasis: Retreat in Nature, 4-Bedroom Home on 10 Acres of Private Land comes with a deck.

Zen Den Oasis: Retreat in Nature, 4-Bedroom Home on 10 Acres of Private Land Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 15 out of 15 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 15 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Kelli H.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had a great stay and couldn’t have been happier with this property. The house was very clean, well furnished, and had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The host was extremely communicative and helpful from start to finish, which made the whole experience easy and stress-free. The home worked out great for our ski trip (10 min drive to Afton Alps) and we would absolutely stay here again and recommend it to others. Thank you, Mandy!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jon W. F.

Liked: Cleanliness
We stayed at the Zen Den for three days over Thanksgiving and it helped us have a wonderful holiday with our daughter’s family of five. The house is spacious, very tastefully decorated, and the separate upstairs and downstairs entertainment areas allowed for an enjoyable mix of full family activities and more quiet and relaxing smaller group or individual time. The kitchen is very well equipped for making a variety of meals including eating and cooking utensils, a mix of pots and pans, as well as small appliances. We made good use of the convenient and well stocked coffee bar each morning. From the date I booked the Zen Den and throughout our stay, Mandy was immediately responsive to my inquiries and provided detailed information that enhanced our experience.We will definitely look forward to opportunities for returning to the Zen Den during future visits to the area.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angela H., Austin, TX

Liked: Cleanliness
We loved staying at a place in the woods and yet it was close to the family in Woodbury that we were visiting. It was nice walking the trails. Wild turkeys were in the yard a couple of times. Mandy was a great host.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gifty A.

Liked: Cleanliness
No really, the toaster oven was not working. There was no salt for cooking. We have to buy our own salt. The bread we bought could not be toasted because of the bad toaster. There were not cleaning supplies to clean the toilet seat or the bathroom. But overall, the place was very nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

jessica h.

Liked: Cleanliness
Mandy was a outstanding host, very prompt with anwsering any questions and checking in to making sure everything went smoothly. The house was absolutely gorgeous in every aspect. Loved all the added amenities in the kitchen and activities.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian K.

Liked: Cleanliness
The property was very clean, warm and comfortable. Well kept with clear and easy to understand instructions. The owner was very polite, accessible and helpful. Would highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jim S.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had a great weekend. A little rain the first night but it didn't interfere with any of our activities. Our group of 8 would book this property again.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Charles C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very nice stay. Clean and great area. Close to everything.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie W.

Liked: Cleanliness

5 Wi and 1 Mn transplant ladies weekend

Very nice home, lots of space and very quiet. Close in proximity to Stillwater and Hudson for some fun spa days, hiking, thrifting and lots of places to have a great meal! We made breakfast and lunch at the house and we didn’t have any issues with any appliances or provided items.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eric B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very relaxing stay.Family saw deer,turkey,rabbits & some cool birds.Would stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Gaowii H.

Liked: Cleanliness
My family and I had a great experience staying at the beautiful Zen Den Oasis home. The home was cozy and welcoming, and it was exactly how it looks in the pictures. We walked around the trails in the back and saw a deer but I wasn't able to take a photo of it. I love how the location provided an aesthetic of nature and it wasn't too secluded from the cities, so if you need to run to the store to grab something it'll be a 15ish minute trip.Mandy was very nice and communicative, she helped answered questions or concerns that my party and I have. She went above and beyond to inform me that some personal items were left behind and help figure out a way to return them. The experience was great and I would definitely book again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anne J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect gathering place

Open kitchen/family/dining area allowed for large and small groups to gather, share, cook and eat together. Den and deck provide additional public spaces on main floor. Park area next door. Lake Harriet short walk away; visible from property. Family requested returning to this place.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Hannah N.

Liked: Cleanliness

Girls Trip To Minneapolis

We had a wonderful stay at the Zen Den. We loved how it was on its own property but not far from the city or necessities. Mandy was an amazing host and very communicative. We'd definitely stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Renee J.

Liked: Cleanliness

The Zen Den oasis lives up to its name

Great getaway that feels like an out of town stay but still close to the Cities. Comfortable and beautifully decorated. Our host was easy to communicate with - would definitely return!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Katherine B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fabulous Friends Weekend

This four bedroom house was the perfect spot for our group to celebrate turning 50! The property is beautiful and offers plenty of space to hike and explore. It is located within 30 miles of many Twin Cities attractions, but is secluded. It was easy to find and there is no traffic. We were able to use Uber to get to our axe throwing experience. Everything is clearly labeled so using the kitchen was easy. Everyone slept well in the comfortable beds. The host is very responsive and ensured we had everything g we needed for a great retreat!
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025