See all properties
Entire home

The Grotto - Family-sized retreat on 10 acres of pristine forest. Pet friendly!

Lakefront vacation home with kitchen and balcony

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for The Grotto - Family-sized retreat on 10 acres of pristine forest. Pet friendly!

Terrace/patio
Game room
Property grounds
Smart TV, fireplace, foosball, books
Exterior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 81936 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

View in a map
Mount Ida, AR
  • Place, Ouachita National Forest
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Nirvana Star Farms
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Wegner Crystal Mines
    ‪18 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Mount Ida

This vacation home places you next to Ouachita National Forest and within a mile (2 km) of Heritage House Museum. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a balcony.
View more Vacation Homes in Mount IdaOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Ouachita National Forest - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Nirvana Star Farms - 4 min drive - 1.8 miles
  • Montgomery County Library - 4 min drive - 1.8 miles
  • Ouachita Artists Gallery and Studio - 4 min drive - 1.6 miles
  • Wegner Crystal Mines - 18 min drive - 7.4 miles

Restaurants

  • ‪Wayseekers Coffee - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪270 Cafe - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪El Diamante - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Dairyette - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Mt. Ida Cafe - ‬5 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.

The Grotto - Family-sized retreat on 10 acres of pristine forest. Pet friendly!

ESCAPE TO THE GROTTO
Your four-bedroom retreat awaits on 10 acres of pristine forest in the Ouachita mountains. Completely renovated, enjoy the finest comforts and the most thoughtful touches, all in a breathtaking setting that will recharge your soul. (Pets welcomed too!)

Tucked at the end of a winding country road, you will be just minutes from quaint Mt. Ida, Lake Ouachita, bike trails, crystal mines, and more. Watch the deer as you sip your morning coffee on the front porch and enjoy the sunrise. Hike up the wooded hillside along trickling streams. Stargaze without a trace of light pollution on the multi-level back deck.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony. There's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.

Similar properties

Exterior

Riverview home at Mt. Ida with spectacular views

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, 24 reviews
Riverview home at Mt. Ida with spectacular views

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

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

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Printer

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In the mountains
  • On a lake
  • On a river

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Foosball table
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing 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)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Unit size: 1,936 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 21

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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
We ask just a few items at check-out: - Please remove the sheets from the beds that were slept in and pile the bedding on the beds - Please place used towels in the washer and start a load
- Please place any dirty dishes in the dishwasher and please start the dishwasher
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees
  • Note from host: Flat fee of $85

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
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
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: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21

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.
  • 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 fire extinguisher, and a smoke detector.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Frequently asked questions

What's there to see within easy reach of this vacation home?

This vacation home is located in Mount Ida, just steps from Ouachita National Forest. You'll also find Nirvana Star Farms and Heritage House Museum within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at this vacation home?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer parking.

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 do couples enjoy most about The Grotto - Family-sized retreat on 10 acres of pristine forest. Pet friendly!?

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

Are there hot tubs at The Grotto - Family-sized retreat on 10 acres of pristine forest. Pet friendly!?

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.

Will this vacation home allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.

Does this vacation home have connecting rooms?

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

Are there rooms with balconies at The Grotto - Family-sized retreat on 10 acres of pristine forest. Pet friendly!?

Yes, every accommodation at The Grotto - Family-sized retreat on 10 acres of pristine forest. Pet friendly! comes with a balcony.

Reviews

The Grotto - Family-sized retreat on 10 acres of pristine forest. Pet friendly! Reviews

10

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 28 out of 30 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 30 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 30 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Troy B.

Liked: Cleanliness
We were looking for quiet and serene and that is exactly what we found at The Grotto. The home is comfortable and inviting. Communications with Brian and Collen were fast and easy, Would definitely recommend a visit here.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michelle K.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had a wonderful stay at The Grotto for our crystal digging weekend! The cabin was clean, cozy and had everything we needed after a full day crystal digging. The location was perfect—close to crystal digging sites and town, yet peaceful and relaxing. Our host was welcoming and responsive, making everything easy. Highly recommend for a perfect getaway!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

April D.

Liked: Cleanliness
It was a beautiful place to stay. Looks like they really put a lot of time and effort into it.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Tammie C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Communication and check in was so simple. The property was clean. The view was serene. The kids enjoyed it and are ready for another weekend get away!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful family vacation

We had a great time. The house was really nice and had plenty of room for us. We loved listening to the birds and watching the bunnies in the meadow.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kelli

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was perfect for our extended family gathering! We were in town for a family reunion and this location was perfect for our part of the bigger group.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Megan H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer G.

Liked: Cleanliness

The Grotto is Amazing!

Loved, loved, loved this place! Also, the owners were so communicative and didn’t blink an eye when I asked if I might be able to add two people (they didn't end up coming but the owners were so open and generous with my request). This place is perfect, peaceful and a wonderful getaway! I wish I could give it ten stars!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dianne G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Home away from home

Second time staying in this house and it didn't disappoint. Owners provided comfortable and whimsical decor.We had excellent communication with the owners.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

shannon r., Tyler, TX

Liked: Cleanliness

Anniversary get a way

Very beautiful place, and very peaceful. The Host's are the most thoughtful folks that we have ever stayed with. We stayed to get away, and celebrate our anniversary. They left an anniversary card at the front door! You can just feel the love and kindness in their home. We will without a doubt be repeat customers.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Katie N.

Liked: Cleanliness

We loved the Grotto!

Our family enjoyed our time at the Grotto. We loved spending the evenings on the back deck eating dinner and making s’mores. The house had everything we needed with plenty of clean towels, blankets, paper towels, toilet paper, spacious laundry room, a stocked kitchen etc. The kids enjoyed exploring the yard and didn’t want to leave. I would definitely recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Nadine G., Texas

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice place in Mt. Ida

Very cute house and really nice location. The property was beautiful and the surrounding cities and parks had lots of fun stuff to do. Everything was very clean and orderly when we arrived, the only problem I had was that the hair trap had been forgotten and the shower flooded out into the hall and into a neighboring bedroom in the few minutes it took for anyone to notice a problem. But Brian and Colleen were very helpful and had quick responses via text with offers of sending their cleaners out asap. Favorites from our stay include the record player in the game room, the lovely deck area, and the raccoon and bunny friends we saw hanging out together in the front yard on our last day.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Traci B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fam time

We enjoyed the beautiful home surrounded by woods. It was a great place to have fun and enjoy time with family from Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. Hosts have thought of everything to make the stay comfortable. Loved it! Highly recommend!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brittany E.

Liked: Cleanliness

Loved staying at The Grotto!

The Grotto was perfect for our family, fur babies included! The kids toys were such a great added bonus, and everything was clean and easily accessible! The welcome book inside was so detailed and answered every question we could have had, and the labels and notes throughout the house were so thorough. Beds were comfy, and the back porch view was the perfect place for coffee in the mornings! The privacy made every bit of our stay peaceful and the grounds were wonderful to explore. We will definitely book here again for our next trip to Mt Ida!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Linda B., Yelm

Liked: Cleanliness

Awesome

The house and location was perfect! We So enjoyed the beauty of the house and the woods surrounding the property. So comfortable and the host was the best. Prompt replies and genuinely wanted our stay what we hoped for. I can't say enough. We definitely will book again the next time we come through. Thanks again. Dennis and Linda
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dana F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Serene.

Only a short drive to town, but you wouldn't know it. It was so quiet and peaceful and had all the amenities one needs to be comfortable. It was lovely.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Don R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Stay here!

What a wonderful place to stay! The house was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped with everything you could possibly need (plus lots of extras). It is a place that the owners have taken great pride in. They were very responsive to an early check-in. What a peaceful place!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

David H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Private place in a beautiful town

Long weekend, just the two of us. The property was spotless, everything worked, very private!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Everything you need

House was very clean , beds were very comfortable, there were tools and gloves for searching for crystals charcoal and lighter fluid everything you would need for a fantastic weekend.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lane S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place to stay!

Everything was clean, location was awesome, and we'll definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patrick S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Very peaceful

Very peaceful. Nice location , easy to find.
Stayed 9 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Wes B.

Liked: Cleanliness

The Grotto

Excellent place to stay!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Henry B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Very neat place

Stayed only one night so we could be nearby camp ozark to pick up kids from camp next morning. Great place, wish i could have stayed longer.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Eric P.

Liked: Cleanliness

The atmosphere was Hot, but the Grotto was COOLER!

We came up to Mt. Ida to get away from the Texas heat, well, on that we failed, but we stumbled into a gem of a short term rental at the Grotto, the decorations were fantastic, the property well maintained, and the amenities were perfect for our family of 4. We did everything from hanging out in Hot Springs to finding a hidden spot by the River about 9 miles away (Be careful it is a 7 mile dirt/gravel road) - but when we got there, it was amazing. The town of Mt. Ida was fantastic, the people friendly and we never lacked for fun things to do, the Grotto was perfect in that we played lots of family games around the kitchen table and many many fooseball games in which our youngest son age 20 let us all know that he was undefeated for the week - GRRR - next time I will get him....So from our family to whomever is thinking of coming to this area of Arkansas - we give the Grotto our highest rating - awesome place !
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kristi F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Relaxing Weekend Getaway

This property is exactly what we were looking for. It’s quiet and secluded. Everything in the house has been updated, which made our stay easy and comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023