See all properties
Entire home

The Historic Riverside Convent: Sister's of the Holy Cross School House

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for The Historic Riverside Convent: Sister's of the Holy Cross School House

A picnic area with a bench and a fire pit surrounded by trees.
A kitchen with wooden cabinets, a stainless steel refrigerator, a microwave, an oven, and a dining table with chairs.
A two-story house with a large front porch, a covered entryway, and a brick pathway leading to the door.
A dining room with a wooden table and chairs, a bookshelf, and a window with curtains.
A room with two grey armchairs, a wooden side table, a brick accent wall, and a bed with a white bedspread.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Niles, MI
  • Place, Allouez Park
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Lehman's Orchards
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Clay Township Park
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Airport, South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.)
    ‪12 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Niles

This vacation home is located within a few miles (5 km) of Allouez Park and Riverfront Park and Launch. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a refrigerator, and a microwave.
View more Vacation Homes in NilesOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Brandywine Creek Nature Park - 3 min drive - 2.9 miles
  • Allouez Park - 4 min drive - 3.3 miles
  • Lehman's Orchards - 5 min drive - 4.6 miles
  • Clay Township Park - 5 min drive - 4.2 miles
  • University of Notre Dame - 7 min drive - 6.1 miles

Getting around

  • Niles Station - 12 min drive
  • South Bend Intl. Airport (SBN) - 20 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Culver's - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Burger King - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Jimmy John's - ‬7 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 Historic Riverside Convent: Sister's of the Holy Cross School House

This historic home is nestled on the quiet banks of the St. Joseph River on 3.1 acres.

Part of the appeal of the home is the story it tells. From Father Sorin’s weekly visits to the convent in the 1840s to the many lessons in arithmetic and history taught by the Sister’s of the Holy Cross in the main room, this home is truly unique. Visitors are able to stay in the only remaining building of the original St. Mary’s College campus and explore other historic sites nearby.
The space

While it maintains the feel of the convent and school house, it has been re-modeled for a more comfortable stay. There are three bedrooms, a bathroom and a half, a dining area, and a living room. While the living space and rooms are of ample size, the bathrooms are closer quarters. Amenities include an outdoor fire area and picnic table, a propane grill, and a wooded area.

The driveway is unpaved so wet weather can make for a muddy drive to "The Convent."
Guest access

Enjoy a walk through the woods, conversation by a fire, solitude by the river, or reading a book in the upper room. Regardless of what you choose to do, history awaits.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and 1.5 bathrooms, and there's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and an ironing board.

Similar properties

Cottage (2 Bedrooms) | Interior
Riverside Niles Retreat w/ Fire Pit & Grill!
Niles
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Air conditioning
  • Microwave
Riverside Niles Retreat w/ Fire Pit & Grill!

Property amenities

Ski

  • Close to skiing

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1.5 bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming cats and dogs only
  • One pet total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 23

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 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

Rules

Please strip the beds that were used and leave sheets on the floor near the beds.

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs and cats only
  • 1 total (50 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
  • Service animals exempt from fees

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
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: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 23

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.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.

Frequently asked questions

What's there to do near this vacation home?

This vacation home is located in Niles, close to Notre Dame Stadium, Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, and Basilica of the Sacred Heart. You'll also find Allouez Park and Lehman's Orchards within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at The Historic Riverside Convent: Sister's of the Holy Cross School House?

No, there isn't parking at this 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 The Historic Riverside Convent: Sister's of the Holy Cross School House good for couples?

At this riverfront vacation home, amenities that appeal to couples include a smart TV and a kitchenette in each house with some featuring a kitchen.

Does The Historic Riverside Convent: Sister's of the Holy Cross School House have a hot tub?

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 free of charge?

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

Does The Historic Riverside Convent: Sister's of the Holy Cross School House have connecting rooms available?

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

How far is the airport from this vacation home?

The closest major airport to this vacation home is South Bend Intl. Airport (SBN), which is 8.2 mi away (20 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at The Historic Riverside Convent: Sister's of the Holy Cross School House?

No, there aren't any house with balconies at The Historic Riverside Convent: Sister's of the Holy Cross School House.

The Historic Riverside Convent: Sister's of the Holy Cross School House Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 30 out of 31 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 31 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 31 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 31 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 31 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

krista p.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This place was so clean and had everything we needed. Very cute and quaint.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marna T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The views and peacefulness of this property are exceptional! The owners are very thoughtful and extremely responsive.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cam V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We enjoyed our stay. The house is convenient to ND campus and is in a quiet area.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kelly S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved our stay! Beautiful property and comfy home., so much character too!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Weekend away

Easy check in and great communication with the property manager. Very relaxing stay
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Don P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We very much enjoyed our stay at this property. It was as described, great communication from the owners and extremely comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sally N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was clean and nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark S.

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

Great spot

Great spot with lots of character. Beautiful river bluff location.
Stayed 1 night in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gabriel A.

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

Great Location

Great location with proximity to South Bend and Granger area. Jerry and Alma are very accommodating. Highly recommend this property!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property with very thoughtful touches. Peaceful lot but convenient to most places in Michiana. 2 BR are upstairs - you must go through one to get to the other - perfect where privacy isnt an issue. If you like an historic stay this is a lovely one!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

lawrence y.

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

Secluded property with a history

Beautiful property tucked away in the woods right on the Saint Joseph’s river. Interior very spacious a very comfortable with just a touch of antique furniture to make the place absolutely charming.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heather C.

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

Great Location

Wonderful location, very quite, clean and just an overall great experience! Thank you for sharing your location!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Irene M.

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

Lovely Step Back in Time

Always special to stay somewhere unique and historic. The small bathrooms and single shower made it an intimate space, but it was all we needed for our overnight.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzy W.

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

Wedding Weekend

Very nice place to stay, clean and comfortable. Host was super nice and helped us get in. Close to all the things we had going on.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie B.

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

Overnight getaway

Tranquil stay with great forest and river views, house is charming, spotlessly clean. Stocked with all necessities. Hosts were very responsive and accommodating. Would love to come back!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

allen l.

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

Octoberfest

Very clean andwell supplied kitchen.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carrie

Liked: Amenities
The house is beautiful for a quiet getaway. It is close to everything in downtown Niles and nearby Buchanan. Right on the St Joe River and lots of birds you can see right out the back door of the kitchen or first floor bedroom. Great food choices and hiking in nearby nature preserves. We will be back in warmer weather
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nikki M.

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

Cozy place, Full of History

Alma was incredibly kind & helpful, making sure we had everything we needed, complete with restaurant recommendations and Valentine’s Day chocolate sampler from a local chocolatier. The house, with exposed brick, historical pictures of the place and property, and the softest bedding I’ve ever slept on, was the perfect place for us to get away.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John R.

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

Notre Dame Blue Gold Game stay

Wonderful historic property well maintained with pieces of history throughout. My kids loved all the unique features of the house and its connection to St Marys. The outside with the St Joseph River behind the house is very scenic. Would love to be here in the fall.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Deborah

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
very nice
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joanne B.

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

Peaceful Historic Home

Alma was an excellent host and very helpful in directing us to dog friendly parks and restaurants. We stayed 2 nights with our family dog but spent all of our time out exploring. The house was the perfect place to go back home at night and to watch the Olympics on the tv. The bed in the main floor bedroom was very comfortable. Thank you Alma and Jerry!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aleisha D.

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

Good stay

Stayed with family of four and dog for 1 night. The house was well maintained and comfortable. The host added little touches and we played several of the games that were offered. We loved the history of the place and was close to a lot of activities. Only about 30 minutes from Lake Michigan.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hannah C.

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

Best hosts! So clean and cute.

Jerry and Alma were so attentive and their communication was stellar. We stayed since their home was down the street from family Christmas and our son has dog allergies so we wanted to give him a safe place to sleep. They were so accommodating and made sure to help us ease our worries about their pet/cleaning policies and practices to help us pick the right place. Beautiful little home and great for families especially in the warmer months with a playground and trampoline for kids!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie W.

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

Short stay

The home was older but well kept- kitchen was clean and plenty of room- couch did not look comfy-but was so comfy- downstairs bed slept excellent and pillows were fresh and slept xcellwnt- shower was hot- bathroom was small but very sufficient- we didn’t use the upstairs it was so roomy! Loved the chipmunks and squirrels around the trees
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tammy P.

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

Beautiful Property

I could not have asked for a better property! Alma and Jerry are fantastic. They are very responsive to all any questions. The home is cozy and the property is beautiful. I love some of the old details of the home that they kept along with their upgrades. Everything you need is there. They found some items left behind and even went out of there way to get them returned to me. We will definately stay there again! Alma & Jerry.. I can not thank you enough for accommodating my family from Florida so they could escape Hurricane Milton. You truly are amazing And caring property owners.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024