With private riverfront access and sweeping views of the majestic Bitterroot Mountain Range, our bright and cozy cottage sleeps 6 and is full of amenities. Step outside to experience Montana's Blue Ribbon trout fishing or use as a local hunting base. Bring the family for some Big Sky fun or enjoy a romantic retreat. Across from a National Wildlife Refuge offering walking trails, a golf course, abundant Montana wildlife and migrating birds. A walkable mile from Historic Downtown Stevensville.
Our bright, cozy, 2 bedroom riverfront cottage was lovingly renovated in 2021 to reveal warm hardwood floors and a classic brick fireplace. Remodeled to maximize the space and bring in abundant natural light - the cottage also features updated appliances, brand new furnishings, and casual rustic-meets-modern Montana style.
Our oversized leather sectional and large dining table invite the family to gather for food, games, puzzles and lounging.
Plush mattresses are encased in quality linens with lots of pillows for propping and enjoying lazy mornings or a good book.
Though compact, the kitchen is big on functionality and has everything you’ll need to craft a meal for dining in or dining outside on the parked out grounds along the riverfront.
Every season has it’s charm in the Bitterroot valley. Rent equipment from local shops and/or hire a local guide to help you to optimize your trip.
Adventure awaits! Prepare to enjoy spectacular hiking, biking, floating, fishing, hunting, dining and experiencing local culture. Or just relax and watch the light change on the water. These are just a few of the activities you’ll enjoy while calling our space your home base.
The rural setting means the road is walkable and bike-able. Easy access with plenty of parking.
I’m happy to interact with you as much, or as little, as you like. Giving you privacy and space to make your vacation your own is my top priority. If I can help in any way to enrich your experience, I’m absolutely delighted to do so. As a born and raised Western Montana local…I love sharing my home state with visitors...so please do not hesitate to utilize me!
Peaceful rural neighbor on a quiet stretch of country road, lined with homes, which runs parallel to the Bitterroot River with uninterrupted views of the Selway-Bitterroot Mountains.
Located on Stevensville River Road, which runs parallel and adjacent to the Bitterroot River; offering quiet and peaceful walks, strolls, and bike rides along the river. Great for strollers and those with activities limited to level, hard surfaced walks. Also great for morning or evening walks and runs along the river and into the town of Stevensville (approximately 3 miles).
The indoor brick fireplace is not functional, but we do provide an outdoor fire ring and a stack of split, dry wood for your enjoyment.
Please be aware that the Bitterroot river is dynamic and ever changing. The seasonal flow levels can be very dangerous and there are times when it is not safe to be in the water or too close to the bank.
There is not a fenced yard and the grounds are open to the river front. Take appropriate precautions with your children and yourselves to stay safe during your visit. - If you plan to access the Bitterroot River from the property or utilize any water equipment, we will require that you sign a "Waiver and Release of Liability Agreement" prior to entering the water. - Maximum of two dogs allowed. Pet fee is per dog, per stay. Pets not to be left alone in the house, are not allowed on furniture, and must be on leash while on property. While at the river, off leash is allowed (pet owner assumes all liability). - No waders or boots in the house, please store in the utility room. - Please remove shoes while in the cottage. - No fires allowed in the interior fireplace. You may use the fire pits behind the cottage. A wheelbarrow, kindling and wood is under the blue tarp behind the white shed. Fire starters and bug spray are in the rear entryway. - You may smoke outside; please clean up after yourself. - A green trash can is located near the back of the neighboring shop. Please deposit bagged trash as needed. - The white shop behind the cottage is off limits. - Please access the river directly behind the cottage and across the walking bridge. You may travel along the river bank to the south and access the water between the solar lights at the river's edge (behind the neighboring log home). Please attempt to remain behind the cottage as you enjoy the river. The rock island and river is public property and can be accessed as you wish. - For events, please discuss additional numbers and requirements with the host. Guests may be required to have a portable outhouse delivered for larger gatherings, upon approval. - Commercial filming and photography is negotiable. Please discuss terms and arrangements with the host.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number 2577456
Property # 2577456vb
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
Long-term renters welcome
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 and a first aid kit
About the area
Stevensville
Located in Stevensville, this cottage is on the waterfront. Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge and Traveler's Rest State Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Field of Screams and Hamilton Performing Arts Center.
Missoula County Fairgrounds - 41 min drive - 51.0 km
University of Montana - 43 min drive - 52.0 km
Wilma Theatre - 45 min drive - 54.0 km
Washington-Grizzly Stadium - 46 min drive - 54.8 km
Big Sky Brewing Co. - 52 min drive - 63.4 km
Getting around
Missoula, MT (MSO-Missoula Intl.) - 45 min drive
Restaurants
Frontier Cafe - 4 min drive
Tin Can Bar And Draft Room - 5 min drive
Valley Drug & Variety - 5 min drive
Trapper Peak Coffee - 6 min drive
Big Sky Dog House - 5 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Lester’s Cottage - Riverfront Retreat pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).
How much does it cost to stay at Lester’s Cottage - Riverfront Retreat?
As of 2 Aug 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Lester’s Cottage - Riverfront Retreat on 28 Sept 2026 start from AU$1,773, 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 Lester’s Cottage - Riverfront Retreat?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Lester’s Cottage - Riverfront Retreat?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Lester’s Cottage - Riverfront Retreat?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Lester’s Cottage - Riverfront Retreat located?
Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is steps from Bitterroot Valley and within 3 mi (5 km) of Kootenai Creek Trail and Blacksmith Brewing Company. St. Mary's Mission is 2.5 mi (4 km) away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We loved our week at Lester's Cottage. The home was very clean, comfortable, and well equipped. We loved being able to walk to the river from the backyard to fish or just sit on the banks of the Bitterroot. Host Jim was very hospitable and helpful. Outstanding in all respects!
Lester's Cottage - Riverfront Retreat was one of our very best vacations. Jim was there to greet us and explain a few things. Beautiful view of the river, close to the shops and spotlessly clean. We won't stay anywhere else when we are in Stevensville, MT.Mark, Cheryl and Chad
We were in the area for a wedding, this was a wonderful place for a relaxing stay. Beautiful home, beautiful location.
Beth M.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 17 July 2023
Beth, thank you so much for the great review! We are so grateful for your business and thrilled that you enjoyed Lester's Cottage! We look forward to hosting you again in the future!
Fabulous cabin by the river for a perfect weekend getaway!
Verified traveller
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 21 June 2023
Thank you Helen! It was such a pleasure to host you and I'm so glad your family enjoyed the Cottage! We look forward to seeing you again in the future!
Great place to stay and great people around. Jim is awesome and super helpful.
Phil G.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Sept 2023
Phil, thank you both for staying with us at the Cottage! It was such a pleasure getting to know you and we look forward to seeing you again in the future! Sincerely, Jim
We were in town for a softball tournament. It was so nice to have a place we could do laundry and just chill. Josie was very clean and everything it said from the listing. Highly recommended
This is an excellent place to stay. House was very clean and well stocked with any items you might have forgotten. Beautiful fire pit right next to the river and fishing out the back door!
Todd D.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar 2023
Thanks Todd! So glad you all enjoyed the property and hope to see you again!
This stay was to accommodate my crew for a project in LOLO . The host has been fantastic working with us to make sure we had a place to stay. The home lovely and would be great to accommodate any type of stay.
Matthew Chet S.
Stayed 46 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Dec 2022
Thank you so much for the opportunity to work with you! Your crew was great; clean, respectful of the property, and Leroy did a fantastic job of coordinating with me on any needs!
Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer
27 July 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This was the perfect size for my family of five. We loved the river access and quiet area. Easy to get to Missoula or Hamilton. Excellent hiking and fishing all within close distance. Very clean and has everything you need!
Wonderful, cozy place to spend Thanksgiving. The kitchen is fully equipped, beds cozy and warm, and views are beautiful. Hosts attentive and communicative. We hope to be back!
Karen G.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Nov 2023
Karen, thank you so much and we are so glad you enjoyed the Cottage! We’d love to have you back! Happy holidays! Sincerely, Jim and Andy
This property is beautiful and inviting. The cottage is very comfortable and cozy. The communication is quick and helpful. Everything about this stay was a positive experience. The furniture is comfortable, the cottage has many personal touches, the property is well kept and the communication is friendly. I would absolutely recommend this property if someone is staying in the Bitterroot area.
This cottage was the absolute best place to stay! It had so many amenities, the hosts thought about everything! Perfect location next to the river, super close to town, and has the most beautiful scenery surrounding it. It was also super clean! Would 10 out of 10 recommend!
Mindy R.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 17 July 2023
Mindy, thank you so much for choosing us! We take great pride in offering our guests the relaxing and enjoyable experience they look for in a vacation rental! We greatly appreciate your fantastic review! Please join us again in the future!
This Cottage is probably the best VRBO we have ever rented. The location on the river is perfect, the house spotless, and communication with the owners very easy. It is also outfitted with everything you need, especially in the kitchen and bath. You will not be sorry if you book this cottage!
Karen F.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Oct 2022
Karen, thanks so much! Look forward to having you stay again in the future!
Our boys couldn’t wait to get back to the house each day to play football or frisbee in the backyard or fish in the river. The cottage was so cute and a perfect place for us to stay.
Katie Y.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 3 Sept 2023
Katie, thank you for the great review! I'm so glad you all enjoyed the property! Come back anytime!
Sincerely,
Jim
We had the best stay for the past 10 days with us two dogs! Jim is a fabulous host with a fantastic property that couldn’t be better situated right next to the Bitterroot. We loved the amenities of the outdoor space, how close we were to both Missoula and Stevensville and all the fishing/hiking close by. Hands down one of the nicest and best stocked VRBO properties we have ever stayed in and we will absolutely be back!
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Lester's Cottage. From the moment we began our check-in process to the moment we left, everything was very convenient and clearly communicated. The place is incredibly clean with lots of little thoughtful touches throughout the cottage (i.e., lots of clean towels, great cookware, extra blankets). I cannot rave enough about how great this place was. Everyone loved it, and we thoroughly enjoyed sitting by the river and having a little peace and quiet in paradise.
Beautiful location and Creative touches throughout
Great location, riverside with great outside fire pit area, just bring your bug spray this time of year. Cozy interior living with creative space usage and touched. Great option for family get together for escape! Host were very responsive and easy to work with!
Liesl U.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 June 2023
Liesl, thank you! We truly appreciate that you used us for your lodging needs and so glad you all enjoyed the property!
About the host
Hosted by Jim and Andrew Lester
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests