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A Solar, Cordwood/Bottle Hand-Built Charming Cottage, In the La Garita Mountains

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Terrace/patio
Exterior of the 'Mermaid Cottage'
Exterior detail
The interior of the Mermaid Cottage. No your not in a Kaleidoscope those are bottles in the walls.
New Winter Curtain in the Mermaid Cottage

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroomSleeps 218.6 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Gym
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue

Explore the area

View map
Del Norte, CO
  • Place, Natural Arch Trailhead
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Rio Grande County Museum and Cultural Center
    ‪26 min drive‬
  • Place, Center Park
    ‪31 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Kitchenette

About this property

A Solar, Cordwood/Bottle Hand-Built Charming Cottage, In the La Garita Mountains

Hello Dear Travelers, the 'Mermaid Cottage' is a sweet, hand built Cord-wood structure full of beautiful Art, Majestic views and is on the forefront of our peaceful all Solar 35 acre ranch, we get all our energy from the sun (there is a generator back-up) . If you love to star gaze this is the place for youI The Milky Way is right over head :-) You will have your full privacy to enjoy what could be your base camp home for exploring the San Luis Valley and all it's beauty and wonder! Right out your front door you could hike, bike, cross-country ski, snowshoe, bird watch, rock climb and stargaze just to mention a few. You are minutes to an hour away from the The Wolf Creek Ski area, Rio Grande River, wilderness, Sand dunes, Hot Springs, Railroads, Live Theater, Cafes, shopping and so much more! Internet is available and there is a small refrigerator, Dbl stove burner, T.V. w/ D.V.D's only, includes coffee with a french press and Teas. Although small it includes all the comforts of home! We are always happy to answer all your questions so please just ask!
Our guests love to trek all over this beautiful property and ride their mountain bikes or dirt bikes to the famous 'Penitente Canyon'(world renown climbing area), the Natural Arch (La Ventana) Geological area. Also the Elephant Rocks. A place so magical we were actually married there and then again up here on our ranch, lovingly known as 'Angel Rock Ranch'. Our back-drop is a massive Rock formation, part of an old Caldera.(cal·de·ra)
a large volcanic crater, typically one formed by a major eruption leading to the collapse of the mouth of the volcano.) Yes it is dormant ;-) This Rock formation has a large pinnacle that resembles an Angel, halo and all! With two Massive bluffs (her wings) jutting out from either side! Truly magnificent!!!
The word that most often comes to mind is 'Vortex' (a vortex is a site where the energy of an area is concentrated. A vortex site is a place where one can feel spiritual energy most strongly) We'll let you be the judge.
Future plans include a labyrinth, bush-whacking golf coarse, Frisbee Golf and Large outdoor chest game (we did this on a recent trip to Sedona, it was such Fun!!!)
We love Alternative building, here on the property we not only have a cordwood Cottage we also have a Straw-bale structure as well as a Log Hogan and a Log Cabin! Just ask we will be happy to give you a tour of the property:-)
The comment that we hear most often are that our guest don't want to leave! That is music to our ears!
If you are ready for a Beautiful, Peaceful get-a-way where you will be surrounded by nature and all the privacy you could hope for on a creative, unusual property then the 'Mermaid Cottage' awaits you....
Oh one last thing!
We have a nice family of cats and dogs here on the ranch, but not to worry, although they will greet you they don't go in the Cottage. There is a sweet little black cat named "Raya Sunshine" that loves hanging out down near the Cottage. Most of our animals are rescues. If you would like to bring your pet please let us know. There is a $15. pet fee, per pet per night that will all go towards the feeding and care of the animals up here on the ranch.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 3–17
Unsafe and small space
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
We hope you had a magical stay! Please be sure to wash dirty dishes. Put wet towels in the shower. Turn off lights and close the door behind you… Let us know when you leave checkout is 11 AM.🧜🏽‍♀️
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
we ask that you call with any needs and respect the privacy of our home and we will respect your space as well.
It is possible for children to be there but contact prier booking. That you have no more than two people staying in do to it's size.
That you like animals and love nature! Please let us know if you will be bringing any pets there is a small fee.

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
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

Del Norte

Located in Del Norte, this cottage is in the city centre. Rio Grande National Forest and Natural Arch Trailhead reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Rio Grande County Museum and Cultural Center and Wolf Creek Anglers. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging and snowmobiling.
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Map
Del Norte, CO

What's nearby

  • Natural Arch Trailhead - 9 min drive - 6.3 km
  • Rio Grande County Museum and Cultural Center - 26 min drive - 23.2 km
  • Center Park - 31 min drive - 32.2 km
  • Rio Grande Club - 46 min drive - 55.3 km
  • Sand Dunes Recreation Hot Springs Pool - 57 min drive - 66.1 km

Getting around

  • Alamosa, CO (ALS-San Luis Valley Regional) - 70 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪La Garita Trading Post - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Lost Weekend Saloon - ‬23 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is A Solar, Cordwood/Bottle Hand-Built Charming Cottage, In the La Garita Mountains pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 2 total).

How much does it cost to stay at A Solar, Cordwood/Bottle Hand-Built Charming Cottage, In the La Garita Mountains?

As of 19 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at A Solar, Cordwood/Bottle Hand-Built Charming Cottage, In the La Garita Mountains on 1 June 2026 start from AU$237, 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 A Solar, Cordwood/Bottle Hand-Built Charming Cottage, In the La Garita Mountains?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at A Solar, Cordwood/Bottle Hand-Built Charming Cottage, In the La Garita Mountains?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at A Solar, Cordwood/Bottle Hand-Built Charming Cottage, In the La Garita Mountains?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is A Solar, Cordwood/Bottle Hand-Built Charming Cottage, In the La Garita Mountains located?

Located in the heart of Del Norte, this cottage is steps from Rio Grande National Forest and 2.8 mi (4.6 km) from Natural Arch Trailhead. Rio Grande County Museum and Cultural Center and Rio Grande are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 39 out of 39 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 39 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 39 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 39 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 39 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

steve h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice quaint property really enjoyed it.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Reagan C.

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

Did not want to leave

Had a wonderful stay. Much thanks to our kind and generous hosts. A truly magical place.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Judy

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Such a unique property! Our stay was only one night and I wish it were longer. There’s so much to do and see here. Michael was very welcoming and informative. We will be back!
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Courtney F.

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

Amazing getaway!

This place was the perfect getaway for Spring Break with my girls! The cottage is beautiful and we loved all the detail!! The property was incredible and KimAnna and Mike were incredible hosts! Very welcoming and kind. The whole property was good energy and our trip went by way too fast. My daughters loved all the animals and they did not want to leave. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rae N.

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

Absolutely Amazing

My spouse, puppy, and I stayed at the Mermaid Cottage for a few days. It was one of the best vacation rentals I have ever been at. The property and land are absolutely gorgeous, every detail is attended to, and we loved every moment. KimAnna was away when we stayed, but we met Mike, and he was so informative and kind, but gave us our own space. He also gave us eggs from their chickens! The animals on the property were a joy also. We would absolutely love to go back and explore more of the area.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Miranda P.

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

The best experience!

This is the most creative & artistic made cottage set in the most beautiful area by the San Luis Valley. Every detail was thought out in the building and decorating the cottage. It's on an off-grid ranch with the most kind & helpful owner. You can not beat a sunrise from your window or porch, and the sunsets are just as spectacular. It's located extremely close to many amazing DIFFERENT views and hikes. This is definitely a place to experience if you crave seclusion, peace, and gorgeous views.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christopher H.

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

The mermaid experience

My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the property. The hosts were very sweet and amazingly accommodating. The cottage is very cozy and came stocked with all the essentials. The story behind the build is a fun one- be sure to look at the book in the cottage! The town of Del Norte is a short drive away and they have a near history and some cool places to eat and drink! Be sure to check out Three Barrel Brewing and try their amazing Lisa! There is a ton of access for exploring the National Forest/BLM land in the area. The hosts turned us on to an amazing local-ish hot spring (which was very awesome!) and the Great Sand Dune national monument isn’t too far away either. I have already told a bunch of friends that they NEED to stay here. It was so peaceful, and the views of the stars were amazing!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ward H.

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

Perfect

Perfect 10. Location. Vibe. Peace. Can’t wait to stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Natasha F.

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

Wide Open Spaces

Very small 1 room cottage for simple stay. Take soup, cereal, limited kitchen, but beautiful surroundings. Bundle up on the patio with a blanket and bottle of wine to watch the stars come to life. We would come again; recommendation, keep it simple.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael R.

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

Idyllic location, generous fantastic hosts, beautiful and unique accommodations.

This was an wonderful get away for my wife and I. Incredible scenery surrounds this charming rental that makes for a romantic weekend and place to recharge. Our hosts answered all our questions and delivered us farm fresh eggs. Thank you Michael & KimAnna for an amazing experience. We fell in love with your tiny horses and Bella, Sombrito and Chase.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jayna T.

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

Magical experience

We loved every moment of the cottage! From the eggs that you gifted and the ponies and dogs, we watched the stars and swung on the swings also watching many of the provided movies. We will for-sure be coming back and recommending to all around me. Thank you for this amazing opportunity.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daren V.

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

Fantastic Stay at a Very Unique and Wonderful Location!

Everything about this cottage and location was excellent and exactly as advertised! We had a wonderful, peaceful weekend getaway, and enjoyed all of the finer details of this cottage, while also enjoying the San Luis Valley area. It was great to meet Mike and learn about the area, the cottage, and the added bonus of fresh eggs and greens! Thanks KimAnna and Mike!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katy H.

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

Loved it! Very unique experience! Highly recommend!

I went on vacation with my golden retriever dog. Was looking to have a good spiritual retreat and enjoy hiking in Colorado etc. This place was SO neat! It was decorated so uniquely and felt like glamping! ❤️ Loved the area!! It was absolutely beautiful! Just a heads up- the dirt/rock road leading up to the cottage takes a bit of time. I drive a Honda Fit so it took about 30 minutes to go down that road, (probably because I drive like a grandma too lol). At first, I didn’t care for that road because it took some time to drive down. However, driving down that road actually ended up being one of our favorite things! The drive has beautiful views so my dog and I just looked at all the beauty around us on the way in and out of town. Thank you so much to the owners for letting us stay here! Very unique experience, highly recommend!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

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

Different Than Anywhere You've Stayed!

Amazing cottage and very well thought out. The Mermaid Cottage is nothing like you've ever experienced! The attention to detail and wonderful touch make the cottage an enjoyable stay. Very well equipped and SO quiet! If you want something different...this is the place! It is small, but very accommodating! Thank you KimAnna and Mike!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

tim j.

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

Staying in a Masterpiece

Loved it. A couple of things I got to experience - living pretty far out, gravel roads, amazing night sky, and living small. Enjoyed it all Thank you
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cale K.

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

Wonderful stay

We really enjoyed ourselves. The property is serene. Our hosts were great. It was a pleasure meeting Michael. He and his wife KimAnna were kind enough to provide us with fresh eggs. The privacy was excellent.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susie R.

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

Great Divide Ride

As we hit our 70's , riding the Great Divide Mountain Bike ride has become more of a challenge. We have been doing it on a Mountain tandem since 2002! This year we mixed it up with the tandem and my husband's mountain bike and road bike. The Mermaid Cabin was a delightful respite! Our hosts were friendly without being obtrusive. The cabin was as fetching as listed!!! We stayed 2 nights and were able to add a hike to the riding. We would love to return!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patrick E.

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

Magical quiet gem

What an amazing place to relax and recharge. The tranquility and peace we got are priceless and we enjoyed every moment of our stay. The mermaid cottage will get you back to what matters in life with simplicity and pure down to earth experiences. I hope we will be able to come back soon. Thank you KimAnna and Mike for your outstanding hospitality.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brianna B.

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

Amazing

This place is beautiful and peaceful. A very nice getaway from our day to day city life. The hosts were so kind and helpful.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

LeeAnn C.

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

Magical

We have stayed in beautiful hotels, private homes, and funky cool places around the world, but this little Mermaid Cottage was one of the most magical, peaceful, inspiring places we’ve ever stayed. From the setting - remote enough to have an unobstructed view of the night sky free of light pollution, but within a short drive of a small town with a few good restaurant options and grocery store - to the coat the itself, which you might find so enchanting you spend the whole time inside, just being in that beautiful space. Simply put, we loved it and will gladly stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

A vacation from just about everything.

The Mermaid Cottage is life-sustaining art; in other words, you can live in it and it is a fanciful treat for the eyes and the imagination. We were amused that, in a little house where every square foot counts, the shower is a luxurious wonderland of color at first light. And, the cottage is wonderfully practical and easy to cook and live in. The outside environment is a working ranch with a couple of little horses and goats wandering about. Nice dogs stop by occasionally to check in. Michael brought us fresh eggs from his chickens that tasted wonderful. The general quiet of the whole place was restorative for us. The scenery right out the door was restful. A fantastic getaway.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephen L.

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

Mermaid Cottage

Magical !!!!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marylyn M.

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

Uniquely Amazing

The quietness, view(s), and cottage were completely breathtaking. There was so much to do! Although our host could not be there, we were still able to check in and felt very comfortable. I 100% recommend the Mermaid Cottage if you need a relaxing getaway
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Melissa K.

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

Wilderness Bliss

This tiny cottage was amazing! We could feel the love that went into building it from all the beautiful and charming detail. We loved utilizing the swing set at dusk while watching the beautiful sunset and playing with all the animals. Our dog “Kat” made many friends too and the climb up to the Natural Arch nearby provided a nice view over the surrounding area. The only thing I wish we had done differently was book our stay for a couple extra nights. Many thanks to our wonderful hosts & we hope to come see you again!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jay S.

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

Magnificent views and hiking from a cool cottage

Amazing stay and friendly dogs and ponies my dog played with for hours
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2020

About the host

Hosted by KimAnna Cellura

Host profile image
KimAnna and her husband Michael feel fortunate to be retired now from the "Peace of Art Cafe" and the "Organic Peddler" health food/ gift store. Now they enjoy meeting the many fabulous guests that come stay at the mermaid Cottage as well as the "Divide Riders Hostel" and the "La Casita Bonita Inn" in the town of Del Norte. Alternative building and animals are their passion and this is expressed all over the entire property.

Why they chose this property

The Mermaid Cottage is a one-of-a-kind, Unique, Beautiful, Artistic, Peaceful and Private Cottage. With stunning views and we are on the 'Continental Divide Trail'. Only 13 miles from the charming town of Del Norte. It is a perfect get-a-way for those looking to escape it all for a few days.

What makes this property unique

Solar and off the grid. Alternative Green Structures, surrounded by Magnificent rock out-cropping.The 'Mermaid Cottage' is located on 'Angel Rock Ranch' The entire ranch runs off of Solar Energy, So it is truly peaceful and gives one a true sense of well being.

This cute little cottage was built from standing dead cottonwood that came from our girlfriends buffalo ranch, also wine and beer Bottles from the 'Peace of Art Cafe' and friends, were recycled by becoming part of the walls. We use nontoxic dish soap and laundry detergent and cleaning products. The furnishings are antique, the sweet black porcelain sink was found in a second hand store by a friend and we gave it a second life by imbedding it into a vintage vanity. The sliding glass door was saved from going to a dump and all the windows were samples that no longer served a purpose. All the large Wood beams were locally milled, and we did hand build it ourselves.
It is a magical place that we feel honored to share!

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