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Beautifully appointed west Dorset Cottage With Open Parkland Views

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Alpaca Cottage is attached to the owner's house, but completely self contained
Our herd of 19 alpacas live in our field opposite the cottage (but CAN stray!)
We are situated in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The sitting room/kitchen is a decent size for 2, with a lovely open outlook.
The kitchen is well equipped. A washing machine is available for longer stays.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% based on
1 bedroomSleeps 260 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Ocean view
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Shower room 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Beautifully appointed west Dorset Cottage With Open Parkland Views



Alpaca Cottage is freshly and stylishly presented. It is light and airy, and spacious enough for two. The cottage has stunning views over Capability Brown laid out parkland, some of which is ours and where our small heard of alpacas (18 or so) live. You would be welcome to participate at feeding time. We also have 3 rescue chickens (as yet un-named!) who are kind enough to provide fresh eggs for out guests when they are in the mood to lay! They have also been known to wander into Alpaca Cottage because, basically, they are quite nosey.

With the sitting room/kitchen, double bedroom and designer en-suite all located on the ground floor, it is ideal for those with limited mobility.

We can now also offer Alpaca Walks, which we are running commercially. If you would like to do this, please contact us for details and pricing. It is relaxing, interesting, and fun to interact with these characterful animals!

The cottage adjoins on one side to our house, but is completely self-contained with it's own front door. It has a separate outside area for al-fresco meals or drinks. Located off a private road, and set in the midst of numerous footpaths, as well as just by the National Cycle Path #26 ( bicycles are available for rent for £10 each for half a day) , this is a superb location for the active, or for those just wanting to kick back and relax.

The cottage is also close to the beautiful River Frome, which can be walked beside, or even paddled in! The wonderful Jurassic Coast is just 10 miles away, and the historic county town of Dorchester just 5 miles away, and wonderful Sherborne is 15 miles away. We do allow well behaved dogs, at extra cost.

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House Rules

Check in after 3:30 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:30 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
We can accommodate babies or toddlers easily.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 25 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights
If Paul and Fiona are at home, please leave the keys in the cottage, and let them know you are going!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Please keep dogs on leads until the dog and the alpacas are shown to be mutually compatible. Dogs can be off-lead further away from the alpacas.

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, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Dorchester

Located in Dorchester, this cottage is in a rural area and on a river. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Weymouth Beach and Durdle Door. Kingston Maurward Park and Gardens and Fantasy Island Fun Park are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Cottages in DorchesterOpens in a new window
Map
Dorchester, Dorset

What's nearby

  • Maumbury Rings - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Tutankhamun: The Exhibition - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Dinosaur Museum - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Dorset Teddy Bear Museum - 12 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - 20 min walk - 1.7 km

Getting around

  • Dorchester West Station - 2 min walk
  • Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.) - 59 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Vivo Lounge - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Coffee #1 - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪wagamama - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Brewhouse & Kitchen - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪The Royal Oak (Wetherspoon) - ‬9 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Beautifully appointed west Dorset Cottage With Open Parkland Views pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 25 kg per pet.

How much does it cost to stay at Beautifully appointed west Dorset Cottage With Open Parkland Views?

As of 31 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beautifully appointed west Dorset Cottage With Open Parkland Views on 30 Apr 2026 start from AU$266, 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 Beautifully appointed west Dorset Cottage With Open Parkland Views?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Beautifully appointed west Dorset Cottage With Open Parkland Views?

Check-in begins at 3:30 PM.

What time is check-out at Beautifully appointed west Dorset Cottage With Open Parkland Views?

Checkout is at 10:30 AM.

Where is Beautifully appointed west Dorset Cottage With Open Parkland Views located?

Situated by the sea, this cottage is within a 10-minute walk of Borough Gardens, The Keep Military Museum and Maumbury Rings. Tutankhamun: The Exhibition and Roman Town House are also within 15 minutes. Dorchester West Station is only a 2-minute walk and Dorchester South Station is 8 minutes.

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. 139 out of 151 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 11 out of 151 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 151 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 151 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 151 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aaron H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely property, great location, friendly welcome, alpaca feeding was a bonus
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shane W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very welcoming host, very comfortable cottage with fantastic amenities. Some nice walks around the area and not far to drive to local landmarks and beaches.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carole S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A lovely cottage in peaceful and relaxing surroundings, perfectly placed to easily explore the Dorset scenery and attractions. Despite the weather being cold and wet, the cottage was always warm and cosy and the view from the windows over the alpaca field was perfect entertainment, Great communication with the owner Paul throughout. We hope to be back soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A really great place to stay, excellent accommodation, friendly and approachable hosts. Beautiful setting in countryside. Lots of local walks and within easy reach of Dorset Coast. The nearby Greyhound pub was good recommendation from Paul and Fiona.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Valerie F.

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

A lovely property

Very pretty with lots of interesting places to visit within close distance.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Margaret M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A lovely cottage in a beautiful situation. Very comfortable. A very relaxing break. Highly recommended.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Artur W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Communication

Beautiful place

Very beautiful place to stay. Informative and friendly host. Highly recommended.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michele U.

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

Lovely cottage and lovely location

We loved staying here. Waking up to see the Alpacas every morning was a treat and the area is beautiful.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jayne B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice welcome by host . Property was perfect for a break , location fabulous. Pet friendly, a problem as when booking , stated 2 adults , 1 small dog , paid for our 2 nights away , was asked as leaving for extra money for the dog , already paid enough to stay here , shame they needed more money . Quite surprised there wasnt a welcome pack , most hosts supply a bottle , cake , milk , bread , eggs ,biscuits , it would have been a nice gesture . Bathroom blind didnt fit window , could see through plain window , especially at night . TV wouldn't pick up the extra channels as mentioned
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Mar 2026
Many thanks for your review. We are very glad that you enjoyed your stay. There is a £25 pet charge which I mentioned before you came. It used to be a part of the VRBO booking procedure...no idea why it seems to have dropped off! I will take it up with them. We normally do provide milk and biscuits, as well as the tea and coffee that is there, but have then faced criticism because we were only providing cows milk, and no gluten free biscuits etc, so it was becoming a problem. The Smart TV should provide live TV, as well as Netflix etc. If I had known it wasn't working as it should, I would happily come and rectified it. Not sure about the bathroom blind...it was fitted for that window. I will look at it.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Peter W.

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

Peaceful and a great view

Loved our short break in the country and seeing the Alpacas every day. The property it clean and has everything you need for a stay, and better still it is dog friendly.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Samantha C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a lovely weekend at the Alpaca Cottage. Was welcomed by Jane who explained everything and was very friendly. Was also around at the alpaca feeding time and was advised to participate which was a great experience. Very impressive car collection and allowed to sit in each for photos. The cottage itself was perfect in every way, home from home, would highly recommend and will return. Thank you for everything Sam & Wendell
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alison F.

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

Beautiful setting and scenery

Lovely stay at alpaca cottage. Beautiful scenery and easy to reach Dorset attractions. Little cottage has everything you need for a lovely stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle P.

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

Relaxed short break

Enjoyed our 2nd stay at Alpaca Cottage. Comfortable, clean and well equipped. Would recommend and stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Paul V.

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

Lovely Dorset Break

Lovely three days in Aloaca Cottage, very quiet and comfortable as described and well located for days out in lovely Dorset region with good walks and great beaches only a short drive away. The Cottage is very well appointed and perfect for a few days of relaxation.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Clare P.

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

Unique cottage

Possibly one of the best places we've stayed in! Comfy, cosy and classy. Great location, loved the walks nearby.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar 2023
Many thanks Clare So glad you enjoyed it. Hope to see you again, either at Alpaca Cottage, or one of our other places! Best Paul and Fiona
Verified

10/10 Excellent

P M D.

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

Unique fantastic stay

We had such lovely time in the cottage set in the most unique and beautiful place with Alpacas. The host was very welcoming and made us feel at home. We would definitely recommend this place to anyone.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sue B.

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

Wonderful stay

Spent 3 nights in April 2023, could easily have stayed much longer. Cottage is lovely, lots of great walks and pubs locally. Appreciated all the local knowledge and suggestions from the hosts. Thank you for a lovely stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Angela A.

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

Excellent

The hosts were really lovely, the cottage is in a lovely setting. I would recommend Alpaca Cottage to anyone.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barrie J.

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

Idyllic getaway

Perfectly relaxing, peaceful & quiet short stay. Ideal location to tour Dorset or stay & enjoy the magnificent scenery & cheeky Alpacas. Thank you Jane for such a welcome.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marta I.

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

Cozy short stay at Alpaca Cottage

We had a lovely few days at the cottage. It has everything you could need for your stay. Very much appreciated how the owners have made the space so cozy and gave all kinds of recommendations. Great location for exploring Jurassic coast, Weymouth, Corfe castle… Would have loved to stay longer!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Russell P.

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

Cottage break

Had a lovely weekend stay at Alpaca cottage. Accommodation was very clean and had everything you needed. Was lovely feeding the Alpacas, hope to return in the summer months.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wendy W.

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

Home from home

Such a lovely place to stay. Was made to feel very welcome. Beautiful peaceful location. The cottage was fab, everything we needed for our stay. Looking forward to returning.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kevin S.

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

Quick Stay

Vry enjoyable, relaxed property. Smartly furnished in a quiet hamlet. Local for most activities we required, certainly return
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Nina M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property and grounds. We stayed in both evenings as were there for a rest. Well equipped kitchen. The only reason for not giving five stars is that we both feel the Mattress, pillows and towels would benefit from an update. Responsive host. Thorough Welcome File ad lots of books on the local area. No wifi for one of the evenings - it’s a rural location so perhaps that’s to be expected. Brilliant to see the Alpaccas. Such a unique stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 17 Oct 2025
Many thanks for your review Nina. Glad you enjoyed your stay! As a matter of interest, we were aware that the mattress (that was very expensive!) was too soft for some people, and we happened to order a replacement last week...with delivery scheduled for next week. Thanks for your observations. Kind regards Paul & Fiona
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jason K.

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

Weekend break

Beautiful surroundings very enjoyable stay excellent accommodation hosts were fantastic information folder was brilliant and feeding the alpacas made it all a fantastic experience would highly recommend and will definitely stay again
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

About the host

Hosted by Paul Abadjian

Host profile image
We have two apartments in Marbella. at La Mairena (8124909) and at Torre Real (8129804), one 1 bedroom apartment in Battersea, London (6845369), as well as Alpaca Cottage near Dorchester, Dorset (8150478). The Spanish apartments are both owned by Paul and his sister Jane Abadjian. Both apartments have been furnished and specified as homes, not merely as places to rent out, so the fixtures and fittings tend to be quite stylish and luxurious. The same applies to the London flat, which is owned by Paul and wife, Fiona.

Alpaca Cottage represents all that is best about rural England, while still being easily accessible from London. Alpaca Cottage adjoins Court Barn, where Paul lives with Fiona, but is self contained with its own entrance, and outseating area.

Paul and Fiona lives in west Dorset, with Sophie and Guinness, mother and son Spaniels and a small herd of 13 Alpacas ! They also offer a part of this property for holiday lets (Alpaca Cottage E 15146) Paul has enjoyed collecting classic Jaguars for more years than he cares to remember, and he and Fiona have enjoyed driving them in Russia, Argentina, the US, Australia and Tasmania.

Why they chose this property

First of all, please read the feed back from previous guests, which perhaps says more than we can!

This is a perfect quiet rural retreat with open views across Capability Brown laid-out parkland, in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, close to the Jurassic Coast.

We do take well-behaved dogs for a £25 supplement.

The cottage is stylish and practical, and we also provide a truly comprehensive file with suggestions of walks, places to visit, pub and restaurant recommendations, local history etc etc.

There are several walks (both long and short) that you can do straight from your door, so you don't have to take the car, but if the weather has gone off (that CAN happen, even in Dorset!) we have a few interesting and fun driving tours included in the file. We also have bicycles to rent, as our drive forms part of The National Cycle Path.
We are perfectly placed to explore the Jurassic Coast-a World Heritage site....just 10 miles away.
We promise you a stay you will always look back on with affection, and hope to be able to welcome you soon to Alpaca Cottage!

Languages:

English

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