No matter the label—Airbnb, VRBO, short-term vaca rental—home, cabin and getaway rentals are redefining the way travelers experience a new locale or weekend escape. Close to home, these three not only deliver unique experiences, but a glimpse into all that makes our region truly special.
THE RETREAT
When guests arrive at The Retreat, their first impression is all about location. “They’re truly in the heart of Downtown Historic Loveland,” owner Karen Breed points out. “The Loveland Bike Trail, Nisbet Park and all of Loveland’s quaint restaurants and shops are within walking distance.”
Guests of the house are also given a head start with locally sourced amenities—popcorn and sweets from Trailside Provisions, wine from Cappy’s, chocolate from Graeter’s and menus from nearby restaurants. “We want our guests to see everything the community has to offer, so they can fully experience Loveland while they’re staying with us.”
It’s important to Karen that visitors get more than just a pleasant night’s stay. “We want them to fall in love with Loveland—like we have!”
BRANCH HILL ESTATE
Branch Hill Estate is a destination unto itself—its 11 peaceful acres are home to goats, alpacas, chickens, sheep, horses, dogs, pigs and more. You’ll find the home of owners Jessica and Derek Tye there, in addition to two other pastoral rental homes: Branch Hill Manor House and Branch Hill Cabin.
Each features modern-day amenities nestled in a natural setting—the Manor House boasts a 1,200-square-foot slate terrace that overlooks sprawling pastures … while the Cabin, an authentic timber-built log home, offers rustic charm, cozy fire features and “breathtaking sunset views from one of the highest points in Clermont County,” smiles Jessica.
“Our farm is used as an outreach for special needs groups and individuals, and we use a lot of the proceeds from renting our homes to put back into the property,” Jessica points out. Guests are given full access to the farm—home to more than 80 animals—and receive farm-fresh eggs upon arrival.
Off-site, the couple also offers Tye’s Riverside Retreat, a cottage located just a half-mile walk from downtown Loveland where guests are treated to 700 feet of private river frontage.
All three options include a touchscreen video concierge, which welcomes guests with information about the property and surrounding area. “So they can live like locals,” Jessica says. “And enjoy all the things that we do!”
THE KINGSLEY SCHOOLHOUSE
According to owner Brent Kruithof, the Kingsley Schoolhouse invites guests to reminisce about simpler times. “We carefully selected all of the light fixtures, rugs and furniture to complete the aesthetic of the 150-year-old schoolhouse—making it a totally unique experience.”
It’s that unique experience, Brent says, that many travelers are after. “They aren’t looking for a short-term rental that looks just like their own house—they want something special, different, unusual or even weird.”
With complementary bohemian-modern touches, it’s the perfect space for those who want to explore Loveland’s modern-day landscape while soaking up the past.
“People have heard good things about Loveland, and want to check it out for themselves,” Brent says. “We're honored when guests get to experience all our community has to offer, and feel the warm reception from our community neighbors.”
“Guests have told us, ‘you're so lucky to live here,’” he says, beaming with pride. “We really are!”