Grey Cloud Island is an incredible exurban oasis - so close to the metro area but so much natural beauty! This is a very well appointed and well maintained property, with expanses of glass providing unobstructed views of the river bluffs and Bald Eagles fishing for their meals. I rented this property as a place to get away and celebrate my husband's 50th birthday. He's a seasoned traveler and National Parks enthusiast who spends a lot of time in the Mississippi River Valley, and who was feeling sad that he couldn't travel someplace new and exciting for his birthday. His jaw dropped when we pulled up the driveway just 30 minutes from our home and he took in the views. He's not much for fancy houses but this cabin took his breath away. We sat down on the wood bench swing overlooking the river and he marveled that this property was so close to our home but he had absolutely no idea that St. Paul Park even existed.
Christina thought of everything. There were lots of little touches to make our stay feel extra special. There was a special birthday message on the chalkboard in the dining room and chalk for us to add our own messages. There were handwritten notes on the ready-to-bake cookie dough in the refrigerator. There were three kinds of microwave popcorn and a huge ceramic popcorn bucket, as well as multiple flavors of cocoa and coffee. Want pancakes or waffles for breakfast? There was pancake mix as well as a waffle iron. Christina truly goes above and beyond to make the entire experience feel special. We had a couple of questions and she answered our messages very quickly.
We loved taking soaks in the hot tub just outside the den and our kids are conspiring to convince us to go back in the summer with friends so that they can enjoy the swimming pool. The concrete patio between the master suite and the pool appears to be new and we are very curious to see what kind of outdoor living spaces they create with it. With a guest house on the property, you could absolutely maintain distance and privacy while inviting another family to join you. Our dog gave us a lot of dramatic sighs when we insisted he stay off the furniture, but believe me when I say he had an amazing time on vacation with us. He was so tired out from exploring the woods that he slept very soundly on the floor. The beds were very comfortable and we slept soundly, as well - waking up to incredible views of the river through the glass doors in the master bedroom.
We had a wonderful getaway on Grey Cloud Island, and we can't wait to go back!