The Trail's Edge / "Captain's Quarters" Is A Gorgeous Retreat, In Any Season.
Cottage in Duluth, MN
8 guests · 4 bedrooms · 2 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
High-end valuePrice for this property is higher than average in the area
Includes essentialsSki in / Ski out, Garden, Kitchen or Kitchenette and more
About this cottage rental
The house known as the 'Captain's Quarters' sits at the forest's edge, set back from the road and tucked into a very private estate. A four year build, (completed in 2008), it is filled with modern luxuries such as a gourmet kitchen, beautiful bluestone gas fireplace, radiant heated floors, a spa bath, air conditioning and wifi internet. Though the amenities are modern, the 'feel' of the home is steeped in an old world charm and beauty. Built with a love for the art, nothing was overlooked. From the heavy Douglas fir timbers, to the ornate cast iron radiators, much was borrowed from days gone by and re purposed here. Details in brass, marble, red wood, granite, copper, maple, limestone, and stained glass are to be found throughout.
This home was designed with friends and family in mind, and so is very social and entertains beautifully. It is truly a pleasure to experience!
The house is surrounded by gorgeous natural landscapes. White pines tower above mossy cliffs and rocky outcroppings. Wild life big and small weave through the trees. Sweeping cedars huddle and lean into each other. Colorful maples surround it all, both glowing over, and shading the acreage. There's even a pretty forest pond for the frogs and ducks, and ice skating come winter, that sits below a cozy 'lighthouse' on the bluff. And now we have a large pond nestled between the cliffs and the house with a beautiful pavilion to sit and enjoy the ducks and dragonfly's go by. Not to mention all the birds coming and going. (five bird feeders)
The property adjoins hundreds of acres of diverse designated 'green spaces' that are woven with miles of walking and cross country ski trails. And if you like e-bikes, we have those available too. And Hartley Recreational area but a short peddle away.
This house is located in the perfect part of Duluth. While being only minutes away from Lake Superior and Downtown one way, and the malls and airport the other, there is still an absolutely enchanting feel to it all.
(There was a video made which we used here for you to 'get a feel for the place'. Click the video tab to view.)
This home was designed with friends and family in mind, and so is very social and entertains beautifully. It is truly a pleasure to experience!
The house is surrounded by gorgeous natural landscapes. White pines tower above mossy cliffs and rocky outcroppings. Wild life big and small weave through the trees. Sweeping cedars huddle and lean into each other. Colorful maples surround it all, both glowing over, and shading the acreage. There's even a pretty forest pond for the frogs and ducks, and ice skating come winter, that sits below a cozy 'lighthouse' on the bluff. And now we have a large pond nestled between the cliffs and the house with a beautiful pavilion to sit and enjoy the ducks and dragonfly's go by. Not to mention all the birds coming and going. (five bird feeders)
The property adjoins hundreds of acres of diverse designated 'green spaces' that are woven with miles of walking and cross country ski trails. And if you like e-bikes, we have those available too. And Hartley Recreational area but a short peddle away.
This house is located in the perfect part of Duluth. While being only minutes away from Lake Superior and Downtown one way, and the malls and airport the other, there is still an absolutely enchanting feel to it all.
(There was a video made which we used here for you to 'get a feel for the place'. Click the video tab to view.)
Amenities
Air conditioner
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
Hot tub or spa
TV
Ski in / Ski out
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Duluth, MN
$$$$
Ratings and reviews
Summary of reviews
Guests raved about the exquisite craftsmanship, beautiful surroundings, and fully stocked amenities in this unique property in Duluth.
5.0 / 5.0
Our stay surpassed our expectations in every way! This property is truly one-of-a-kind with customized craftsmanship, a beyond-equipt chef's kitchen and outstanding on-site amenities including the Wildlife Pond, Outdoors Pavilion and Secluded Private Hiking Trails. We visited with our two kiddos and my parents and we all had a restful, comfy and relaxing stay. Doug was gracious and informative, sharing details of his custom build with my Dad, a cabinet-maker with an appreciation for craftsmanship. We did family hikes on the property trails ever day and enjoyed an evening around the firepit on the Pavilion. Being surrounded by so much beauty was a wonderful accent to our Duluth stay and we hope to return soon!
5.0 / 5.0
Pictures didn't do it justice. Doug is amazing. We made amazing family memories. Had fun exploring the property.
5.0 / 5.0
If you love architecture, serenity and wildlife, and want to be just 10 minutes outside Duluth - this is the cabin for you. Doug is an amazing host, with the most beautiful and gorgeous cabin you ever will get the pleasure of staying in. The rooms are comfortable, the patio space and the gazebo are so relaxing. This is our second time staying here and it just keeps getting better.
5.0 / 5.0
This property was a high point of our family's stay in Duluth. A beautifully constructed home in a peaceful location. It was clean, well-provisioned, and a joy to visit.
5.0 / 5.0
We had family from 5 to 80… it was an absolutely perfect week. The house is better than pictured. The beds are dreamy… I cannot possibly describe how perfect our experience was! I’m so grateful to the owner and the lovely caregivers for creating this perfect hideaway just minutes from downtown Duluth. We will be back- hopefully soon!!!
5.0 / 5.0
The property was beautiful. There were so many places to relax and take in nature. The house is meticulously designed. Doug was amazing - he was so helpful and made sure we had everything we needed. The craftsmanship of the home and property was out of this world
5.0 / 5.0
I’ve rented properties around the world. Sometimes they meet expectations. The Captain’s Quarter in the woods of Duluth is that rare, 5-star property that exceeds expectations.
Doug, the host, was friendly and helpful, immediately responsive. We were 8 adults and a 1-year-old and were so comfortable and at home throughout the gorgeous, custom house that we had to push ourselves to leave by noon each day. The attention to details, architectural and culinary, is rare and appreciated.
The only minor issue were the mosquitos, but Doug provides repellent and gizmos that clear bugs away outside. We were fascinated by the array of wildlife and lush landscaping, the rock outcroppings and wooded trails.
Listen, this special place is for sale. It may not be available much longer. If you are lucky enough to book, you will surely love it as much as we all did.
5.0 / 5.0
Perfect in every respect.
5.0 / 5.0
Our family booked this house to celebrate my retirement. This place exceeded our expectations! The home was spacious enough for us (5 adults and 2 kids). Comfortable beds and the kitchen was very well appointed with quality appliances and dishes. We enjoyed the outdoor deck, fire pit area, and pavilion. The wildlife was quite interesting; deer, fox, bears, bobcat, ducks with ducklings, squirrels, and birds. Doug was there if we needed anything and we appreciated the opportunity to make this our home for the week!
5.0 / 5.0
We came to Duluth to go winter birding. Doug who owns Captain’s Quarters couldn’t have been more welcoming and kind. His home is beautifully constructed out of wood, spotless and very comfortable. It was a great location to get out and explore the area birding and still have restaurants etc nearby to relax in the evenings. We will be back!
5.0 / 5.0
Wonderful time enjoying the tranquility, beauty, and trails of this wonderful place.
5.0 / 5.0
Stunning one of a kind property. Stayed here with family for my sons Duluth wedding. It was the perfect home away from home. Spotless and very well stocked with everything you might need. Doug was a gracious host and always responded quickly to any of our questions.
5.0 / 5.0
Doug’s house is the best spot for a weekend away with friends and family. The architecture of the house is beautiful with a great little backyard. It’s our home away from home and the best house in Duluth!
5.0 / 5.0
We enjoyed our stay and the house and property were beautiful.
5.0 / 5.0
Clean home well stocked with essentials.
Great location close to town
Very private with very nice gazebo and your own pond.
Owner is on site but in his own home.
Only big issue is lack of water pressure. Hard to get shampoo out of hair with a trickle of water pressure.
5.0 / 5.0
This property is absolutely beautiful. It is designed to fit into its surrounding and display the beauty of the Northwoods. The craftsmanship of the builder/owner is amazing and a true delight to explore. Peaceful stay and would stay again in a heartbeat!
5.0 / 5.0
With family living in three different states, we took a trip up to Duluth for some quality time. Doug’s cabin was the perfect spot for this! We really loved how close we were to nature and got to see all sorts of wildlife, yet it was still a quick drive to the other exciting parts of the city. The cabin was well stocked, very clean, and just as advertised on the listing. Would absolutely recommend to other families or friend groups looking for a great Midwest getaway, I hope to make a return visit someday!
5.0 / 5.0
We spent 3 nights at the gorgeous Captain's Quarters with my spouse, 2 kids and my parents for a total of 6. The photos do not do the home or property justice with the extra amenities on the property including a pond, covered pavilion deck and on property marked hiking trails. The location is very convenient to get to either Canal Park or head north towards the north shore. Kitchen is well stocked with high quality appliances and dishes. All bedrooms have wonderful views of the property. There was plenty of wildlife to entertain everybody and the owner was friendly, helpful and available for any questions.
5.0 / 5.0
Finally found the perfect VRBO vacation escape! What a true pleasure to stay in this fine home in the woods. The best of everything, enclosed in the finest craftsmanship and wood working I’ve seen and surrounded by nature, water, boulders and woods. The host was a pleasure to meet and gave us great info so we could make the best use of our precious getaway time. We stretched our budget to stay here because the photos were so inviting. When we arrived, we knew we had chosen wisely. Rarely is a place better than expected, and this special place was. Doug, thanks for making your fantastic oasis available for us to enjoy too! ❤️❤️
4.0 / 5.0
Some details and amenities were amazing. Nice functional and well equipped kitchen, comfortable beds, extra supplies such as pillows, sheets and towels. Some details were surprising. Communication from the owner wasn't what I would have expected. Check in was somewhat unpleasant and we had to change our plans to accommodate the owners demands to get paperwork signed when he wanted. Privacy wasn't abundant. With no curtains and the owner walking by and around at least twice daily it felt fairly exposed.
5.0 / 5.0
We enjoyed everything about our wonderful trip! Doug was a great host! He helped us and gave us info on everything that we needed!! He even made sure that the driveway and around the area was clean even after the 17 inches of snow! Beautiful home and alot of extras!!
5.0 / 5.0
A lovely house in lovely woods with great snowshoe trails and great restaurants nearby in Duluth. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
5.0 / 5.0
My family decided we needed a weekend away for Christmas this year and what a wonderful weekend it was. Perfect spot to reconnect as a family, relaxing while watching all the wildlife in front of the fire. Location is so close to the city yet so private. A perfect winter wonderland. We will definitely be back!!
5.0 / 5.0
Wow, what an amazing home and property for your stay in or around Duluth. Doug greeted us on arrival and gave us a tour of the home and amenities. He gave us recommendations on places to eat, buy groceries and hike on trails on his property and surrounding areas. The home has everything one would need and more. The location in the woods is close to everything in Duluth yet you feel like you’re in the north woods. So quiet and peaceful. The grounds are amazing with the pond and gazebo.
I would highly recommend this home and location
5.0 / 5.0
We have never stayed in a VRBO that was stocked and taken care of so good as this one. Every item that may be needed was either in the cupboard or closet. We had to do some grocery shopping but other than that spices, flour, sugar, etc. was at our fingertips. Doug was such a gracious host and explained the workings of the various appliances, fireplace, thermostats, etc. that might need explaining. I just cannot say enough about this VRBO--Fantastic. Close to downtown and various sightseeing activities as well. Beds slept wonderful too! Thanks for the perfect stay!
5.0 / 5.0
Perfect place! We will return hopefully in winter! The house is even more beautiful than the VRBO pictures show! I would highly recommend this awesome place!
5.0 / 5.0
Wonderful property! My husband and I are architecture buffs, so we appreciated all of the small and not-so-small details here. Everything we needed to do some cooking, magnificent setting. Beds were so-so, but otherwise everything was very nicely appointed.
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful home and surroundings - loved the 2 mile hike from the property, the pond and all of the wildlife that graced our presence. Was a great place to retreat to after a day by the shore and in the city. Thanks for opening up your home - would love to come again.
5.0 / 5.0
The house is as beautiful as shown. The grounds are amazing! There is a beautiful pond that hasn't been shown in the listing yet. Doug is such a nice man and made us feel so welcome!
5.0 / 5.0
Beautiful setting. Well stocked. Very comfortable.
5.0 / 5.0
Great place to stay!
The house and property are beautiful! This coupled with being so close to so many locations makes it a perfect spot for your stay!
5.0 / 5.0
North Woods cabin feel in the heart of Duluth
Love staying here every time. The number of different birds, squirrels and other wild life is simply amazing. You can spend the entire day feeling like you are in a secluded north woods cabin and still drive less than 15 minutes for a meal in downtown Duluth. Highly recommended.
3.0 / 5.0
Girls North Shore Getaway
Property is very well stocked with everything imageable!! We felt there are a few issues with no railings on the outside walkway and the stairway and no grab bars or mats in the showers making it very slippery.
5.0 / 5.0
Great Spot in Duluth
Stayed at Doug's property for Grandma's Marathon with some friends and it is a great spot, from the place itself and the location. Would recommend for anyone looking for a place slightly outside of the downtown area but still not far away.
5.0 / 5.0
The Perfect Getaway
Doug's home was absolutely marvelous! This was a family getaway for a long weekend, to celebrate our parent's 60th birthdays and 40th wedding anniversary. The 3 bedrooms and one murphy bed was perfect for our family of 8 (7 adults, 1 infant).
My husband and I are already talking about coming back with friends to explore Duluth's breweries and bike trails.
5.0 / 5.0
Nice Getaway
This property was an outstanding getaway from our current scenery back home. The property is secluded and not far from downtown Duluth. The owner was very knowledgeable of the area and welcoming.
5.0 / 5.0
Winter Retreat
Wonderful home in a quiet location with easy access to the city activities. I highly recommend this property.
5.0 / 5.0
Amazing
What a beautiful place to stay. The nature walk, deer outside the windows, birds, and beautiful crass craftsmanship was amazing. We would love to go back and see this in the summertime due to the beautiful scenery as well. Doug had great communication and very helpful. Highly recommend this place.
5.0 / 5.0
Cozy little retreat
The cabin was great. We had 7 of us with 5 being kids and they all lived how it was basically in town but felt like you stayed out of town. It was a little tight with 7 of us but made it work well. Doug the owner is very polite and can be a talker if you get him started. All in all we had a great 5 day stay right before x-mas. Something I’ve wanted to do as a family for years and this house/property was a win for us
Thank you Doug for the hospitality and the memories
5.0 / 5.0
Family Christmas weekend
Fantastic property perfect for our weekend family get together! Great location!
FAQs
How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Duluth?
The average price for a rental in Duluth is $182 per night. This rental is $244 above the average.
Is parking included with this cottage?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at The Trail's Edge / "Captain's Quarters" Is A Gorgeous Retreat, In Any Season. . For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cottage?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cottage. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is The Trail's Edge / "Captain's Quarters" Is A Gorgeous Retreat, In Any Season. pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this cottage is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at The Trail's Edge / "Captain's Quarters" Is A Gorgeous Retreat, In Any Season. ?
We found 13 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, and parking.
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