2 sites · Lodging77 acres · Eagle, WIWe found our Kettle House in 1999 when we were in the market for a vacant parcel to pitch a tent after a long day of riding the single track trails in the State Forest. We are originally from Dane County Wisconsin, which like the Eagle area is graced with terminal moraine geology. A terminal moraine is where the last glaciation stopped and dropped everything it was carrying. These deposited sand and gravel hills and interim kettles, many of which include lakes and wetlands, are the topography we are inherently drawn to. We were thrilled to have the opportunity to better balance our city living with a country weekend retreat in such a special area. The site's historic ecosystems (woodland, savanna, prairie and aquatic) were in rough shape when we bought the property which had been suburbanized to large degree, but as ecologists, we knew there was lots of potential to restore the site and reclaim a special part of Wisconsin's natural environment. It is our responsibility and privilege to care for this property and you may see evidence of our regular site work during your visit. We hope you mostly see and enjoy a nice example of natural Wisconsin in various stages of restoration!Learn more about this land:This amazing property is located 20 minutes northeast of Geneva Lake and Delevan Lake, 75 minutes southeast of Madison, 45 minutes southwest of Milwaukee and 1.75 hours northwest of Chicago. It is situated within minutes drive of the gorgeous Kettle Moraine State Forest Southern Unit parcels (10 minutes to Emma, 15 to John Muir, 5 minutes to McMiller trail heads). Additionally, the remarkable LuLu Lake State Natural Area is within a 10 minute walk down Nature Road. These nearby large scale natural areas offer many miles of trails and expanses of uninterrupted nature. Thus, we offer perfect accommodations for birders and outdoor recreationists, as well as family gatherings.In addition to the large public open spaces nearby, our site’s 77 acres are incrementally being restored and managed as woodland, savanna, prairie, wetland and aquatic native ecosystems. Miles of private mowed trails launch from the front door of the house, providing access to a beautiful private park with four fishing ponds. Hiking, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and limited single track biking and fishing are allowed. The mid-century modern house is modest, partially renovated, and very well situated on the terraced site, with lots of indoor-outdoor views and amenities including two indoor wood burning fireplaces, outdoor hot tub, an outdoor fire pit on the patio, a gas grill, lots of bird feeding stations and patio seating. Spring and fall warbler migration are particularly wonderful times of year here!In the immediate yard of the house, a small outdoor heated pool frames a lovely rear yard that includes a fountain and a screen porch. A remnant gravel hill prairie covers what would typically be mowed lawn. Respecting the site’s plants while enjoying them will be expected of all guests, as is being courteous of all neighbors in this quiet rural setting. We have enjoyed this incredible property for 20 years and are at a point in our lives that we are ready to share it with others who will appreciate the opportunity to immerse oneself in a beautiful environment while not being far from three large metropolitan areas. The ease of access to nearby amenities, especially the State Forest trail systems and the Villages of Eagle, East Troy, Mukwonago and Palmyra (restaurants, gas stations, Old World Wisconsin, Alpine Valley, Elegant Farmer, Eagle Spring Lake, LuLu Lake and Crooked Creek, etc.) all make staying here very easy, relaxing, recreational and enjoyable. The house has the potential to sleep 10, with three private bedrooms (one queen bed and two double + twin bunk beds), a long living room couch and a super single fold down couch by the fireplace in the breezeway. Sheets and towels provided, to be laundered by guests. Two bathrooms include a walk-in shower and tub/shower. Washer and drier available. Kitchen includes gas stove and range, refrigerator, freezer, dorm dishwasher, microwave, toaster and general kitchen equipment, dishes and utensils.Skylights and lots of windows provide ample light and views of surrounding savanna that features a handful of old bur and white oaks, intermixed with hickories. Our favorite room is the living room where floor to ceiling windows make it feel as if you are sitting outside all year round. During the winter, a fire in the hearth with a drink and a game or movie on the flat screen TV offer a great place to kick back. If you can’t completely unplug, complimentary WiFi and a corner home office + artist’s easel in the breezeway allow for dedicated work and creative space.
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