Everything about this cabin is exquisite! The interior is impeccably redone with modern finishes and lovely decor/furnishings, however the historic and rustic elements of the cabin are still highlighted and well preserved.
The size was perfect for our family (which includes a five-year-old and 90 pound lab), and we did not feel like we were on top of one another even though the cabin is relatively small in size. The kitchen had all basic cook/prep/dishware for making simple meals and we appreciated the outdoor grill for dinners.
We enjoyed the view of the adjacent hay fields and the mountain backdrop while sitting on the porch (which gets afternoon and evening shade, a welcome relief from the hot summer days!)
While the town of Alder does not offer much in the way of amenities, one store – one bar – one restaurant, (fine for us as we were looking to “get away from it all” given the current pandemic) it is a short drive from various points of interest, including the historic/tourist town Virginia city just 10 minutes up the road. We also enjoyed a take-ou breakfast and lunch in Sheridan just down the road the other way.
The location was also a great spot to use as “ Base Camp“ as we explored various other areas with our Drift Boat: Ennis and the Madison River, Twin Bridges & Melrose for the Big Hole river, as well as a bit further away in Dillon and the Beaverhead River (A longer drive, but definitely worth it as the fishing was excellent!)
While the cabin does sit immediately adjacent to the owners family homes, it was in no way a concern, in fact if anything we hoped WE were not being intrusive, and we had complete privacy. (GRiZ the giant dog was a big lovey guy, and highlight of the trip for our daughter. I would mention to other dog owners, however, that if your dog needs privacy/space from unfamiliar dogs it is probably not the best set up for that...)
We would return in a heartbeat and thank Julie & family immensely for sharing their slice of peaceful paradise with us!