Storybook-style cottage cabin with round door and private hot tub in Shawnee National Forest

The Cove Cabin

The Cove is a whimsical cabin in Southern Illinois, designed for guests who love imagination, charm, and one-of-a-kind spaces. From the moment you step through the round blue door, this unique luxury cabin feels like an escape into another world—playful, cozy, and thoughtfully designed.

Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, The Cove offers privacy and a forested setting while remaining within walking distance of a premier winery on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. Spend the day exploring the beauty of Southern Illinois, then return to soak in your private hot tub beneath the trees.

The Experience

The Cove is about wonder and curiosity. Curved lines, warm textures, and whimsical details create a space that feels magical without sacrificing comfort. It’s ideal for couples looking for a unique cabin in Illinois that feels intimate, joyful, and unlike anywhere else.

Earthen Shelter Cabin with round teal door surround by in icy landscape.
A cozy living room with a fireplace, round door, curved ceilings, and television.

Design

Playful architecture and whimsical details blend seamlessly with modern comfort. Every element of The Cove is intentional—inviting you to slow down, explore, and enjoy a sense of wonder without sacrificing luxury.

Inside the Cabin

Inside, you’ll find a cozy yet refined interior designed for relaxation. Comfortable furnishings, thoughtful lighting, and charming details make the space feel welcoming and memorable.

Location: Forest & Wine Trail

The Cove is located in Southern Illinois, surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest and just a short walk from one of the most celebrated wineries on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail - offering a rare blend of seclusion and experience.

Book Your Stay

If you’re searching for a whimsical cabin in Southern Illinois, The Cove offers a magical, memorable escape.

Amenities

  • Inside the Cabin

    • Exquisitely comfortable king-size comfort core bed with Tempur-Pedic pillows for neck support

    • Five-foot ceramic and glass shower

    • Cozy gas fireplace (usable October 1 – May 10)

    • BOSE SoundDock speaker system with auxiliary input

    • Satellite TV with 40-inch LED television

    • Blu-ray DVD player

    • Washer and dryer

    • High-efficiency air conditioning and heat

    • Romantic lighting with LED candles


    Kitchen & Dining

    • Fully equipped kitchen

    • Refrigerator and freezer

    • Five-burner gas stove and range

    • Microwave, Crock-Pot, waffle maker, and toaster

    • Utensils, pots, pans, glasses, and dishware

    • Wine glasses and margarita set

    • Whole-bean gourmet coffee with grinder and Keurig Duo coffee maker

    • Tea kettle and tea selection

    • Basic spice rack and olive oil


    Linens & Comfort

    • High-end towels and linens

    • Egyptian or Turkish cotton hooded robes

      • Thicker robes for colder months

      • Lighter plush robes for summer


    Outdoor Spaces

    • Private covered outdoor hot tub just outside the bedroom

    • Private deck and brick patio with outdoor seating

    • Brick outdoor fire pit

    • Charcoal BBQ grill (guests provide charcoal, lighter, and lighter fluid)


    Location Highlights

    • Spectacular surrounding views

    • Private path leading to beautiful Blue Sky Vineyard

    • Located within the Shawnee National Forest

Winter scape of the "Hobbit" style Cove cabin with a round blue door, evergreen shrubs, and long shadows in the snow.

Booking Info

Minimum Stay

  • Two-night minimum required

  • Friday & Saturday stays must be booked together

  • No Saturday check-ins

Check-In / Check-Out

  • Check-in: 3:30 pm

  • Check-out: 10:30 am

Special Policies

  • April–December: three-night minimums on select weekends including Friday & Saturday

  • Contact us if you have questions about children in the cabin. We are usually happy to work with you.

Rates

Sunday – Thursday

  • $209 per night + 11% lodging tax

Friday & Saturday

  • $269 per night + 11% lodging tax

Seven-Night Package

  • $1,266 plus tax (average savings of ~$45/night)

Holiday Rates

  • Same as weekend rates

Payment Info

  • 50% due at booking

  • Balance charged 46 days before arrival

  • Accepted credit cards: VISA, MasterCard, Discover, American Express. *2.9% processing fee automatically applied.

    *Prices and minimum stays subject to change.

Two glasses of wine are on a table outside.
Two greyhound dogs laying on their beds beside the fire at the cozy Cove Cabin

Pet Policy

Reservations will be allowed for up to two pets at the Cove Cabin and the French Creole Cabin ONLY.

Pets are not allowed at the Hollow Cabin. Please do not call and ask for an exception to that rule.

If we decide to suspend our Pets Allowed policy due to abuse, we will refund any pet fee previously applied.

There will be a flat rate of $75 for one dog, a second dog will be an additional $35. This applies to any length of stay.

Guests must disclose that they will be bringing a pet. Pets are only allowed with permission.

If booking online, you can submit the information and payment upon check-out. After the reservation is made, we will call you to about bringing your pet. If we decide this does not seem like a situation with which we feel comfortable, we will refund your pet fee. Rates for pets is posted on our Rates page.

See Pets Allowed policy details and requirements on our rental agreement page.

Access to your cabin will come in a check-in email about two to three weeks before your arrival.

By reserving one of our cabins, you agree to and abide by the terms and conditions of our rental and cancellation agreement. (We highly recommend cancellation insurance for peace of mind. Insure My Trip is one option.) Prices and minimum stays subject to change.

Reduced Rate Packages for a Longer, Relaxing, Vacation Getaway Seven Night Discount

$1266 - saving you an average of $45/per night*

Stay seven days which automatically includes a coveted weekend!  This seven day package can be booked online. Rates will update when booking the reservation.

*plus 11% tax rate.