10/10 Excellent
Nicole J.
Oct 19, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nicole J.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Entire home
The Rock House- The coziest Pella cottage retreat w/ firepit
Photo gallery for The Rock House- The coziest Pella cottage retreat w/ firepit
Step into the Rock House, a charming 1856 cottage turned modern retreat. Unwind with a movie night on the cozy couch or cook up something delicious in the well-appointed kitchen.
Reviews
1010 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4861 sq ft
Popular amenities
- Kitchen
- Washer
- Dryer
- Free WiFi
- Air conditioning
- Outdoor Space
Add dates for prices
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
The Rock House- The coziest Pella cottage retreat w/ firepit
The Rock House – Historic Dutch Cottage Near Downtown Pella
Step into a true piece of history at The Rock House, a charming cottage built in 1856 by Dutch homesteaders and thoughtfully restored with modern comforts. This beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers a cozy retreat while being conveniently located next to Central College and just minutes from downtown Pella.
Guests can easily explore Pella’s unique shops, bakeries, restaurants, and historic attractions including the famous Vermeer Windmill and Dutch Square. Outdoor recreation is also nearby at Lake Red Rock, Iowa’s largest lake, offering hiking, biking, boating, and beautiful scenery just a short drive away.
Inside the 750-square-foot cottage, you’ll find inviting spaces designed for comfort and relaxation. The living room provides a cozy place to unwind after a day exploring town, while the fully equipped kitchen includes everything you need to prepare meals during your stay. Guests also have access to a washer and dryer for added convenience.
Sleeping arrangements are perfect for couples or small families. The main floor features a comfortable king bedroom, while the upstairs loft offers two twin beds, creating a charming space for kids or additional guests.
Outside, guests can enjoy peaceful evenings around the fire pit, share meals on the patio with seating for six, or relax with morning coffee while listening to the birds. The property offers a quiet, private atmosphere while still being close to everything Pella has to offer, along with private parking for two vehicles.
Whether you’re visiting for a Central College event, exploring the shops and bakeries downtown, or attending the famous Tulip Time Festival, The Rock House offers a warm and memorable place to stay.
This house is a piece of Pella history and has been beautifully restored for our guests to enjoy. All we ask is that you treat it with the care it deserves. Our goal is to share it will people and preserve it, so it can be here for the next 150 years!
Step into a true piece of history at The Rock House, a charming cottage built in 1856 by Dutch homesteaders and thoughtfully restored with modern comforts. This beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers a cozy retreat while being conveniently located next to Central College and just minutes from downtown Pella.
Guests can easily explore Pella’s unique shops, bakeries, restaurants, and historic attractions including the famous Vermeer Windmill and Dutch Square. Outdoor recreation is also nearby at Lake Red Rock, Iowa’s largest lake, offering hiking, biking, boating, and beautiful scenery just a short drive away.
Inside the 750-square-foot cottage, you’ll find inviting spaces designed for comfort and relaxation. The living room provides a cozy place to unwind after a day exploring town, while the fully equipped kitchen includes everything you need to prepare meals during your stay. Guests also have access to a washer and dryer for added convenience.
Sleeping arrangements are perfect for couples or small families. The main floor features a comfortable king bedroom, while the upstairs loft offers two twin beds, creating a charming space for kids or additional guests.
Outside, guests can enjoy peaceful evenings around the fire pit, share meals on the patio with seating for six, or relax with morning coffee while listening to the birds. The property offers a quiet, private atmosphere while still being close to everything Pella has to offer, along with private parking for two vehicles.
Whether you’re visiting for a Central College event, exploring the shops and bakeries downtown, or attending the famous Tulip Time Festival, The Rock House offers a warm and memorable place to stay.
This house is a piece of Pella history and has been beautifully restored for our guests to enjoy. All we ask is that you treat it with the care it deserves. Our goal is to share it will people and preserve it, so it can be here for the next 150 years!
Property amenities
Internet
- Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transportation
- Car not required
- Parking on site
Kitchen
- Coffee/tea maker
- Cookware, dishware, and utensils
- Dishwasher
- Microwave
- Oven
- Refrigerator
- Stovetop
- Toaster
Dining
- Dining table
Bedrooms
- 2 bedrooms
- Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
- 1 bathroom
- Hair dryer
- Towels provided
Living spaces
- Dining table
- Living room
Entertainment
- Smart TV
Outdoor areas
- Firepit
- Garden
- Patio
Laundry
- Laundry facilities
- Washing machine
Work spaces
- Desk
Comfort
- Air conditioning
- Heating
Pets
- No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
- Smoking not allowed
Location highlights
- Near a hospital
- Near an outlet shopping mall
Things to do
- Bicycles
- Boat
- Golf
- Kayak
- Birdwatching nearby
- Motor boating nearby
Safety features
- Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
- Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
- Fire extinguisher
General
- Bicycles
- Garden
- Unit size: 861 square feet
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Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
This house is a piece of Pella history and has been beautifully restored for our guests to enjoy.
Pets
Pets not allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
We should mention
A car is not required for transportation to and from this property
Property is also known as
376046
About the neighborhood
Pella is home to this vacation home. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Elk Rock State Park and Central Park, while Scholte House Museum & Gardens and National Sprint Car Hall of Fame are cultural highlights. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Knoxville Raceway or Iowa Speedway. Take an opportunity to explore the area for water adventures such as motor boating and other activities like birdwatching. Visit our Pella travel guide
View more Vacation Homes in Pella
Pella, IA
What's nearby
Central College2 min walk - 0.1 miles
Central Park15 min walk - 0.8 miles- Molengracht Plaza17 min walk - 0.9 miles
- Historical Village, Vermeer Windmill & Scholte House2 min drive - 1.1 miles
- Pella Regional Health Center3 min drive - 1.7 miles
Getting around
- Des Moines International Airport (DSM)60 min drive
Restaurants
- McDonald's3 min drive
- Casey's General Store4 min drive
- Casey's General Store3 min drive
- Chick-fil-A5 min drive
- Dairy Queen3 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is The Rock House- The coziest Pella cottage retreat w/ firepit pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at The Rock House- The coziest Pella cottage retreat w/ firepit?
As of Mar 13, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Rock House- The coziest Pella cottage retreat w/ firepit on Mar 15, 2026 start from $296, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking?
Onsite parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Rock House- The coziest Pella cottage retreat w/ firepit?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Rock House- The coziest Pella cottage retreat w/ firepit?
Check-out is at 10:00 AM.
Where is The Rock House- The coziest Pella cottage retreat w/ firepit located?
Situated in Pella, this vacation home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Central College, Central Park, and Molengracht Plaza. Scholte House Museum & Gardens and Historical Village, Vermeer Windmill & Scholte House are also within 1 mi (2 km).
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The Rock House- The coziest Pella cottage retreat w/ firepit Reviews
Reviews
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new windowRating 10 - Excellent. 67 out of 72 reviews
10 - Excellent
67
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 72 reviews
8 - Good
5
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 72 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 72 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 72 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10
Cleanliness
9.8
Location
9.6
Property conditions & facilities
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Ray Chris C.
Jun 3, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family visit
Nice place to stay. Nice back yard and flowers and in house amenities
Ray Chris C.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Sarah Y.
Mar 21, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing Stay
The house was perfect for our family get away. We appreciated the comfort of the home and the location to many things. Would highly recommend staying at this house!
Sarah Y.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Amanda R.
Feb 19, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely perfect stay in Pella!
The house is amazing and quaint. Perfect for a relaxing weekend in Pella!
Amanda R.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Cole G.
May 20, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely Stay
The house was beautiful and clean. We were right next to downtown Pella. It was perfect for a relaxing getaway for our anniversary.
Cole G.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Amy
Jun 17, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My family of four had a fantastic stay at this property! It is beautiful, clean, and is thoughtfully equipped. We relaxed and enjoyed the town of Pella. This was a perfect base for exploring the town.
Amy
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Amanda B.
Oct 21, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing little house
clean, well managed, cozy, beautiful historic place.
Amanda B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Wanda S.
Mar 16, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Lovely place
What a beautiful, restored, cozy, clean little house!
Wanda S.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024
8/10 Good
Kurt & Laurie J.
Nov 11, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stone cottage
Good size, excellent decor, plenty of outdoor activities close by, good bakeries
Kurt & Laurie J.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
connie g.
May 1, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay
Such a cute property and check-in was effortless! Wish they had an extra mirror in the house though. Otherwise all was great!
connie g.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Wendy S.
Mar 2, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great girls weekend
Perfect property to relax and unwind with friends. Short drive to the town square.
Wendy S.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Mike B.
Sep 8, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great relaxing place
My family of 4 really enjoyed it stay here. House was really cozy, beds were fantastic! Had everything we needed for a weekend stay. Town of Pella was a really nice place to spend an afternoon in. Great little stores, bakeries and near market.
Mike B.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Kathy M.
May 13, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved the Rock House
The Rock House was perfect for mother daughter getaway. It was comfortable and clean yet quaint and historical in a perfect location.
Kathy M.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Violet H.
May 17, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful historic property
Lots of historic charm with all the updates. Really enjoyed the coffee bar before we set out for the day. So many choices. Very clean & comfortable.
Violet H.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Bruce O.
Aug 30, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Rock House
It was amazing, the history of the house and the location was awesome…so well updated and preserved…we would like to stay again sometime in the future….
Bruce O.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Sherri P.
May 10, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
So cute!!!
Loved the historic rock house! So, very charming!
Sherri P.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Karen R.
Oct 21, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A quaint cozy cottage on the edge of Pella made for the perfect birthday retreat. Walking to the town square with sun shining on an autumn day, exploring the flower patch, and welcoming a new day with the sunrise over the field next door refreshment for the soul. Every detail is thought of in this Rock House: kitchen ware, comfortable beds, outdoor sitting spaces, a fire pit with wood to use. I highly recommend the Rock House and hosts.
Karen R.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lani L.
Oct 19, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fun Stay
I stopped in town to visit my niece who goes to Central College. It was just down from the college and we had a great stay. The owner responded quickly to any question I had.
Lani L.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer C.
Oct 21, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fall Retreat
Wonderful stay for a fall weekend. The house is located on the bike path and a short walk to Main Street. Lake Red Rock is minutes away for nice hiking trails and kayaking.
Jennifer C.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Candy S.
Feb 8, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute, cozy and quant.
Cute for its size. Cozy feel. Love the preservation as well.
Candy S.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Brece J.
Nov 4, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Review
Very clean; good location a short walk from campus.
Brece J.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Alyssa R.
Feb 11, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful cottage
The historic cottage was perfect for a girls’ weekend for my friend and I. We loved reading about the history and seeing all of the unique details in the home. I will definitely book this listing again if I’m back in pella. I can see my children loving the attic room.
Alyssa R.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Austin L.
Oct 30, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wanted to stay longer!
Complete joy and the history
Austin L.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Tori J.
Apr 8, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Overnight Stay in Pella
I was in town for one night on a business trip. This cottage was the perfect place to stay in Pella --- quiet, charming, and historic. 5 stars all around! Hope to stay here again in the future!
Tori J.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024
10/10 Excellent
Liandra M.
Aug 22, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sisters trip 2024
This was our first sisters trip of the year and I think we definitely picked the perfect house for it! It’s was such a relaxing, peaceful visit..everything we needed was there for us, the beds were amazing and the environment of the house was even better.
Liandra M.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024