Our Old House

Located in Shelbyville, Illinois, Our Old House offers a distinct lodging experience focused on a rustic, country setting. It operates as a collection of vacation rentals, comprising several cabins and two separate houses, designed to cater to travelers looking for a retreat with ample on-site activities. The business positions itself as a destination for families, groups, and outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those drawn to the nearby Lake Shelbyville, which is conveniently located just a couple of miles away for boating and other water activities.

The Guest Experience: Amenities and Praised Hospitality

A significant draw for this establishment is the array of recreational facilities available to guests. The main property, associated with their largest rental house, sits on five acres and includes a swimming pool, a stocked pond for catch-and-release fishing, a sand volleyball court, and a basketball area. This collection of amenities provides a self-contained environment for a holiday, making it one of the more comprehensive getaway destinations in the area. Each rental, whether a cabin or a house, is equipped with its own fire pit, picnic table, and charcoal grill, encouraging an outdoor-centric stay.

Inside, the accommodations are described by visitors as simple and functional rather than luxurious. They come equipped with full kitchens, including essentials like a refrigerator, stove, microwave, and coffee maker, as well as linens and towels. This makes the properties suitable for those who prefer to prepare their own meals, a key consideration for family vacation spots and extended stays. Many past guests have highlighted the personal touch and warm hospitality of the hosts, Don and Barb, who are frequently described as friendly, helpful, and accommodating, with some visitors even receiving welcome gifts. This level of service adds a personal dimension that sets it apart from more impersonal lodging options.

Accommodations Breakdown

The establishment offers a variety of rental configurations to suit different group sizes, a key factor in group travel planning:

• House 1: The largest property, this three-bedroom house can sleep up to 12 people across nine beds and has exclusive access to the on-site pool, pond, and sports courts.
• House 2: A two-bedroom house with five beds, capable of sleeping up to eight guests.
• Cabins 1-4: These are open-plan rooms, each with three beds sleeping up to five guests. Notably, Cabins 1 and 2 are designated as pet-friendly, an important feature for travelers with animals.

Critical Considerations: A Look at the Downsides

Despite a high overall rating and many positive reviews, prospective guests should be aware of some significant concerns. The most critical issue reported involves booking reliability. One long-term repeat customer shared a deeply negative experience of being asked to move from their reserved cabin on two separate occasions, despite booking months in advance. The reasons provided were to accommodate the preferences of other guests—once for a fishing tournament participant and another time for a long-term guest. This incident raises serious questions about the fairness and reliability of the reservation process, suggesting that not all bookings are treated with equal priority. For anyone planning travel accommodations, especially for a specific event or with specific needs, this is a considerable risk.

Additionally, while the cabins are functional, guests should set their expectations accordingly. The furnishing is comfortable but basic, and amenities like a dishwasher are not included, which can be a minor inconvenience after cooking for a large group. The properties are presented as housekeeping accommodations, meaning daily cleaning services are not provided unless requested for an extra fee. These are not high-luxury cabin rentals, but rather practical bases for outdoor activities.

Who Should Stay Here?

Our Old House is best suited for travelers who prioritize on-site recreation and a rustic, friendly atmosphere over modern luxury and guaranteed booking certainty. It is an excellent choice for fishing trip lodging, given its proximity to Lake Shelbyville and its own stocked pond. Large families and groups will appreciate the variety of lodging sizes and the abundance of activities to keep everyone entertained. However, travelers who require absolute certainty in their reservations or who are sensitive to last-minute changes may want to consider this potential drawback carefully and confirm their booking details directly and firmly with the management before committing.