Shiloh Cottage, Loudon, Tennessee
A Cozy, Magical Stay at Shiloh Cottage in Loudon, Tennessee
If you're looking for a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature, animals, and charm, Shiloh Cottage in Loudon, Tennessee, is the place you need to visit. My recent stay at this cottage was one of the most enjoyable experiences I've had in quite some time. From the moment we arrived to the moment we left, I was in awe of every little detail that made this place so unique and special. I can't wait to share every single moment of our stay with you because this place left such a lasting impression on me!
When we first arrived, it was late at night. The drive to the cottage was down a long driveway, and the quiet, serene atmosphere made the place feel like a secret retreat tucked away from the rest of the world. We couldn't see much of the surroundings because it was dark, but that only added to the charm, especially for the next morning. As we parked next to the cottage, we were immediately struck by how cozy and inviting it felt. We walked in, and the warmth and charm of the cottage completely enveloped us. The owners had put so much care into decorating the space, and it was a beautiful blend of modern touches with hints of history, making the place feel both fresh and full of character.
One of the most unique aspects of Shiloh Cottage is its history. The owners left a lovely note explaining that the cottage was built over 100 years ago, and many parts of the original structure are still part of the cottage today. For example, the bedroom door and some of the decor are original, which added a special touch to our stay. Knowing that we were staying in a building with such a rich history made the experience feel even more special, as if we were part of something much bigger than just a simple vacation.
The cottage itself is the perfect size for a small family or a couple of friends looking to escape to nature. There are three beds in total, two of which are located in the cozy upstairs loft. The main floor includes a bedroom, a comfortable living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and one bathroom. It was just the right amount of space for my parents and I, allowing us to spend time together without feeling cramped. Everything was perfectly laid out, and the cottage had such a peaceful and calming atmosphere. As soon as we walked in, we could tell the owners took great care in making sure everything was just right, and that was reflected in every little detail, from the furniture to the kitchen accessories.
Speaking of the kitchen, it was one of the most well-equipped kitchens I've had the pleasure of using during my travels. The owners had stocked it with everything we could possibly need, from spices and seasonings to snacks like granola bars and popcorn. They even had a variety of teas, coffees, and a platter of homemade blueberry scones waiting for us, which were absolutely delicious. The scones, along with a basket of fresh eggs from their chickens, made our mornings even better. It was clear that the owners had put a lot of thought into making us feel at home, and that really stood out to me. The kitchen also had water, tea, and a few other essentials to ensure we had everything we needed. This was not just a place to sleep; it was a place to truly experience, and I found myself wanting to spend more time in the cottage than I had initially planned.
One of the most special touches was a basket that the owners left for us, containing everything we needed to make s'mores. Right outside the cottage was a firepit, and we took full advantage of it one evening, making s'mores under the clear Tennessee sky. After eating my s’mores, I found myself sitting outside by the fire and stargazing. The s’mores was such a simple gesture, but it made the experience feel even more magical. There's something about sitting around a fire and enjoying s'mores that just brings people together, and I think that’s exactly what this cottage did—it brought us closer to each other and to the place itself.
The cottage was also filled with games, books, and activities that people of any age entertained. There were a variety of board games, including cards and Connect Four, and for children, there were stuffed animals, books, and even magazines to keep them entertained. It's clear that the owners thought of everything to make this place a perfect retreat for everyone, regardless of age. I also appreciated that the bathroom was stocked with all the essentials you might need, from Q-tips to feminine products. It’s not often you find a place that takes such thoughtful care in providing for your comfort, but this cottage truly did.
But the best part of our stay came the next morning. Since we arrived so late, we hadn't seen much of the surrounding land, but when I woke up, I walked downstairs from the loft to find my dad standing at the kitchen window, pointing outside. He had seen cows! I was so excited and rushed over to the window. Right there, outside the kitchen, were two baby cows. It was the most adorable thing! But as if that weren’t enough, I stepped outside and found myself surrounded by a whole herd of cows—some were friendly, others a little shy, but all were absolutely charming.
One of the cows, named Amelia, was especially friendly. She was the first to come up to me and allowed me to pet her, which made my heart melt. Later, we got permission from the owners to feed the cows, and we brought out some apples, carrots, and bananas. The cows were a bit hesitant about the apples, but they absolutely loved the carrots and bananas. I spent a good amount of time just hanging out with them, and it felt like such a genuine connection. Slowly, the cows warmed up to us, probably just because of the food lol, and it was impossible not to fall in love with them.
As I was spending time with the cows, the owner told us about the sheep and two Great Pyrenees dogs nearby. The dogs were incredibly sweet and very eager for some attention. One of the sheep, a black-and-white one, started nibbling on my hand, clearly wanting some affection too. It was so heartwarming to see how the animals interacted with each other, especially when the baby sheep sought comfort from one of the dogs. She looked to the dog for protection and snuggled into him, and it was one of the most heartwarming things I’ve ever seen.
The property also had chickens, which was another cool thing to see. There was even a cat that would visit the cottage regularly, and while I’m not normally a cat person, this one was so adorable that I couldn’t help but give it some love. The way all the animals interacted with each other, and with us, made the experience feel so genuine and down-to-earth. I honestly didn’t want to leave.
Everything about Shiloh Cottage was just perfect. The owners' attention to detail, the cozy atmosphere, the history of the cottage, and, of course, the wonderful animals all contributed to making this stay unforgettable. If you're looking for a place to unwind, relax, and truly connect with nature, I can't recommend Shiloh Cottage enough. It exceeded every expectation I had, and I would definitely stay here again. The peacefulness, the warmth of the cottage, and the kindness of the owners made it feel like a home away from home, and I can't wait to return.
Other Things to Do in Loudon, Tennessee:
While Shiloh Cottage is a destination in itself, if you’re looking to explore Loudon a little more, here are a few activities you can enjoy nearby:
Fort Loudoun State Historic Park: This historic park is a great place for outdoor lovers, with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful lake where you can spend a relaxing afternoon.
Loudon County Museum of History: If you're interested in local history, this museum is a must-see. It offers a fascinating look at the history of the region.
Tennessee Valley Winery: A great spot for wine lovers to relax and sample some local wine while enjoying the views of the Tennessee landscape.
If you're ever looking for a place to escape, Shiloh Cottage is a must-visit. The warmth, the care, and the charm of this cottage will make your stay one to remember for a long time. No matter what you choose to do, Loudon is full of charming experiences that complement the peaceful vibe of Shiloh Cottage.
