Welcome to Big Thompson Porterhouse—your cozy holiday escape in Estes Park!
This newly restored 100-year-old cottage glows with Christmas décor, warm lighting, and mountain charm. Soak in the private hot tub under twinkling winter skies, enjoy views of the festive Stanley Hotel, take a quick 7-minute stroll to downtown’s sparkling holiday lights. We're also a short drive to the winter wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park. A magical retreat for families, couples, and adventurers this season!
We are located remotely, but will be happy to connect with you via email, text or phone anytime to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay! We also have local resources standing by, if needed.
Estes Park is a charming mountain town known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Surrounded by breathtaking peaks, it offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, wildlife viewing, and small-town charm. In summer, enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting, while winter brings opportunities for snowshoeing and cozy fireside retreats. The town itself is home to local boutiques, art galleries, and delicious dining options, making it a fantastic destination for both relaxation and exploration.
Nearby Destinations:
Restaurants & Coffee Shops:
• Bird & Jim – 6 min drive (modern mountain cuisine with locally sourced ingredients)
• The Grubsteak Restaurant – 3 min drive (wild game burgers and hearty American fare)
• Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Brew – 5 min drive (local favorite for smoked meats and craft beer)
• Twin Owls Steakhouse – 5 min drive (fine dining in a rustic lodge setting)
• Inkwell & Brew – 3 min drive (organic coffee and riverside seating)
• Coffee on the Rocks – 4 min drive (scenic coffee shop with a pond and mountain views)
Outdoor Adventures & Activities:
• Rocky Mountain National Park – 10 min drive (hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives)
• Estes Park Aerial Tramway – 4 min drive (panoramic tram ride to Prospect Mountain)
• Lily Lake – 15 min drive (easy scenic hike with a peaceful alpine lake)
• Lake Estes Marina – 6 min drive (kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing)
• Hermit Park Open Space – 10 min drive (hiking and horseback riding trails)
• Stanley Hotel – 3 min drive (historic hotel)
Shopping & Local Attractions:
• Estes Park Riverwalk – 3 min drive (charming riverside shopping and dining district)
• The Taffy Shop – 3 min drive (famous for homemade saltwater taffy)
• Macdonald Bookshop – 3 min drive (independent bookstore with local charm)
• Estes Park Mountain Shop – 5 min drive (outdoor gear rentals and an indoor climbing gym)
• Open Air Adventure Park – 4 min drive (aerial obstacle course for all ages)
Guests will have access to everything that our home has to offer! The new finishes, cozy furnishings, towels and linens, kitchen, all living & sleeping areas, and outdoor spaces are available for guest use.
Estes Park STR License Number: 3297
Built in 1928, this charming and inviting mountain cottage blends vintage character with modern comforts, including air conditioning. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and accommodations for up to 8 guests, it’s the perfect retreat for families, couples, and small groups seeking a cozy getaway in the heart of Estes Park.
Inside, the open-concept living space welcomes you with a cozy gas fireplace, a dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen—perfect for home-cooked meals. A unique spiral staircase and thoughtfully curated furnishings add to the home’s warm and inviting ambiance.
Outdoor relaxation awaits! Unwind in the private hot tub after a day of hiking, or enjoy a meal on the patio with the grill. Finish off the evening relaxing at the fire pit or playing a game of corn hole. From the second-floor balcony, take in breathtaking views of the historic Stanley Hotel.
Just a short walk to downtown, you’ll be moments from Estes Park’s magical holiday displays, local shops trimmed in lights, and festive seasonal events. Rocky Mountain National Park is also close by, offering snowy trails, wildlife, and peaceful winter scenery.
Whether you're visiting for Christmas magic, festive family time, or a winter mountain retreat, this cozy Estes Park cottage makes the perfect home base for your holiday escape.
**Living Area**
Unwind in the cozy living room, where a warm gas fireplace, a 55" Roku Smart TV, and plush seating create the perfect space to relax. The open-concept design flows effortlessly into the kitchen and extends to both the front and back yards, offering a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.
**Kitchen & Dining**
The fully stocked kitchen includes:
✔ Full-size refrigerator with built in ice maker
✔ Full-size oven / range
✔ Dishwasher, microwave, and blender
✔ Coffee bar including drip coffee maker, K-cup, and French Press. Tea is also provided.
✔ Dishes, glassware, and utensils for 8 guests
✔ Kid's dishes and booster seat
The dining area seats 8 guests, making it perfect for shared meals after a day of adventure.
**Bedrooms & Sleeping Arrangements**
🛏 Master Bedroom – King bed, walk-in closet, a 55” Roku Smart TV, and a ceiling fan
🛏 Upstairs Bedroom – Bunk bed (Full top & bottom), 32” Roku Smart TV, and access to a private patio with views of the Historic Stanley Hotel
🛏 Main Floor Bedroom – Queen bed, ceiling fan, and cozy furnishings
🛏 Living Room – Sleeper sofa (Full) with additional linens
😴 Pack-n-play included for your baby/toddler
Total guests: up to 8
**Bathrooms**
🚿 Main Level Bathroom – ¾ bath with a shower, vanity, hair dryer, and toilet
🛁 2nd Level Bathroom – Full bath with tub/shower combo and double sinks
**Outdoor Spaces**
🌄 Front Patio – Seating & dining area for 8 with a gas fire pit for enjoying those cozy evenings. Corn hole set included!
🔥 Back Patio – Flattop grill (Blackstone style) for BBQ evenings. Grill grate included for searing those steaks and burgers.
🛁 Private Hot Tub – Unwind under the stars. Towel warmer and extra towels provided. Hot tub seats 5 people.
**Additional Amenities**
✔ Fast WiFi (50+ Mbps)
✔ Washer & Dryer (free, on-site)
✔ Heating & Portable Fans
✔ Board Games & Books
✔ Gas Fireplace (easy-to-use timer controls)
✔ Iron and Ironing Board
✔ Bear-proof trash can for safety
**FREE Parking**
🚗 3 parking spaces (driveway + street parking)
**House Rules**
🚭 No smoking anything (including pot / vapes) inside or on the property
🚫 No parties or events
🚫 No pets
🔇 Quiet hours: 10 PM - 8 AM
🌌 Follow Estes Park’s Dark Sky regulations (keep outdoor lights off outside when not in use)
🐻 Secure trash in the bear-proof garbage can
✅ Follow all other house rules in the House Manual
**Why You’ll Love It**
✔ Walkable location near downtown Estes Park & Stanley Hotel
✔ Close to Rocky Mountain National Park
✔ Unique 1928 home with charming character
✔ Relaxing hot tub & cozy fireplace
📅 Book your stay now and experience the magic of Estes Park!
Our home is in walking distance to most food and attractions in Estes Park, but a vehicle is recommended for exploring the surrounding area.
The Town of Estes Park operates five free, seasonal shuttle routes allowing you to get around town either from your lodging, or by parking at one of the large (free) hubs in Estes.
Rocky Mountain National Park operates a Hiker Shuttle from the Estes Park Visitor Center to the Park & Ride Transit Hub located on Bear Lake Road. There are no other stops in the park. At the Park & Ride, riders will transfer to the Bear Lake or Moraine Park shuttles to get to their trailhead destinations.
See the Estes Park website (visitestespark) for more details.
A Message from the Owners:
Welcome to our home! We are so excited to share our home with you and hope you enjoy everything that makes Estes Park such a special place. Our home is nearly 100 years old, full of charm and character, and located just a short walk from downtown Estes Park and the Stanley Hotel. Whether you’re here for hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply relaxing in the hot tub under the stars, we hope you find this to be a comfortable and memorable retreat.
Since this is also our home, we ask that you treat it with care and respect, just as you would your own. Please take in the beauty of Estes Park and enjoy the magic of the mountains!
