Cabin

Black Bear Cottage - Cozy 1921 Cottage in Historic District above downtown Estes

Photo gallery for Black Bear Cottage - Cozy 1921 Cottage in Historic District above downtown Estes

Fantastic deck! Table, adirondack chairs & gas grill.  Great View to Lake Estes!
View from Drive, entrance into Living Room & view of exterior stone fireplace.
Bear & Hummingbird (look close!) Memorializing the chopped down apple tree..
Our cottage sign to welcome you!
Living Room's romantic ambiance.. Soft light, glowing fire & a glass of wine!

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 264.5 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Outdoor space
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

Map
Estes Park, CO
  • Historic Estes Park
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • The Stanley Hotel
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Estes Park Aerial Tramway
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Fort Collins, CO (FNL-Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal)
    ‪61 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Black Bear Cottage - Cozy 1921 Cottage in Historic District above downtown Estes

(License #3115)

*** We have a new property! Visit Black Bear Cottage's little sister - Lazy Bear Cottage - (VRBO # 1255634).... ***

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NOTE: This property has adopted the recommendations from the CDC for cleaning rentals during the COVID-19 outbreak!
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Newly renovated 1921 Cottage located in the quiet Historic Marshall Cottages subdivision just a short walk to downtown Estes Park! You'll know you are in the mountains with the cozy mountain cabin decor while still providing all the comforts of home!

PLEASE NOTE: This is a non-smoking, no pet property.... Adult(s) renting cottage must be 25 years or older. Child 16 years or older with an adult is welcome.

Enjoy your evenings relaxing in the living room on the comfy sofa positioned in front of the rock fireplace enjoying a fire (functional gas log controlled by a wall switch!) or kick back in one of the two recliners! The sunroom is the perfect place to curl up on the loveseat with a good book, or work on one of the many puzzles available. The sun room has ample natural light with the wall of windows providing views of the mountains. The kitchen allows for a full range of meal preparation by including pots, fry pans, pizza pans, cookie sheets, casserole dishes and all the 'gadgets' necessary to make most any meal. Appliances include stove/oven, refrig, microwave, dishwasher, disposal, coffee maker, toaster, crock pot & blender! Enjoy your meals seated at the dining table watching the hummingbirds outside your window in the summertime, or watch the Tram as it migrates up & down the mountain.

This cottage is connected! WiFi & Streaming Service are provided. There is also a BlueRay DVD Player & a small collection of DVDs. There are three Flat Screen TVs throughout this cottage - with two of them being Smart TV's - providing ability to log into your own movie accts (Netflix/Amazon/etc.) or watch YouTube Videos, etc.!

The Queen bedroom features a new bed, closets, luggage racks, wall mounted TV, ceiling fan above bed, reading lights & night stands with clocks. All pillows & linens are new and linens are 'fragrance free/dye free'.

A Washer/Dryer Laundry Center located just off the kitchen is available for your use as well. The forced air natural gas furnace provides comfort throughout during the colder days/nights. The three ceiling fans (living room, Queen bedroom & Sitting room) help circulate the air during a warm summer day. The Water Heater is an on-demand unit providing endless hot water.

Relax on the large deck featuring a gas grill, outdoor dining table & adirondack chairs. Two garden benches in the yard provide spots for additional relaxation & mountain views.

CANCELLATION / REFUND POLICY:
- 100% Refund if cancel 30 days prior to reservation date.
- 50% Refund if cancel 14 days prior to reservation date.
- No Refund if cancel less than 14 days prior to reservation date.
- No Refund for personal choice early departure or inclement weather.

Guest must cancel by 11:59pm on the cut-off day before check-in to receive a refund. All times are specific to the property's time zone (Mountain Time).

Note: The above Cancellation/Refund policy was adopted from one of the VRBO Options owner is required to adopt.

Property manager

Nancy & Ken Kratky
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Outdoor space
Parking available
Mountain view

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Estes Park

Located in Estes Park, this cabin is in the city centre. The Stanley Hotel and Historic Estes Park are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Rocky Mountain National Park. Trout Haven Fishing Pond and Tiny Town Miniature Golf are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Estes Park, CO

What's nearby

  • Historic Estes Park - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • The Stanley Hotel - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Estes Park Aerial Tramway - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Lake Estes - 2 min drive - 1.8 km
  • Stanley Park - 3 min drive - 2.8 km

Getting around

  • Fort Collins, CO (FNL-Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal) - 61 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Claire's Restaurant and Bar - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Estes Park Pie Shop & Bakery - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪The Barrel - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Rock Cut Brewing Company - ‬14 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Black Bear Cottage - Cozy 1921 Cottage in Historic District above downtown Estes pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Black Bear Cottage - Cozy 1921 Cottage in Historic District above downtown Estes?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Black Bear Cottage - Cozy 1921 Cottage in Historic District above downtown Estes?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Black Bear Cottage - Cozy 1921 Cottage in Historic District above downtown Estes located?

Located in the heart of Estes Park, this cabin is within a 10-minute walk of Bond Park and Historic Estes Park. The Stanley Hotel and Rocky Mountain National Park are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 281 out of 285 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 285 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 285 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 285 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 285 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mary Ellen F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Early spring at Blackbear

Well appointed, well located. Thoughtful hosts. Snacks and blankets were a great touch. Enjoyed the fireplace.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kyra A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful coziest cabin!

In a beautiful place, super comfortable, very nice owners, clean and beautiful, I really recommend this place, it was amazing. We had a wonderful stay, thanks so much for everything! We will definetly come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Deedie Fay C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Charming Getaway

We miss Black Bear Cottage already. That little stone fireplace is calling our name. Black Bear is a charming, vintage cottage with updates that make it convenient and perfect. After exploring Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, it was good to come home to Black Bear and curl up with a book in front of the fire place or watch TV. We enjoyed the very minute of it.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robert L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Black Bear Cottage, Estes Park, CO

Outstanding amenities, great location close to downtown, will stay there again. Immaculate inside. Clear directions for anything electronic.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute comfy cabin!

Wonderful just and cabin!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

kerry j.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect

Adorable cabin It had absolutely everything you could want .. Such an easy walk to downtown Estes Park .
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sharon M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent Cottage and Location

Nancy ensures complete cleanliness, and anticipates your every need. The cottage is so tastefully decorated, making for a warm and homey home away from home. The location is central to wherever you would like to go. We have stayed at Black Bear several times and have never been disappointed!
Stayed 9 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stacey s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute & Convenient

Well stocked and quiet convenient location. Had a blast.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Staci Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quaint cabin

My husband and I had a wonderful time staying at the Black Bear Cottage. The cabin was very clean and had everything we needed. The location was wonderful - we walked downtown everyday after our amazing hikes to eat dinner and have ice cream. The first afternoon we were at the cabin, I was sitting on the porch and heard a noise behind me - it was a Mom and baby mule deer. So amazing to see so close up. Nancy was a wonderful host and even left some treats (which were great after hiking) and mints. We enjoyed everything about the cabin and would recommend it 100%.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Timothy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Black Bear Cottage

Nancy is a caring and thoughtful hostess. The Black Bear cottage was clean, comfortable, and well appointed. She provided lots of small amenities! Wonderful stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great!

Hospitality and cabin are great!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jason R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely stay

Charming spot in a great location. The cottage is well appointed and comfortable. Suited me great for easy runs into the park and town. Peaceful and quiet neighborhood, too, with deer and rabbit afoot. Thanks Nancy
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dennis D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Getaway

We greatly enjoyed our stay in Black Bear Cottage. It was quiet, comfortable and cozy, and had everything we needed for a week long stay. The location is perfect -- close to downtown, Lake Estes, the National Park and Safeway. We also enjoyed watching the hummingbirds and sitting on the shaded porch with our beverage of choice after a long day of hiking. We can't wait to return.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brenda G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Double Wonderful!

My second time staying here and loved it both times! I hope to come back many times more. Thank you!
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carla L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Short visit to EP

Enjoyed the cool weather and setting on the deck! We are already planning a return trip! The place was exactly as advertised and we had no issues! Had a few issues with the Roku and hostess tried to help, she said it was new to them so they will get it figured out! Our only suggestion is a hand rail on the steps up to the deck would be helpful!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

John N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Little Cottage Close to Everything

Black Bear Cottage was perfect for all of our needs. Very close to many entrances of RMNP, the location allowed us to enjoy some great hiking. We came back to relax on the deck before walking into town for enjoyable meals. The hosts had wonderful snacks for us, the check in process was easy, and their communication was great. We would not hesitate to stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Randy L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rocky Mountain High

Property was great, enjoyed sitting on the deck looking at the mountains. And everything close by...saw mule deer in the yard. Plenty TV options in the evening
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rodney S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fun

Fun
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dane L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Estes Park Black Bear Cottage

We had a great stay at the Black Bear Cottage. It was close to town and to RMNP. Nancy and Ken did an excellent job making sure they thought of everything you might need during your stay! We enjoyed our mornings and evenings on the deck with the wildlife, we saw elk and mule deer several times. Communication was excellent with Nancy and she even informed us that we would need timed entry permits for RMNP and sent information. We are looking forward to staying again in the future and would recommend the Black Bear Cottage to anyone interested in a trip to Estes Park.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bryan K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Estes Park Jewel

Such a nice place & very quite, clean and well appointed. Elk grazing outside the window! Owners went the extra mile on this home.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Claire L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Cabin Close to Downtown Estes

We loved our stay at the the Black Bear Cottage. The pictures don't do it justice - it is updated and done very well. We were impressed with the space. It was plenty big for my husband and me. Check in was easy and Nancy left a great handbook for how everything in the cottage worked. We also liked her recommendations for things to do in town. This was our third visit to Estes and her suggestions led us to try new things we really enjoyed. It was also a short walk to downtown (only about 6-8 minutes) which is one thing we love about staying in Estes. We will be staying here again for our next visit.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ronnie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

‘Bear’ly short of perfect

This home was exactly as advertised — a GREAT place to stay in beautiful Estes Park.The home is clean, exceptionally well stocked and comfortable. It’s tucked away in a quiet neighborhood but is also conveniently located just off a Main Street and within walking distance of the “downtown” area. This is a terrific area for fun activities no matter the time of year. Rocky Mountain National Park is beautiful and we found so many places within it where you can hike, bike, walk or just sit and enjoy the surroundings. And Estes has some great places to eat (if you like BBQ, you gotta try ‘Smokin’ Dave’s), drink, window shop or just hang out. Highly, highly recommend. (Just one note of caution: be careful with the swivel recliner. It sometimes swivels even when you’re reclining! Lol) … Oh, and one more thing: Nancy is an outstanding host. The communication was top notch!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kathleen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Cozy Cabin

Clean, tasteful, welcoming cabin....met and exceeded all expectations...just lovely. Want to return, we so enjoyed saying at Black Bear. Thank you, Kathy and Michael
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth M., Greenville, SC USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Winter Get Away

Our summer vacation turned into a winter get away and Nancy, the host, was fantastic and very accommodating. And Black Bear Cottage is the perfect little cozy, comfortable cabin in beautiful Estes Park for any season's get away! It is centrally located making it easy to get to all the wonderful things that Estes Park has to offer - RMNP, great restaurants and bars, and The Stanley Hotel, just to name a few. The house was fully stocked with everything that we could have possibly needed. We cooked breakfast every morning before venturing out to hike and sight see and then would return in the evenings to relax by the fire and cook dinner. We would definitely stay here again and recommend it to all couples looking for a comfy, cozy home base!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Logan J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great start

Had a wonderful time. Would recommend
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

About the host

Hosted by Nancy & Ken Kratky

Host profile image
The owners, Nancy and Ken Kratky, both grew up in Eastern Nebraska. In 1996 they moved to Colorado, got married in Hidden Valley, Colorado and honeymooned in Estes Park. In 2001 they returned to Nebraska and stayed eleven years. During that time they continued to return to Colorado multiple times per year, always visiting Estes Park, and always casually looking at real estate property with the dream of ownership some day.

In December of 2011, while on a vacation to celebrate their December birthdays, they came across this quaint little cottage in a historic little area for sale. It needed lots of attention, but they saw it's potential, and knew they could give it new life to fulfill their dream of a rustic mountain get-away. They put in an offer and the offer was accepted on Ken's Birthday! It became a 'labor of love'! They now reside in Longmont, CO.

Black Bear Cottage received it's name after a very large adult black bear climbed up the apple tree next to the cottage in the middle of the night to feast on apples! When we started to make noise, the bear got so excited, it had a difficult time trying to get back down off the roof!! The next day the apple tree was cut down... And our bicycle-riding bear was placed on the tree stump to memorialize the event!

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests