Little House on the Farm

We have to admit, the concept behind this newer B&B seemed a little hokey. A home modeled after a TV show set? But then we met owners David and Donna Dull and stepped inside, and all of that cynicism melted away. In 2009, the lifelong farmers decided to build this B&B after their three children grew up and moved away. The footprint of a 100-year-old limestone barn behind their home is the foundation for a charming cabin. Wide planked wood floors, a wood stove, a long dining table and bench, and a handmade quilt on the queen bed in the loft all help capture that Little House feel. The bathroom has a spigot-style faucet and washtub-style sink, and a small bedroom off the little kitchen includes two twin beds for little ones. You'll hear the Dulls' cows mooing from the nearby barn. Roosters herald morning's arrival, and Donna knocks on the door with a huge, fresh-cooked breakfast, including baked French toast, fruit and yogurt bowls, crispy bacon and coffee delivered in vintage tin pots. Springtime visitors find themselves surrounded by kittens when they step outside, and a veggie garden is ripe for picking in the summer. A fire pit and tire swing entertain kids. We visited during the Christmas season, in town to see the Christmas concert at nearby Luther College, and we found ourselves wishing we could stay longer than the single night we had planned. We couldn't, though -- the farm was booked the following night, and when we checked out that day, Donna said they were already booked for that weekend the following year. Word has clearly gotten out about the little farm with the big heart. From $125/night, including breakfast. Cash or checks only.