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Hills School - Historic Comfort in SW MI Wine Country

Photo gallery for Hills School - Historic Comfort in SW MI Wine Country

Exterior
Dining
Bathtub, hair dryer, towels, soap
Property grounds
Property grounds
Reviews
10

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • FireplaceFireplaceFireplace
  • Free WiFiFree WiFiFree WiFi
  • KitchenKitchenKitchen
  • Barbecue grillBarbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • Air conditioningAir conditioningAir conditioning
  • Outdoor SpaceOutdoor SpaceOutdoor Space

Explore the area

Map
Buchanan, MI
  • Popular LocationRound Barn Winery2 min drive
  • Popular LocationLemon Creek Winery11 min drive
  • Popular LocationWarren Dunes State Park18 min drive
  • AirportElkhart, IN (EKI-Elkhart Municipal)56 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Hills School - Historic Comfort in SW MI Wine Country

Historic Hills School is a 1916 brick schoolhouse completely renovated in 2020 to create a dramatic but cozy home away from home. Original details of the structure and classrooms have been maintained or re-purposed where possible, and the decor showcases photos and stories of the days when this beautiful property was filled with the shouts and laughter of local K-8 students.

Hang your hat in the period-tiled front entry that features wainscoting from the original cloakroom and step up to an awe-inspiring space. Soaring 12' ceilings and magnificent large windows capture the changing country light morning to night in the spacious bedrooms and open living space. Modern amenities are incorporated to anticipate your every comfort in this quiet, relaxing wooded setting.

Bedrooms feature queen beds with heated mattress pads, ceiling fans, and large closets. Curl up with a good book and cozy throw. Bathrooms have new tile, modern fixtures, and large glass-enclosed showers. One has a restored claw foot tub.

Gather round the 10' island and gas fireplace in the fully equipped SS cook's kitchen, where you can cook and bake - or just warm up those leftovers! Share a cup of coffee, glass of wine, or full meal at the island, seated on original desk seats - or take a seat at the large dining table (seating 6-8) in front of the original chalkboard.

Staying several days or here for a special occasion? A full service laundry room with large washer and dryer, detergent, iron and ironing board is provided for your use.

The house includes high speed internet and WiFi, as well as wireless charging stations for phones in bedrooms and living room (USB charging jacks are in lamp bases of one bedroom).
65" smart TV with sound bar, books, magazines and games. The sound bar is Bluetooth so you can play your favorite music from your mobile device.

Outside, enjoy the new back deck, outdoor eating area, gas grill, and fire pit (wood provided) with views to woods and neighboring farmland. Walk to nearby wineries or take a short drive to restaurants, wineries/breweries/distilleries, beaches, parks, and shopping.

Come to Hills School 1916 any time of year, and make your own memories to add to those of the many children who entered these doors from 1916 to 1956. I look forward to welcoming you!

Property manager

Ann

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach towels

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower only
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location

Things to do

  • Cycling nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • 1 unit
  • Garden

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Property grounds
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Dryer
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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 28

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: Open stairs may be unsuitable for young children.

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Property is also known as

Hills School - Historic Comfort in SW MI Wine Country Buchanan

About the neighborhood

Buchanan

Located in Buchanan, this vacation home is in a rural area. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Michigan and Warren Dunes State Park. Round Barn Baroda Tasting Room & Estate and Free Run Cellars are also worth visiting. Relax and indulge in the area's winery tours, or seek out an adventure with cycling and hiking nearby.
Visit our Buchanan travel guideOpens in a new window
View more Vacation Homes in BuchananOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Round Barn Winery - 2 min drive
  • Gravity Winery - 7 min drive
  • Lemon Creek Winery - 11 min drive
  • Red Bud Track-N-Trail - 16 min drive
  • Warren Dunes State Park - 18 min drive

Getting around

  • St. Joseph-Benton Harbor Station - 24 min drive
  • South Bend Intl. Airport (SBN) - 35 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Baroda Party Store - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Getaway Cubbie Bar - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Round Barn Brewery & Public House - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Free Run Cellars - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Hills School - Historic Comfort in SW MI Wine Country pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Hills School - Historic Comfort in SW MI Wine Country?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Hills School - Historic Comfort in SW MI Wine Country?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Hills School - Historic Comfort in SW MI Wine Country located?

Situated in a rural location, this vacation home is within 1 mi (2 km) of Hickory Creek Winery, Tabor Hill Winery, and Round Barn Baroda Tasting Room & Estate. Round Barn Winery is 1.1 mi (1.7 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 30 out of 30 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 30 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 30 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 30 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 30 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Diane V.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful stay
We loved our stay. The owner was very responsive during our stay and made us feel welcome. We would definitely stay again if we in the area again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Quiet and comfy
The old school house has a sense of history, but it is also cozy, functional and elegant all at once.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patti H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Experience Hill School
A 1916 school turned into a very comfortable VRBO. Had a wonderful weekend with friends, great location. Visited wineries in the area. Reading the history of Hill School was very informative and interesting. Our host was great with any concerns or questions. Great experience and would love to return again!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Holly H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Unique, spacious property with lots of charm
We had a wonderful stay at the schoolhouse. Spacious living area, well-appointed kitchen with everything you need & two comfortable bedrooms. Charming place with a unique history & memorabilia throughout. Great location near wineries. Communication with the host was excellent. Highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous!
Great mix of history with modern convenience. The property was spotless and comfortable. Quality linens and bedding. The kitchen was roomy for gathering and cooking, we found all the equipment we needed. So many areas of the house, inside and out, to enjoy. The history of the building was fun to see and learn about. Fabulous stay - highly recommended! Many thanks to Ann, our gracious host!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brandon Z.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place to stay!
I stayed here with my wife and 2 boys. This was a great place to stay. The house was super clean which made my wife extremely happy. Everything is updated and nice. The attention to detail on all the amenities was top notch. They thought of every possible thing you might need. The old school pictures and knickknacks was my favorite part. You got to see the history of the building. We definitely plan on staying here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christina C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Our favorite place
The schoolhouse is our absolute favorite place to escape to in the summer. It is immaculate and comfortable, equipped with everything our family needs. Working with Ann is always a treat, so accommodating and communicative. We look forward to coming year after year!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Eric N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Getaway
Beautifully restored schoolhouse, Ann was beyond helpful. We loved our stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joe W., Louisville, ky

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing Property!
The host was awesome and the "school" was amazing! The setting, decor, cleanliness, location, did I say perfect! Would recommend and stay again and again! Complements to the owners and host! WE Loved IT!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jacob W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful place in a great location
One of the coolest places we've ever stayed. Recently renovated, the Hills School House has all the modern comforts while preserving the history . We enjoyed checking out the "lesson plan" with some before and after photos of the reno, info of the art, and recommendations around town. Walking distance from great wineries. Ann was very nice and easy to reach!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Corey S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful House with History
My wife and I booked this house to get away and explore the southwest Michigan wineries, distilleries, and relax. The house is huge, clean, updated, and overall wonderful. There is so much history of the school house and how it got to what it is today. We spent the first hour reading and checking out the information about the old school house, past owners, and the renovation that was done. The kitchen is great. We cooked breakfast each morning and also grilled out one night and sat by the campfire. Ann was awesome! She is very accommodating, gave recommendations about places to visit around, and responded immediately to all of our questions. If you are looking for a large place in southwest Michigan, that would accommodate 4 people easily, and is immaculate then you found it. Also, several wineries just minutes down the road. 5 star all the way.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent Escape
We thouroghly enjoyed our stay at the Hills School. It has been beautifully renovated, is comfortable and welcoming. The kitchen is the best equipped one we have seen in a rental! The linens were fresh and cozy. Even in the off-season, we found things to do in the area. The owner was very helpful when we needed to extend our stay, and accommodating all around. I highly recommend Hills School and hope we can make it back soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth R.

Liked: Cleanliness
What a dream!
What an amazing stay we had at the Hills School! So much history and good “juju” and special touches - we can’t wait to return. The house was immaculate with unbelievably comfortable beds and bedding. The kitchen was very well stocked and the care and attention Ann put into the renovation can be seen everywhere. It was perfection.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Douglas H.

Liked: Cleanliness
School House stay.
Everything about School House experience was picture perfect!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Barbara G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful location and host
The schoolhouse was amazing. All the little details, beautiful decor and gracious host made for a fantastic weekend!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful spot
Beautiful renovated old school house. Unique place to stay. Much care was put into this home and every detail has been thought through. Highly recommended!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dennis W., Menasha, Wisconsin

Liked: Cleanliness
Hidden Treasure
Hill School is a very unique property offering plenty of space, amenities and privacy. Located within walking distance of a winery and easy access to many more. We were able to explore the restaurants and shops of small towns we have never visited before and then settle into a relaxed evening around the fire pit. Our host Ann was most gracious and welcoming - ask her for the history of the building! Overall a great destination.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lisa L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Incredible home
The schoolhouse is easily one of the most unique and fabulous places we’ve stayed in southwest Michigan. We are bicyclists so being out in the country is a definite plus - not much road traffic. The schoolhouse was super clean and well stocked, the owner thought of everything! The beds were so comfortable too. We can’t wait to return!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Hidden Treasure
The Hills School House is absolutely amazing. So much love and care has been put into honoring and renovating an old school! We enjoyed our stay so much. The old school is now so modern, clean, and has every detail you could want! I enjoyed reading about the history and seeing all the photos of the Hills School.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Karyn K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Charming Getaway
We cannot say enough how much we loved our stay!! The house is absolutely charming and the hospitality was above and beyond! We loved everything about the home!!!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Christina C.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Gem in Michigan
Ann was such a wonderful and understanding host when we had to originally cancel our trip and then reschedule with a short notice. Ann had the most welcoming note and local delicacies. The schoolhouse was even better in person, just magical and perfect for me and my family. It’s out in the country and makes you want to escape it all and stay. Close to wineries, a few beaches, farms, and surrounded by nature bursting with fireflies and beauty. The kitchen was well stocked so we were able to cook meals throughout our stay. We plan on making it our annual vacation rental!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Irene S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Treehouse
This was our second stay at the school and it was even better than the first. There are many wineries, restaurants and stores to explore in the area as well as some beautiful nature areas. The lake is only about a 25 minute drive away. The school is peaceful, surrounded by trees, keeping the house cool on hot summer days. You feel like you are in a tree house. Everything is designed very well. Even our elderly family member was able to make it up the few small stairs by the front door and, with everything on one level, was able to walk easily in each room on the smooth wooden floors. The showers are big and modern and are easy to get in and out of. There is plenty of hot water. All rooms are tastefully decorated with local photos and paintings, country decor and some original school memorabilia. There are many nice indoor and outdoor places to relax. The kitchen is large and well stocked, though we did bring some special kitchen gadgets we knew we would need for making a cake. The dishwasher is quiet and cleans the dishes well. Ann, the host, is readily available for questions and very hospitable. She does an excellent job taking care of the place and of her guests. We look forward to our next stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Stacy D.

Liked: Cleanliness
The Perfect Retreat
We enjoyed another wonderful weekend at Hills School! The property maintains its historical integrity while combining modern day elements and conveniences to create the perfect oasis. Every detail was clearly thoughtfully considered and Ann is the most amazing and welcoming host. We look forward to another visit soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Adam G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing restored school house
The Hill School is an amazing property and perfect for a family of four or two couples. It has everything you need inside and out. The posting is very accurate and Ann was terrific. We will be back.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kenny D., Chicago, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Great winter getaway!
We had a wonderful stay at the schoolhouse. It was such a unique building and a one of a kind experience. All of the little touches that were part of the old school like the photos, desks and chairs were very cool. The house was spotless and very well appointed. The kitchen had everything you needed to make meals and the bathrooms were very nice. The beds were comfortable and we loved the heated mattress pads – they came in handy on those cold January nights. Ann was an excellent host, she answered all of our questions quickly and was very accommodating. We would definitely stay at the schoolhouse again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2022

General property information

Check-In Time
4:00 PM
Check-Out Time
11:00 AM
Location
Buchanan
Structure Type
Private vacation home