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A Diamond in the Rough

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Outdoor dining
Interior
LED TV, fireplace, DVD player, video library
Interior
Dining

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6869 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Parking available
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Fox Lake, IL
  • Jet Funn
    ‪11 min walk‬
  • Chain 'O Lakes State Park
    ‪11 min drive‬
  • Volo Auto Museum
    ‪13 min drive‬
  • Chicago, IL (PWK-Chicago Executive)
    ‪51 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Fox Lake

On lake.You'll be within 2 miles (3 km) of Jet Funn and 6 miles (10 km) of Chain 'O Lakes State Park with a stay here. Spring Grove Fen Nature Preserve and Turner Lake Fen Nature Preserve are also within 6 miles (10 km).
View more Cottages in Fox LakeOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Jet Funn - 11 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Chain 'O Lakes State Park - 11 min drive - 5.5 miles
  • Volo Auto Museum - 13 min drive - 7.4 miles
  • Gurnee Mills - 27 min drive - 15.7 miles
  • Six Flags Great America - 30 min drive - 17.6 miles

Getting around

  • Fox Lake Station - 3 min drive
  • Kenosha, WI (ENW-Kenosha Regional) - 43 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Culver's - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Antioch Pizza Shop - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Captain's Quarters - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬4 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.

A Diamond in the Rough

This diamond in the rough is a cozy 2 bedroom cottage perfect for a weekend getaway, family vacation or a romantic retreat. This great escape will provide you with a little piece of paradise while giving you the feeling and comfort of home! And because pets are family too, we welcome them; but must be cleared with the owners first. No cats please, as the owners are allergic.
This adorable cottage is nestled on a quiet residential street behind the main home. Water, pier and boat slip access are only steps away by walking down the lighted path on the side of the main home where you can enjoy breathtaking sunsets, fishing, swimming, canoeing, boating; and in winter snowmobiling, ice fishing and skiing at Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort. A boat slip to dock your boat and 3-person canoe & 2 paddle boards are available at no extra charge your use. The cottage is fully air conditioned and heated with ceiling fans in bedrooms, kitchen and living room; making it perfect for year-round suitability.
When staying in this home away from home, you can start off your morning soaking up a little fresh air out on the front porch enjoying a cup of freshly brewed Starbucks Verona coffee. After an eventful day exploring all the Chain of Lakes has to offer, both bedrooms have queen size beds with 700 thread count linens and overstuffed pillows for your sleeping comfort. For those less than stellar weather days, cozy on the oversized leather sofa or kick up your feet on the reclining chair in the living room where you can also partake in some viewing enjoyment on the 40” LED television equipped with Xfinity TV or enjoy your favorite DVD by popping it into the DVD player. Feeling a little competitive? Stroll on over the utility closet where you can find several different board and card games to partake in. Secured WiFi internet access is also available. A little hungry? Quickly whip something up on the gas stove in the kitchen that is furnished with all appliances, utensils and dinnerware for your convenience, including an expandable kitchen island. Want make it a BBQ instead? Head outside to your own private patio to access the gas grill.

Your home away from home oasis is:
30 minutes to Six Flags Great America Amusement Park, where you can also make a stop into Gurnee Mall for some shopping
Walking distance to Fams for an ice cold beer and great steak or fish tacos or El Puerto restaurant for an awesome Margarita.
A Thursday night away from watching some thrilling drag boat racing at Blarney’s Island
A Sunday morning away from having an award winning Bloody Mary at Studio Roadhouse.
A click away from access to seeing some amazing live bands

*Staying with us again? Ask about our Preferred Guest Benefits. *
Ask about our discount for Great Lakes Naval Base boot camp graduations.
We look forward to sharing a little piece of paradise with you soon. Cheers!

Property manager

Jim & Rosemarie Nilson

Languages

English

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Beautiful Cora Cottage on Fox Lake/Chain O'Lakes with 40 Ft. Private Boat Pier.

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  • Washer
  • Dryer
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5.0 out of 5, Exceptional, 80 reviews
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Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers

Ski

  • Close to skiing
  • Ski lift privileges
  • Snowboarding nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car recommended
  • 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

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Games
  • LED TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Dock
  • Firepit
  • Gas grill
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • One pet total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Designated smoking areas
  • Note from host: Do not throw butts on ground or in lake.

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near an outlet shopping mall
  • Near the marina
  • On a lake

Things to do

  • Boat
  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Paddleboard
  • Ski lift privileges
  • Snow sports gear
  • Water park
  • Water sports equipment
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Canoeing nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks 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

  • Unit size: 869 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 1 (weight limit: 50 lbs per pet)
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Young children must be properly supervised.

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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

We should mention

  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

Property is also known as

Diamond Rough House Fox Lake
Diamond Rough Fox Lake
A Diamond in the Rough Cottage
A Diamond in the Rough Fox Lake
A Diamond in the Rough Cottage Fox Lake

Frequently asked questions

How close is A Diamond in the Rough to the airport?

This cottage is 27.6 mi (43-min drive) away from the Kenosha, WI (ENW-Kenosha Regional) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does A Diamond in the Rough have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this cottage.

How close is A Diamond in the Rough to the beach?

This cottage is 8.5 mi (16-min drive) from Lake Miltmore Beach and 10.4 mi (21-min drive) from Petersen Park Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does A Diamond in the Rough offer free breakfast?

This cottage does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at A Diamond in the Rough?

No, there is no casino at this cottage, but Lucky Strike Gaming & Lounge (19-min drive) is nearby.

What time is check-in at A Diamond in the Rough?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at A Diamond in the Rough?

Free parking is not available at this cottage.

Does A Diamond in the Rough have a pool?

This cottage does not have a pool.

Does A Diamond in the Rough have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this cottage.

How close is A Diamond in the Rough to downtown Fox Lake?

This cottage is 0.9 mi away from Fox Lake.

A Diamond in the Rough Reviews

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 68 out of 85 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 12 out of 85 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 85 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 3 out of 85 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 85 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place to see fireworks!

Jim and Rosemarie were wonderful hosts and we had such a nice time!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Diamond in the Rough

Very cosy & nice. The backyard was wonderful. We enjoyed the privacy. The location was convenient to restaurants, etc.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Cynthia M., Rockton,Illinois,

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Victoria M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Aimee C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great cottage!

Water was high so no beach.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Matt C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Private/Quiet Guest House

The rental is the guest home behind the A-frame home pictured at the end of the road. Very private and quiet! Although there are no water views, the water is just on the other side of the main home with complete access to the backyard, dock, and water. Everything was in great shape and it has everything you need and all the comforts of home. Definitely recommend getting a deep dish from Rosati's and checking out the boat races at Blarney Island!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Janet

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The hosts Jim and Rose were friendly and helpful. The place suited our needs perfectly. We were attending a wedding in the area that my daughter was matron of honor for, so it was me and my husband, my daughter and son in law. The bedrooms are small but adequate, the kitchen and living areas are very nice. We also had full use of an outdoor gas grill, outdoor seating areas in front and back of the cottage. We also had access to the lake, with nice outdoor seating around a fire pit. The lake is scenic and there are stores, restaurants and bars nearby. Boats, kayaks, etc are available for rent nearby. It was a wonderful long weekend stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan L.

Liked: Cleanliness

PIR Boot Camp Graduation

Great time celebrating with our grandson and our daughter. Convenient to hiking, restaurants and the beautiful chain of lakes.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Janice M.

Liked: Cleanliness

It was a great 2 bedroom cabin. Everything you would need was provided plus extra great things !!

Easily found and easily rented
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Girls weekend retreat!

We had an excellent experience with this VRBO! Jim and Rosemarie were wonderful hosts. They offered local fish fry recommendations as well as nearby spots with live music! This was a very nice, quiet little house on a dead end street with beautiful lakefront outdoor space.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lee K.

Liked: Cleanliness

We had a great time

We had a lovely short weekend getaway at this cottage and would love to stay again
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

4/10 Poor

christina w., Yorkville

Disliked: Cleanliness

Trailer does not fit

Upon review of the pictures of the subject in question the home was farther away from the lake than shown on pictures discussed truck and trailer size in regards to parking situation when arrived the truck was was centimeters away from the garage the house and the trailer was too wide as discussed with the owner they stated it would fit but it wouldn't no available parking for trailer or boat anywhere so we had to stay at a hotel and keep our boat elsewhere we were not able to use the facilities called the owner right away They did not return our calls to 4 hours later that day we did not go into the property or use the facilities we requested a refund they were not cooperated with us
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Matt D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Place!

Great place!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

zach k.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice little house, no parking

Clean cute little house, Small bedrooms but everything needed was there except parking, on our stay there was only one parking space. We moved the gazebo to fit a second car. We were supposed to be bringing 2 cars and a truck w boat trailer. We were told there was parking for it, there was not. We ended up storing our vehicles up the street for an additional cost. I would stay again as long as I only need to bring one vehicle. The owners are actually very nice but did not answer the phone on check in to try to fix the problem.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joanne R., Fort Worth, Texas

Liked: Cleanliness

Dimond in the Rough fits perfectly.

We truly enjoyed our stay at this adorable, clean well stocked cottage. Easy access to home and to communicate with the owners. It had everything we needed for our stay. We would love to return and I would recommend to stay here.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2022

8/10 Good

Ed M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Our Stay

The property was clean, well kept, had all the amenities, and the property managers were very responsive. The parking was tight for a large truck, and the yard for dogs was the yard of the property manager across the driveway in the back of their home.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Tisha W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Very nice

The host was very kind, property was clean and well kept and had a nice quiet stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021

4/10 Poor

Evan G.

Disliked: Cleanliness

Great getaway BUT

The property was nice and it was a lovely get away for a week. However 3 weeks after our stay we received a message saying that we were being charged for $300 for our dog defacating and an uncleaned oven. This was weird to us as we didn’t use the oven and we vaccumed and cleaned the whole place prior to exiting and no sign of any. The place was nice but this tarnished the experience.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Doo L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice!

Everything was very nice except fishing.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

4/10 Poor

Glen M.

Disappointed

Not bad but much less than advertised
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Barbara C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Clean, well decorated cottage

The cottage is as owners describe, being behind their home so just short walk to waterfront (30-45 second walk). The cottage was lovely and well equipped. Owners were on site and friendly and helpful. Parking is tight for 2 vehicles and very difficult for us with a boat in tow before it was docked the day after arrival. But the owners were gracious and accommodating
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kathy F.

Liked: Cleanliness

A getaway on the lake.

We enjoyed our stay at the cottage. Location was great close to everything we wanted to do. Boating, dinning and shopping. Would stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nancy S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fox Lake getaway

The cottage was perfect as a base for our activities in the local area. Tucked away and very cozy. Jim and Rose were great hosts
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Frank S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Weekend Get away

Cottage was very clean, and spacious. Property managers/owners were very friendly, and informative. Area was quiet, and lake access/views were excellent. I highly recommend!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021

6/10 Okay

Vicky C.

Pricey for the product

Although the unit was well appointed and nicely decorated, the furniture was somewhat uncomfortable and the beds terribly soft, had to find some plywood to firm up a little. All of the appliances and kitchen gear was adequate. Parking for our visit was somewhat inconvenient due to a newly arrived boat trailer. There is actually No direct view of the water, however it was nice that renters allowed onto the waterfront yard of the main home. Do not know if owners lived in main house, there was no communication offered. Overall the stay was just Okay but cost on the high side for the product.
Stayed 9 nights in May 2021