Entire cabin

Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone

2.0 star property

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Dining
Fridge, microwave, oven, dishwasher
Smart TV
Exterior
2 bedrooms, free WiFi, bed sheets

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 428 sq m

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

View in a map
Valley Head, AL
  • Place, DeSoto Falls
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, DeSoto State Park
    ‪14 min drive‬

Room options

Similar properties

About this property

Entire place

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

Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone

PEAK LEAF CHANGE WEEK AVAILABLE! Mentone/Valley Head. Nestled in the heart of Valley Head, Alabama, a unique beacon of nostalgia and comfort awaits: Claudia's Caboose. More than just a place to lay your head, this meticulously refurbished 1971 Southern Railways "Yellow Belly" bay window caboose offers a one-of-a-kind getaway, blending historical charm with modern amenities.
For decades, this sturdy railcar traversed the local routes of the Southeast, a silent witness to the changing landscapes. Retired in the mid-1970s, its journey took an unexpected turn in 2022 when Robert and Claudia, with a vision for something truly special, brought it to its final destination in Valley Head. Situated perfectly between the active Norfolk Southern railroad tracks and the scenic Highway 117, Claudia's Caboose offers a delightful experience of past and present.

The transformation from hardworking railcar to cozy retreat began in 2022. The loving renovation preserved the caboose's inherent character while introducing all the comforts of home. Step inside, and you're greeted by a thoughtfully designed interior that subtly nods to its 1970s origins. The compact yet efficient kitchen is equipped with everything you need, from a microwave and toaster oven/airfryer to a dishwasher, small refrigerator and coffee bar, all centered around a charming dining table for four.
The living area invites relaxation with a comfortable full pull-out couch and a flat-screen TV, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Down a short hallway, you'll find a “master bedroom” boasting a luxurious queen-size mattress. Even the small bathroom is a testament to clever design, featuring a tiled shower, toilet, and sink.
But the charm of Claudia's Caboose extends beyond its interior. Step outside onto the expansive deck, where you can fire up the charcoal grill for a delightful outdoor meal or gather around the fire pit as the stars begin to pepper the Alabama sky.
For train enthusiasts, the location is a dream. While the adjacent track isn't a main line, the occasional rumble and whistle serve as a gentle reminder of the caboose's storied past, adding a touch of authentic railway ambiance to your stay.
Claudia's Caboose is more than just a rental; it's an experience crafted with care by Claudia and Robert, the owners of the Mountainwood Cottages family, which also includes a traditional cottage in nearby Mentone. Their dedication to creating unique and memorable getaways shines through in every detail.
For those seeking a shorter escape, Claudia's Caboose offers
Beyond the unique accommodation itself, Claudia's Caboose serves as an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of the region. Just a short drive away lies the breathtaking DeSoto Falls, the expansive DeSoto State Park, and the dramatic beauty of Little River Canyon. The quaint town of Mentone, with its artsy vibe and scenic overlooks, is also within easy reach.
Claudia'sCaboose in Valley Head offers a chance to step off the beaten path and into a piece of railway history. It's a place where the echoes of the past meet the comforts of the present, promising an unforgettable and truly unique Alabama adventure. So, if you're looking for a getaway with character and charm, all aboard for Claudia's Caboose!

Vist Alabama's most unique stay at Claudia's caboose!
For specials - CLAUDIASCABOOSE.
During your stay at this cabin, you'll be within walking distance of Valley Head Town Park. Laundry facilities are available. Free WiFi and a kitchenette are available in the cabin.
  • Air-conditioned cabin with kitchenette, washing machine, and patio
  • Free WiFi
  • Amenities include laundry facilities
  • Onsite recreation includes a playground
  • 12 minutes by foot from Valley Head Town Park and a 5-minute drive from Mentone Town Hall
As a guest of this cabin, you'll find barbecue grills, a garden, and laundry facilities. The front desk is open around the clock.

This Valley Head cabin is smoke free.


Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchenette

  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

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

Living spaces

  • Dining table

Entertainment

  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

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

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • 8 steps to reach entrance
  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • No lift
  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • In a rural location

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Swimming 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)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • At least 10% of profits reinvested in community and sustainability
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Garden
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • Recycling
  • Unit size: 300 square feet
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Special check-in instructions

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

Rules

A rental agreement/guest register will be sent to your email after you book. ID and agreement to be provided within 24 hours. NO exceptions

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
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
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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
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
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions. You will also receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account which will enable you to manage your booking.
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with EU regulations about consumer rights, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.