Entire home

Restored Historic Stone House in the Country

Photo gallery for Restored Historic Stone House in the Country

Exterior
3 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, travel cot
Interior
Property grounds
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 61400 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Breakfast included
    Breakfast included
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Pet-friendly
    Pet-friendly
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space

About this property

Entire place

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

Restored Historic Stone House in the Country

Brisbane House was just won the State Historical Society's 2023 Board of Curators Restoration Award. This is such a special place and we wish to share it! It's listed on the National and State Registers for Historic Places in Wisconsin. We purchased the property April 1, 2021 and worked hard to prepare it for guests. Some of the finest local craftspeople were devoted to its painstaking restoration. Its main house (this listing) is fully restored (sleeps six with one full bathroom) as well as the summer kitchen (which sleeps an additional four--see our other listing #2620893). Last year, we won the Preservation Award from the Madison Trust for Historic Preservation. We're members of the Midwest Inns Association, too! We invite you to follow us on on IG: Restore.Brisbane.House.

The Brisbane House is a place of inclusivity. It was built in 1868 by an abolitionist from South Carolina. We are honoring his legacy by showcasing original contemporary art by nationally-known Black artists. You will stay in comfort and extraordinary style with historic appointments. Set on 18 wooded acres, hike the surrounding area, play croquet, build an outdoor fire. Inside, enjoy a new kitchen and bath, and great wifi, too.

Relax in the peaceful woods, to celebrate a birthday or anniversary, hold a family reunion, come with your book club, or for a holiday of your own making! In the house, there is one bedroom (queen bed), a full bathroom and den, on the second floor. There are two bedrooms (one queen, two XL twins) on the third floor. This is a tall, skinny house, so stairs are steep. A new gas fireplace has been installed in the living room, so yay to festive winter stays!

The kitchen is small, beautiful, and well-equipped (vacation bakers will enjoy the rolling pin, pie plate, jelly roll pans, and more). The locally harvested cherry table seats six - eight. There are several restaurants within 10 miles either west to Spring Green or 5 miles east to Mazomanie. Madison is a 35 minute drive to the east. If traveling through Madison to arrive at your destination, note there's a terrific local grocery store, the Willy Street Co-op, on your way out.

Soaps and cleaning products are either unscented or contain organic essential oils. No synthetic fragrances or fabric softeners. Environmentally friendlier bath towels are "quick dry." Most of the sheets are organic cotton. We participate in Alliant Energy's "rush hour" cooling system to conserve energy. We have been approved and are fully compliant with the State of Wisconsin health department's tourist rooming house laws.

Explore the 18 acres around the house. There is a pine barrens and trails in the hills leading all the up to the top of Rattlesnake Ridge, a restored prairie (maps at the house). Dogs can be off leash on the property by must be on a leash if hiking on neighboring properties (and please pick up after your dog). In the winter, help yourself to the snowshoes and saucer sleds in the garage.

Most stays in high season have a three night minimum. Please inquire if this really will not work for you. Also, if you are interested in a ground floor level rental only, let's discuss since this bridges the full house/summer kitchen rental.

Here are some reviews: "The Brisbane House was the perfect spot for our family gathering. Samantha and Bruce thought of every detail in renovating this unique historic house—the architecture, furnishings, light, and color create a wonderful environment for connecting with loved ones. There is a lot to enjoy in the area from charming books stores, delicious restaurants, and beautiful rolling hills. Communication with our hosts was flawless from pointing us to nearby trails to sharing the history and information on the art on the walls. We will be back soon!"
"Thanks again for a fantastic experience in Arena. Staying at the Brisbane made it truly special and the house is just gorgeous. We will be back!"

Property manager

Samantha Crownover

Languages

Italian

Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing and snowboarding nearby

Internet

  • Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • On-site parking options include a garage
  • On-site parking

Kitchen

  • Fridge
  • Stovetop
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Spices
  • Blender
  • Cookware/dishes/utensils
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Free breakfast available
  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bed sheets provided

Bathrooms

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Shower
  • Towels provided
  • Shampoo
  • Toilet paper
  • Hairdryer
  • Soap

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Smart TV
  • Books
  • Stereo
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Porch or lanai
  • Barbecue
  • Garden
  • Firepit

Laundry

  • Washing machine and dryer
  • Near a laundromat

Work spaces

  • Office
  • Printer
  • Desk

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 2 total pets
  • Welcoming dogs only

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Designated smoking areas

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • On the river
  • In a rural location
  • Near a hospital

Things to do

  • Snow sports gear
  • Golf on site
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Golf nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Power boating nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Wildlife and game walks nearby

Safety features

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

General

  • At least 80% of lighting from LEDs
  • Recycling
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Energy-saving switches
  • Unit size: 1400 sq ft (130 sq m)

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 21

Check-out

Check-out before 12:00 PM

Special check-in instructions

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

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total pets
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property on the number on the booking confirmation

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

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
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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
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

Vrbo Property
Restored Historic Stone House in the Country Arena

About the area

Map
Arena, WI

What's nearby

  • Wisconsin River - 9 min drive - 4.8 km
  • American Players Theatre - 14 min drive - 14.0 km
  • Tyrol Basin Ski & Snowboard Area - 22 min drive - 21.8 km
  • The House on the Rock - 24 min drive - 24.3 km
  • Cave of The Mounds National Natural Landmark - 26 min drive - 25.3 km

Getting around

  • Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) - 50 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪R & J's Saloon - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Old Feed Mill - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Wall Street Gallery and Bistro - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Grandma Mary's Cafe - ‬10 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Restored Historic Stone House in the Country pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

What time is check-in at Restored Historic Stone House in the Country?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Restored Historic Stone House in the Country?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Restored Historic Stone House in the Country located?

Situated on a river, this holiday home is 2.9 mi (4.7 km) from Wisconsin River and within 9 miles (15 km) of American Players Theatre and Buckeridge's Home and Gallery. Tyrol Basin Ski & Snowboard Area and Blue Mound State Park are also within 16 miles (25 km).

Restored Historic Stone House in the Country Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 26 out of 26 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 26 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 26 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 26 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 26 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Graham J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely unique house
This house was a treat. From the unique decorative touches and art in every room to the cozy handmade quilts on the beds, this property was a lovely place to get away for the weekend. We especially enjoyed the interesting history of the Brisbanes in the living room! Thank you for sharing this marvel with us.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Great restored historical property built in 1868
Great setting in the country, fantastic brick home, well equipped, a labor of love restoration, most congenial host.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melinda Q., USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely place to be
We spent 3 nights while attending 6 plays at American Players Theater. The Stone House is perfect for such an outing. Samantha is very responsive and welcoming. We hope to be back in 2024.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tanya M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Second Stay!
Our family loved this house last summer so we returned for another vacation. Sam is a great host, everything was immaculate, with plenty of supplies and everything we might need. This year we enjoyed Cave on the Mounds, Taliesin, and American Players Theatre. We can’t wait to return!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katie J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Escape from Fireworks
Brisbane House is a gem! Sam and Bruce did an amazing job restoring this beautiful home. Plus communication with Sam is top notch, always working to improve the vacation. Our goal was get away from the city fireworks (for the dogs) over the holiday. We got just take at Brisbane plus the country living. Hope to be back.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Hayne D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great family stay!
House was incredible. Host was super helpful and overall stay was great. Hope to come back soon!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrew W., Deerfield, Illinois

Liked: Cleanliness
Christmas 2022
Our family of 5 adults had a great Christmas at Brisbane House. The owners have done an amazing job thoughtfully restoring this historic home. Despite a cold snap, we were cozy and comfortable with all the modern conveniences you would need. The owners surprised us by providing a live Christmas tree and pine trimmings sourced on the property. The property itself is lovely and isolated with snowshoe trails extending back into the woods. We regretted that it was too cold to do more exploring on the trails. Also, the artwork throughout the home was beautiful. We look forward to trying Brisbane House in other seasons.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Liz and Mark P., Minneapolis

Liked: Cleanliness
Quaint, Cozy Perfection
Our family of four (parents and 2 grown kids), along with our two dogs spent the Long Thanksgiving weekend at The Brisbane House. Communication with the owners was great - they answered all of our questions and the photos on the website are 100% correct and helped us greatly in planning. The charm of this home is only outdone by the functionality of its cozy rooms. We easily made our Thanksgiving meal and had plenty of room to eat. The summer kitchen addition (which is a large windowed bedroom w a loft) is stunning. If you have elderly guests, I’d for sure rent this additional room, as the steps are quite steep to the main house bedrooms. It is also functions as a good escape if you need to take a nap from too much Turkey !! Some of our favorite features: fan on timer in bathrooms, very private lot, pet friendly yard, fun beautiful rooms with unique wallpaper and paint colors, very clean, great window covers, books and articles about the house’s history, easy to use TV, and of course the little touches - slippers provided, quality bedding and towels, captivating artwork, glass doorknobs. Honestly, just a one-of-a-kind home that would charm anyone. Highly recommend 10/10.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lori W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful, enjoyed our stay. Very accommodating.
This property was beautiful. It was perfect for our family and pets.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

LARS K., Stow, MA

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful historic renovation
Such a unique and beautiful house, with every room redone with care and imagination. I would love to live there.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sherry L.

Liked: Cleanliness
APT weekend
I rented this property for an annual couples weekend that includes a couple of performances at nearby American Players Theatre. We have stayed in many properties over the years and absolutely loved this one. We enjoyed the beautiful renovation and stylish decor, and we appreciated that the home had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. We love to cook and have fancy meals, and the kitchen was well equipped for our culinary adventures. We also appreciated that dogs could join us. The beds were also very comfortable. Overall a delightful stay, and we plan to return.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Darsi K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Covid Postponed Christmas Gift
This trip was originally planned for 2020, but due to Covid had to be postponed. I'm glad it was or we would not have been able to stay at this amazing place. It was the ulitmate home away from home, and the added history and all we learned was a bonus. Hope to return soon. Thanks to the talented hosts for sharing this treasure. Darsi, Mark, Kay, Laura & Jay
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Melinda Q., USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Terrific
It is a privilege to stay in this impeccable home with such a storied history and excellent preservation. We were 6 friends who had come to American Players Theater. Even though we got rained out of 2 of the 6 plays, we will exchange the tickets for next year and hope to stay again at Brisbane House. The hosts are incredibly welcoming and gracious. Thank you for a great time.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

David L., Flossmoor

Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely lovely
Where to begin? Pictures do not completely capture the Brisbane house and it's surrounding property's beauty. A member of our travel party could not help but mention every time we pulled up to the home, that it looked straight out of a fairy tale. The home is amazingly renovated and appointed, the job Sam and Bruce have done is simply remarkable. The home retains it's historic charm while offering all the modern amenities to make things comfortable and inviting. The five of us really enjoyed our stay and never felt uncomfortable or cramped. The property's natural beauty is top notch. Our hope for a private, peaceful, tranquil, and serene stay had all the boxes checked. We enjoyed going out and exploring all the little towns and parks in the surrounding area, and finishing our day at the fairy tale like house. Sam and Bruce were an absolute pleasure to work with and were very helpful with all our inquiries and questions that we had. The love that they have put into this home is second to none. We all hope to visit again.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rose C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Charming home
From the moment we drove down the country road and spotted the stone house, seeing the beautiful perennial gardens in bloom, we knew the Brisbane house was going to be a special place to stay. It was! This is where we recharged during our 10 day visit with family. Samantha has an eye for detail. The renovation kept the charm of this 1868 home but the modern updates made it comfortable and liveable. We enjoyed the collection of reading materials about Wm. Brisbane and the coffee table book on the renovation which helped us appreciate this unique property. Oh, the beautiful bouquet of wild flowers on the kitchen table was a welcoming touch when we arrived. Seems like our hostess thought of everything. We enjoyed our stay and are looking forward to another visit. Thanks for you gracious hospitality. Rose and John
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jenny H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Historical, Whimsical Retreat
What a delightful home! A perfect mix of hospitality, history, relaxation, and restoration. The house was very clean and comfy, and surprisingly roomy for such an old house. Beautifully renovated property and the hosts were a delight to work with. Close proximity to so many fun attractions, and yet also very quiet and private. We hope to be back soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tanya M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Dream house!
This property is gorgeous, easily the most comfortable and cleanest stay we’ve ever had. The pictures do not do it justice. The owners thought of everything re: amenities, and the art and interior detail is inspiring. Congrats for preserving something so beautiful and thank you for sharing it with us!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lance T., Ada, MI USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Wisconsin Pastoral Paradise
Our recent stay at the Brisbane House was OUTSTANDING in every way! The description was accurate (if anything, it was understated) and the house/property EXCEEDED our expectations! Communication with Sam leading up to our arrival and during our stay was easy and reassuring in every way. The weather was unseasonably warm but the modern HVAC units kept us comfortable and cool, and the bedroom, bathing situation was fantastic! Meal preparation in the historic kitchen was simple and as modern as can be, and clean up was responsible and earth-friendly (as it should be). We also had our dogs along for the trip, and they were happy and constantly entertained by the bunnies, deer and horses in the area (they got to see Taliesin, too). We look forward to another stay @Brisbane House again next summer! Thanks again to our peerless host Samantha!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Zinnia S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stunning Historic Property
We loved this historic property right outside of Madison in Arena, a charming area of the Wisconsin countryside. The house has been lovingly restored and our hosts were so thoughtful with beautiful touches throughout the home like fresh flowers in the rooms and lavender soaps in the bathroom. The kids absolutely loved the Kringle in the freezer and got to pick wild asparagus from yard. The house sits on an enchanting piece of property with beautiful trees and lots yard to enjoy. The next time we are on the area, we will be back again at the Brisbane House.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Christian P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Brisbane House
We spent 3 nights at this fantastic place and it was absolutely amazing. The restoration of the house is second to none. We are already planning a trip back in a few months.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Susanne M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Family snowboarding getaway
Renting was quick and easy. We appreciated the prompt response as we were able to finalize our plans right away.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Michelle P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautifully Restored Historical Home!
This wasn't just a "house", it felt like home! There's a very interesting picture book documenting the restoration, be sure to flip through it. Modern conveniences were added, while respecting the historic charm of the house. The home is spacious and well-decorated. We still after Thanksgiving, so it was chilly and we didn't do much outdoors at the house. I would love to return in the summer months and explore the property and the area more. Close to Mt. Horeb and Spring Green, we found plenty to do with our 7- and 9-year old kids.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lauren K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautifully restored, historic house in lovely setting
What a treat to stay an old stone house that has been so lovingly restored. From the modern art to the fluffy towels to the marble kitchen countertop - the property was filled with surprises and delights. The location is super convenient to Madison, Taliesin and Devil's Lake. The property owners couldn't have more accommodating or welcoming. So grateful for the getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Paul L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Home and Property
Upon our initial glance, the home is unique, lovely, and great for a weekend getaway. Once we arrived and took in all that is offered, we were happily surprised about the history of the house and the original owner, the original artwork decorating the walls, and stillness of the surrounding property. Brisbane house is a wonderful home and property for weekend getaway or extended stay. The wonderfully updated interior and amenities are great. Additionally, the proximity to the eastern driftless area of Wisconsin, the Spring Green/Arena/Mazomanie areas, and a nearby prairie remnant are well worth the stay. We hope to stay again soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Karen R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect getaway
Exactly what we were hoping for. Great rest and relaxation. The house was perfect; everything you need, nothing you don't. Our mini-schnauzer Henry LOVED playing fetch in the yard as we relaxed by the campfire. Thanks for a lovely time Sam and Bruce!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021