Storybook Cottage on Lay Lake with Kayaks!
Guest rating: 4.8 / 5
Overview
Foxhaven Cottage is a storybook, A-frame-style waterfront cottage tucked into a wooded, one-acre lot in a quiet cove on Lay Lake, Alabama. The open-concept design creates a spacious feel despite its cozy footprint, and its elevated position among the trees delivers sweeping sunset views over the water. A second cottage a few doors down can accommodate up to four additional guests for larger groups.
Rooms & Interior
The main level includes a master bedroom with a queen bed and 32-inch smart TV, plus a full bathroom with a tub and shower. A winding staircase leads to a loft with a full-size bed, ideal for two adults, though the narrow spiral stairs are not suitable for guests over 325 lbs. A sunroom off the kitchen offers lake views, a full-size sofa, and a 55-inch TV with DVDs for movie nights, warmed in cooler months by an electric fireplace (available late November through April).
Outdoor Amenities & Recreation
Guests have direct lake access via a 100-foot kayak launch and rack, a stationary dock with seating, and both a lakeside fire pit and a forest-side fire pit with a chimenea. A wraparound sitting porch and a rear deck with a Weber gas grill and dining area provide multiple spots to relax outdoors, and kayaks or paddle boards can be rented for a nominal fee directly from the property. Fishermen and boaters can park trailers on the gravel driveway or grassy front area, with Millie's Marina just five miles away for launching.
Kitchen & Practical Amenities
The cottage has a fully stocked kitchen with oven/stove, microwave, and full-size appliances, alongside washer access, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and heating, and free parking for two cars in front of the house. Additional conveniences include an ironing board, crib, and cable TV, making it functional for both short stays and longer countryside retreats.
Location & Surroundings
The cottage sits down a mile of narrow, sometimes rough gravel road off Kelley Lane, best navigated by truck or SUV, roughly an hour from Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport and about 88 kilometers from Montgomery Regional Airport. Nearby dining options include VJ's Restaurant (about 6 km away), The Point Grill & Bar (about 7 km), and Lori Darlins barbecue (about 8 km), with a wider spread of restaurants such as Huddle House, Barrio Fiesta, and Giovanni's Italian Restaurant within roughly 20 km. A Dollar General is about 15 minutes away, with Walmart and Piggly Wiggly options about 25 minutes out in town.
Best for
This cottage suits couples and small families seeking a quiet, nature-focused lakeside retreat with direct water access for kayaking, fishing, and fire-pit evenings. It's also well suited to boaters and anglers thanks to trailer parking and proximity to Millie's Marina, and to groups who need extra space via the second nearby cottage.
Travel tips
Plan to arrive with a truck or SUV if possible, since the final mile to the cottage runs along a narrow, rutted gravel road with hills and curves. Turn on the dock and deck lights before heading down to the water after dark, and use caution on the stairs and the narrow spiral loft staircase. Stock up on groceries before arrival, as the nearest Dollar General is about 15 minutes away and larger stores like Walmart or Piggly Wiggly are around 25 minutes away in town.
What guests say
Guests consistently describe the cottage as cozy and welcoming, matching its photos and setting expectations accurately. A recurring theme is praise for the host's responsiveness, helpfulness, and friendliness throughout the stay. No negative themes are evident in the available review excerpts.
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