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Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature.

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Terrace/patio - Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature. (Aylett)
Interior - Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature. (Aylett)
Property grounds - Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature. (Aylett)
Dining - Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature. (Aylett)
Coffee/tea maker, fridge, microwave, oven - Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature. (Aylett)
Perched on the edge of the serene Mattaponi, Aylett River Paradise offers a tranquil retreat. Relax with a cup of coffee or espresso in the downstairs lounge featuring cherry wood panels and big screen satellite TV, or unwind in one of three bedrooms with satellite TV. Explore nature using kayaks provided and enjoy meals at one of two picnic tables.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6130 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Add dates for prices

About this property

Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature.

  • Spend a week nestled at the edge of the beautiful Mattaponi. Use the kayaks or nap on the screened porch made of trees. The ceiling fans should keep you cool or go inside to the air conditioning and hang out in the downstairs lounge with the cherry wood panels and big screen satellite TV,, and TONS of board games. The newly remodeled kitchen is ready to go. Just bring food. 2 of the 3 bedrooms have satellite TV . Soaps, Linens, towels some condiments and coffee sometimes espresso are supplied. The upstairs bedroom has its own lounge and ruby powder room. There are 2 picnic tables. One on the screened porch and one in the Emerald Moss Garden. Most pets are welcome. See most current pictures on instagram aylett_river_paradise. Please note I no longer provide firewood so you have to bring your own. A note about the river: it is tidal . Which means it goes up and down, usually depending on water coming down from Fredericksburg. Also it is not at all brackish! Lovely and fresh and silky and soft. I continuously monitor the river height remotely to be sure you’re going to be safe.

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 1.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

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

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • 3 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Designated smoking areas
  • Note from host: Smoking is allowed only on the porch

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Foosball table
  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Water sports equipment
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 1,400 square feet

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Rules

No untying the floating docks or trees around them. $500 fine
No metal detectors allowed on the property. If you bring one you agree to gladly pay Larkin $5,000.
No bringing chainsaws or pruning devices on to property and if you do so you gladly agree to pay Larkin $5,000.

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
3 total pets
Restrictions apply; for more information contact the property on the number on the booking confirmation
Note from host: Dogs are $25 each. Crated is good

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: Children under six r not allowed on floating docks

Events

No events allowed
This is a mabey. Please ask first.

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Smoking is allowed only on the porch

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
Note from host: This is a mabey. Please ask first.
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Located in Saint Stephens Church, this holiday home is near theme parks and on the waterfront. Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Tappahannock Historic District reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Meadow Event Park and Kings Dominion. Jet skiing and waterskiing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours and hiking/biking trails nearby. Visit our Saint Stephens Church travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Saint Stephens Church
Map
Aylett, VA

What's nearby

  • The Meadow Event Park sign, a white fence, and a stone monument.
    Meadow Event Park
    25 min drive - 41.0 km
  • A roller coaster at an amusement park with a 'Welcome' sign and a crowd of people.
    Kings Dominion
    28 min drive - 44.5 km
  • Pole Green Dog Park
    25 min drive - 34.7 km
  • Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge
    28 min drive - 36.1 km
  • Richmond Raceway
    36 min drive - 49.5 km

Getting around

  • Richmond, VA (RIC-Richmond Intl.)
    41 min drive

Restaurants

  • Los Cazadores Mexican Restaurant
    4 min drive
  • Bojangles
    5 min drive
  • Dunkin
    5 min drive
  • Vinny's Italian Grill & Pizzeria
    5 min drive
  • Don Pedro Mexican Restaurant
    5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 3 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much is parking at Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature. ?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature. ?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature. ?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature. located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is within 20 miles (32 km) of Pole Green Dog Park, Hobbs Hole Golf Course and Cold Harbor Battlefield Park - Garthright House. Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Tappahannock Historic District are also within 20 miles (32 km).

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Aylett River Paradise: A whimsical gem designed to harmonize with nature. Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 205 out of 243 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 23 out of 243 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 10 out of 243 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 4 out of 243 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 243 reviews

9.6

Cleanliness

9.4

Location

10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mel B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Larkin was very kind and hospitable. The property was peaceful, loved having coffee on the porch looking out over the river.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Emily C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect stay

Amazing location, breeze of a check in and overall favorite place to stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aurora D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy and Comfy...

We enjoyed our 3 day stay. Whimsical is the exact right word for the vibe. All 5 of my family members and dogs really felt at home there.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Bob R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

On the River

Property was very rustic & in a very pretty setting in the woods on the river. It was in a great location for us for the family events we were attending were close by.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Matthew K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Time

My buddies and I had at great experience- definitely a river paradise. House was unique and perfect for our group. Canoe and kayaks were a blast. We definitely want to come back!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Becky K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good base for our fishing trip

This property was as advertised. We booked it for a weekend fishing on the river. The public boat launch is right around the corner. The property host was open and accepting of our large breed dogs, which was very appreciated.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Virginia D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome getaway!

This is just like its deacribed. Property is beautiful and has everything you could need and more. Each day is a adventure there. Definelty going to visit again when back in virginia. Ms. Larkin was great!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amy B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Place

The place is exactly as described and pictured. Plenty of extra amenities. The rainy weekend didn't matter at all - just listening to the rain on the screened in porch was a treat.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice place tucked away

Loved this place. Very unique. A little hard to find but that means you get to not be around people which is a nice change of scenery. Right on the river for kayaking. Would definitely stay here again. Appreciate Larkin even letting us check in early and stay a bit later because there were no other bookings at those times!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Phyllis W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Definitely a unique setting, and we can see why outdoorsy folks and their dogs would love it. Larkin is a delightful and considerate host! Much of what we read in the reviews was on-target, and we created some great memories while here. We did figure out that suburban 66-year-olds like us are likely not as well-suited for this setting. For many of its positive aspects, we experienced a few that were less-than-ideal for us. The home is truly well-stocked - it's incredible how much "stuff" is available to guests, but, because of that, there was little-to-no room to settle in with our own stuff - we mostly lived out of our suitcases and food bags. Screened-in porch wasn't quite as anticipated; the screens were more like loosely hung drapes, and the porch door could not be fully closed, so my hope of having lots of porch-time safe from bugs did not work out well. We arrived during an unusually warm spell for early April (low 80s) and needed to use the A/C units, but those are loud, and not as effective as central A/C. While my husband really enjoyed catching many types of fish from the pier, the use of the pier was episodic based on tidal water levels, and the access was uneven and somewhat challenging, with my husband taking one good tumble into bramblebushes and then the water when coming off the pier. Although we won't return, we have no regrets for choosing such a unique home to help us access the other parts of VA that we visited.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gayl B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great outdoor space

We chose this place based on reviews and proximity to wedding venue. It looks like the pictures. Larkin was very friendly. We enjoyed games and coffee on the screened in porch. Enjoyed some time fishing.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A peaceful step back in time

The was what our family needed! A perfect home away from the hectic military life we know. The water front was perfect and peaceful. Something for all of us and the history Larkin shared with us made it even better. Can't wait until we can visit again. 100% recommend. Thank you for letting us unwind in your beautiful home.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

janelle c.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Private property with rustic and charming home on the river, highly recommend!

We LOVED OUR TIME HERE! WE CAN'T WAIT TO COME STAY AGAIN! The home has everything for an entertaining stay. All kinds of accessories for river play and use provided. The home itself is well stocked, clean and also filled with lots of natural charm and accents to compliment the properties location. We really enjoyed the property inside and out. We found the host to be very pleasant and easy to communicate with for checking in/out, property is as described in listing. I Highly recommend this property and host.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

LISA S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Place to Relax

Cozy comfortable house on beautiful property. We spent everyday floating or kayaking in the river. Zoar park across the bank has walking trails, rope swing, and cool shallow water access for dogs and kids to play in. It is completely private from neighbors but there is a little bit of traffic noise. We did not even hear it after the first night we were enjoying ourselves so much. It is also very close to the grocery store. Overall a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

britta s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

As described

Lots to unpack in this house, in a fun way. Clean comfortable and has everything one could need. Easy access to river where we caught plenty of fish. The few hours of low tide find the floating dock a bit angled but still useful - not a big deal at all. Kayaks were fun and in fine shape. Nearby traffic is white noise and cannot be heard from inside the house. Very private. We did not see another person our whole trip, perfect. Owner is very easy to get along with and attentive. Enjoyed by all especially the pooch.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patricia Ramirez J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming House

Property is as pictured, very secluded. Kitchen is well stocked and lots of little extra toiletries. Air conditioning and ceiling fans kept us cool even in the high 90s heat. Owner was immediately responsive to texts. It’s a neat old house but the light switches were a challenge to figure out. Our TMobile cell reception was very weak and intermittent but never stayed off for too long, but we meant to get away, right? We were disappointed by the road noise that carried to the screen porch-I should have noticed that on Google maps. Really disappointed to find a mouse had made a home in the BBQ grill. No steaks on the grill for us. Overall a good experience.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

6/10 Okay

Erin C.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication
Disliked: Location

A little odd: A little awesome.

My 20 & 10 year old children loved it. So much odd stuff for them to fumble through all around the house. My husband loved the fishing and canoeing on site. I loved how clean the house was. Outside could use some major upkeep. Rotten wood on door frame to porch and missing railing to steps. Yard was majorly overgrown around the river and not much upkeep to the plants around house. It made it so you couldn’t sit by the river if you wanted to. The exterior wood of the house makes it look like a creepy shack but the wood seemed new so I think it was a theme they were going for. The beds were very comfortable. The pics definitely need some updating because it was a little more run down than what you see in them. But all in all it was a decent stay. Like I said my kids and husband loved it all around! It was more about them. Host was extremely kind!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great 4 night stay part 1

I am a little late in posting this review. We stayed during a very hot four night visit starting on June 19th (yes the ac helped). Larkin was a great host. We were contacted via phone a couple of time during our visit (once during check in, once as a follow up and once on checkout day). She made great suggestions about fishing, shopping and swimming. Grocery, several restaurants and a bait shop are all within five minutes of the property. The house is full of interesting treasures and the grounds are neatly kept. The driveway through the woods (very cool after dark) that makes you feel like you are going into the wilderness. The reality is that long driveway loops around and you are not that far from civilization. Yes, as other reviews have stated you can hear road traffic from the yard and even see the bridge from the dock, but this becomes white noise quickly. It does not drown out the sounds of the many different birds in the area (Eagles, Barred Owl, woodpeckers (several different types), Scarlet Tangiers, Finches, Purple Martins, Tree Swallows ...) - Do not let the sound of the road deter you from staying at the wonderful property. The garden is nice but was suffering in the heat and Larkin asked if I would water it. I am glad I did because it made me take the time to really see the interesting plants and figures. We took advantage of the hammock and the fire pit at night. The yard has both sunny and shady areas. While my wife was there to relax and read
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Malinda

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This is a nice little getaway! I would say it’s a little above rustic. It is pet friendly. It’s in the woods along a river with about a quarter mile driveway. There is a highway nearby that you can hear when outside but it did not bother us at all. This house is stocked with everything you need! The kitchen was VERY well stocked with supplies. There were also doggie treats on the counter. The bathrooms were stocked as well even with lots of towels. The laundry is right off the kitchen which is very convenient. There were lots of extra blankets and pillows. There were SO many games to play! I lost count of how many we played. The kids enjoyed the small game table and played many games of pool. The air conditioning made the house very comfortable when it was very hot and humid outside. Outside, we enjoyed the hammock and lawn chairs. We used the kayaks and canoe and there were lots of life jackets to choose from - even a doggie preserver. There were also fishing supplies. We enjoyed 4 days/5 nights. One day we drove about 90 minutes to the beach. Another day we drove less than 30 minutes to Kings Dominion. We did not have anything in particular planned to do when we arrived but we realized those things were not very far away. There is satellite tv which we didn’t really watch. There is NO internet but we didn’t mind either. We have Verizon cell service and that worked perfectly. The hostess was great!! She easily accommodated our late arrival.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mike T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Perfect location for the hunting trip we did in Monquin!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sara A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
An absolute dream. Step into your home away from home. As long as your expectations are realistic, almost every imaginable amenity is available.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kasey

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Wonderful, comfortable, clean with plenty to do and cozy!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mimoflame

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very whimsical cabin indeed! Loved our stay at this one of a kind place in Va. Perfect place to unplug a bit while visiting family. I hope to go back when it’s warmer!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lori H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Did a girls trip here for a birthday and it was fantastic! the property is beautiful and peaceful, the host gave perfect instructions and directions. Will definitely stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Josh M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome place. So beautiful and peaceful. And Larkin is a great host.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025