Lilac Retreat lake house sauna + pickleball close to St. Johns and St. Bens

Lilac Retreat is a peaceful 1 acre lakefront escape on clear, pristine Big Watab Lake featuring a private wood-burning sauna, pickleball court, swim raft, kayaks, sandy beach area, and panoramic lake views. Located near St. Joseph, SJU, and CSB, this spacious 4-bedroom home is ideal for family gatherings, campus weekends, retreats, and relaxing Minnesota escapes. One bundle of firewood and starter provided; add'l firewood available for purchase on site while supplies last.

The space
MAIN FLOOR – Kitchen
Spacious kitchen with vaulted ceilings, large island, and beautiful lake views
Appliances: Double oven, griddle, stove, refrigerator, microwave, and dishwasher
Small appliances: Combo Keurig coffee maker (drip + pod), Ninja blender, toaster, and countertop ice maker
Fully stocked with pots, pans, baking dishes, cookie sheets, cooking utensils
Place settings: plates, bowls, mugs, glasses, stemless wine glasses, mixing bowls, cutting boards, knives, and dish towels
Coffee filters provided

MAIN FLOOR – Living & Dining Room
Open-concept layout with vaulted ceilings and expansive lake views
Large sofa and accent chairs
Dining table seating for 6, plus island seating for 4
Smart TV
Wood fireplace (for ambiance only—not for guest use)

MAIN FLOOR – Primary Bedroom
Lake view
Queen bed and a bunk bed (full on bottom, twin on top)
Bedside tables
Large closet with dresser
Ensuite bathroom with shower, vanity, and toilet
Hand soap and towels provided
Equipped with alarm clock featuring iPhone charging and white noise

MAIN FLOOR – 2nd Bedroom
Trees view
Queen bed with bedside tables
Large closet
Alarm clock with iPhone charging and white noise

MAIN FLOOR – 3rd Bedroom
Trees view
Queen bed with bedside tables
Large closet with dresser
Alarm clock with iPhone charging and white noise

MAIN FLOOR – Full Bathroom
Large bathroom with shower/tub combo
Large vanity and toilet
Hand soap and towels provided

MAIN FLOOR – Powder Room
Toilet and vanity with mirror
Hand soap and towels provided

LOWER LEVEL – 4th Bedroom
Lake view
Queen bed and bunk bed (full on bottom, twin on top)
Bedside tables
Closet with built-in shelves
Alarm clock with iPhone charging and white noise

LOWER LEVEL – Bathroom
Shower
Single vanity and toilet
Hand soap and towels provided

LOWER LEVEL – Laundry Room
Full-size washer and dryer
Laundry detergent provided

LOWER LEVEL -Living Room & Kids Play Room
Two couches
Wood burning fireplace (for ambiance only—not for guest use)
Kids play area
Smart TV
Lake view

LOWER LEVEL – BAR AREA
Bar seating with lake view
Conveniently located near exterior door to lakefront patio

OUTDOOR AMENITIES (seasonal)
Outdoor patio seating
Outdoor grill
Kids playground
Full-size private pickleball court on property
Basketball hoop
Ping pong table (located in screened shed)
Lakefront access with dock
Firepit
Kayaks
Paddleboards
Peddle boat
Swim raft
Beach towels
Beach toys
Life jackets

Guests have full access to the entire home except the garages and one storage room.

The final mile leading to Lilac Retreat offers a scenic yet winding drive through a narrow, tree-lined road. With sharp turns and one steep incline, guests are encouraged to drive slowly and exercise caution. The speed limit is 10 mph to ensure safety for pedestrians, wildlife, and other vehicles. During snowy, icy winter months WE RECOMMEND AN ALL WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE.

Lilac Retreat is tucked away in the beautiful Avon Hills, surrounded by nature. Because of our wooded setting, you may encounter some bugs or wildlife from time to time. We do have regular pest control, and keeping window screens in place and doors closed will help minimize anything getting inside. We also appreciate guests keeping outdoor areas free of food and trash to avoid attracting critters. We recommend bringing your preferred bug repellent.