Title: Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone Reviews, Deals & Photos 2025 - Expedia.co.uk [See all properties](http://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?regionId=&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) Entire cabin # Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone ![Dining](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/109000000/108820000/108814900/108814819/9bf4efb3.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Smart TV](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/109000000/108820000/108814900/108814819/15c2603b.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, dishwasher](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/109000000/108820000/108814900/108814819/3d44d587.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/109000000/108820000/108814900/108814819/53380b41.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![2 bedrooms, free WiFi, bed sheets](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/109000000/108820000/108814900/108814819/14678061.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Amenities - Policies - Location Experience a unique retreat in Mentone, Alabama at Claudia's Caboose. This lovingly renovated midcentury industrial train caboose features a kitchen with coffee bar and toaster oven/air fryer, while the outdoor space boasts a deck and firepit to enjoy the passing trains. With 2 areas for sleeping and smart TV for entertainment, this cozy abode is perfect for two adults and two children. 10 Exceptional ### Entire cabin 2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4300 sq ft ## Popular amenities - Dryer - Washer - Kitchen - Parking available - Barbecue grill - Outdoor space ## Add dates for prices Check-in Check-out Travellers ## 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 Availability for Longest Yardsale Week-end! 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's Caboose 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. ## 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 Pets not 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 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 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 If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. ### We should mention This property does not have any lifts ## About the area ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6¢er=34.567352,-85.613716&zoom=13&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&path=color:0xFFFFF|weight:2|fillcolor:0x005AEB7F|enc:ai_rEvlpiO%3FS%3FS%40Q%3FS%40Q%40S%40Q%40S%40Q%40Q%40SBQBQBQBSBQBQBQDQDQBQDQDQDODQFQDOFQFODQHOFOFOFOHMFQHMFOHMHMJMHOHMHMJKHMJKJMJKJMJKJKJIJKLKJILILKJGLILILILGLGLGLGLGNELGLELGNENCLELENCNCLCNCNCNCLANANCN%3FNALAN%3FN%3FNAN%40L%3FN%3FN%40N%40N%3FNBL%40N%40NBNBLBNBNBLBNDLDNDLBNFLDLFLDNFLFLFLFLFLHLHJHLFLJJHLHJJJJLHJJJJJLJJJLHJJLHJJLHLHNHLHLHNHLFLHPHLFNFNFPFLFPFNDPFNDPFPDNDPBPDPDPBPDPBPBPBRBPBP%40P%40RBP%40P%40R%40P%40R%3FP%40R%3FP%3FR%3FR%3FP%3FR%3FPAR%3FPARAPARAPCPARAPCPCRCPCPCPEPCPEPEPCPEPEPGNEPGPENGNGPGLGPGNGNILIPGLILININIJINILKLILKJILKJKLKJKJKJMHKJKJMHKHMJMFKJMFMHMFMFMFMHODMDMFMDOFMBODMDODMBOBODM%40OBOBO%40M%40OBO%40O%3FO%40O%3FM%3FO%40OAO%3FO%3FMAO%3FOAOCOAMAOCOCOAMEOCOCMEMEOCOEMGMEMGOEMEMIMGMGMGMIMGMKKGMKMIKIMKKKKIKKKKKKKMKKKMIKKMIMIMIOKKIOIMGOIMGQIMGOGOGOIOEQGOGOEQGQEOEQEQEQCQEQEQCQCQCQCQCSCQCQASAQAQASAQASAQ%3FSAQ%3FS%3FQ&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=SRt-DS7-Hw19DKVYMXvRRkWGsuI=) Valley Head, AL #### What's nearby - Mentone Town Hall - 6 min drive - 3.0 miles - DeSoto Falls - 8 min drive - 3.3 miles - Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort - 9 min drive - 3.7 miles - The Gourdie Shop - 13 min drive - 7.3 miles - DeSoto State Park - 14 min drive - 6.6 miles #### Restaurants - ‪McDonald's - ‬9 min drive - ‪The Hatter Cafe - ‬8 min drive - ‪Wildflower Cafe - ‬4 min drive - ‪Mentone Hardware Cafe - ‬6 min drive - ‪The Pantry Buffet - ‬8 min drive ## Frequently asked questions ### Is Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone pet-friendly? > No, pets are not allowed at this property. ### Where is Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone located? > Situated in a rural location, this cabin is 0.6 mi (1 km) from Valley Head Town Park and within 6 miles (10 km) of Mentone Town Hall and Eagle Nest. DeSoto Falls and Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort are also within 6 miles (10 km). ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone Reviews 10 ### 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 information](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/b/content-guidelines) ### 10 Cleanliness ### 10 Location 10 - Excellent 9 8 - Good 0 6 - Okay 0 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Roger T. 26 May 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Amazing The caboose was clean and easy to find it was in a great location to visit the different attractions in the area ##### Roger T. Stayed 2 nights in May 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Christina C. 10 Apr 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Lovely getaway We absolutely love it!! Very nice property and cutest caboose. Very clean and host was awesome! Great suggestions for places around to eat, shop and just visit. We will definitely be back!!! ##### Christina C. Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Rickey W. 25 Nov 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### An absolutely lovely time The property we stayed at was great, it was well worth the trip over there. My friend and I enjoyed the just about every part of the ##### Rickey W. Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jon A. 20 Jun 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### A fantastic place to stay! We loved it and will be back! I surprised my wife for her birthday and did not tell her where we were going or staying. The place was immaculate and had everything we needed. We ate lunch in Mentone at the Wildflower Cafe (awesome) and then went to Desoto Falls which is gorgeous and is just a few minutes away. We celebrated with dinner in Ft. Payne which is an easy drive but the best part by far was the caboose. Such a unique set-up and so nicely finished and decorated.. The couch and bed were very comfy and even though it was a hot day we were cool inside. Cozy and just a perfect place to stay I assure you that you won't be disappointed if you decide to take your significant other to the "train station" for a great time. Thanks Claudia for the special birthday greeting and making it so memorable. We will definitely come back soon! ##### Jon A. Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Theresa K. 31 Oct 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### My birthday weekend My husband took me to Mentone for my birthday. We stayed in this lovely caboose. The caboose is amazing. It was super clean, decorated with train decor. It is small but spacious enough to enjoy yourself. Claudia, the owner, was so kind and easy to work with. Everything was ready for us when we got there including a sweet welcoming message from her. Would definitely recommend ##### Theresa K. Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Cathy P. 14 Oct 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Annual Fall Getaway Yes, you are about 100 yards from a somewhat busy train track so if the occasional midnight or early morning train and horn will bother you then this is not the stay for you but..if you love the idea of climbing a few stairs and staying in a real caboose that may have passed this way back in the day that has been lovingly restored into a small but super comfortable and fun place then you need to do it! You won't be sorry! It is in a safe little town with lots to see, do and eat all within a few miles to under an hour depending on what you want to do. Claudia is a jewel who is super responsive, has thought of everything, is attentive to all her guests needs and I can't wait to stay again! Thanks for a great stay! way at one time ##### Cathy P. 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