WEST OKOBOJI, Iowa - Iowa history buffs can now enjoy a stay in a century-old farmhouse that when it was built in Spirit Lake in the late 1800s had a view of Spirit Lake, as well as East and West Lake Okoboji.
The Resch family home for more than five generations was moved to West Okoboji as part of the Okoboji Country Inn complex in 2006, and opened this spring with six guest rooms on two levels.
In addition to the three-story gift shop known as The Wash House, the complex also offers cozy dining for up to two-dozen guest in Annabelle's Tea Room, and serves as home to innkeeper Donna Muilenburg, her husband (and groundskeeper) Earl, and their daughter Ann, who helps manage the property.
County records don't show when the house was built, though it is generally agreed it was before 1880. Peter Resch came to the United States from Illingen, Germany in 1884 - the same year the original Queen steamship was built. The Resch family was the third family to reside in the Cedar Grove Township home.
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It took nine months of planning to get the home moved from the south edge of Spirit Lake, three miles to West Okoboji, on the southeast corner of West Lake Okoboji. Then, the Muilenburgs spent nearly two years renovating the structure and designing the six rooms with all the modern comforts of the 21st century, making for what Ann Muilenburg calls "an unforgettable vacation experience."
The luxurious accommodations include a two-room suite with an air spa tub along with five other guestrooms. Lodging amenities include a gourmet breakfast, luxurious linens, and gorgeous decor.
One of three rooms with California king-size (longer) beds, Mayalyla's room is themed in yellow, making it sunny and spacious. It is located on the second floor of the inn and shares a large bathroom (with a tub and shower) with the Cottage Room.
The bright and cheerful Cottage Room provides a relaxing atmosphere for guests. It has two twin beds.
Lisa Marie's suite is a nature-inspired room featuring a California king-sized bed with private bathroom and a spa massage shower with four body jets. This room is located on the main floor of the inn.
When guests see the light and airy Okoboji Room, they'll know what "Blue Water Okoboji" is all about, as even the tap water runs blue, an effect made possible by a special light in the faucet. The Okoboji Room also has a queen-size bed and its own private bathroom with shower.
The most-impressive Annabelle's Suite is done in black and gold. This elegant and luxurious two room suite features a California king-size bed and a two-person massage air bath with shower and private bathroom.
Guests in Annabelle's Suite will enjoy relaxing in their own private sun room complete with a window seat to enjoy the ever-changing seasons of West Okoboji. Muilenburg says Annabelle's Suite is perfect for honeymoon, special anniversaries, or any romantic getaways.
The masculine Lodge Room gives guests their own cabin in the woods. Located on the second floor it has a private bathroom with shower and its own fireplace!
More information about the Okoboji Country Inn (1704 Terrace Park Blvd, West Okoboji) can be found at http://www.okobojicountryinn.com
Reservations can also be made on-line, or by calling 712-332-2358.
