Entire cabin

Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone

2.0 star property
Cabin in Valley Head with kitchenette and patio

Photo gallery for Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone

Dining
Smart TV
Fridge, microwave, oven, dishwasher
2 bedrooms, free WiFi, bed sheets
Exterior
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.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 428 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Kitchen
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space

Add dates for prices

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

PEAK LEAF CHANGE WEEK AVAILABLE! 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'sCaboose 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

Similar properties

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

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

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Map
Valley Head, AL

What's nearby

  • Mentone Town Hall - 6 min drive - 4.8 km
  • DeSoto Falls - 8 min drive - 5.2 km
  • Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort - 9 min drive - 5.9 km
  • The Gourdie Shop - 13 min drive - 11.7 km
  • DeSoto State Park - 14 min drive - 10.6 km

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪The Hatter Cafe - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Craigsmere - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Wildflower Cafe - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Seabolt’s Street Tacos - ‬6 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).

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Reviews

Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone Reviews

10

Exceptional

10

Cleanliness

10

Location
Rating 10 - Excellent. 10 out of 10 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 10 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 10 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 10 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 10 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Annie C.

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

Great stay!

Such a fun novelty. The trains going by are definitely loud but the property is very clean and well done.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Roger T.

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
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn Brackin O.

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

Claudia’s Caboose is delightful

Claudia is an excellent host. Special things to welcome us, coffee, comment book, soaps and bath wash. The caboose is so unique and cosy. We had a wonderful time.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christina C.

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!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rickey W.

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
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Theresa K.

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
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jon A.

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!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cathy P.

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
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mandie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025