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The Makanda Inn is situated on an 18-acre wooded site with a small creek winding through it. The Inn was carefully planned and built to fit in to the natural environment.
Upon arrival you will be captured by the buildings architectural beauty. Stone steps lead you to the large wrap around porch with cedar log posts and a unique hand-crafted door. Once inside, your eyes are drawn to the grand stone fireplace rising 32 feet to the knotty-pine ceiling.
In addition to its beauty, The Makanda Inn is Southern Illinois most energy efficient small retreat of its kind, featuring both high and low-tech methods for minimizing its impact on the environment. Some of the features include: Strawbale wall construction which provide both energy efficiency and sound insulation. Masonry heater that is extremely energy efficient produces little emissions and uses an on-site renewable resource wood. Recycled and re-purposed materials including doors and roofing material. High tech heat exchanger/cooling system the Sanyo ECO-i provides a highly efficient, multi-zone temperature control system that allows each guest to control room temperature to their needs. Solar energy a 5kw solar array (soon to be installed) will provide much of the power needs for the inn.
The Inn is also proud to feature the work of fellow artisians such as hand crafted furniture from Kyle Kinser, Local Wood peices supplied by Nature's Creations in Makanda, Enourmous Copper Sun made by Dave Dardis The Rainmaker, Custom crafted Door and woodwork from Paul Frank and Kali, Wood work from Andy Kinser, photos from author Mushroom Joe McFarlen and many more.
Ideal For...
Reunions...
Makanda Inn is truly a perfect spot for a family Reunion. With so many activities for groups of all ages from horseback riding and fishing or kayaking for the kids to golf and wineries or fine dining for the adults. The inn has multiple gathering areas indoors and outside. It has a big open kitchen to cook together, and areas to play outdoor games and enjoy each other's company.Business Travel...
We are only 10-15 minutes from SIU, the Makanda Inn is an ideal place to stay while on business in Southern Illinois. We understand the needs of the business traveler and have the perfect place for you to relax or work during your stay. We offer free wireless internet, so that you can work (if you have to). We have satellite TV and DVD players with a large collection of DVDs for your use. You are sure to get a good night sleep as our beds are extremely comfortable. In the morning, fresh brewed coffee will be available along with a continental breakfast to get you on the right start for the day.
Romance
Each Room at the Makanda Inn was decorated with romance on the mind. Masculine wood decor with a feminine touch and luxurious linens may entice you to not even leave your room at all! If you do go out you can enjoy shopping, Southern Illinois Art Trail, secluded walks and picnics in the forest, or fine dining in the area.Adventure
Adjacent to Giant City State Park there is plenty of opportunity for hiking and biking, kayaking on Little Grassy Lake, picnic on Devils Standtable or test your skills at Fat Man Squeeze. Makanda Inn is also driving distance to Little Grand Canyon, Garden of the Gods and Cache River.
Wine Lovers
Makanda Inn is located in the heart of the Shawnee Wine Trail. There are twelve wineries in the area with the closest being only three miles away. Experience an authentic wine culture as you travel from winery to winery through some of the most beautiful countryside in the Midwest. You can start at either end, or jump on in the middle!SIU Alumni/Friends/Parents
From one SIU alumni to another Makanda Inn is the place to be. We are a straight shot to the university only 8 miles south on 51. Close enough to be around the hustle and bustle of Carbondale but also a little relaxation of your own in the gorgeous Shawnee Forest. GO DAWGS!!!Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, The Makanda Inn is located just a half mile south of the Makanda Boardwalk and only 15 minutes south of Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.
The Inn is directly adjacent to Giant City State Park. -
“March getaway to Shawnee Natl Forest”
Reviewed March 31, 2012
Remarkably quiet and peaceful setting. Greg's breakfasts are gourmet. The result of sustainable construction methods used in this structure are inspiring. We will definitely be back.
John L
Peoria, Illinois
“We felt like we were in a "Fairy Tale" cottage!!”
Reviewed February 4, 2012
I just returned from a wonderful, peaceful, relaxing night at the Makanda Inn. My Besties (college roommates) and I wanted an overnight get-a-way and we could not have chosen a better place. John & Patty, the inn keepers, welcomed us warmly as the first guest they have had at the Inn since they started their new positions. They quickly made us feel right at home giving us a tour of the entire eco friendly, green, facility. They pointed out the straw bale wall construction, the use of refurbished wood and natural pebble stones in the shower floors. The rooms were so beautiful and the bed was soooo comfortable! The outside balcony was great even though it was in February. John asked us if we would like a fire when we returned from dinner and we immediately said yes. It was a rainy, foggy, night in the southern Illinois forest. When we returned from dinner and drove down the driveway toward the inn, we could see the fireplace glowing and lit candles glowing in the windows waiting for our return. Such a wonderful touch!!! We spent the rest of the night seated in the great room in front of the huge stone fireplace laughing, talking & playing board games. What a perfect place for a best friend's night out! We felt totally at home, and totally relaxed! In the morning we woke up to the smell of something delicious cooking downstairs. We arrived at the long natural wood dining table to find a very pretty table all set for our breakfast. We had a lovely fruit & yogurt parfait, heavenly lemon & blueberry glazed muffins, and a very tasty vegetable fritata! So good!!! We hated that we could only stay one night in this fairy tale Inn. We loved everything about it and have already made reservations for the same night next year! Cannot wait to return. This is truly a hidden gem in Southern, Illinois. Better book now, as I am sure this year the Inn will be full all of the time. They are also adding little "Hobbit Cottages" complete with green grass roof tops!!!! Thanks John & Patty for making us feel right at home! Best of wishes to ya'll in your new adventure!
LuvRaccoons
Kuttawa, Kentucky
“Perfect getaway! One night here and your stress just goes away!”
Reviewed December 4, 2011
The place is beautiful. The wood is gorgeous. It is in the middle of the woods just like we wanted. Pebble floor in the shower is great. Love the idea of the journal done by each family who stays here. Would like to see it in all different seasons. Janelle is so good at taking care of guests. Each room is so nice and the bed is amazing. We will be back soon.
Gkdonley
“Wow!”
Reviewed September 25, 2011
Really, WOW! The photos do not do the Makanda Inn justice. There are tons of "nooks and crannies" outside at/by which to explore, read or just sit and enjoy the beautiful property.
We stayed in Suite 2 which overlooked the driveway. While that may not sound appealing, keep in mind that you're overlooking a gravel driveway in a heavily wooded area with very little (if any) traffic to the Inn. There was also a semi-private deck with a couple of chairs outside of our room.
Breakfast was AMAZING. We try to stay at only B&Bs when we travel and have stayed in about 30, so we do have something with which to compare the Makanda Inn. Yogurt, granola and fresh fruit parfait to start and scrambled eggs with peppers, sausage and cheddar cheese atop a buttered, toasted bagel. Oh, and sliced breakfast potatoes.
There is a full kitchen in the common area and the refrigerator has an ice & water dispenser on the door. Quite a luxury in a B&B.
Each room has individual temperature controls as well as a ceiling fan.
Motorcyclists: the Makanda Inn has a (relatively steep) gravel driveway. However, we were able to park the bike at the top of the driveway away from traffic.
The inn is full of the work of local craftsmen and artisans and the walls of the rooms are straw-filled with a small framed cut-out through which to view the inside. The construction methods used for the inn are truly remarkable and it is worth asking Janelle or Greg for more detail.
We thoroughly enjoyed the Makanda Inn and look forward to coming back!
BunnyBikers
Glen Ellyn, Illinois
“Country solitude with all the amenities”
Reviewed September 7, 2011
This place is amazing. We went for the long holiday weekend which we combined with hiking and the wineries. Janelle could not have been more accommodating. This kind of family-owned inn is exactly what is needed in the area, and we will be back!
Melissa L
Chicago, Illinois
“Awesome place don't think twice about staying here”
Reviewed August 7, 2011
Went to celebrate our anniversary it was the perfect spot. The Inn is just amazing with the wood slab table tops and stairs. The food was great and the host was great with advice on places and things to do. We enjoyed the great wineries and the bike trail.
debedmtzIllinois
illinois
“Absolutely beautiful-truly a one of a kind Inn!”
Reviewed July 9, 2011
Eco-friendly lodging is certainly the way to go. The Makanda Inn by far surpasses any expectations. From the beautiful woodwork, to the beds that make you want to sleep all day...it's all an experience you will never forget! I absolutely love the use of organic foods as well. And the decor is probably my favorite, especially the photos taken by "Mushroom Joe." I recommend this place to anyone looking to have a relaxing, fun, Southern Illinois getaway! It also is such a benefit that Makanda Inn just so happens to be right on the wine trail!
Gracefullykatey
“Best bed & breakfast I've ever been to!!”
Reviewed July 6, 2011
Best little get away my husband and I have had in a long time. Exactly what we were looking for, amazing breakfast & beautiful Inn. Can't wait to go back next year! You must see the wineries nearby.
r4eecherry
Naples, Florida
“This is the most enchanting place in Southern Illinois”
Reviewed June 30, 2011
I was taken from the moment we came around the corner to see Makanda Inn set in such a beautiful tree lined clearing. Our time there was so memorable and relaxed. We where treated with kindness and Janelle helped us find many great wineries to visit during our stay. She is amazing just like her home made breakfast. We can wait to come back this September as we now make this a yearly trip. Thank you for everything. See you soon.
MichaelM76
Chicago, IL
“Perfect Getaway! Can't wait to go back!!”
Reviewed June 29, 2011
I just want to thank the people at Makanda Inn for a weekend I'll never forget. We all felt right at home, and the service and hospitality was exceptional! I wish our visit could have been longer. We will be back though, and very much look forward to it.
Natalie128
Chicago, Illinois -
Location
Nestled in the Shawnee National Forest, The Makanda Inn is located just a half mile south of the Makanda Boardwalk and only 15 minutes south of Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. The Inn is directly adjacent to Giant City State Park.
Directions from Interstate 57 Southbound (this is the scenic route through Giant City State Park)
Take Exit 45 for State Highway 148/N. Refugee Rd
Turn LEFT and go 2.7 miles to
Grassy Road turn LEFT (there is a country store at the corner) and go 4.3 miles to
Spillway Road turn LEFT (be careful not to miss this turn) and go 4.4 miles to
Giant City Road (a stop sign) turn LEFT and go 3.5 miles to
S. Church Street (it’s about a half mile past Giant City Stables) turn RIGHT and go 1.9 miles. You will past a church on the left (the road changes to Baptist Hill Rd) and down a hill to the Makanda Boardwalk. At the stop sign turn LEFT before the tracks. That will be Old Lower Cobden Rd. Go about .5 miles to the inn. -
The Makanda Inn is the prototype development site of Camp Zest – a new business venture whose mission is to bring people together to create a network of small scale retreats featuring all forms of natural building materials and techniques. This business is owned and managed by Greg and Shauna Wellman. Janelle Weber, their daughter, is the inn keeper at the Makanda Inn.
Janelle Weber, Innkeeper
Janelle grew up in the Northwest Suburbs of Chicago. Working at major hotels and restaurants in the Chicago land area she developed her passion for the hospitality industry early. Eager to go above and beyond for her guests, ensuring their time well spent. After living in Naples, Florida for the past five years she was ready to come back to Illinois and take the opportunity to be a part of the Makanda Inn. She has been working onsite for much of the development.Greg Wellman, Owner/Developer
Greg first visited the Southern Illinois woods in 1976 as part of an Outward Bound trip. He attended Southern Illinois University and spent weekends hiking and rock climbing in Giant City and surrounding woods. He graduated in 1983 with a degree in aviation management and flight. He has worked in the aviation field ever since, taking a break for a couple of years to attend the University Of Chicago Graduate School Of Business. Greg serves on the advisory board for the SIU aviation program. Over the years, he has developed interest and skills in natural building. The idea for Camp Zest emerged from attending natural building workshops where he met others who had an interest in natural building. He discovered that there were a lot of people who wanted to build something but did not have the full complement of skills, time and money to do it on their own. His hope is that Camp Zest will provide the catalyst to bring people together with the right resources to create an owner/builder network of these natural retreats.CHECK OUT OUR LINKS
Top Ten Places to Hang your Hat in 2009
St. Louis Post Dispatch 2009 Staying At: Makanda Inn
Southern Illinois and Shawnee National Forest are a good Fall Color Getaway