Your Alpaca Cottage — Hotel in Clarkston

Decatur Alpaca Farm is more of a lifestyle than a physical space. Nestled in an unassuming residential neighborhood, this magnificent microfarm and its beautifully manicured gardens, impeccably clean grounds, and hilariously entertaining animals offers such a whimsical and interesting escape from the hustle and bustle of the city -- it is an escape you surely will not want to miss.

Marykay, who is by far one of the most interesting, friendly, and intelligent people we've ever met, greeted us with a fresh bowl of eggs hatched that same day from her flock of 25 chickens. The alpaca herd was visible from the nearby gate -- all were happily chomping away at a pile of orchard grass (which Marykay later informed us is the equivalent of alpaca pizza). They are inquisitive, yet a little shy, but if you respect them they will return the favor. Both alpacas, chickens, and cottage guests have plenty of space so as not to intrude upon one another.

We opted for the Alpaca Experience, which is an absolute must-do for all guests. It is incredibly informational and as interactive as you'd like for it to be -- assuming you are putting the animals' needs ahead of your own. Marykay is incredibly knowledgeable and has literally built the farm from a small chicken coop to a very impressive, tidy, organized alpaca haven. It is very evident that all animals are so loved, respected, and maybe just a bit spoiled from time to time. All are rescued from varying degrees of past hardship but their new life on Marykay's farm is a blissful existence, as evidenced by their calm, enthusiastic, and curious demeanor.

The cottage itself is adorable -- easily comparable to the spaces and vibes found in Garden and Gun or Southern Living. The refrigerator is stocked with all the conveniences of home, snacks and beverages are available for those late-night cravings, and coffee at the ready for early risers. Everything was clean, warm, cozy, and loved -- just like the farm animals. Dare we mention the alpaca fiber blankets available throughout the space?

The entire experience is what you make of it. Should you want to hole up in the house (not recommended when alpaca/chicken watching is so entertaining and the spirit of the various flower/vegetable/dyes gardens being so alive, but who are we to tell you how to spend your time), Marykay will absolutely respect your boundaries. But, if you're looking to truly experience something unique, as her a few questions. You will not be disappointed.

We travel often and book via Airbnb regularly, however no place has been quite as comfortable, unique, interactive, and interesting as Decatur Alpaca Farm. Marykay has created something so unique and heartwarming -- every open-minded adventurer should include this place as a stop on the bucket list. As for the casual traveler, a couple nights in her garden will erase all stress, even if the alpacas are not your thing.

We did not...

We read all the reviews for this place and were charmed by the sound of an Airbnb Plus with all 5.0 reviews. We did not know at the time that she reports as fraudulent any negative reviews and stages new ones (read the fake one about the 4 and 7 year old that she planted just before she had our review removed which stated that maybe this wasn't a good fit for 4 and 7 year olds). She made what we had hoped to be a restful stay into an overwhelming nightmare. She came to the airbnb at 7a.m. to accuse our children of making an alpaca throw up (I was still drinking coffee in my pajamas on the porch). She reported us to airbnb and initially said we could leave early since we did not want the headache of living under her scrutiny but then later she refused to refund us for the night we left. We hoped maybe it just wasn't a good fit for all of us but the way she attacked us has left us doubting airbnb's ability to accurately name its hosts. She lied in her airbnb review of us multiple times even stating that we left the place in "significant disarray" when I have photos that show the two hours of checkout work we did- stripping beds, leaving towels in the bathroom, putting everything back in it's place and loading the dishwasher. We have never been so humiliated by an airbnb host who refused to work with us or attempt to see our perspective. Meanwhile, we were dealing with an ectopic pregnancy and intense family and work dynamics and the entire trip ended up being a giant disaster. This is not a place of respite! It is a place of strict rules and harsh reinforcement. Don't be fooled...

What a lovely, exquisite, and comfortable experience! The cottage was perfect, and thoughtfully stocked with every amenity you can think of, and then some. It truly feels like the city is nowhere nearby, yet there are plenty of restaurants and shopping within just a few miles. The garden is just beautiful! Lush and green, with blooming flowers and gorgeous trees. Marykay was a fantastic host. She communicated well and remained available for any questions or needs, but also gave us all the privacy we needed. This is definitely a gleaming hidden gem, and I can't wait to return. The alpacas were a delight. We really enjoyed feeding them and observing their distinctive personalities. They were all very sweet and gentle. Loverboy is somewhat notorious for being pushy about getting all the carrots, but it really only added to the fun of it all. We still made sure the other alpacas got to eat, and they all seemed to enjoy the interaction just as much as we did. I would definitely recommend Your Alpaca Cottage to anyone who wants a break from city life, especially to a local who's looking to get away without having to travel far. This beautiful property will make you feel like you're tucked away in a private, peaceful oasis where you can leave your stresses behind. Marykay, thank you for such a fabulous and considerately planned experience. We loved it and everything...