"Thank you for a wonderful time at your Old Irwin Lodge.  Todd and I really enjoyed our stay.  Your lodge is really a gem!  It is very well done, a pleasure to stay and the food was extra special!!  We have stayed in quite a few nice lodges during the last few years but yours is tops!  Your friendly service is the best!  Thanks again for a wonderful time.  We hope to come again and stay with you in the near future."

 

 

"Thank you for the beautiful place to stay, the wonderful food, such friendly people and the waiter was awesome!"

 

 

"This is a gem of a lodge, relatively new to the area and geared for adults seeking luxurious hospitality.  I had the opportunity to stay here over the Memorial Day weekend for a flyfishing vacation with my cousin and we were delighted at the warmth and earnestness of the owner and his family.  This is a spacious lodge, painstakingly assembled in log construction, with separate quarters offering privacy, private deck areas and incredible views.  The interior has many cozy nooks and a central meeting area with a roaring fireplace.  Not to be missed is the diorama overlooking the Swan Valley Room.  The furnishings and decor are top notch and geared for those who can appreciate them historically and esthetically.  The lodge serves a full breakfast tailored to your tastes, and four course evening dinners are offered at a very affordable cost.  In fact, the whole stay is surprisingly affordable for the quality of service and accommodations.  The lodge would be an excellent choice for outdoorsmen, romantic couples, executive retreats, small adult gatherings, and photographic and art naturalists.  A little slice of heaven in Swan Valley, Idaho!"

 

 

"Best kept secret in Idaho!  Thanks you for a wonderful stay and we'll see you again soon!"

 

 

"I just wanted to pass along my thanks.  The week was truly outstanding.  I was so impressed with everything both at The Lodge and out on the water with the guides from Worldcast.  More importantly, my clients were thrilled with the trip.  Thank you for making our week so enjoyable!"

 

 

"I wanted to take a moment to thank you so very much for the great stay that our entire family enjoyed at The Old Irwin Lodge.  This was a special trip for us since our oldest will be starting college next week and we just don't know when the entire family will spend another 10 days together.  Your hospitality made it memorable for all of us, each for our own reasons, but we all agree that our stay with you was one of our best vacations ever.  The hospitality is beyond belief, from the minute we walked in the door from a long drive, we felt like welcomed family and guests.  Your willingness to accommodate our schedules and help with our reservations was a step that truly went "above and beyond".  I will not soon forget the look on our son Matt's face when you brought out the rock on the place that looked like his potato, nor will I forget his satisfaction at eating the real potato!  We told you before, but after this trip, our kids are spoiled and think that every trip ought to have accommodations, meals and hospitality like The Old Irwin Lodge.  I am looking at my calendar now to reserve some rooms to come back up next year.  There are more trout to be caught, more great conversations with you all and a lot of relaxing that will be necessary by then.  I can't thank you enough!"

 

 

"I didn't think you could possibly repeat the fantastic stay we enjoyed at The Old Irwin Lodge last year but you definitely succeeded.  You even topped last years "trout cake"!  We could not have made a better choice for a great experience in Swan Valley.  I often think of the evening views from the deck and dining room.  The true highlight of our trip was observing the four young men enjoying their high school graduation trip.  What an experience for those guys!  They raved about the food, the lodging, the fishing and the rivers, especially the "Teton Slide".  I would highly recommend the "slide" for your guests seeking and exhilarating experience.  Thanks again for sharing your beautiful accommodations with our group.  You made everyone feel right at home!  I am sure we will be visiting in the future with our friends at The Old Irwin Lodge!"

 

 

"Thank you once again for your kindness and grand hospitality on our return to The Old Irwin Lodge for our recent fishing trip.  Everything was superb, as it was last year, and it was an exceptional pleasure to observe the four recent high school graduates enjoy their first dip into the wonderful western world of fly fishing.  They had a great experience and a wonderful time.  As expected, the food was delicious, the accommodations excellent and your care for all of us, from the youngsters to the old geezers was most considerate and thoughtful.  The guides this year were outstanding in all respects.  Heard how helpful they were to the new fellows (several had never seen or used a fly rod), getting them in the groove and hooking them for life.  In all respects, it was delightful and a great place to relax while catching beautiful formed wild trout in such gorgeous surroundings.  Thanks for everything!  We always hope to return to the good places and pleased we did this year!

 

 

"Just a brief note to thank you for the wonderful time at The Old Irwin Lodge!  Everything was perfect from start to finish, and I look forward to bringing my wife to visit the next time I'm in Idaho.  Again, it was great to meet you, and I look forward to seeing you again soon!"

 

 

"Thanks again for the great time at your Lodge.  You are wonderful people and I really enjoy your company.  Wish the world was filled with more folks like you all.  Ideally, I would love to get a large group to come out the next time.  Thanks again, and let's stay in touch!"

 

 

"Thank you so much for a wonderful time at The Old Irwin Lodge!  Wow - what a fabulous jewel you have created in the middle of beautiful Swan Valley.  As "southerners" we're supposed to be known for our hospitality - The Bottomley family elevated that to a whole new level!  Our suite and the whole lodge were exquisitely and wonderfully furnished, especially for my hunter husband.  Our meals were fabulous, especially the "catch of the previous day" which just happened to be our trout!  There was more to do than we possibly could have imagined.  We enjoyed our hike up your mountain to watch the sunset.  We loved horseback riding the Palisades Creek trail and definitely had fun fishing The South Fork of The Snake River.  You guys are the best and we had a ball!  Thanks again for your wonderful hospitality.  We left feeling like we had made four new friends!"

 

 

"Wonderful rooms and meals!  Thanks for the hospitality!"

 

 

"Beautiful scenery.  So serene and peaceful and the food was excellent!  The host and hostess were friendly and warm."

 

 

"Great hospitality, wonderful views and beautiful suites!  Thank You!"

 

 

"My husband and I recently stayed at the Old Irwin Lodge, and what an amazing time we had!  The Bottomley's were the perfect hosts, making sure that our stay was comfortable, enjoyable and memorable.  Thank you to you and your staff for their great hospitality, we will return as often as possible!"

 

 

"My wife and I stayed at the Old Irwin Lodge over Valentine's Day weekend this year, and we can't possibly say enough good about our stay.  We were welcomed Friday by Dick, the lodge owner.  We were immediately struck by the beauty of the building and the surrounding landscape - pictures simply can't do it justice.  The decor is very tasteful - perfect for a romantic getaway, but still western enough for a summer fishing trip.  The Yellowstone Suite was amazing.  The giant vaulted ceiling, amazing natural wood finish, and the natural stone fireplace caught our attention first, followed by the artistic color scheme and the other nuances which made the room so charming.  The room was completely spotless, bathroom included.  The bubble tub was glorious after a day of skiing!  The refridgerator was kept stocked with a variety of beer and iced tea, and the innkeepers had chocolates and a bottle of sparkling cider waiting for us.  Friday's dinner was spectacular - crab cakes for starters, sweetheart salad and incredible bread, filet mignon with port wine reduction, roasted red potatoes and grilled asparagus, followed by french apple pie a la mode with champagne and coffee.  We had a window table overlooking the amazing scenery of Swan Valley.  The table service was top-notch.  This could easily be the best restaurant in the area, and even if you have other accommodations, I heartily recommend contacting the Lodge for dinner reservations.  Saturday's dinner (pork tenderloin with peach sauce) was accompanied by live fiddle/bluegrass Valentine's Day music - very entertaining.  Breakfast was excellent as well - the Eggs Benedict are wonderful.  I would go back anytime.  Their prices are very reasonable considering the value received.  I spent considerable time looking for a great place to stay in the MT/ID area, and this was perfect!  The staff truly puts maximum effort into making the stay perfect and personalizing the service. We felt like a King and Queen!"

 

 

"A week ago today, we were on the road driving away from the Old Irwin Lodge after a stay celebrating Pete's 60th birthday and our 37th wedding anniversary.  We found ourselves looking back to catch one last view of the lodge with the hope of seeing it in its unique and beautiful setting. 

 

During our drive home we reminisced on all the things that had made the overnight stay so special.  When we arrived and started to carry our bags in, Dick was there to greet us with a friendly handshake and warm invitation to come in.  Debby and Bridget were just inside the door and met us with sincere hospitality and charm.  Dick then took us to the Yellowstone Suite, a magnificent room, spacious and rustic with a great high roof beam and stone fireplace.  He showed us all the special features, wisely selected with an eye towards comfort and utility. 

 

We spent the afternoon taking in the varied and interesting features of the lodge.  Pete was most impressed by the fantastic display of taxidermy; foxes, bobcats, and many other animals placed in authentic settings, designed to show the animals in their wild habitats.  Meanwhile, Charlotte was fascinated by the paintings, subtle but beautiful decor, and elegant table settings.  In these surroundings, Dick took the time to explain to us how the Bottomleys had come from San Diego to Idaho and how the Old Irwin Lodge came to be.  As time permitted, Debby and Bridget came out and joined us in the pleasant and relaxing conversation.

 

We won't try to describe every course and nuance of the dinner on Sunday evening, but the words "gourmet" and "delicious" are not even close to being adequate to describe the feast that Debby and Bridget prepared for us.  It certainly made for an anniversary meal to be remembered and the chocolate fudge cake was the crowning piece for Pete's birthday.  And though we have no family with us here in Idaho, the Bottomleys made the rest of the evening a family celebration.

 

A fresh snow fell that night and the sky cleared as the dawn broke.  The views from the Old Irwin Lodge as the sun brought forth the new day were both calming yet inspiring.  We enjoyed those views through breakfast as we ate the lodge's trademark Eggs Benedict and other treats.  As we ate, we asked Dick more about the lodge and his plans.  He shared with us his vision of the future and his quest to provide for the personal satisfaction for every guest.  After breakfast, we could see that it was with great pride that he showed us other rooms in the lodge and how each had been planned with highest regard for the needs of his guests.

 

Finally, it was checkout time and, as when we arrived, all were there as we reached the door.  This time it was to bid us a farewell and there was no doubt that every word they spoke was sincere and heartfelt.

 

May God bless you greatly for all you have done for us,"

 

 

"Fantastic meals and terrific hosts who were very friendly.  Hope to return!"

 

 

"My husband and I experienced a memorable end-of-May visit at The Old Irwin Lodge.  Dick and Debby Bottomley have carefully and patiently built and decorated their Lodge to capture a sense of beauty, local ambiance, and serenity for their guests.  They, along with their daughter (Bridget) and son-in-law (Shawn), are very gracious hosts.  We highly recommend a stay at The Old Irwin Lodge!"

 

 

"The Lodge is owned by Dick and Debby Bottomley. Their daughter Bridget and son-in law Shawn help them run the lodge.  We were greeted as we approached the door by Shawn who gave us a tour of the lodge.  We felt at home from the moment we pulled into the parking lot. The lodge is truly a work of art, with amazing attention to detail.  We stayed in the Yellowstone Suite for our 24th anniversary.  Our room was beautiful with vaulted ceilings, and a large rock fireplace. It was very clean and comfortable.  It was tastefully decorated in warm inviting colors.  The room has a private patio with a gorgeous view of the tree covered mountains.  If that was not enough, they offer an option of staying in for dinner.  Hmm, fine
dining, or go out for hamburger?  Yeah, we stayed in.   They served a gourmet 4
course dinner.  We were seated at a beautiful romantic table for two by the window
with an amazing view of the mountains.  The table was elegantly set with fresh
flowers, and lovely china plates.  We had individual menus at each place setting.
The top of the menu started with the "Old Irwin Lodge Welcomes our special guest" with
our first and last name on them.  Shrimp cocktail with Costa Brava Sauce,
Classic Caesar Salad with sourdough rolls and butter,  Chateaubriand with
Béarnaise sauce, oven Roasted Red  Potatoes and Broiled Tomatoes with Feta Cheese.
It was the most romantic meal we have shared in a long time.  They even brought us
each a glass of champagne.  We shared a toast for our 24th anniversary with our most
gracious hosts...  They served us dessert at the end of our meal.  They made me a
special Apple Pecan crisp pie a la Mode. The other guest had the chocolate cake.
Bridget and her mother Debby prepared the meal.  Dick and Shawn were our servers.
Everything was first class, it was the perfect evening.  We watched the sunset on
our private porch with a glass of wine. 

When we got up too late, they served breakfast to our room for us in the morning.
It was delicious as well. 

We will make this a regular get a way in the future.

 

 

"The Yellowstone Suite is spotless, and elegant. The food is very well prepared, and the service is excellent. The owner serves dinner. The Chateaubriand is fantastic. Red potatoes, Caesar salad, chocolate cake, ice cream. YUM!!. The location is beautiful. The quality of the lodge is wonderful, but it's about the service. From the moment you arrive at the Old Irwin Lodge, Dick and Debby go out of there way to provide excellent service. For the cost, the food, and the service, this lodge is a steal. Do yourself a favor. If you’re in the area, treat yourself to a real bargain, and stop in. You won't be sorry. Oh, by the way, when you go make sure and give Rudy (big black lab puppy) a scratch behind the ears for me. He'll be your friend the whole time your there."

 

 

"David and I would like to thank you all for a wonderful experience.  We are very grateful for your hospitality, delicious food, and beautifully appointed & comfortable rooms.  We will not hesitate to stay at The Old Irwin Lodge again when we next visit the special state of Idaho."

 

 

Although we arrived late at night, we felt welcomed from the very first minute.  Our flight to Jackson Hole was delayed and we had to eat something on the way.  So it was 11:20 at night when we finally arrived at the Lodge, but Shawn & Bridget had waited patiently for our arrival.  Our suite was wonderful.  Very tasteful, wonderful woodwork, great bed, very clean, and with a nice little patio to watch the sun go down.  Breakfast was just great, and dinner on Saturday night was great with our names printed on the menu cards.  Shawn gave us very helpful suggestions about what to do during the day at Grand Teton National Park.  We followed all of them, and had a wonderful day.  I would go back there any time again whenever we come back to Idaho.

 

 

Julie and I just want to thank you guys from the bottom of our hearts.  We've stayed in beautiful places before, but your family really made the difference.  I could go through all the details of what we loved about the lodge, but it looks like that's already been reviewed pretty extensively.  You were not only excellent hosts but very knowledgeable about where a couple who obviously loves to "wing" their vacations could have a good time.  Even your dog Rudy was really kick ass!  The meteor shower on our second night was a really nice addition, even though I'm not entirely convinced Dick didn't somehow plan that.  We're looking forward to returning soon, hopefully in the fall so we can see some of the migrations.  Thank you again so much!

 

 

The term gracious hospitality seems to understate what you will experience at The Old Irwin Lodge.  From the relaxed check-in up to our departure, Dick and Debby did everything to insure our stay was memorable.  You are treated more like family or dear friends than guest.  The meals prepared by Debby and Bridget were fabulous.  What a truly relaxed atmosphere in which to unwind and relax.  We will not hesitate to return should the opportunity present itself or highly recommend the lodge to friends and family.  It was also nice that "Rudy the lodge dog" took my morning walk with me.

 

 

Immaculate accommodations, delicious homemade meals, honest old-fashioned hospitality.  Thank you so much!  This is exactly the getaway I was hoping for.

 

 

We stayed in the mountains for the beauty and to get away from it all.  We knew from past experience that staying in Jackson Hole means crowds and traffic.  In looking for an alternative in the general neighborhood, I found this.  It proved to be an unexpected treasure.  This brand new lodge is built with blue knotty pine paneling, full log timbers, and plaster in a combination best described as western elegance.  The original artwork, luxury sheets, unimpeded mountain views, very spacious suites with vaulted ceilings, and western sculptures add to the ambiance.  Debby and Bridget are gourmet cooks, and dinners range from $15 to $35 per night depending on the menu (only one entree' per night).  Our dinner was memorable both for the food, having the large living area to ourselves and the view.  The Bottomleys are very enjoyable people without being at all intrusive.  Someone has a real eye for architecture and interior decorating.  We frequented elegant B&Bs throughout our 22 years of marriage, and this is in the top 2 or 3 we have ever found.  Gerry looks forward to fishing when we return to The Old Irwin Lodge.  This trip we were on was on our way back to Montana after dropping our only son off for his freshman year at college.  This was the perfect place to have our last night away from home.

 

 

Carl and I wanted to thank all of you for making us feel welcome and comfortable during our stay at your lodge last night.  The food was absolutely fantastic, both at dinner and breakfast!  Neither of us could choose a favorite out of all of the tasty courses we were served during our stay, they were all so very good.  We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and our personal tour of your beautiful lodge.  We are very happy that we chose to celebrate our 21st anniversary at your lodge and are already thinking about when we can make it back there to enjoy your hospitatlity again.  We hope it will be soon!  Our son will be very pleased to spend a night at your lodge when he returns from Iraq.  We will save that news as a surprise to thim when he returns from his deployment.  Your offer touched our hearts deeply and we appreciate it greatly.

 

 

I am back in Provo now.  I just had to drop you a note to tell you how wondeful our stay at your Lodge was.  Your hospitality and graciousness made for a perfect evening that we will always remember fondly.  The food was superb and more.  I have told friends about The Lodge and our stay.  You are wondeful hosts.  I hope your Lodge has as many guests as you can joyfully handle!  You deserve the absolute best.  Thank you again for all that you did to make our special evening and morning as wonderful as it could have been.  I consider you friends.

 

 

I want to take a moment and send a special thank you for a most memorable stay in your lodge.  Tony and I truly had a wonderful time.  What a unique experience!  Your kindess and professionalism was way beyond belief.  Just to let you know, I had five of your business cards, and I have zero left.  I am sure everyone will enjoy their stay as well!  Again, thank you and we hope to see you all real soon! 

 

P.S.  Dick - you gave us good luck.  We "nailed-em" fishin' on Sunday!! 

 

 

Outstanding Lodge!  This is a place you wish to stay the rest of your life.  Friendly owner and his wife.  The all wooden lodge is just beautiful.  You will enjoy it!