Dolly Parton’s ‘weekend retreat’ in ‘Danish capital of America’ Solvang goes on the market

A former California retreat tied to country music superstar Dolly Parton has hit the market for $1,995,000, and the owner hopes the buyer is more than just a real-estate investor.

The distinctive triplex property in Solvang, a Santa Barbara County destination often dubbed the “Danish capital of America,” is being offered for sale after hitting the market in April.

Located a short walk from downtown Solvang, the building still bears several unmistakable reminders of its famous former owner.

A stained-glass window above the front door spells out “Dolly” alongside her signature butterfly symbol. 

A plaque mounted on the white fence also identifies it as Parton’s former home, while a miniature windmill stands beside the front house, blending in with Solvang’s Danish-inspired charm.

Current owner Cris Lapp, a real estate broker with Black Oak Homes and Mortgages, said he has a specific type of buyer in mind.

“That is just me, I want a mega fan,” Lapp told Noozhawk.

Marketing materials describe the house as Parton’s former retreat, calling it a piece of music history and “a rare Hollywood legacy located in the heart of Solvang.”

The property offers more than celebrity appeal.

Built in 1920, it includes a three-bedroom, two-bathroom front home, a three-bedroom, two-bathroom upper rear unit and a one-bedroom lower unit with a three-quarter bathroom. 

According to the listing, each residence comes with its own private enclosed patio.

What makes the home especially intriguing, however, is its connection to one of America’s most recognizable entertainers.

Despite Parton’s larger-than-life public image, the Solvang property remained largely under the radar for years.

Reports indicate the singer purchased the home through Dolly Parton Enterprises in 2004 and quietly maintained it as a getaway for nearly a decade.

Unlike the sprawling estates often associated with celebrities, the farmhouse is notably modest and understated. 

Situated on the corner of Alisal Road and Maple Avenue, it appears designed to blend into the neighborhood rather than attract attention.

That low profile may have been part of its appeal. 

According to reports, the property featured several privacy-focused touches, including windows that reflected the surrounding scenery, making it difficult for passersby to see inside.

The home also contains several lingering “Dolly-isms,” according to Lapp.

Among the most unusual is a small “wig room” located in the garage, reportedly inspired by the larger wig-storage setup at Parton’s Tennessee compound. 

The long driveway also features a birdhouse replica of a chapel that appears to have been modeled after one found at the Dollywood theme park.

Decorative touches throughout the property further hint at its famous former owner. 

Along with the butterfly-themed stained glass, the grounds feature wooden tulips and a whimsical windmill that fit neatly into Solvang’s storybook atmosphere.

The connection between the home and Parton was not widely known until years later, when property records and building permits linked the property back to her company.

Now, Lapp is hoping a devoted Parton fan will become the property’s next owner.

The listing arrives as Solvang itself has been drawing attention beyond its tourist appeal.

The Danish-themed town has recently been at the center of debate over a tourism app connected to Mayor David Brown, while city officials are also exploring whether to take control of the state-owned roadway that runs through the heart of downtown.

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