Dolly Parton's former weekend escape in Solvang, California, is experiencing significant interest from potential buyers worldwide, according to co-owner Chris Lapp.
The 1,100-square-foot cottage, which Parton owned from 2004 to 2014, has reportedly attracted "serious interest" from prospective owners in the United Kingdom, France, Australia, and across the United States. Lapp and his business partner Daniel Ferguson listed the property for $2 million in April.
Following Parton's recent death at age 80 after a battle with cancer, the level of interest in the property has surged. Lapp confirmed that a firm offer was received, though it was described as "astonishingly lowball" and was subsequently rejected. The listing price remains unchanged, and potential buyers are now required to demonstrate proof of funds before viewings to deter casual observers.
Lapp expressed openness to the City of Solvang acquiring the property for fans to visit, stating, "I would love to see them own it." However, Solvang Mayor David Brown indicated this was unlikely, drawing a parallel to the city's decision not to purchase Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch. "We will all always love Dolly. It doesn’t take a physical property for that," Brown said.
Parton's stays at the cottage were reportedly exclusive, often accompanied by her lifelong friend and personal assistant, Judy Ogle. According to Lapp, Parton's instructions for the caretaker were precise: "Lots of fresh flowers and the refrigerator filled with Spam. Dolly loved her Spam."
The property is part of a three-house compound totaling approximately 2,500 square feet, with seven bedrooms and six bathrooms. The main cottage, where Parton stayed, features hand-carved woodwork and a farmhouse aesthetic. A converted garage serves as Parton's wig room, and her dressing room is described as a "totally glam area, with all colors of lipstick, a lot of pinks, reds and spangly things."
Security was a notable feature of the cottage, with industrial-grade steel doors and camouflaged, blacked-out windows designed for privacy. Lapp has since replaced the steel bedroom door with a wooden one. The exterior includes a dog run installed by Parton and a small birdhouse modeled after a chapel, reflecting Solvang's Danish heritage with a miniature windmill and wooden tulips.
Property records indicate the previous owner before Parton paid $185,000 in 1999. Lapp purchased the complex for $1.3 million in 2022 and invested around $100,000 in renovations to convert the three homes into rentals. He discovered the property's connection to Parton during the escrow process while conducting a title search.