In fact, Rivendell is a central location in the story. Bilbo Baggins and the dwarves are guided to Rivendell by Gandalf, where they:
* Rest and recover after their encounter with the trolls.
* Meet Elrond and the other elves who are crucial to their journey.
* Receive Elrond's help with the riddle of the riddle of the riddle, which is essential for unlocking the secret to the door of the Mountain.
* Are ultimately given the blessing of Elrond to proceed on their quest.
The Hobbit describes Rivendell as a beautiful and welcoming place and does not mention any effort to hide it. It is a place of safety and refuge, which is why it is chosen as a meeting place for the company.
It's possible you are thinking of Rivendell's role in The Lord of the Rings, where it is a more secluded place due to the increasing danger of Sauron's forces.