Skip to main content
Entire home

Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey

Beachfront cottage for sun and fun

Photo gallery for Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey

Property grounds - Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey (Alanson)
On the beach, sun-loungers - Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey (Alanson)
Exterior - Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey (Alanson)
Smart TV, books, offices - Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey (Alanson)
Property grounds - Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey (Alanson)
Consider a stay at Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey and take advantage of a firepit, a garden and a playground. This cottage is a great place to bask in the sun with a beachfront location and sunloungers. Stay connected with free in-room WiFi.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms1 bathroom

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey

Welcome to your Lakefront Northern Michigan retreat! This Pickerel Lake home sleeps up to 6 guests and features private dock access, kayaks, and a rowboat for endless days on the water. Enjoy shallow sandy swimming right from your yard, cozy evenings around the firepit, and stunning sunsets from the deck. Less than 30 minutes from Gaylord, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs, you get peaceful lakeside privacy with easy access to dining, ships, golf, and local attractions.

Nestled on the serene shores of Pickerel Lake, this vintage-meets-modern cottage is the perfect Northern Michigan summer escape. Set on 235 acres of peaceful woodland, at the end of a private road, the home offers rare privacy, calm waters, and uninterrupted lake views -ideal for families, couples, and nature lovers.

Lakefront Highlights
*Private dock
*Kayaks and rowboat included
*Shallow swimming area
*Fire-pit near the water
*Peaceful, no wake lake atmoshpere

Pickerel Lake is ideal for families, paddling, fishing, and quiet enjoyment - not a party lake.

Property Highlights
Accommodations:
*2 bedrooms
*Bedroom 1: Double bed
*Bedroom 2: Double bed and twin bunk bed
*Sun porch with full-size sofa sleeper
*1 full bathroom

Safety & House Rules
*Maximum Occupancy: 6 guests
*No parties or events
*Quiet hours: 10 pm-8 am
*Primary renter must be 25+
*Children must be supervised near water and dock
*Life jackets required for minors

Nearby
*Petoskey & Harbor Springs (15–20 min): Shopping, dining, wineries, festivals
*Mackinaw City & Mackinac Island Ferries (30 min)
*Golf nearby: Bay Harbor Golf Club, Hidden River Golf, and Crooked Tree Golf Club
*Hiking trails, scenic drives, and local beaches

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach
  • Beach loungers

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby
  • Snowboarding nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Office

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Front entrance ramp
  • No lift
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Water sports equipment
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Ice skating nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Garden

Similar properties

Exterior
Charming Waterfront Cabin on the Inland Waterway
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
Charming Waterfront Cabin on the Inland Waterway
Compare similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Advance notice: At least 2 days No same day bookings Only guests with positive booking history Minimum stay (2-3 days)
Within 24 hours of booking, guests must provide the requested information and confirm that they understand the house rules.

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total pets

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

Property is also known as

Pet Friendly Cozy Beachfront Cottage on Pickerel Lake

About the area

Located in Alanson, this cottage is on the beach. Little Traverse History Museum and Andrew J. Blackbird Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Oden State Fish Hatchery Visitor Center and Michigan Central Depot Historical Marker. Big Bear Adventures and Cheboiganing Preserve are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching. Visit our Alanson travel guide
View more Cottages in Alanson
Map
Alanson, MI

What's nearby

  • In my much younger and foolish days, I would downhill ski at Caberfae (Cadillac, MI) and Snow Snake (Harrison, MI).
    Boyne Mountain
    49 min drive - 60.7 km
  • Pickerel Lake
    2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Nub's Nob Ski Area
    25 min drive - 24.0 km
  • McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital
    30 min drive - 32.0 km
  • Odawa Casino
    34 min drive - 34.1 km

Getting around

  • Pellston, MI (PLN-Pellston Regional)
    24 min drive

Restaurants

  • Burt Lake Brewery
    17 min drive
  • Dutch Oven Yarn Shop
    13 min drive
  • Dairy Queen
    12 min drive
  • Vivio's
    16 min drive
  • Northwood Restaurant
    14 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much is parking at Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey located?

Nestled on the beach, this Alanson cottage is within 3 mi (5 km) of Pickerel Lake, Crooked Lake and Crooked Vine Vineyard and Winery. Devoe Beach and Indian River Golf Club are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Lakefront Northern Michigan Retreat, Dock, Kayaks, Sleeps 6-Near Petoskey Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 90 out of 114 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 22 out of 114 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 114 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 114 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 114 reviews

9.6

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Dana E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous location!

Great peaceful location! Easy day trips to beautiful parts of Michigan!! Especially enjoyed seeing the swans on the lake each morning!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Tad K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

Great Location 30 minutes from all our points of interest.

Pickeral lake front cabin, very functional, quiet with a terrific hi speed internet tv connection.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Liza A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful and calming retreat.

Beautiful secluded property that is quiet and peaceful. Cool cabin that suits the area perfectly. Very nice kitchen and accommodations. Thank you for a wonderful relaxing week.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mike Z., Arlington, VA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Camp

Great lake front camp. Well appointed and an excellent spot for those with dogs or small kids. Would rent again if back in the area
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kerry M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Getaway

This is a quintessential up north cabin. Loved the homey feel, the patio overlooking the lake, and the privacy of the property. Direct access to the water and having kayaks available was a great touch. It’s also close by many other areas to explore.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jamie J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely beautiful sunsets!

We had a great stay! The house is a typical up north cottage but very clean and peaceful! The bed was comfortable too. It’s a perfect location if you want to boat the inland waterway. We had a nice little fire when we were done boating. Just an all around perfect weekend!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paul C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tranquil

Beautiful older cottage on a sandy bottom lake. No muck to walk through like many other Michigan lakes. The views over the surrounding area is stunning, especially in the morning when the lake fog rolls over the hills. Very close to Michigan's Gold Coast and all of its attractions. Would definitely visit again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Summer Vacation

The cabin was great for our family. It was private and had a great little beach area for the kids. We were able to bring our boat and tied it up to a moor knee deep. Thanks so much!
Stayed 12 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Krishna M., Durango, CO

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet and private lakefront getaway

We LOVED to proximity to the lake and how wonderful the water was. Being outside by the fire pit and lake was wonderful. The hosts were very responsive and helpful and the cottage was well appointed with everything we needed-including fast wi-fi and a little desk area to work. The only drawback for me was the musty smell, thankfully it aired out, but it was a bit off-putting when we arrived.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sage W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A weekend Up North

My husband, parents, and 2 dogs wanted to go Up North for the weekend. This was the perfect alternative to 2 hotel rooms. We visited Mackinac Island and Petoskey and enjoyed some time on the lake! Worked well for 4 adults and 2 small dogs. Wi-fi worked really well too.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jim T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Little Getaway

Perfect getaway for my family of 4. This was our second time staying at this location, and we plan on returning! Cabin is small and quant, so if you know that going in, this place is perfect. Property is at the end of a road and has wooded forest on one side, which makes it feel more secluded than most lake cottages. Lake is clear, sandy bottom, is also shallow a long ways out, which is perfect when you have small kids. It is a great home base for going anywhere up north. Spent most of our time fishing, kayaking, swimming, and sitting by campfires. Highly recommend this place for a peaceful stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

6/10 Okay

Meredith S.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Last summer vacation

The privacy and peacefulness of the location are paramount. The cleanliness of specifically the bathroom (moldy shower mat & curtain) & kitchen (mouse droppings in multiple drawers) was disappointing. The rest of the cottage was clean and comfortable, however. My oldest daughter cut her foot open badly on a nail on the wooden dock, requiring immediate medical attention to close the wound. My husband and youngest daughter suffered from swimmer's itch on our first full day here. Communication with property owners was speedy.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rich P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great communication. Clean, rustic cabin at the end of a private road. Thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
House was beautiful and very peaceful/quiet... still close enough to get to all the activities we wanted to do. Perfect set up for us and our pup. Vickie and Scott were great hosts - communicative and extreamly accomidating.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean! We loved the location! It was very quiet and peaceful. Thank you for sharing your place!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Collette M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The whole family enjoyed this gem right on the lake. The shallow area was perfect for the small children and the adults enjoyed the kayaks and canoe. The cottage had everything we needed
Stayed 12 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brandee W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Loved the privacy and having our own "beach" in the backyard. We enjoyed the kayaks and fire pit, and fishing off the long dock. The cabin was homey and had all the amenities we needed, despite being a bit dated. The hosts were responsive and kind.
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rhonda C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay

Thoroughly enjoyed our stay - everything was exactly as described w/some bonuses not expected but wonderful touches.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tom K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great little cabin!

This is a great little cabin, and the location can't be beat!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Brianna D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The northern dream

We stayed for 3 days during Father’s Day weekendAnd it was perfect. The bathroom is kinda small and tight so if you’re a bigger person just make sure u check that out. Other than that it was great andThe owners were awesome!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

michael t.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location at the end of the road with lots of privacy. Lake right out front steps.

Worked perfect for our short stay in the area, would stay again
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

daniel b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place

We had a blast.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Erika B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet! loved the lake and privacy

Lakeside escape was perfect for us and our family with two dogs. We were looking for a quiet place for Memorial Day weekend and it worked out perfectly! The lake views are fabulous. We saw gorgeous sunsets and close to a number of small towns with restaurants, etc. Also enjoyed the fire pit and nice kayaks, life jackets, etc. The cottage was a perfect size for us. One bedroom is “cozy” - but still very charming and comfortable : ) thank you to Vickie and Scott for their excellent communication!
Sunset view from the deck stunning!
The kayaks were very nice, including lifejackets
Big fire pit with woods beyond to gather firewood
View from the back deck, the lights are a nice touch as well
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Phyllis R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great up north feeling cabin.

Great up north feeling cabin, right on an amazing sand bottom lake, great for kayaking and canoeing.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2019

8/10 Good

Darby W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Cottage on Lake Pickerel

Secluded area, nice sandy beach, very relaxing. Short drive to Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Charlevoix, and Mackinaw City.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2020