This is a delightful cottage on Long Lake with a wonderful location, great amenities and a very helpful owner. Whether you want to just stay on the lake and enjoy the serenity or use it as a base to explore the surrounding area and take advantage of its activities, this cottage will fulfill your needs and expectations.
The cottage is two stories, with one BR and full bath downstairs and 2 BR and one full bath upstairs, so very convenient for groups of adults. One BR has two twin beds, so can be used for children also (plus rollaway beds stored in closet). Might be best for something like two couples with two or three children, or for half a dozen or so adults. You can fit more people, but might feel a little crowded. In addition to the rollaways, you could use the couch in the living area - it is very comfy. The downstairs is comfy and cozy, and is one long room that focuses on the lake, which is mere steps away. There is a small beach area, but easier to go swimming off the dock. There are kayaks, a canoe and a small paddleboat available. The deck facing the lake has comfortable seating - a great place to contemplate life. Off the side of the house, where the main entrance is, is a wider deck that has a BBQ and a picnic table with umbrella. There is a fire pit area in the side yard off this deck, right behind the small beach area.
The decor is very nice with some fun whimsical touches. The bedding, towels and provided toiletries are very nice. The wife works well. The TV is a Roku-based system, so I needed some instruction to figure it out, which Bill (the owner) was very gracious in providing.
Cottage is on a branch or bay off of the main body of Long Lake, so not as busy as the main lake. There are houses all around the edge of the lake, so there are neighbors, but we had no issues with any of them. The location is very nicely situated to access everywhere from all of Leelanau Peninsula to Old Mission to Traverse City and probably as far as Crystal Lake and Frankfort. It is right outside Traverse City but feels like a different world.
This has been our favorite rental in the area so far, and we are already planning a return. Thanks to Bill for all his help, recommendations and suggestions.
