Entire home

Unwind at Hilltop Cottage - By Lake Margrethe "Dog Friendly & has a Game Room!!"

Lakefront vacation home with kitchen and patio

Choose dates to view prices

Where to?

Dates

October 2025

November 2025

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location

Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 81140 sq ft

Popular amenities

Dryer
Washer
Parking available
Barbecue grill
Kitchen

Explore the area

Grayling, MI

Place, Au Sable River
Place, Hartwick Pines State Park
Place, AuSable Artisan Village
‪9 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Grayling

This vacation home places you within a 10-minute drive of AuSable Artisan Village and Hanson Hills Recreation Area. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a patio, and a dining area.

View more Vacation Homes in Grayling

What's nearby

Hanson Hills Recreation Area - 9 min drive - 5.4 miles
AuSable Artisan Village - 9 min drive - 5.9 miles
Grayling Country Club - 10 min drive - 6.6 miles
Grayling Hospital - 11 min drive - 6.6 miles
Wakeley Lake - 11 min drive - 6.8 miles

Getting around

Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 67 min drive

Restaurants

‪McDonald's - ‬10 min drive
‪Taco Bell - ‬10 min drive
‪Paddle Hard Brewing - ‬8 min drive
‪Tinker's Junction - ‬6 min drive
‪Spikes Keg O Nails - ‬8 min drive

About this property

Entire place

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

Unwind at Hilltop Cottage - By Lake Margrethe "Dog Friendly & has a Game Room!!"

Come enjoy the spacious Hilltop Cottage located near the gorgeous Lake Margrethe! Conveniently located 2 walking blocks from the waters edge and close to snowmobile and ORV trails, this cottage has everything needed for a great up-north getaway. Snowmobile trails are less than a 1/4 mile away! Snowmobile from the front door to the trails, or from the trailhead nearby. Road end lake access, as well as 1.2 miles from the only public boat launch and state park on the lake.

Located on a secluded road end, this cottage allows privacy for all group types. This cottage is set up for your convenience. Rental includes towels, bedding, kitchen equipment, etc. for a simple stay away from home.
All three queen size beds are Sealy Posturepedic pillow tops, making for an amazing night of sleep!

We are working on remodeling the 1970's era finished downstairs with new furniture. It currently has one bedroom (with queen bed) and 1 bathroom. There is also a pool table, foosball table, air hockey, and table tennis. A small bar (sadly not stocked) is also located downstairs. We find that many guest enjoy hanging out down there after a full day of play. The downstairs is a walkout, and is also a great space to enter from the backyard and leave snowmobile suits and gear.

Guest have access to the entire house and yard. Fire pit area in the back yard with some fire wood supplied (enough to start your fire). Large picnic table located out there year-round. No separate seating provided out there during the winter mounts. 8 chairs provided during summer months, but stored up near house. Grill on the back deck May-October.

The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a patio. There's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can expect to find free WiFi and a TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a private yard, and a coffee maker.

Similar properties

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet friendly

Property amenities

Ski

Cross-country skiing nearby
Snowboarding nearby

Internet

Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

Car required
Parking on site

Kitchen

Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Ice maker
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Stovetop
Toaster

Dining

Dining table

Bedrooms

4 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

2 bathrooms
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Shampoo
Shower
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided

Living spaces

Dining table
Living room
Separate dining area

Entertainment

Books
DVD player
Games
TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

Barbecue grill
Firepit
Outdoor furniture
Patio
Yard

Laundry

Laundry facilities
Washing machine

Comfort

Air conditioning
Heating

Pets

Pet friendly

Suitability/Accessibility

No elevator
Smoking not allowed
Note from host: Smoking outside only

Location highlights

In a rural location
Near a hospital
On a lake

Things to do

Air hockey
Arcade/game room
Billiards/pool table
Foosball table
Birdwatching nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Hunting nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Sailing nearby
Sledding nearby
Snowmobiling nearby
Swimming nearby
Water skiing nearby
Water tubing nearby
Wildlife walks 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
Deadbolt lock

General

At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Unit size: 1,140 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM

Contactless check-in available

Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Rules

-Typically boats and trailers will need to be backed in to the lower driveway (15-20 yards from front door) and cars/trucks can park near entry.

-Parking on site available day of checkout if not leaving the area immediately, we know a full vacation day is enjoyed!

Monthly stays are considered. Deposits increase to $800, and cleaning fees increase to $200. If interested in a monthly rental, please contact us for

Pets

This property welcomes pets
Restrictions apply
For more information, guests can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
Service animals exempt from fees
Note from host: $50/pet refundable deposit. Limit 2 dogs

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Smoking outside only

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

Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock

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

Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Hilltop Cottage Your Upnorth Getaway Lake Margrethe House

Hilltop Cottage Your Upnorth Getaway Lake Margrethe Grayling

Hilltop Cottage Your Upnorth Getaway Lake Margrethe

Hilltop Cottage You Up North Getaway Lake Margrethe 4 Bed/ House

Hilltop Cottage Your Upnorth Getaway Near Lake Margrethe

Hilltop Cottage You Up North Getaway Lake Margrethe Pet Friendly

Hilltop Cottage Your Upnorth Getaway Near Lake Margrethe

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do within easy reach of this vacation home?

This vacation home is located in Grayling, close to AuSable Artisan Village, Au Sable River, and Hanson Hills Recreation Area. You'll also find Wakeley Lake and Rayburn Property Trail nearby.

Will I be able to park at this vacation home?

No, there isn't parking available at the vacation home.

Is this vacation home adjacent to a casino?

No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?

No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.

Is Unwind at Hilltop Cottage - By Lake Margrethe "Dog Friendly & has a Game Room!!" good for couples?

At this lakeside vacation home, amenities that appeal to couples include a kitchen, kitchens in some accommodations, as well as a firepit.

Are there hot tubs at Unwind at Hilltop Cottage - By Lake Margrethe "Dog Friendly & has a Game Room!!"?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this vacation home.

Does this vacation home provide breakfast?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this vacation home allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although pets can't stay for free, they are welcome at this vacation home.

Are there connecting rooms at this vacation home?

No, there aren't connecting rooms at this vacation home.

Are there rooms with balconies at Unwind at Hilltop Cottage - By Lake Margrethe "Dog Friendly & has a Game Room!!"?

Yes, every accommodation at Unwind at Hilltop Cottage - By Lake Margrethe "Dog Friendly & has a Game Room!!" comes with a deck.

Unwind at Hilltop Cottage - By Lake Margrethe "Dog Friendly & has a Game Room!!" Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10 Excellent

Susan BLAIRE S.

Aug 28, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Everything was perfect! And comfortable and spacious! The property is located within walking distance of Lake Margrethe and ORV trails and a short drive to fishing on the Manistee river! I would love to come back again next Summer!

Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Beverly B.

Aug 9, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice place that accepts dogs! Didn’t have any pet smells. Great location for us and had all the space we needed. Check-in was easy. Would stay again.

Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sherry S.

Aug 2, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Another wonderful stay! Host is awesome to work with! This was our second year in a row staying here! Works great for our family vacation!!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tracy M.

Jul 29, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

family get away

We enjoyed our stay and will definitely come back. The place was roomie, clean, and the location for us was perfect. Brenda was pleasant and communication was great!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie H.

Jul 12, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Cute house on the hill.

Very roomy and comfortable. Bedrooms were very nice. Nice location. Very private.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shelly L.

Jul 8, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Summer 2025

Lots of space to spread out.Gameroom loved by all.Short trip to beach .. perfect!Bonfire pit for smoresThe outlets in the basement bedroom struggled to hold the plug in the wall.The tv/dvd/vhs in the basement... we couldnt get it to work

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Charlene L.

Jul 7, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Lake Tour

The Hilltop Cottage was topnotch. Centrally located to Torch Lake, Indian River, and Higgins Lake. Brenda is an amazing host. Her cottage is clean, beds are comfortable, ample parking, and equipped with everything you need. We enjoyed our stay, it will be on our return to list.

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

randall H.

May 18, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

It was exactly what we were looking for and it was exactly what it was presented as she was a great

It was a wonderful stay we enjoyed the house thoroughly I would recommend it to anybody it was just the right spot where we needed to be and close enough to town and close enough to the trails we will be going there again no doubt

Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie W.

May 16, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

cozy and comfortable

We are just a group of friends who want to get away once a year and do nothing but visit, laugh, play games, eat and have a few drinks without all the distractions of home.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Craig L.

Apr 20, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Great quiet location with access to outdoor adventure

Six of us (my parents, brother, wife, adult daughter, and I) stayed with our two small dogs, and we had plenty of space when we needed quiet and plenty of activities (game room, board games, we’ll-equipped kitchen for cooking and grille) for when we wanted to be together. Having two bathrooms was a nice feature, as was on-site laundry if we would have gotten clothes dirty or wet when some of us went fly fishing on the AuSable. I would highly recommend this place for your next adventure up north.

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

bob r.

Apr 11, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

For storm damge

Excellent place to stay no matter the reason

Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

lacey b.

Feb 26, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Ice fishing and snowmobiling

3 couples got together for this weekend getaway and the house was great! Half of us went fishing on lake margrethe and half stayed back crocheting and cooking. The kitchen was well stocked. We had a wonderful time and would return!

Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Zach J.

Feb 18, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Northwood Getaway

Great layout for multifamily groups, with plenty of space. The downstairs space gave everyone a chance to spread out and socialize. Beautiful location that is excellent for any season, and close to tons of family-friendly outdoor activities. Conveniently located for easy access to Graying and the outdoors.Brenda was a great host who always took our calls and gave us a very clean and comfortable stay.If coming in the winter make sure to have all-wheel drive. The approach to the property can be just a bit steep for lesser-equipped vehicles.We look forward to coming back!

Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

Crystal W.

Jan 13, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Great location for snowmobiling!

Great cabin close to snowmobile trails. Map provided was very helpful with local seasonal roads to get to trails. Kids love the game room in the basement. After fresh snowfall, the hill can make it tricky to park the truck and trailer in the dark. In the morning, we were able to move it around in daylight after it was plowed. Great stay!

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Wendy K.

Oct 20, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Fall Colors

We enjoyed the property very close to ORV trails and nice location for other adventures

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Frederick G.

Oct 5, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Fishing trip

Had a great time , did some fishing , played cards , we have been fishing for many years with the same group of guys , we enjoy this house and its location , THANK YOU

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christina S.

Sep 20, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Very nice stay…not handicap accessible!

This was a great property and location!! Literally right near an amazing beach for littles! My 2 year old had a blast playing in the very shallow water. The house was great - rooms were very nice. House stocked great. Now…people should note that this house is not accessible. My mom broke her hip a month before the trip, AFTER we booked the house. Hence - still a five star review because we didn’t know that she was going to fall before the trip. But her walker was not able to fit the doorway for the bathroom, and it was hard to push on the very plush carpet. Just want people to be aware of this. The house and location were seriously amazing!

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

kassandra b.

Aug 18, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect stay

Everything about this stay was perfect and easy going. Highly recommend staying here and the game room was a huge bonus. Only down fall was the oven which is very old and could be updated But still worked decently

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sherry S.

Jul 28, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Family Vacation

The property was beautiful, the house was very nice. Kitchen could use a little updating, but was functional. We really enjoyed our stay. It would be nice to maybe let guest know what day is garbage pick up.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Genevieve B.

Jul 20, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Family vacation

We loved our stay here! Great location! Close to necessities and nice for day trips. We loved the gaming tables in the basement. All in all, a great place!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Darla L.

Jul 12, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Comfortable and clean

Our family of 7 enjoyed spreading out in this well stocked, clean, cabin vibe setting. The new kitchen was great. The pool table was a highlight. The lake was a blast!

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Tenishia G.

Jun 27, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice home with plenty of room

Enjoyed the game room downstairs. Plenty of parking for our 2 big trailers. Has easy trail access

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Naida A., Milan, MI

Jun 17, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Hilltop Cottage

We very much enjoyed our stay. Beds very comfortable and we had everything our family of six adults and one dog needed for our week long stay. We especially appreciated the "quietness" of the area and being on a private road with no traffic.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kevin H., Oakwood, Ohio

May 23, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Guys Sxs/Atv Weekend

Place was just as described. Was close to the trailhead and worked out perfectly for what we needed for a long weekend of riding. Had a great time and plan to come back in the future.

Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nicole F.

Mar 31, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazingly relaxing

We had such an amazing time. The house was warm and cozy. Our boys had a great time in the basement with all the games, mostly the pool table. So much so if we went and did something they couldn't wait to get back at it. We all had a fantastic time and will definitely stay here again.

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024