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Clean, neat & attractive cottage on Michigan's most beautiful Lake

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Property grounds
Interior
Exterior
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
2 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Hillman, MI
  • Place, Brush Creek Mill
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Place, Clear Lake State Park
    ‪27 min drive‬
  • Place, Ocqueoc Falls
    ‪43 min drive‬
  • Airport, Alpena, MI (APN-Alpena County Regional)
    ‪30 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Hillman

This cottage places you 4.8 mi (7.7 km) from Brush Creek Mill. The cottage includes a kitchen, a balcony, and a refrigerator.
View more Cottages in HillmanOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Brush Creek Mill - 9 min drive - 6.3 miles
  • Clear Lake State Park - 27 min drive - 18.7 miles
  • Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary - 41 min drive - 36.6 miles
  • Ocqueoc Falls - 43 min drive - 33.6 miles
  • Garland - 54 min drive - 45.7 miles

Getting around

  • Alpena, MI (APN-Alpena County Regional) - 37 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Chauncey's Pub - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Black Squirrel - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Jacques Restaurant - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪On Top Of The Hill - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬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.

Clean, neat & attractive cottage on Michigan's most beautiful Lake

Our Hickory House Cottage with free cable (TV with DVD player) & WiFi. is located on the eastern shore of Lake Avalon with a sunset view on one of Northern Michigan's true gems. This Lake has been described by Riparian magazine as one of Michigan's most beautiful Lakes. Two full stories of open floor plan. The Primary Bedroom has a King Size bed, and the second basement bedroom has a Queen and a full size bed. Two full baths with plenty of privacy, a fully appointed kitchen including dish washer, Your private deck and dock provide trouble free sunning, swimming, and room to moor your own boat. If you bring your own large boat please have a conversation with the owner before you arrive. It is probably best to go to the public boat launch first (two doors away). Turn around space in the driveway is limited at the cottage . Kayaks, a row boat with outboard & a paddle boat are complimentary. Avalon is deep, crystal clear, spring fed & sandy bottom. This all sports lake features swimming, boating of all kinds, fishing & water skiing or tubing, with a nearby public landing and DNR boat launch complete with a boat washing station. Lake Avalon is located Northwest of Hillman MI (4 miles) which offers pizza, grocery stores, party stores, beverage emporiums, gas stations, a DQ & various eateries to suit any taste plus World Class Thunder Bay Golf Course and Elk Preserve which features viewing and tourist rides. Our Cottage is 1.5 hours from the Mighty Mack bridge & 45 minutes from Lake Huron. Numerous golf courses offer the very best in Up North recreation. Within one hour drive you can reach Alpena, Gaylord, Cheboygan, Harrisville, Lincoln, Atlanta, Rogers City or Lewiston. Lake Avalon is the Jewel in the Crown of lakes in this area so you might just come for vacation & stay here the rest of your life in a gorgeous four season setting.
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find free WiFi and a TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a coffee maker, an ironing board, and a dining table.

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Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

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

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • One pet total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Boat
  • Kayak
  • 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
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Snorkeling nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 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

Rules

All pets will require phone or text confirmation due to area limitations, owner pets and possible additional fees
There are flexibility in the check in and check out days

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 1 total (50 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
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: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 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 fire extinguisher and a smoke detector.

Property is also known as

Clean Neat Attractive Cottage Michigan's Most Beautiful Lake
Clean Neat Attractive Michigan's Most Beautiful Lake Hillman
Clean Neat Attractive Michigan's Most Beautiful Lake

Frequently asked questions

What can I see close to this cottage?

This cottage is located in Hillman, close to Brush Creek Mill.

Is parking available on site at this cottage?

No, there isn't parking available at the cottage.

Is this cottage adjacent to a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.

What do couples enjoy most about Clean, neat & attractive cottage on Michigan's most beautiful Lake?

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

Are there hot tubs at Clean, neat & attractive cottage on Michigan's most beautiful Lake?

No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this cottage offer breakfast?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this cottage allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.

Are there connecting rooms at this cottage?

No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from this cottage?

The closest major airport to this cottage is Alpena, MI (APN-Alpena County Regional), which is 22.3 mi away (37 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Clean, neat & attractive cottage on Michigan's most beautiful Lake?

Yes, every accommodation at Clean, neat & attractive cottage on Michigan's most beautiful Lake comes with a balcony.

Clean, neat & attractive cottage on Michigan's most beautiful Lake Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 34 out of 40 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 40 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 40 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 40 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 40 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

6/10 Okay

Katie R.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

mary T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dawn R., Quanicassee Michigan

Liked: Cleanliness
The lake is beautiful and Gil was very helpful whenever we needed anything.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Melissa W.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Todd L.

Liked: Cleanliness

2024 (August) Lake Avalon

The lake was beautiful and only a short walk from the house. The listing was as advertised and Gil was very helpful in his recommendations of what to do in the area.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

2/10 Terrible

mary k.

Disliked: Cleanliness

Hickory House

not as stated in the property information.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Keith M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Mostly as expected

Clean and spacious home. Kitchen was bigger than expected. Nice deck as well. Newly rebuilt dock so have own area in water. Use of the fishing boat was nice as well. Beautiful lake. Overall nice place to stay. To clarify a few things: the house is not on the water but has access to it. The room in the basement is the basement itself so do not be surprised by that. Gil was very nice and checked in with us as he does live next door. I would stay here again.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carol R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Summer vacation with the family

What can I say….Our family enjoyed our time at Hickory Hollow cottage. With the great weather all week, we took advantage and spent lots of time together on Lake Avalon. In the evenings, played games, caught up on the Olympics, and had a couple of bonfires for s’mores. Our furbaby had a blast in the water too. The cottage was comfortable. The lake and sunsets were beautiful. Gil and his wife are very nice and helpful. Overall our family had a pleasant time together at your cottage. Thanks again for everything ☺️
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robin E., Louisville, Ohio

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful Lake Avalon Stay

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Amy M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful, restful experience

Clean, quiet home on a beautiful, quiet lake. Great Lake for swimming..the sand bottom makes it very clear. Wonderful hosts.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

ricky l.

Liked: Cleanliness

4th of July stay

Overall great stay , clean house great location beautiful water. Just took much noise from boats and watercraft for the 4th of July. Maybe some other time of the year would be better.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brenda P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice quiet location with a nice lake

Unfortunately we had to cut our vacation short due to illness. Hosts were nice and accommodating. I think the parking of the boat trailer needs to be included in the listing. The trailer was taken offsite to a different residence. If you bring a pontoon, the dock situation isn’t ideal but we worked with Gil to insert polls to tie our 22 ft pontoon to during our stay. The water is perfect for swimming but somewhat shallow for our toons. We tried fishing a few times but didn’t get a bite. It may have been too warm for fishing. The house was clean. Many stairs to climb if you are looking for handicap accessibility to the house or lake you may find this challenging. Thanks to the host for providing a pillow for our long ride home. It really helped with the back pain. Fun house for two couples.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brandy M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful lake and excellent property

Avalon Lake is just beautiful - the water is so clear. We enjoyed eating and shopping in Hillman and in Alpena. The house was great - always cool downstairs and all the amenities we needed.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Katherine G., Wyandotte, MI

Liked: Cleanliness

Lake Avalon Stay

The house is clean and most everything you'd need is available. I've never seen so many linens and towels! The area on the property is kept up with multiple seating areas and the hosts are super flexible & accommodating. The lake is beautiful, we would visit and stay here again for sure!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

MINDI A.

Liked: Cleanliness

Doesn't get better than Avalon Lake

Kind, loving owners made this stay pleasant on a lake that is absolutely unforgettable! The home serves as a guest quarters for the owners, and worked well for a friend get together on the lake. The location is nice as it's an hour drive from a lot of other popular destinations like the Sturgeon and Au Sable rivers for an avid paddler like me.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joy S., Midland

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful

Avalon Lake is absolutely beautiful! Gil and his wife were wonderful hosts, we had many of great conversations with them and their family. We had a wonderful time and look forward to the next visit!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gordon M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Relaxing Cabin

The location of the cabin is fantastic, and Lake Avalon is beautiful!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Sandy R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Good

The cottage overall was fine. First level was very cold. View to lake wasn't very good, and we were asked to make the beds for the next guests. Thought that was strange.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Giuseppe M., United States

Liked: Cleanliness

The best people ever!

This was by far the best time me & my partner & have had in a long time! The owners were freakin awesome!! The lake is beautiful! Cabin is very nice, we already plan to go next year! Love Gil & Laurene potter so happy we went!
Stayed 12 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Property Beautiful Lake !

We enjoyed our stay at the property. The home was very clean. The home was well appointed and contained all the necessary items for a fun and stress free vacation. . We really enjoyed meeting the property owners and the conversations we had with them. Avalon Lake is beautiful and offers a shallow entry for swimming in the crystal clear water. The area has a lot to offer as well. Overall a great visit.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tammy B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful Lake and Area

My husband and I enjoyed our stay. The area is really nice and the lake is beautiful. Check in was easy and the hosts were nice.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Autumn D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful Stay!

Gil and Laurene are wonderful - the most accommodating hosts we’ve ever had in our VRBO experiences. The house is simple and clean and the bed was super comfortable. The short little walk down the hill to the lake leads you to what looks like Caribbean water - amazing!! Beautiful and clear - straight down to the bottom. The water is shallow and great for small children. We look forward to returning!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Chuck L., St. Clair Shores

Liked: Cleanliness

Everything we wished and more!

We had a grand time at the Hickory House Cottage! We could tell it was not our host's first rodeo renting vacation places - We did not want for anything! Everything we needed was there ...it was nice n cozy , clean , and peaceful. We loved looking out every window to see trees...and being so close to them on the deck. It was just a short walk down to that most BEAUTIFUL lake...and having our own dock was perfect! Although we are 60-something we played in that water like a couple of kids...and as soon as we left , we missed it! Our hosts were kind and gracious even when we had a little issue, and Gil and Laurene were so kind and understanding. It was so very nice to meet you both...and to return to the amazing "Lake Avalon". We pray for continued Blessings to you and yours!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

anne s., Grosse Pointe Michigan

Liked: Cleanliness

Thank you

Thank you Gill and family for a wonderful stay. The property is so clean and has everything you need. Lake Avalon is so pretty and clear. Great place to stay

10/10 Excellent

Gordon S.

Liked: Cleanliness

All good

All good
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021