Entire home

Life is better on Portage Lake. SUMMER FIREWORKS- viewable from House

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Life is better on Portage Lake. SUMMER FIREWORKS- viewable from House

Unclassified image, 1 of 44, button
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Interior
Property grounds
Exterior

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 61700 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Pet friendly

Explore the area

Map
Pinckney, MI
  • Whispering Pines
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Pinckney State Recreation Area
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • University of Michigan
    ‪31 min drive‬
  • Ann Arbor, MI (ARB-Ann Arbor Municipal)
    ‪35 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Pinckney

This vacation home is located 1.6 mi (2.7 km) from Huron River and within a 10-minute drive of Hudson Mills Metropark. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a patio.

What's nearby

  • Whispering Pines - 8 min drive - 5.1 miles
  • Pinckney State Recreation Area - 12 min drive - 4.4 miles
  • Legacy Center Sports Complex - 18 min drive - 11.5 miles
  • University of Michigan - 31 min drive - 21.2 miles
  • Michigan Stadium - 33 min drive - 22.7 miles

Getting around

  • Ann Arbor Station - 27 min drive
  • Ann Arbor, MI (ARB-Ann Arbor Municipal) - 32 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Zukey Lake Tavern - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Hamburg Coney Restaura - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Frosty's Icecreamery - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬10 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.

Life is better on Portage Lake. SUMMER FIREWORKS- viewable from House

Escape every day life at this beautifully appointed lake house. Situated on the largest of seven connected lakes, Portage offers a taste of Michigan's beauty. Enjoy lake life by spending time with family or friends on the lake by day and cozy up by the fire pit at night. When you invest time and money for a getaway, go for the best. This house is located on the largest sports lake in the chain of lakes. The marina is located on this lake- an extra convenience to you! Great location for U of M football games, family retreats, friends gatherings. Pets welcome. Children welcome.
-Great swimming, boating , fishing
- Close proximity to downtown Ann Arbor, Brighton, Dexter, Plymouth (within 30 minutes)

We want you to enjoy this house as much as we do. This should be a carefree vacation. We provide all linens, bath towels, beach towels, shampoo/soaps, toilet paper (initial), paper towels, laundry soap and a stocked kitchen with baking, cooking and eating utensils. All you need to bring is just the basic necessities- yourself and your family!

PERK POINT- The marina displays celebration fireworks the first Saturday in July. Its a great tradition and great view from the house. (Date may change). They rent pontoon boats-Wonderland Marina.

Kayaks available (up to 4) to rent during your stay. Ask for details!
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find free WiFi and a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.

Property manager

Denise Madis

Similar properties

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

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

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

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

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed
  • Note from host: NO SMOKING!

Location highlights

  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

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)
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 1,700 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 26

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

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 2 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees
  • Note from host: Pet fee $150

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 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: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 26

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, and a deadbolt lock.

Frequently asked questions

What can I see close to this vacation home?

This vacation home is located in Pinckney, close to Whispering Pines, Pinckney State Recreation Area, and Brighton State Recreation Area. You'll also find Huron River and Hudson Mills Metropark within a short drive.

Is there parking available at this vacation home?

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

Is this vacation home associated with a casino?

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

Is there an indoor pool at this vacation home?

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

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Life is better on Portage Lake. SUMMER FIREWORKS- viewable from House?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside vacation home include a fireplace and a kitchen in each accommodation with some featuring lake views.

Are there hot tubs at Life is better on Portage Lake. SUMMER FIREWORKS- viewable from House?

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

Does this vacation home include breakfast service?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this vacation home allow pets to stay for free?

Although dogs 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.

How far is the airport from this vacation home?

The closest major airport to this vacation home is Ann Arbor, MI (ARB-Ann Arbor Municipal), which is 21.2 mi away (32 minutes by car). Another top airport is Pontiac, MI (PTK-Oakland County Intl.), which is around 28.7 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies at Life is better on Portage Lake. SUMMER FIREWORKS- viewable from House?

Yes, every accommodation at Life is better on Portage Lake. SUMMER FIREWORKS- viewable from House comes with a deck with some featuring lake views.

Life is better on Portage Lake. SUMMER FIREWORKS- viewable from House Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 40 out of 46 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 46 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 46 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 46 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 46 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Melissa M.

Liked: Cleanliness
It was perfect! The living room is comfy, the views of the lake are amazing. The back yard patio is very big, and it's excellent to have a bonfire, to relax in the choice of chair they have in the back. The rooms were great, the beds were comfy, and it felt like "home". It was perfect for the family that flew in to attend a local graduation. The neighborhood was quiet, and there is a little store located only a couple miles from them.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Linda L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Family Holiday Weekend

It was great having some family time to play games, enjoy a fire and some good meals. The cottage was a perfect place to do that. The weather was a bit chilly in the first part of the weekend but warmed up nicely.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great view

Enjoyed the view and fire pit
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Josh L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Outstanding overall - just a tiny bit shy of perfect! 9/10

Very well-equipped home, idyllic setting, all the comforts of home, great communication with host (Denise dropped off a new tank of propane super quickly!), great location, very quiet lake (early October) there were just a couple things that might have made it even more perfect in the backyard...some additional chairs/seating options and some sun protection/umbrella. Otherwise this was just about perfect for our family 3-night stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kate H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Stay

Wonderful location.. place was great and family friendly. Would return!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

John Z.

Liked: Cleanliness

Home again

Great visit on chain of lakes I visited many times 40 years ago as a teenager. The owners were terrific in making this easy to plan and super relaxing. Great property and great owners!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robbie G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lake life is amazing

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the lake cottage. Denise was a wonderful host and the location was perfect for our family. Thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Susan E.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful week!

We enjoyed the beautiful lake setting, back patios, and night chats by the fire. Would recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful property!

We very much enjoyed our week at this lakefront home. The location is private at the end of a cul-de-sac and there is plenty to do on the lake. We rented a pontoon from the marina and the hosts let us rent their kayaks and the use of other water toys! We will be back!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

Judy M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lake house August 2023

Our overall is 8 out of 10. Cleanliness was a 9. The outside deck area which is beautiful was not cleaned the day we came. Items provided for kitchen good. Up stair’s bedroom was too warm. The rent was very high because we had dogs. But ours were small and non allergic which I wish we could have discussed ahead of time. My biggest disappointment was that the floating raft which show in the pictures and my 2 teenagers would have really enjoyed was not there. I learned a lot with this my first rental!!! We would still enjoy more personal contact for customer service.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mary G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful summer setting

We are had an extremely enjoyable stay at this property. I spent most my time in the yard sitting in the shade and enjoying the view of the lake. It was conveniently located near restaurants and the kitchen had whatever was needed for me to prepare meals there. I had my small dog with me and we were very comfortable. I love summer in Michigan now!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Diana K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great lake house!

We really enjoyed our stay on Portage Lake. The house has a nice layout with great lake views from the family room/kitchen and upstairs bedroom. The seating area in the family room as well as the beds are all comfortable so it was easy to relax....although we didn't do much of that...it's an easy drive to Dexter and Ann Arbor. The outdoor lake front area is also really pleasant. Denise was easy to communicate with. All in all, we had a great stay and would definately come back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

William E., Oklahoma City

Liked: Cleanliness

This home was perfect! Clean, comfortable and the kitchen was very well stocked for cooking.

Our stay was very enjoyable and the cottage was clean and comfortable. The kitchen was very well stocked for cooking and our family had a wonderful time. Docking our rented pontoon boat was easy and the marina was close by. A perfect time on the lake!
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2022

8/10 Good

Barb W.

Disliked: Cleanliness

Great location

Secluded location very quiet, grocery within 5 miles. Several restaurants within 10 miles. Would recommend
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jessica k.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Lake house

We had a great stay with our kids. The house was great as well as the lake. We rented a pontoon from the local marina and had an amazing time on Portage lake and also going through the chain of Lakes. The owners were great and very helpful.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

8/10 Good

Debbbie S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Nice Family Getaway in a beautiful setting with the comforts of home

Nice spot on the lake, proximity to local eateries, parks and multiple places with boat rentals. We also rented kayaks from the owners, and they were great to use from the location of the renal. The kitchen and patio were good sized for the number of people. Well stocked with kitchen supplies and towels. Washer and dryer worked well. Location made it possible to park multiple vehicles. Neighbors were friendly. We thought we would be able to use the dock to park our rental boat; however, due to the floating dock we had to place posts in the water upon our arrival in order to dock our rental boat. We did not anticipate having to do this, and it made it a little difficult to get on and off the boat while holding a toddler, because we had a larger gap between the boat and the dock. We had nice accessibility to the boat rental and obtaining gas for the boat. We would recommend this rental to others and look forward to another opportunity to stay there. Were there half ratings I would have rated this place a four and a half rather than a 4.
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Thomas B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Portage Lake House Stay - June 2022

Nice location. Quiet street. Very pleasant location. Our first stay at a VRBO, owner made it an easy experience. A good place to experience the Portage Lake lake life.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kevin and vicky M.

Great visit to see family

We had a great time visiting family in MI. Hosts were wonderful! Would recommend this place to anyone looking for a lakefront cottage.
Stayed 14 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Justin C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cozy lake house getaway

Great space for family and friends. Full kitchen, outdoor grill, and fire pit were perfect! Would love to come back to enjoy some warmer weather on the lake :)
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Karen L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Very cute!

The house was absolutely as described. We stayed during Thanksgiving and it snowed— which was exciting for the kids. View of the lake was amazing and distance to Ann Arbor very easy. We enjoyed our stay and would like to enjoy this house during warmer months.
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jason B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Location-- Beautiful Lake!

This house was perfect for our weekend getaway. Wonderful weather and beautiful view with access to the lake made this home a wonderful choice for anyone!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Meridith H.

Liked: Cleanliness

awesome

Great property, location, and owners!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Portage Lake

Excellent property and great location.
Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Christine T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect Lake Life Getaway!

I celebrated my 30th birthday with friends and family at this house and we didn’t want to leave! Lol it was very clean, I got responses to any questions or concerns right away and there was plenty of parking and space to hangout! I would definitely stay here again!

10/10 Excellent

Michael R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Lake View

Great house!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021