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Adorable Studio Cottage on Beautiful Thayer Lake!!

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Photo gallery for Adorable Studio Cottage on Beautiful Thayer Lake!!

A green-themed bedroom with a bed, bedside tables, a lamp, and framed artwork on the walls.
A room with a large window offering a view of a lake and trees. There is a chair with a cushion and a small table.
A cozy room with a bed, a small table with a bowl of fruit, a chair, a heater, a window with a view, and a mirror.
A lakeside scene with two yellow chairs and a fire pit.
A small, single-story cabin with a green door, windows, and a small porch.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire apartment

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4450 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
Alden, MI
  • Place, Thayer lake
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Torch Lake
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Traverse City Beach
    ‪34 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪41 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Alden

This apartment places you next to Thayer lake and within a 5-minute walk of Torch Lake. The apartment includes a kitchenette, a patio, and a refrigerator.
View more Apartments in AldenOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Thayer lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Torch Lake - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Torch Lake Park - 8 min drive - 5.6 miles
  • Traverse City Beach - 34 min drive - 30.0 miles
  • Boyne Mountain - 45 min drive - 45.8 miles

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Short's Brewing Company - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪M88 Morning Grind - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Shanty Creek Resorts - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Johnny's Torch Riviera - ‬14 min drive

About this property

Adorable Studio Cottage on Beautiful Thayer Lake!!

A peaceful private setting on Thayer Lake just across the street from Torch Lake and within 5 minutes of the Dockside & downtown Alden.

Cottage includes a queen bed and a pullout futon. Comfortably sleeps 2 adults and 1-2 children.

Thayer Lake is a peaceful “No-Wake” lake. Enjoy kayaking, fishing, loon watching, relaxing, and star-lit nights. Beautiful fall colors! Includes use of 3 kayaks, canoe, life jackets, gas grill & fire pit.

Just minutes from Shorts Brewery, Golfing, Glacial Hills Pathway, & Chain of Lakes Water Trail.

House Manual:
Cottage is NON-SMOKING. If you smoke, please extinguish and dispose of your butts. Please do not flush anything other than toilet paper. Do not burn garbage in the fire ring. No parties allowed on this property. Quiet time in our neighborhood begins at 11:00pm. Before departure, guests are required to wash dishes, strip the bedding, and take out the garbage. NO loose garbage, it must be bagged. Garbage can is in the woods beside the parking area. If you used the gas grill, please close the main gas valve. Please close all windows and turn the heat down to 60 degrees. Return kayaks, canoe, life preservers and paddles to where you found them. Check-out is before 11:00am.
Thank you.
The apartment is air-conditioned and features a kitchenette and a patio, and there's space to spread out with a separate bedroom. Guests can expect to find a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and a dining table.

Similar properties

Exterior
Grand Traverse Resort And Spa
Williamsburg
  • On private beach
  • Pool
  • Hot tub
  • Spa
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, 1,023 reviews
$180 nightly
The price is $198
Aug 2 - Aug 3
Total with taxes and fees
Grand Traverse Resort And Spa

Property amenities

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchenette

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

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Shower
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Smart TV
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

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

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Single level property
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Smoking not allowed

Location highlights

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

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Swimming 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

  • Garden
  • Some LED lighting used
  • Unit size: 450 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

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 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 trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Wash the dishes.
Put trash in can outside
Put kayaks back on patio
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Please do not flush anything other than toilet paper. Do not burn garbage in the fire ring. No parties allowed on this property.
Quiet time begins at 11:00pm. Before departure, guests are required to wash dishes, strip the bedding, and take out garbage to can by parking area.
Please close windows and turn AC off or heat down to 60 degrees. Return kayaks, canoe, preservers and paddles to where you found them.

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

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 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 first aid kit
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, and a first aid kit.

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do near this apartment?

This apartment in Alden is within a 10-minute walk of Torch Lake and Thayer lake. You'll also find Clam Lake and Lake Bellaire within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at Adorable Studio Cottage on Beautiful Thayer Lake!!?

No, there isn't parking at this apartment.

Is this apartment associated with a casino?

No, this apartment is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this apartment?

No, there is no indoor pool at this apartment.

What do couples enjoy most about Adorable Studio Cottage on Beautiful Thayer Lake!!?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside apartment include a kitchenette and a smart TV in each apartment, and some feature lake view.

Are there hot tubs at Adorable Studio Cottage on Beautiful Thayer Lake!!?

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

Does this apartment include breakfast service?

No, this apartment doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this apartment allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at this apartment.

Are there connecting rooms at Adorable Studio Cottage on Beautiful Thayer Lake!!?

No, this apartment doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How far is the airport from this apartment?

The closest major airport to this apartment is Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), which is 28.4 mi away (45 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Adorable Studio Cottage on Beautiful Thayer Lake!!?

Yes, every apartment at Adorable Studio Cottage on Beautiful Thayer Lake!! comes with a patio and some offer lake views.

Adorable Studio Cottage on Beautiful Thayer Lake!! Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 24 out of 26 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 26 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 26 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 26 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 26 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Judith H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Really cute and peaceful cottage. We really enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cece H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location! The cabin is the perfect size for a small family. We enjoyed kayaking on the lake. This was a great place to be able to relax and unwind!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Therese D.

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

Wonderful place

This place was amazing. Can't wait to stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amber

Liked: Amenities
Absolutely beautiful location in a beautiful little town
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Warren W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very private home! We had the lake to ourselves and the sunrises were amazing! Very clean and cozy. Water was so warm October 6 I swam in the lake. First outing since my husband’s open heart surgery.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah O.

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

Weekend getaway

Wonderful host great property
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great, cozy place that matches the description! The use of the kayaks was wonderful and the lake is quiet and serene, with lots of loons! There is not wi-fi and super limited cell service, so plan ahead if you need service while staying there.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Denise D.

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

Great getaway

Very cute cottage right on the water!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Daniel W.

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

Peaceful lakefront cabin.

We enjoyed staying at this nice little cabin. It was very quiet & in a great location. The owners had the cabin decorated nicely and it was stocked with everything you could need for a short stay, even life jackets!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Siarra B.

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

Amazing place. Very homey and everything you need is supplied!!!

Was just a quick getaway with husband and daughter. Wanted something with peace and quiet but still able to explore torch lake! Didn't disappoint. The owners of this cottage were great all together. Great experience. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Aliya F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Location couldn’t be better! It was so peaceful and private and cozy! We didn’t want to leave. Kitchen was well stocked with all cooking tools we needed and there were plenty of towels and amenities. Close to torch lake and we put our kayaks in at Thayer lake and caught about 17 fish! Host was great as well and gave some good beach recommendations. Would 100% stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jay S.

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

Great location

Great licatipn. Nice cabin. Lake thayer is crystal clear and quiet. Location is private and easy to find. I would stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy D.

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

Just Perfect!

Listing was accurate, and location was perfect. Such a wonderful, peaceful getaway. Cabin was clean and essentials available. Loved the canoe and the fire pit. Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rita K.

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

cute & peaceful

such an adorable place. great communication with owner, everything was exactly as described! the view is spectacular!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maria G.

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

Excellent for a relaxing getaway

My husband and I loved our long weekend at the cottage. It was peaceful, even with the distant neighbors. Loved kayaking in the lake. Will come back again and/or recommend this place.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tiffinee H.

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

Perfect weekend getaway

The cabin was perfect! The owner was very responsive. Cabin was stocked with necessities, the lake was beautiful. Cabin was in a secluded area, which made for creative thinking on last minute planning but it was so peaceful. We hope to return soon!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Audra T.

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

Cute studio

Adorable studio cottage - Thayer lake is pretty and calm and so close to Torch Lake. Very convenient.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff C.

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

Perfect

We were looking for something quiet and peaceful. This is it. Modest cabin with many amenities. Everything worked great and we didn't need much because the cabin had everything we needed to cook and enjoy. Especially loved the homey touches throughout the cabin that made it seem the owners really cared about making our stay enjoyable. Easy access to Torch Lake and Traverse City.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Matthew C.

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

Nice Getaway

We loved the location of the place and the serene nature of being on Thayer Lake. It feels like a little campground which was charming. The hosts were also easy to communicate with. It was a nice, clean little cabin on the inside but the couch and bed were not comfortable. Not the most pleasant for 2 people sleeping or watching a movie. There was also no toaster which was odd. The outdoor furniture and grill weren't the cleanest. Yes, it's outdoor lake furniture but there shouldn't be cobwebs for VRBO guests. This really is a cool spot - just add a little comfort to the inside and hose down outdoor furniture.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda M.

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

Just what we needed

What a wonderful relaxing trip! Grass River trail and Torch Lake are not so crowded the days after a holiday weekend, so extra peaceful. A few types of kayaks to choose from worked perfectly for introducing my toddler to my love of kayaking. Tip for parents of young children, we had to rearrange some furniture to fit a good sleeping space for a pack n play and you have to be sure your kid is ok with showers not baths. But if you know that ahead of time, the cottage is a great cosy fit. No mosquitoes was a pleasant surprise :-) The host, Kristen, was so responsive and kind. Loved it!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jada R.

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

Stop and stay awhile

Once you park your vehicle and get out, everything around you has a feeling of “stop and stay awhile”. The area around the cottage was so well manicured it made it easy and comfortable to even walk around barefoot. The deck was a delightful place to sit on and dangle your feet into the cool water. My husband and I took the kayaks out on the water to explore a mysterious object on the water. As we got closer we soon realized that there was a loon’s nest and that we were getting too close! If you don’t know what a loon looks like or sound like, you soon will! The studio cottage has so much charm! Love the color choices of the greens throughout the studio. I think the host was inspired by the beauty of the watershields growing near the dock. Other decorations bring a sense of causal comforts to the studio. The big picture window sets the tone for relaxing and watching nature. But, don’t sit inside to watch the sunrise, take a blanket and a cup of coffee while experiencing God’s handiwork, so serene! The host provides many everyday items of necessities in the bathroom and kitchen that makes the stay feel like you are visiting at a friends house. The property does have a neighboring family, but who are quiet and courteous. The pictures I shared on my Facebook have many people asking about our stay and how did we find such a peaceful place. I tell them I was pleasantly surprised myself.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Jess B.

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

Nice stay on Thayer Lake

Great stay to be close to Elk Rapids, Bellaire, Traverse City, and the Peninsula. The loons are lovely!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

LORI F.

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

Peaceful, Clean, & Adorable Thayer Lake Cottage

This adorably decorated cottage, on Thayer Lake, was exactly what we wanted for a peaceful and fun vacation! Quiet and lovely spot right next to the lake. Firepit for relaxing and enjoying the view. Very responsive and thoughtful host who had the cutest welcome gift ever: s’more station! We saw and heard several loons from the cottage and while kayaking. Watched a bald eagle while kayaking also, just a wonderful wildlife experience. If you like peace and quiet, along with kayaking and watching wildlife, this cottage will be a dream for you and your family. Also, there’s a great breakfast, lunch place close by in Alden, it’s called The Muffin Tin.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Victoria R.

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

Immaculate!

Small but perfect for two people. Property and cabin was immaculate!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joey N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

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