See all properties
Entire home

BIRCH COTTAGE - Modern Lake House w/ shared Frontage on Thayer Lake

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for BIRCH COTTAGE - Modern Lake House w/ shared Frontage on Thayer Lake

A modern kitchen with a dining area, a ceiling fan, and a view to the living room.
A grassy outdoor area with a small building, surrounded by trees.
A single-story house with a garage, a small front yard, and a driveway.
A living room with a gray sofa, patterned rug, and a fireplace.
A bedroom with a bed, a desk with a TV, and large windows with a view of trees.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Alden, MI
  • Place, Torch Lake
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Thayer lake
    ‪8 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 vacation home places you next to Thayer lake and within a 10-minute walk of Torch Lake. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a refrigerator, and a microwave.
View more Vacation Homes in AldenOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Torch Lake - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Thayer lake - 8 min walk - 0.5 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) - 40 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Short's Brewing Company - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪M88 Morning Grind - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Shanty Creek Resorts - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Johnny's Torch Riviera - ‬14 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.

BIRCH COTTAGE - Modern Lake House w/ shared Frontage on Thayer Lake

Discover the perfect blend of lakeside charm and the modern ambiance of Alden, MI. Conveniently located between Traverse City and Charlevoix Michigan, check out our updated Birch Cottage. This 3 bed/2 bath home features every modern amenity to comfort you and your guests. With direct shared frontage to Thayer Lake, you’ll enjoy a secret paradise for fisherman. The Cottage comes with shared use of our guest kayaks, canoes and access to our private sandy beach. You can see the lake from the kitchen and patio. As an added convenience, guests can utilize their own in-unit washer and dryer. The living room features the added bonus of a queen sleeper sofa for additional guests. Relax outdoors with your private bonfire pit, outdoor seating and grill.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and 2 bathrooms, and there's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a coffee maker, and a travel crib.

Similar properties

House (1 Bedroom) | Interior
Near Beach Access: Torch Lake Cabin Retreat!
Rapid City
  • Kitchen
  • Parking included
  • Air conditioning
  • Lake view
6.0 out of 10, 1 review
Near Beach Access: Torch Lake Cabin Retreat!

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: WiFi

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

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

Living spaces

  • Living room

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

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 not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

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

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
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

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.

Frequently asked questions

What's there to do around this vacation home?

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

Is there parking available at BIRCH COTTAGE - Modern Lake House w/ shared Frontage on Thayer Lake?

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.

Is there an indoor pool at this vacation home?

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

Is BIRCH COTTAGE - Modern Lake House w/ shared Frontage on Thayer Lake good for couples?

Amenities at this vacation home that appeal to couples include a kitchen in each house with a kitchen in some.

Are there hot tubs at BIRCH COTTAGE - Modern Lake House w/ shared Frontage on Thayer Lake?

No, this vacation home doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this vacation home provide breakfast?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

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

No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.

Are there connecting rooms at BIRCH COTTAGE - Modern Lake House w/ shared Frontage on Thayer Lake?

No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Where is the closest airport to this vacation home?

The closest major airport to this vacation home is Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), which is 28.4 mi away (40 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies at BIRCH COTTAGE - Modern Lake House w/ shared Frontage on Thayer Lake?

No, there aren't any house at BIRCH COTTAGE - Modern Lake House w/ shared Frontage on Thayer Lake that offer a balcony.

BIRCH COTTAGE - Modern Lake House w/ shared Frontage on Thayer Lake Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 39 out of 45 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 45 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 45 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 45 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 45 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rachel N.

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

Great place to stay

Very nice place to stay. Owners are friendly and accommodating.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jerry J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice property! Great location.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Tracy G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Easy access to many attractions
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diane B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was immaculately, clean, very spacious, and comfortable. It was a perfect location. Would happily stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

nicole b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay for our family. Husband and I enjoyed fishing off the many docks
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

KENNETH D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Had a great time. Cottage was clean and comfortable.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Madelyn K.

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

Perfect Cottage!

We love staying here! Location is great, and the cottage is always clean and stocked with all the general supplies you could need!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean, nicely decorated, perfect location ( just down from Butch's and Dockside ) Kids loved going down and fishing in Thayer lake. 2nd time staying here, 10 outa 10!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ellen C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful house and location. We had an excellent time at the Birch Cottage and will certainly be returning next year!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mike and Leslie W.

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

Cute place in a nice location

We had a nice stay. It was very clean and close to all that we wanted to do.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a lovely stay at Birch Cottage. The house and grounds were exactly as described. We loved the peaceful environment with direct access to Thayer Lake and the close proximity to Torch Lake. We were traveling with little ones, so it was great to have a washing machine and lots of outdoor space to play.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Elisabeth K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderul trip! The owners were super helpful and quick to respond to questions! The house was perfect for us and just like the pictures. We really enjoyed jumping into the lake and loved that we could walk to it! Very peaceful and relaxing!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sicily K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We really enjoyed our stay at the Birch Cottage! The house and amenities were exactly how they were described. We had a blast taking out the canoe and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere. If we are ever in the area again, we would book this cottage in a heartbeat!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Excellent location.

Great location for a torch lake stay. Excellent amenities! Host's even had a boat to rent!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lisa P.

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

Very clean

Loved the location and the house was very clean and updated . Had planets of room for 5 of us!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

charity w.

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

Girls weekend trip

We had a wonderful stay. It was a quiet getaway and was in a great location to have short day trips to beaches and shops and be back at the house for the night.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shelly B.

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

Most relaxing

We came for an extended weekend. Everything was close. Very enjoyable/ relaxing time with friends.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen G.

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

Fun family time

Our family loved this place as a great gathering spot. It’s very clean and spacious, with ample room for everyone. We also have easy access to Lake Thayer, where we enjoyed kayaking. The hosts were incredibly friendly and helpful, making our experience even better. I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a fun and welcoming gathering spot.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

James R. A.

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

Thayer Lake Cottages

Everything was wonderful. Our family was able to stay close to our Thayer Lake home in great accommodations with a fine winter setting.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Pamela L.

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

Getaway with Sisters & Mom

The Birch is a lovely place, a nice open living area & the bedrooms suited our need for 6 adults. So many areas nearby to see the beauty of Northern Michigan we spent our days wandering. Never did take the time to enjoy the shared lake area of the property.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jody W.

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

Alden stay. Quaint

Comfortable home, good communication, easy access, nice area, offers much convenience and lake access.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Danyelle R.

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

Lake stay

We had the best time! The property was clean, comfortable and peaceful. We already can’t wait to go back! Thanks so much for your hospitality Rachael ❤️
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bree P.

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

Lovely cottage

Very spacious and clean. Comfy beds and pillows. Grounds are very well kept. Enjoyed using the kayaks. Highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cindy L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage is very cute and we had everything we needed for sleeping and cooking meals. It’s very close to Torch Lake. I especially loved the bedroom with all the windows. Very bright and cheery. We stayed on 2 really hot days. Thanks to one of the reviews of the A/C not keeping up we brought fans which made it perfect.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amber F.

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

Great Location!

It was a great home, plenty of space for us and we loved the short walk to the lake. The access to the kayaks was wonderful, had a nice fire pit with wood for sale close by. Caught bass, pumpkin seed and blue gill from the lake. Not much boat or kayak traffic this early in the summer either which was nice! Easy drive to torch lake with many arenas to rent boats from and a quick drive to downtown to the small shops. Would stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

More to Explore