Entire home

Charming Lakefront Cottage

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Overview
Location
Amenities
Policies

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 81600 sq ft

Popular amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet friendly

Explore the area

Vandalia, MI

Place, Donnell Lake
‪1 min walk‬
Place, University of Notre Dame
‪38 min drive‬
Place, Notre Dame Stadium
‪43 min drive‬
Airport, South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.)
‪44 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Vandalia

This cottage places you next to Donnell Lake and within a 3 miles (5 km) of Paradise Lake. The cottage includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a balcony.

View more Cottages in Vandalia

What's nearby

Donnell Lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
University of Notre Dame - 38 min drive - 36.1 miles
Notre Dame Stadium - 43 min drive - 39.3 miles
Four Winds Casino South Bend - 47 min drive - 48.0 miles
Shipshewana Flea Market - 48 min drive - 42.4 miles

Getting around

Dowagiac Station - 26 min drive
South Bend Intl. Airport (SBN) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

‪McDonald's - ‬12 min drive
‪Porky's - ‬11 min drive
‪Subway - ‬11 min drive
‪The Twirl - ‬12 min drive
‪Sherry Lee's Bar and Grill - ‬5 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.

Charming Lakefront Cottage

Here at The Cottage, life was made to be lived outside. Across our vast property are several seating areas for coffee or cocktails - including a stone patio with built-in bonfire pit, outdoor dining and enclosed deck overlooking the yard and lake, and an incredible patio/pergola with couches literally next to the water and beach. A hot tub, gas grill, and space for yard games round out a perfect vacation spent in the Michigan fresh air.

Winter fun included: perfect hill for sledding, ice fishing on Donnell Lake, snowshoeing trails, bonfires, hot tubbing, and Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area only 15 minutes away.

BONUSES:
*A million stars, and even more birds (including the nest directly below the porch!)
*The opportunity to walk out your door to the lake (we recommend a cup of coffee or glass of wine on the pier)
*Fishing and campfires. Hiking trails 5 minutes away. Swimming. Floating. Grilling. Lounging lakeside. Hot tubbing. Friendly neighbors.
*A lake full of fish, turtles, frogs, swans, geese, and deer nearby

-- THE PROPERTY --

1,400 Sq Ft | Large Deck & Patio | Multiple Desk Workspaces | Perfect for Families

Bedroom 1: King Bed, 2 Twin Beds | Bedroom 2: Queen Bed | 3 Seasons Porch / Office: Futon

OUTDOOR LIVING: Private dock with gorgeous Donnell Lake views, stone patio with fire pit, lakeside patio with pergola, outdoor dining area, gas grill, .5 acre yard, kayaks

INDOOR LIVING: Smart TV, wood-burning fireplace, 6-person dining table + kids table, sliding glass doors, books, board games, kids toys

KITCHEN: Fully equipped, drip coffee maker, blender, toaster, spices, dishware/flatware, no dishwasher

GENERAL: High-speed internet, heat & window air conditioning, hair dryer, linens, towels

FAQ: Outdoor stairs required for access, firewood not provided, bathroom on 1st floor, washer/dryer in basement

PARKING: Driveway (3 vehicles)

-- THE LOCATION --

OPT OUTSIDE: Donnell Lake (on-site), Stevens Memorial Park (7.4 miles), Swiss Valley Ski Area (8.2 miles), Rolling Hills Shooting Preserve (8.6 miles), Fred Russ State Forest (11.7 miles), Spirit Springs Sanctuary (13.6 miles)

THINGS TO SEE & DO: Pioneer Log Cabin Museum (7.0 miles), Southwestern Michigan College (13.7 miles), Spruce Ridge Golf Club (14.3 miles), Elks Golf Course (15.0 miles), Dowagiac Area History Museum (15.0 miles), Heddon Museum (15.6 miles), Four Winds Casino (17.8 miles), University of Notre Dame (27.0 miles)

NEARBY TOWNS: Vandalia (1.4 miles), Cassopolis (6.5 miles), Dowagiac (15.1 miles), Three Rivers (16.2 miles), South Bend (28.1 miles), Shipshewana (33.4 miles), Benton Harbor (39.0 miles), Kalamazoo (42.1 miles)

AIRPORT: South Bend International Airport (31.8 miles)

-- POLICIES --
- No smoking
- Small dogs allowed at owner's discretion
- No events, parties, or large gatherings
- Must be at least 25 years old to book
- Additional fees and taxes may apply
- Photo ID may be required upon check-in
- NOTE: The property requires stairs and may be difficult for guests with limited mobility

The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen and a balcony or patio, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms and a dining area. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a private yard.

Similar properties

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning

Property amenities

Beach

On the beach
Beach loungers
Beach towels

Ski

Cross-country skiing nearby
Snowboarding nearby

Pool/Spa

Hot tub

Internet

Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

Parking on site

Kitchen

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

Dining

Dining table

Bedrooms

2 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

1 bathroom
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided

Living spaces

Dining table
Fireplace
Living room
Separate dining area

Entertainment

Books
Games
Smart TV

Outdoor areas

Dock
Firepit
Garden
Gas grill
Outdoor furniture
Patio
Yard

Laundry

Laundry facilities
Washing machine

Work spaces

Computer monitor
Desk
Desk chair
Office

Comfort

Air conditioning
Heating

Pets

Pet friendly
Welcoming dogs only
One pet total (up to 20 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
3 steps to reach entrance
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Well-lit path to entrance
Smoking not allowed

Location highlights

In a rural location
Near a hospital
Near a zoo
On a lake
On the waterfront

Things to do

Golf
Kayak
Pickleball
Snow sports gear
Birdwatching nearby
Casino nearby
Cycling nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Hunting nearby
Ice skating nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Sledding nearby
Snowmobiling nearby
Swimming nearby
Water skiing nearby
Water tubing 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
Deadbolt lock

General

Garden
Unit size: 1,600 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Contactless check-in available

Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

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

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, lock the doors, and return the keys

Close and lock all windows.

Leave all used sheets and towels (including kitchen and beach towels) in front of the washing machine in the basement.

Completely empty fridge / cupboards of food brought by you, leave trash in green trashcan.

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

The outdoor shed remains locked for personal use and should NOT be entered.

Pets

This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
1 total (20 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
Service animals exempt from fees
Note from host: Dogs will be approved on a case-by-case basis.

Children and extra beds

Note from host: 1 crib included in 2nd floor bedroom

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

Long-term renters welcome

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: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 25

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:

Long-term renters welcome.
There are no elevators.

Frequently asked questions

What's there to do around this cottage?

This cottage is located in Vandalia, just steps from Donnell Lake. Paradise Lake is also within a driving distance of 2.2 mi.

Is there parking available at Charming Lakefront Cottage?

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

Is this cottage next to a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, this cottage doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Charming Lakefront Cottage?

There are many amenities for couples at this cottage, including a fireplace, a fireplace in some cottage, as well as a beach.

Does Charming Lakefront Cottage have a hot tub?

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

Does this cottage include breakfast service?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this cottage allow pets to stay for free?

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

Does Charming Lakefront Cottage have connecting rooms available?

No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from this cottage?

The closest major airport to this cottage is South Bend Intl. Airport (SBN), which is about 25.5 mi away. Another top airport is Goshen, IN (GSH-Goshen Municipal), which is around 27 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies at Charming Lakefront Cottage?

Yes, every cottage at Charming Lakefront Cottage comes with a patio and some offer beach views.

Charming Lakefront Cottage Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.8/10

Cleanliness

Verified

8/10 Good

Pamela W.

Jul 22, 2025

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

We enjoyed our stay. Had great weather and a wonderful visit with our friends. Thank you.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey G.

Aug 11, 2024

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

Loved our stay!

The cottage was perfect for our family. Clean, cozy and the views of the sunset are incredible! Would highly recommend, we will be back!

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gretchen H.

Sep 2, 2025

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

House is adorable and lake is the cutest. Had a great time watching the boats and jet skiers. Went swimming in the lake and enjoyed the fire pit.

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carrie S.

Jul 20, 2024

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

Perfect Cabin!

We had an awesome stay at your cabin. We definitely would/will stay there again. Everything we needed...

Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeanne S.

Aug 13, 2023

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

Awesome cottage experience!

Plenty of outdoor fun for adults and kids, spaces for privacy and quiet also. Donnell Lake is clean and not too busy. We swam and paddled kayaks. Good wifi also!

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jim W.

Aug 2, 2024

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

Wonderful Donnell Lake

Wonderful property on Donnell Lake. Very nice cottage on a big lot with lots of sun & shade. Everything was as advertised. Nice deck at the house and lakeside as well.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alicia H.

Jul 23, 2024

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

Just as it was described

The house was clean and had all the essentials. It was small and had to watch my head going upstairs but otherwise a nice place to stay on the water

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Allison H.

Sep 15, 2025

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

This was the best BABY FRIENDLY home we’ve been to. They had a baby monitor, black out curtains, changing table, crib, AND rocking chairs. They even had baby gates blocking the back porch so we could enjoy coffee without them sneaking out. We had all the kitchen supplies, books, toys, towels we needed. We plan on coming back next year! Ali was easy to communicate with and easygoing.

Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Courtney F.

Jul 14, 2024

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

Absolutely perfect weekend

The cottage was so peaceful and in such a perfect location. I’ve never stayed at a rental home that was as perfectly stocked with literally everything you might need before. Right down to the bug spray, meat thermometer, and all the in betweens. Definitely recommend renting this home if you want to have stress free and fun vacation. Host is the sweetest too!

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susanna E.

Sep 5, 2023

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

A charming, comfortable cottage

The cottage is charmingly vintage but still quite comfortable. The hosts include thoughtful touches like spices, toiletries, fishing rods, laundry soap, etc., that aren't necessary certainly but that make for a welcoming stay. Donnell Lake is a quite busy little lake and wasn't our favorite for our quiet little paddleboards and sailboat, but we were also there over Labor Day, so it's probably not always quiet so busy. I certainly wouldn't hesitate to recommend staying at the cottage, though. The seating and beds were comfy and the views were lovely.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephen A.

Aug 10, 2025

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

Fantastic property. Probably one of the best yards and locations on Donnell Lake. Double lot. Huge yard for volleyball, frisbee, etc. Huge fire pit on the patio. Great deck with baby gates and a great view of the lake. Hot tub with nice view. Very cute house with a northern lake house feel. House is well stocked and generally feels like someone lives there with all the basics. Window ACs kept the whole house very comfortable even though temperatures were in upper 80’s. However you should be outside much of the time swimming, playing, paddling, and potentially boating.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tabitha S.

Sep 8, 2025

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

The house was clean and cozy upon arrival. The shade waterside is really nice. The fire pit area is fun with littles for roasting marshmallows. The hot tub was great for our cooler days and a great perk with littles that got too cold, but still wanted to swim. The hosts were responsive and helpful with any issues that arose. This house has everything you need with little kids and family. The checkout directions are reasonable and clear. Do not plan to bring your own watercraft to use with the dock without inquiring with hosts before booking. We worked out something, but it was a little concerning at first. Air is window AC and can be a bit loud. Do not have on eco unless you want it to turn on and off all night. ;-)

Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beth L.

Aug 6, 2024

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

The perfect staycation away from home!

We absolutely loved our stay here! The house was so cute and charming, super comfortable, clean, and had everything we needed for a nice long weekend away. We felt like we were staying in a friend's cottage vs a rental. We treated the house as such too, with respect! Communication from the owner was excellent as well and they made the process very easy. The covered porch at the waterfront was lovely, and we were so grateful to be able to use the kayaks so we didn't have to bring own. The house is nestled in a cove which made it the perfect spot for the kids to swim, kayak, and use our own paddleboards without worrying about boats going by. The mini beach was awesome and our pup was able to swim for the first time ever! The pier was perfect to fish from, with nice chairs to sit and enjoy morning coffee from. The firepit was amazing! Neighbors are really nice and welcoming too! We had an amazing weekend and will definitely be back!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barbara G.

Aug 6, 2023

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

(Nearly) Everything We Needed

Beds were comfortable. Washer and dryer worked well. Gas grill is not fancy, but it works. We brought a Brita filter and found one to use at the cottage, but the tap water was surprisingly tasty. None of the pans have lids, oddly enough. Basement stairs are tricky - needs a railing - so we avoided using the microwave in the basement. We appreciated the hook to keep little ones out. We could have used a clothesline (maybe it was hiding) for the beach towels we brought. Good selection of vacation reading; I enjoyed The Rose Code! Our littles found toys to play with (I hope the cleaner found the little ambulance; we looked everywhere!) A restful week - and the 6 year old taught himself to kayak! (We brought our own life jackets.)

Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2023

Verified