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Charming Lakefront Cottage

your current months are December, 2024 and January, 2025.
December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for Charming Lakefront Cottage

Property grounds
Exterior
Smart TV, fireplace, books, offices
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 8149 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Beach view
    Beach view
  • Pet-friendly
    Pet-friendly
  • Hot tub
    Hot tub
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Vandalia, MI
  • Donnell Lake
    1 min walk
  • Paradise Lake
    5 min drive
  • Diamond Lake
    11 min drive
  • Elkhart, IN (EKI-Elkhart Municipal)
    43 min drive

Room options

About the area

Vandalia

A family-friendly stay in Vandalia awaits you at this cottage. You'll be steps from Donnell Lake and 3.6 km (2.3 mi) from Paradise Lake. .Accommodation features a washing machine, free WiFi and a fireplace. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A balcony or patio, a living room and a dining area are also available. .Spend the day at the beach where you'll find sunloungers, and enjoy the on-site water park and Hot tub. Added amenities include free Wi-Fi in public areas, a garden and gas grills.
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What's nearby

  • Donnell Lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Paradise Lake - 5 min drive - 3.6 km
  • Diamond Lake - 11 min drive - 8.2 km
  • Stone Lake - 13 min drive - 12.0 km
  • Swiss Valley Ski Area - 19 min drive - 12.5 km

Getting around

  • Dowagiac Station - 26 min drive
  • South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Tastee Twirl - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Green Holding Tavern - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪George's Cafe - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪The Chalet - Swiss Valley - ‬20 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 finally, an incredible patio/pergola with couches literally next to the water and beach. Hammocks, a hot tub, a gas grill, and yard games galore 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, Twin Bed, Crib | 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, kids toys, 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/microwave 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

Property manager

Ali Chard

Languages

English

Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby
  • Snowboarding nearby

Pool/Spa

  • Spa tub

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

  • Laundromat nearby
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Computer monitor
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Office

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • Up to 9 kg per pet

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

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

Things to do

  • Golf
  • Kayak
  • Snow sports gear
  • Water park
  • 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 and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

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

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 1 (weight limit: 20 lb per pet)
    • Service animals are exempt from fees.
  • Note from host: Pets will be approved on a case-by-case basis.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: 1 crib included in 2nd floor bedroom

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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. Long-term renters welcome. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit and a deadlock in all accommodation.

Frequently asked questions

Does Charming Lakefront Cottage have a pool?

No, this cottage doesn't have a pool.

Does Charming Lakefront Cottage have a waterslide?

No, but it has a waterpark and lazy river.

What luxury perks are available at Charming Lakefront Cottage?

This property features 1 hot tub, as well as a fireplace and a private yard.

What makes Charming Lakefront Cottage a romantic place to stay?

1 hot tub, fireplaces, and private balconies all help set the scene for a sizzling getaway at Charming Lakefront Cottage.

Is Charming Lakefront Cottage family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as a playground and a water park, as well as baby monitors and children's dinnerware, it's no surprise that Charming Lakefront Cottage is a winner with our family travellers.

Is there a private hot tub at Charming Lakefront Cottage?

Yep, there is a hot tub.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Charming Lakefront Cottage?

No, Charming Lakefront Cottage does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Charming Lakefront Cottage?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM.

Charming Lakefront Cottage Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 9 out of 9 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 9 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 9 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 9 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 9 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Lindsey G.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Beth L.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Jim W.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Alicia H.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Carrie S., Fairfield

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Courtney F.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Susanna E.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Jeanne S.

Liked: Cleanliness
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

10/10 Excellent

Barbara G.

Liked: Cleanliness
(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