Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River

See all properties

Entire home

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8130.1 sq m

Popular amenities

Dryer
Parking available
Washer
Barbecue grill
Fireplace
Kitchen

Explore the area

Traverse City, MI

Turtle Creek Stadium
‪12 min drive‬
Front Street
‪19 min drive‬
Traverse City Beach
‪20 min drive‬
Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
‪18 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bed 1

1 Queen Bed

Bed 2

1 Double Bed

Bed 3

1 Queen Bed

Bed 4

2 Double Beds and 1 Single Bed

2 bathrooms

Main level bath

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Upper Level bath

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Garden

Dining area

About this property

Enjoy rural Traverse City's outdoor haven with this riverfront non-smoking home situated directly on the Boardman River just 15-20 minutes south of downtown Traverse City. Hop in the river and kayak or float the spring-fed Boardman River! This home is only minutes away from off-roading in Chums Corner and is a short drive to winery trails up the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas. Visit Traverse City's bustling downtown area that is home to many restaurants, charter boat companies, and TART trails. Take a drive northwest to visit Sleeping Bear Dunes for a day. This home is far enough away from the city to enjoy peace and quiet at the fire pit right next to the river or lounge on the new 600 square foot back porch, but plenty close enough to enjoy what Traverse City has to offer! Home is equipped with central heating and air conditioning! This property is about 45 minutes away from Crystal Mountain, one hour away from Caberfae Peaks, and 1.5 hours away from Boyne Mountain. For snowmobilers, this home offers a close place to stay being only 5-10 minutes away from Mayfield's snowmobile trailhead! Outfitted with central heating and air conditioning. This home is not wheelchair accessible - there are stairs to the entry door and narrow halls and doors inside, as well as stairs to the second floor. NO PETS ALLOWED. NO SMOKING ALLOWED. THERE WILL BE A $500.00 ADDITIONAL CHARGE IF PETS COME TO PROPERTY.

Property manager

Heather

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Have a question?

Beta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Ask a question

Similar properties

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Do not book this property for your kids who do not meet the minimum age requirement if you are not going to be staying at this property with them.

Absolutely NO pets allowed. $500.00 fee if pets are brought to property.

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

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Traverse City

Located in Traverse City, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Shoppers can check out Front Street, while everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay. Centre Ice Arena and Great Wolf Lodge Water Park are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Traverse City, MI

What's nearby

Turtle Creek Stadium - 12 min drive - 8.7 km
Arbutus Lake - 13 min drive - 8.8 km
Spider Lake - 17 min drive - 11.4 km
Front Street - 19 min drive - 16.2 km
Traverse City Beach - 20 min drive - 17.4 km

Getting around

Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital) - 18 min drive

Restaurants

‪Culver's - ‬10 min drive
‪Burger King - ‬10 min drive
‪McDonald's - ‬10 min drive
‪Taco Bell - ‬10 min drive
‪Samsara - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is within 6 miles (10 km) of Forest Lakes, Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve and Turtle Creek Stadium. Arbutus Lake and Centre Ice Arena are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Les M.

26 Aug 2024

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

An AWESOME place!

My family, which included me and my wife, our two adult sons and daughter-in-law and two grandchildren, had such a great time together and this home was the perfect place for all of us to hang out together for the long weekend! We cannot say enough good about our stay at this home on the Boardman River!! Heather and Allison were prompt, thorough, and friendly with all of their communications. This house had everything, with ample amenities, and then some! The location was perfect for day trips but we also had plenty to do and enjoy at the house and on the property! We will definitely stay there again the next time we plan a trip to Traverse City!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

christina s.

16 Aug 2024

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

Making memories

Absolutely wonderful! Became a family getaway four times now, making memories. Great communication with manager! Fully stocked, very clean, great location!!! Can’t ask for better.!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

11 Aug 2024

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

Fabulous house!

Beautiful house just 20 minutes from Traverse City. Very clean, kitchen well stocked, everything labeled and clear directions. New patio and fire pit were a 10. Looking forward to coming back!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ann T.

11 Aug 2024

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

Adorable Cottage

We had an amazing stay at this adorable cottage. Being here allowed family from the West and East coasts to enjoy a little get away together without anyone having to “host”. The home was stocked with everything we needed, it was very clean & had a great patio with lots of fun games to enjoy too. Being on the river was so peaceful and relaxing. Thank you to Allison for being super helpful and kind throughout our time here. We will absolutely be back.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nancy L.

7 Aug 2024

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

Family reunion in Traverse City

We were traveling to Traverse City for a family reunion. The other 10 people going to the reunion were staying in a hotel on Lake Michigan in Traverse City (very expensive I might add). Our group of 8 decided since we had a 3 and 5 year old in our group that a house might work better for us. I found this VRBO that was absolutely PERFECT for my husband and I (grandma & grandpa), my son, daughter-in-law and 2 grandkids, and my daughter and son-in-law. There were plenty of bedrooms for all of us - with room to spare. The spacious yard was nice for the kids to be able to run around in. The river in our backyard was great for the kids to fish in and for us to wade around in to cool off. I could not have chosen a better spot for our group to stay in. It was very clean and the beds were comfortable. The kitchen was well equipped. My grandsons were thrilled with the DVD collection they had to choose from. Heather (the owner) and Allison (the property manager) were very easy to communicate with - answered any questions we had promptly. This property gets a 10 out of 10 for sure!! We would definitely stay here again if we come back to Traverse City.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

cody m.

31 July 2024

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

The river is enough

The view from sitting down by the river with a fire going made this trip great. The house was clean and the property manager was in good contact the whole time as well.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patrick H.

21 July 2024

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

Fantastic Guy’s Trip Location

Terrific house for longtime college friends to connect and unwind. Backyard direct-access to the Boardman River, fire pit, and super-comfortable back deck were perfect for dining and activities. Our group of 7 guys had plenty of space inside and the kitchen was well-stocked for our big meals. Bedrooms and bathrooms were nice and mattresses were better than typical VRBO’s. We were blessed with beautiful summer weather and spent much of it enjoying the backyard area and exploring Traverse City. If we return to the area, we would certainly rent this home again. Well done!!

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lindsay-Erin B.

15 July 2024

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

Girls Trip

Beautiful home stocked with everything we could possibly need for our girls weekend! The host was so friendly and easy to communicate with, she even connected with me beforehand to ensure a smooth arrival. Would absolutely stay here again and recommend to anyone travelling to Traverse City & area!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Grant G.

15 July 2024

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

A wonderful place to stay

This place was great! The house was well kept and very accommodating. The atmosphere was wonderful, secluded on the Boardman River while still close to all the destinations in Traverse City. Would definitely stay here again!

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Antonio M.

8 July 2024

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

What a wonderful stay!

The house and host were amazing. The house was quietly located on a beautiful river had yard games available and very comfortable and clean inside. The host was friendly helpful and available as needed (but we didn’t need anything).

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lea L.

2 July 2024

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

Girls Trip Review

This property was perfect for our girls we can get away! It was great to be right by the river. We also went on a wine tour in the bus was able to pick us up at the property. Very clean and equipped with everything we could need during our stay. I would love to use this property again on another trip!

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Monica D.

24 June 2024

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

Flawless wedding weekend stay

Thank you for providing this amazing home for our family during my daughter’s wedding weekend. Everything from arrival to departure was flawless. This home is absolutely beautiful & equipped with everything we needed and more!! Amazing location & amenities When we come back to TC, we will most definitely book here again. Highly highly recommend!!!

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott S.

16 Sept 2023

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

Great relaxing oasis

Loved the outdoor space right by the river.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelsey W.

9 Sept 2023

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

Excellent location!

We loved this location! Close to everything and the host was quick to respond and so helpful!

Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

christina s., Flat Rock mi

23 Aug 2023

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

Family memories!

So many great memories made. Our third year staying, looking forward to returning next year!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott W.

14 Aug 2023

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

Beautiful home with everything you need!

We absolutely loved our stay for a girl’s weekend at this beautiful home. Every detail was taken into account, communication was top-notch, impeccably clean, and included everything guests may need down to chip clips and sound machines! The private yard and outdoor area, including the fire pit and large deck with lights and flowers, made it so inviting! Would definitely stay there again and recommend to anyone looking to explore the Traverse City area.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katie C., Oak Park, IL

1 Aug 2023

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

Sweet and comfy river house--LOVED it!

I booked this house for my 50th birthday celebration with friends after seeing the great photos and stellar reviews. The property manager checked in ahead of our check-in time and I mentioned it was my birthday...and when we arrived we found a cake and balloons! Everything was adorable, nice quality, clean. The kitchen was well-equipped with essentials, snacks, and kitchen tools. Gorgeous (huge) backyard and the prettiest brand-new wraparound deck with brand-new gorgeous deck furniture. The campfire area was fun and beautiful. Location felt remote while being only 5 miles from a major supermarket. I would definitely recommend this house for a group of adults looking for a getaway! Well-maintained and a perfect place to gather in comfort and style. :)

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brandi G.

27 July 2023

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

Well Equipped & would stay again

This home is by far the most well equipped rental we’ve had in vacation rentals. All we really had to bring is food, clothes, and our preferred recreational gear for fun. Alison and Heather are great hosts and were quick to respond to any questions or issues we had. The property was well maintained on a beautiful setting along the river. There was a bookshelf full of games, books, and some movies (plus Netflix) for in house entertainment, but we didn’t use it much because we wanted to be outside. The back deck is fantastic. They had plenty of yard games too. To set expectations for the serious river recreation enthusiasts, please note that the river is swift moving at the house and just upstream from a public access site. It was a little tougher to get in and out of the river at the house, but the public access site (in short walking distance) was easier for all to use. It was a popular spot for kayakers to go in or out. For the trout fishermen, it was a more difficult place to fish but there are other locations within a short drive that we had success with (caught 3 species). If you want more options check out the railroad trestle 3 miles down River Road (respect private property) or the trail systems down stream. Just do your river research early to make the most of your trip. Traverse City is a fantastic vacation region with tons of places to eat, hike, fish, or whatever other recreational fun. We would definitely stay again and recommend to others.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

25 July 2023

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

Great hub for Traverse City family vacation

This is a very well-managed home in a location that was even better than we expected. It had everything we needed, plus many niceties like board games, yard games, and bluetooth speaker. We were also surprised with a gift basket upon arrival including wine and custom glasses. Kayaking down the river was a ton of fun - it's about 1 hour to the next outlet which was just perfect. Pretty much everywhere we wanted to go in TC was just a short drive. Definitely recommend.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Laura D.

17 July 2023

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

Fantastic property!

This place was awesome! Literally comes with anything you need! A welcome basket greeted us with glasses (to keep) and a bottle of wine. The layout was great for privacy to all. We loved the bonfire pit by the river. The large deck was perfect for our family to hang outside. Lots of yard games to use. I’ve used VRBO for years and this home was one of my favorites!

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brenda F.

9 July 2023

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

Wonderful family stay in Traverse City!

Family of 5 adults enjoyed a lovely stay at this VRBO! The home is impeccable, very well appointed and updated. The back deck is a lovely entertainment area. The kitchen is well stocked and updated. The living area has a great array of games and books. Would definitely return if in the area!

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mary H.

5 July 2023

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

Family Get Together

The property was idyllic. We had a wonderful stay and enjoyed celebrating with our family. Everything we need was provided and had great communication with Allison, the property manager.

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ela H., Michigan

25 June 2023

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

Girls getaway weekend

Wow!!! beautiful home nestled in a picture perfect serene location. Allison is a wonderful gracious host! The home is in a most beautiful quiet place on the river with a wonderful deck to enjoy the outdoor. The home is so beautiful, clean and welcoming. Kitchen had anything we needed for our meals. Allison even provided us with all the ingredients to make smores, yummy. There are many games (indoor and outdoor games), books and movies. The beds are so comfortable and the beddings nice, clean and soft. Allison is super nice and so easy to communicate with. Everything about our long weekend was amazing. We Will definitely highly recommend and will plan to go back.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Peggy H., Brighton, Michigan

20 June 2023

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

Waterfront cottage on Boardmen river

We spent a long Father’s Day weekend at this very clean and well stocked riverfront cottage. The beds were really comfortable and the large deck was great place to hang out near the river. The house is minutes from “Wheels on rails” which just opened this year. Allison the property manager was helpful and nice. We’ll definitely try and stay here again when in the Traverse city area.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Juliet H.

12 June 2023

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

Lovely location

We enjoyed out stay. Loved the location along the river, really nice, large deck and well equipped home.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

About the host

Hosted by Heather

I grew up in northern Indiana and have always loved the appeal of a home in a serene location that offered wooded area, waterfront capabilities, and the views of animals from my living room window.

Why they chose this property

I purchased this property when I made the decision to move to Traverse City to further my education. When I finished my degree and was ready to move back home, I decided that I couldn't quite part with this home because I fell in love with the area, my neighbors, and the property overall. Now, not only do my family and I get to continually enjoy what this property has to offer, but renters from all over the country get to fall in love with it too!

What makes this property unique

This property gives you a full-scale view of the free-flowing Boardman River, with a peaceful location on the end of an unpaved private road. There is plenty of wildlife to see from the living room window as well as in the backyard on the river.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback

Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River

Photo gallery for Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bed 1

Bed 2

Bed 3

Bed 4

2 bathrooms

Main level bath

Upper Level bath

Spaces

About this property