Entire home

Scandi-inspired Loft - Historic - Waterfront - Pet Friendly - Open year around

Photo gallery for Scandi-inspired Loft - Historic - Waterfront - Pet Friendly - Open year around

Arbor Cottage LOFT private property ~ Enjoy the views and 100' of lakefront
View of bluffs, island, sailboats, and fabulous Eagle Harbor sunsets
Front view of Arbor Cottage LOFT(circa 1850's) Front Entrance to upstairs LOFT
Gather ... Relax ... Refresh!
Front entry foyer

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 256.0 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Ephraim, WI
  • Ephraim Public Beach
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Peninsula State Park
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Peninsula State Park Golf Course
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Menominee, MI (MNM-Menominee-Marinette Twin County)
    ‪146 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Bedroom

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Kitchen
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Scandi-inspired Loft - Historic - Waterfront - Pet Friendly - Open year around

Please inquire for more pictures!

Arbor Cottage LOFT is nestled in the heart of the Village of Ephraim on the shores of Eagle Harbor. The "LOFT" is upstairs/attic of the original/historic cottage (circa 1853) and has been lovingly remodeled into a charming Scandi-inspired LOFT w/ its own private entrance. The LOFT has west-facing views to savor unforgettable sunsets, island & bluff vistas. Enjoy 100' of private lakefront area to swim, kayak, or just relax with a glass of wine and watch a fabulous sunset over Eagle Harbor!

Walk to all that is quintessential Door County: Wilson's Ice Cream Parlor, Anderson Dock, galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Whether it’s a day at the beach, boating on the waters of Green Bay, nature walks through Peninsula State Park, golfing, tennis, or just relaxing ... Arbor Cottage LOFT welcomes you!

Accommodations:
Scandinavian-inspired LOFT-living (upstairs - attic)
Private 100' foot waterfront area across the street (on Hwy 42)
Private Entrance
Living Room - facing west for unforgettable sunsets
Kitchen: w/drawer dishwasher/induction stovetop/convection-microwave (no oven)/Smeg refrigerator/coffee maker
1 bedroom: (King-firm hybrid/memory foam, sleeps 2), AC
1 bathroom (shower only-within pitch of roof-max 6'2" high) Hairdryer
Smart TV (Cable and WiFi)
Gas Grill

The owners have successfully rented "Arbor Cottage" VRBO for past 10 years. They have recently moved downstairs into the original cottage (winter 2025) and are now renting their private LOFT (remodeled for 2025 season). They live downstairs (w/ separate entrance) and are available for any assistance and local information for guests of the LOFT.

*Please note: the Russell's also purchased another cottage, "Lille Cottage" ~ fully renovated (retro style) and opened June 15, 2017 (vrbo 1060002). Lille Cottage is also available for rental and located on the border of Fish Creek and Ephraim (across from Hwy "A" entrance of Peninsula State Park).

Keywords: Cottage, Home, Cabin, Vacation Rental, Scandinavian, Loft

Property manager

Brad Russell
Premier Host

Languages

English, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Lake view

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

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

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Well-behaved children are always welcomed!
default

Events

No events allowed
default

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)
Pet fee is for one dog. We do not accept puppies
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Please note no cats are allowed.

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
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 and a first aid kit

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Ephraim

Located in Ephraim, this cottage is on the waterfront. The Skyway Drive-In Theatre and Historic Noble House are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Peninsula State Park Golf Course and Bay Ridge Golf Course. Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf and Egg Harbor Fun Park are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Ephraim, WI

What's nearby

  • Eagle Harbor - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Water Street Gallery - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Ephraim Public Beach - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Peninsula State Park - 2 min drive - 2.1 km
  • Peninsula State Park Golf Course - 3 min drive - 2.7 km

Getting around

  • Green Bay, WI (GRB-Austin Straubel Intl.) - 87 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Skip Stone Coffee Roasters - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant and Butik - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Wild Tomato Sister Bay - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Wilson's Ice Cream Parlor - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Wild Tomato Wood-fired Pizza and Grille - ‬8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Scandi-inspired Loft - Historic - Waterfront - Pet Friendly - Open year around pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total).

What time is check-in at Scandi-inspired Loft - Historic - Waterfront - Pet Friendly - Open year around?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Scandi-inspired Loft - Historic - Waterfront - Pet Friendly - Open year around?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Scandi-inspired Loft - Historic - Waterfront - Pet Friendly - Open year around located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is steps away from Eagle Harbor and Lake Michigan. Francis Hardy Gallery and Water Street Gallery are also within 10 minutes.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 131 out of 135 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 135 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 135 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 135 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 135 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Alexander P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing property and wonderful hosts!
We've stayed at Arbor Cottage multiple times and it's one of our absolute favorite places to visit! The cottage is amazing, beautiful decor and so well stocked. We felt so at home and the view is gorgeous! We loved watching the sunsets over the water each night. Brad and Amy are wonderful hosts and so helpful with suggestions on where to visit. We can't wait for our next trip to Door County and will definitely stay with them again. Thank you for wonderful memories at the Arbor Cottage!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Leah F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The perfect little cottage!
We loved this little cottage and the perfect view that came with it! Brad and Amy were amazing hosts!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lisa P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful little cottage!
Great location, has everything you need and great hosts!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Manny M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Arbor Cottage in Ephraim, WI
Excellent property. House is well stocked. Great location.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Barb P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Arbor Cottage
Excellent
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic Experience
This truly was a one of one experience as Brad and Amy are tremendous hosts and their Arbor Cottage is one of the most beautiful properties in all of Door County. My family and I cannot thank Brad and Amy enough for sharing their home with us and allowing us to have a phenomenal family vacation.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Steve P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
just like home
we can’t say enough, good things about our arbor cottage experience and the owners. They even treated us to dinner one night because of some minor inconvenience on exterior work being done while we were there! We would highly recommend them for your next VRBOvacation.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anne R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Spectacular Property in a Great Location
Our group of four mature professional women had a fantastic time during our 3-night stay at the gorgeous, comfy, and light-filled Arbor Cottage. It is beautifully decorated in a style that reminded me of many travels in Scandinavia. It is absolutely sparkling clean! The Cottage kitchen was well-stocked with all the essentials (e.g cooking oils, spices) that one would need for cooking in if you like. Brad & Amy are gracious and friendly hosts who communicate immediately. In addition to all this, the location in downtown Ephraim could not have been better for exploring all that Door County has to offer. I have rented many properties during the past 20 years, and I honestly have to say that Arbor Cottage is one of the very best. I can't recommend it highly enough!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carol S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely lovely!
Beautiful, clean, welcoming, much larger than I even expected, really more than a cottage! Furnishing/decor so warm and cozy! Location is unbeatable, view from the sun/sitting room is breathtaking! Brad and Amy could not have been more kind / accommodating when I had unexpected scheduling issues. Would love to go back!
Stayed 6 nights in May 2024

8/10 Good

Karen R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful cottage in the center of Ephraim
The cottage is beautiful and comfortable. It is on the main highway, which can get busy with traffic.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

millie e.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hosts were so kind and engaging w our grsndchildren
First time and we will definitely be back!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

laura j.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Arbor Cottage
Wonderful stay at Arbor Cottage in beautiful Ephraim
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Heaven in Door County!
Brad and Amy are the ideal hosts who have created an exceptionally cozy and charming cottage complete with everything you need. I simply mentioned in a message some of the things we were hoping to do and when we arrived they had already researched and provided information (including personal favorites) so we could begin enjoying our experience right away. The view is gorgeous and the sunsets are spectacular! Thanks to their care and attention to detail we have memories galore to treasure.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kristie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful Stay!
The cottage is beautiful! So nicely decorated and immaculate. Amazing view of Lake and stunning sunset!! Perfect location! We look forward to returning soon!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gregory L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Outstanding hosts and property
Arbor Cottage is incredibly charming, cozy and comfortable. The hosts, Brad and Amy, couldn’t have been any more welcoming. The cottage is, as others have stated, incredibly well stocked. If you see an opening, book it. It’s fabulous any time of year.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

ALBERT & MONTSE C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing
The best rental we have stayed, lovely decoration, clean, and comfortable. The mattresses and the pillows were super comfortable. Brad and Amy are excellent hosts, they made us feel welcome. We will come back!!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katherine G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thanksgiving fun in Door County
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving break. The house was beautifully decorated for the holidays and super comfortable for our family during all our door county activities. House was super clean and welcoming.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect!
Arbor Cottage was lovely! Amy and Brad were great and their attention to detail was super! The house is well appointed and centrally located for all Door County Activities. Thank you!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mike/Bobi B., Plymouth

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Arbor Cottage ~ Adorable & CLEAN!!!
We loved our stay at Brad & Amy's Arbor Cottage ~ it is decorated so adorable and impeccably clean. I was worried because they allow pets, but Brad said do not worry and he was so right - EXCELLENT!! Communication was A+!! Location is perfect!! The house is stocked with everything you need: bathroom/shower essentials for your stay (not just a starter t-paper roll), stocked kitchen, games, puzzles...it was lovely!!! We did all the DC things: fish boils, festivals, shops, visited state/county parks, wineries, orchards, the Peninsula Theater for a hilarious play...we had an amazing trip!! Thank you, Brad and Amy for sharing your awesome cottage with us. I hope to come again!!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kim H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cottage life
My husband and I stayed here for four nights . As soon as we walked in, I knew I loved it! Even better than the pictures show. You will need for nothing here. Very comfortable beds and furniture. The sunsets are indeed very beautiful. It was so nice to also have the outside spaces to gather, just so well done. The bathrooms are very roomy and have amazing showers with great water pressure. Very easy to walk anywhere around town and even a great hiking trail just up the hill in the nature preserve. So many places nearby to explore and next to Peninsula state Park which is also great for hiking no matter your abilities. We will certainly be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tim J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolute perfection!
We spent an amazing week at Arbor Cottage with our children, grandma & dog & every single detail was perfection! Even before we arrived the communication with the hosts was exceptional! When we arrived we immediately fell in love with the view & beautiful outdoor grounds! The home is so charming, decorated in fun yet calming decor! So many cute details throughout & everything was exceptionally clean. The hosts truly thought of every detail to make the stay special & comfortable. The location of the property & view….the decor, cleanliness & charm of the property…and the wonderful hosts cannot be beat! We are already talking about planning a return visit next year!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Connie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely Breathtaking
Arbor Cottage is beautiful!!!! The decor, location and wonderful hosts, (Brad and Amy) made our stay a slice of heaven! The cottage is immaculate, adorably furnished and the perfect spot for unbelievable sunsets! We ventured all around Door County on our stay, and we believe Arbor Cottage is hands down, the perfect gem of Ephraim and all of Door County! Thank you, Brad and Amy for being such gracious and accommodating hosts! We loved Everything!!!!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Julie I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A wonderful getaway for a group of friends of all ages.
We loved the cottage, I had walked by it many time before when I was in Door County and fell in love with the outside. The inside was so cozy, comfortable and decorated to a tea, with so many unique touches. We enjoyed the chairs with the white gate by the water. It was so nice to sit and relax just looking at the bay.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Chris K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful stay
This was a great place. The property is very comfortable and attractive. It was well appointed and supplied. The owner/managers are very nice and obviously really care about the happiness of their guests. We very much enjoyed it!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brad B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Thoughtful additions
We loved our stay at Arbor Cottage in Ephraim, WI! The cottage was clean with many thoughtful additions (snacks, washing detergent, frosted mugs & others!). Our dog adjusted quickly to her new surroundings. Plus, it was a nice touch for Brad & Amy to offer several clear weather evenings with phenomenal sunsets!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022

About the host

Hosted by Brad Russell

Host profile image
The Russell family purchased this property in the Fall of 2012. Brad and Amy Russell are native Wisconsinites, who have adopted 12 children. For the past 10 years, we have lived in the Loft and only recently moved downstairs into the original cottage house. We are now sharing it with our guests! We enjoy traveling abroad, biking, hiking, and watching sunsets over Eagle Harbor.


Note: The Russell's also have another vacation rental cottage (circa 1948), "Lille Cottage" (vrbo 1060002), which is located between Fish Creek and Ephraim (across from Hwy "A" entrance to Peninsula State Park).

Why they chose this property

This property has a most interesting history. The original four rooms of the cottage made up the first Post Office (circa 1853) in Ephraim when Water Street was still a dirt road. The original Postmaster lived and worked from this location. When he married, the upstairs attic/loft area was added to accommodate his growing family. Over the years, a one room cabin was also attached to the north end of the building.

Arbor Loft is in the original upstairs area of this historic residence. For the past 10 years, we have lived in the Loft and only recently moved downstairs into the original cottage house. There is a private entrance to the loft. We are now sharing it with our guests and hope you enjoy it as much as we did :)

What makes this property unique

The property is located in the center of the Village of Ephraim and has 100' of private waterfront w/white Adirondack chairs to relax and enjoy the views. It faces west for incredible sunset views over Eagle Harbor! It doesn't get any better than this!

Languages:

English, Spanish

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests