Fish, swim, sun and relax!

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Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 659.1 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available
Barbecue grill
Kitchen
Outdoor space
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

Explore the area

Marcellus, MI

Gravel Lake
‪13 min drive‬
St. Julian Winery
‪21 min drive‬
Western Michigan University
‪38 min drive‬
Kalamazoo, MI (AZO-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek Intl.)
‪36 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Double Bed and 1 Crib

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bunk Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Garden

Dining area

About this property

Cottage overlooks beautiful Hemlock Lake. Hemlock Lake is 68 acres and is a clean, sandy bottomed lake. It is stocked with blue gills and trout. You can sun or sit in the shade. Swimming is a delight in our clear, sandy bottomed lake.

Relax on the deck overlooking the lake or swim to your heart's content!

There are two (2) bedrooms. One has a twin bunk beds and the other has a full size bed. The sofa pulls out into a queen size bed. There is a bathroom with a shower. The kitchen is well stocked with most everything you will need. Beach and lounge chairs are available.

There is a dock. (Must provide your own life vests). Please contact us if you want to bring a boat. Maximum length of Twenty (20) feet. Surf or wake boats that create large wakes are not allowed. The lake is not large enough to withstand these boats and they damage sea walls and erode our beach area. Contact Host for information on Pontoon Rental.

Make sure you review our Rental Agreement. We want to make sure this is the right venue for you!

Property manager

Karen or Jodi Bainbridge

Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Parking available

Water view

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 25

Check out before 11:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets 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

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

About the area

Marcellus

Located in Marcellus, this cottage is in a rural area and on the beach. Lawton Golf Club and Swiss Valley Ski Area are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Justin's Marsh and Al Sabo Preserve. Scidmore Park and Petting Zoo and South Lanes Family Fun Center are also worth visiting. Snorkelling, waterskiing and water tubing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with cycling nearby.

Marcellus, MI

What's nearby

Gravel Lake - 13 min drive - 7.0 km
St. Julian Winery - 21 min drive - 21.1 km
Warner Vineyards Winery - 21 min drive - 21.2 km
Corey Lake - 28 min drive - 20.2 km
Western Michigan University - 38 min drive - 43.8 km

Getting around

Dowagiac Station - 41 min drive
Kalamazoo, MI (AZO-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek Intl.) - 36 min drive

Restaurants

‪The Rock at Big Fish Lake - ‬13 min drive
‪The Wild Patch - ‬10 min drive
‪Country Lakes General Store - ‬10 min drive
‪Johnny's Pizzeria - ‬9 min drive
‪Amy's Fabulous Diner - ‬10 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Fish, swim, sun and relax! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Fish, swim, sun and relax! ?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Fish, swim, sun and relax! ?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Fish, swim, sun and relax! located?

Situated on the beach, this cottage is 4.3 mi (7 km) from Gravel Lake and within 12 miles (20 km) of Paw Paw Lake and Paw Paw Prairie Fen. Lawton Golf Club and Swiss Valley Ski Area are also within 12 miles (20 km).

9.8

Exceptional

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

Learn more

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Lindsay B.

5 Aug 2024

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

Cozy cottage

We had a lovely time at this cottage. My kids loved it! They thought the bunk beds and 3-season porch were the greatest!

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kristy S.

12 July 2024

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

Good memories

We absolutely loved this little cottage and it’s location. Karen was absolutely amazing and such a sweet soul. We are a family of 5 and fit completely comfortable. The cottage was cozy and very welcoming. The view from the back porch is amazing as well as the neighborhood. We made so many good memories and will definitely be booking again next year.

Stayed 15 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Sara M.

11 July 2022

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

True to the listing!

Our stay was enjoyable and we found the property true to the listing. We were very appreciative of the owner going out of their way to ensure we had a kayak to use during our stay also, despite some minor repairs needed due to normal wear and tear!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Scott K.

11 Aug 2024

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

relaxing getaway

we loved being in the water floating, fishing and just talking to each other. The wineries were wonderful to visit and do some taste testing, the farmer markets had some good deals with home made cheese and jerky. The neighbors were friendly and we enjoyed talking to them and petting their friendly dog, thank you for the use of your cottage we needed the break from the rat race called life. Thank You till next time

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cindy E.

30 June 2021

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

Beautiful location on crystal clear lake

Wonderful layout of cottage with screened porch overlooking lake made for a terrific vacation even on rainy days. Sunsets enjoyed from the multi layer decks as well as from the new boat ramp. Water so clear one can see the small fish and visits by blue heron. Huge shade trees made it comfortable on hot days. Will return next year!

Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

1 Aug 2020

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

Adorable lake cottage!

My partner and I found this adorable cottage the perfect place to relax and recharge. It is cozy, comfortable, and so very well stocked with anything you might need. We enjoyed sitting by the lake, fishing (well feeding the fish), and learning to kayak for my first time. The lake is clear with and sandy bottom with plenty of fish seen swimming near shore! We loved every moment! Karen & Jodi are very welcoming with a basket of smore fixings, a handwritten note, and a mid-week call to check on our stay!

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2020

8/10 Good

Erin S.

22 July 2024

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

Lakeside Relaxing

The property was small but had all the amenities we could need. There was a mix up with the WiFi password and the tv had issues, but Karen and Jodi were super helpful and quick to respond. Karen even stopped by to check on us during our stay which was so thoughtful! The house was super clean and had all the things we needed for our week long stay! I will say the lake was busier during the weekend than I imagined so we had to stay close to the dock as we weren’t boating, just swimming. The hosts provided tons of floaters (we had brought our own though) and even complimentary drinks in the fridge! I would definitely stay again and highly recommend the hosts as they are wonderful!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nancy B.

1 July 2022

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

Cute Lake Cottage

This lake cottage was quite on a beautiful lake. It has everything you need for a long stay. A new air conditioner was installed and cooled the whole cottage. I didn't use it much because the breeze off the lake was awesome. I stayed the 3rd week in June. Your hosts are very receptive to your needs. Will book this cottage again in future travels to Michigan. Thanks Karen and Jodi. Nancy Ball

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

William T., Grand Rapids, Michigan

13 July 2020

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

Wiers Cottage - Delightful! A+ for sure

What a wonderful, relaxing vacation at the cottage! We had all we needed and more. Our neighbors were kind and helpful. The weather was gorgeous! So happy with the kitchen supplies and amenities. The kitchen and living area were clean and bountiful with seating in and outdoors. The decks and beach area were perfect for the grand kids. Swimming here was a joy. Bill caught fish every day and we had two big fish fries. He was a happy guy! We have many fond memories of our life for two weeks on Hemlock Lake in Wiers Cottage! Thank you so much! Mary and Bill Trinklein

Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Orietta G.

20 Aug 2022

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

Amazing position, comfortable home

We’ll fournished, with all the needed amenities. Amazing position. Perfect Karen very kind We’ll come back

Stayed 16 nights in Aug 2022

8/10 Good

Marcia J.

20 Sept 2021

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

nice cottage on lake

Cottage was small but the outside being by the lake made up for it. Property manager was quick to respond to issues. View of lake was great from cottage. Nice little beach.

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021

6/10 Okay

Tatiana K., Chicago

29 Aug 2021

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

Beautiful lake!

It was a great stay, the most we loved is the lake. The water was very warm and had very nice, sandy bottom. The house did not come to my standards, but overall I enjoyed my stay.

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Deanna A., Stryker, Ohio

20 Aug 2021

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

Beautiful lake

Cute little cabin on a small clean lake, beautiful setting, we had a great time relaxing, fishing and swimming . Hosts were great, prompt at answering questions, and had a basket with supplies for S’mores waiting for us when we arrived. Would definitely rent again.

Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Coleen L.

13 Aug 2021

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

relaxing time

My sons and I enjoyed our stay. It was nice weather and staying by the water made it comforting. I had visited nearby towns that my family used to live in and enjoyed seeing that again. The cottage was very tidy and had a lot of the essentials that we needed. I used the kayak and a couple of the flotation devices. When I had a couple of questions they got back to me quickly. Overall had an enjoyable time.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Dawn K., Berkley, MI

30 July 2021

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

Hemlock Lake

The cottage was quaint and Hemlock Lake is a great spring fed lake. The temperature was ideal and relaxing. We were able to visit fun locations within 45 minutes of the cottage and could be back to the lake to cool off. Kitchen was well stocked for cooking dinners. The hosts very receptive to questions with quick response. We enjoyed the fire ring out front for s'mores in the evening.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kate C.

22 July 2021

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

Lake house

My family of three had a nice week at the cottage. The cottage was clean and cozy upon arrival. The lake was beautiful, with crystal clear water and a sandy bottom. We had fun paddling around the lake in the kayaks provided, fishing and swimming. Check in was contact free, and they checked in on us and answered any questions promptly via phone or text.

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Larry P.

13 July 2021

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

4th of July Vacation

Usually stay with friends but we wanted some privacy. The cottage provided everything we needed. Coffee in the morning down by the dock and sandy beach for swimming. Very relaxing atmosphere, would recommend this place anytime for a spring, summer or fall getaway.

Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Emily M.

16 Oct 2020

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

This was a lovely getaway!

I had a much needed escape for a week!

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

James D.

15 Sept 2020

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

An August escape

Got away for a week to this nice little place. Very compact. Owners seemed very nice.

10/10 Excellent

RICHARD B.

6 Sept 2020

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

Clear water and sandy bottom provided our own private beach.

We had a great week at this lake property. Water is crystal clear, has sandy bottom, and shallow water was perfect for fun in the sun for my 4 year old. Kayaks and beach toys were used a lot. Fishing off the pier was good for my daughter, although the fishing was lackluster for me. House had plenty of room for the three of us, was very clean and offered everything we needed. Owner met us on first day to introduce herself which we appreciated. Quiet area and nice neighbors. We would stay again.

Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer K.

17 Aug 2020

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

Quiet Escape

The Cottage was exactly as described and the waterfront provided our family with hours of swimming and kayaking. During the week there were usually only 1-2 boats on the lake, so it was very quiet. Karen was a wonderful host and we had no issues. Thank you for a wonderful experience in Michigan.

10/10 Excellent

Patrick H., Oak Park, Il

3 Aug 2020

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

Sweet little lakehouse

Beautiful lakefront with epic sunsets. Spent a lot of time in the water or near it. Nice quiet neighborhood close to anything you'd need. Cabin is small but in good weather who cares. Super nice host made sure we had what we needed.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Erin F.

28 July 2020

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

Nice lake house

Enjoyed our stay at hemlock lake. The lake is nice and quiet! The lake house was a pleasant place to stay!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020

8/10 Good

Laura B.

5 Sept 2019

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great vacation

Our family of 5 had a great time at this little cottage. It was so peaceful at the lake and we enjoyed the kayaks in the evening. The water levels were up so where it looks like there is a beach in the photos, there was not. It was still great though. The downside was the ants. I've never lived on a lake but they said ants were a normal problem even though they spray for them. They did leave an essential oil based spray that worked and I thought that was nice but it only worked short term. It felt like we had to clean a lot on our vacation to keep the ants at a minimum. The ants certainly did not ruin our vacation though and we plan to go back next summer. I would still recommend this little cottage just with a little disclaimer about the ants.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Nichole H., Parkersburg, WV

1 Aug 2019

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

A Perfect Week of Family Togetherness

So grateful for the hospitality of this host, leaving hand-written greetings, a basket of s’mores fixings and a bottle of wine. The cabin was sweet, just big enough for my family of five, with a nice enclosed porch on the back overlooking the lake. I loved hearing the history of this cabin, how her father worked two jobs until he had the funds to buy the property, then built the cabin himself. The property was the perfect combination of shady and sunny, with mature oak trees surrounding it. We enjoyed the fire pit every night. Kitchen was perfectly functional, almost everything we needed was provided, we ended up buying a colander, so that is there now too. :) Towels and linens were clean and plentiful. The kids and I enjoyed the lake, swimming and floating on numerous pool floats, the water was so still and calm. There are three nice kayaks that we used daily, two were open and one enclosed. Hemlock Lake is clear and clean, Hubby caught 2 and 3 lb wide mouth bass, catfish, bluegill, etc-he was absolutely glued to the deck. The smart TV allowed access to our Netflix account, so the one day it rained we spent snuggling, watching movies and eating brownies and popcorn. My daughter and I enjoyed daily morning jogs through pastoral pristine farmland. Overall we had a wonderful trip and are excited to come back next year! Thanks Karen!!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019

About the host

Hosted by Karen or Jodi Bainbridge

Karen Bainbridge grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan and enjoyed many summers at this family cottage. Jodi was born in Ramstein, Germany where his father served in the US Army. He grew up in Marcellus, Michigan and spent much of his childhood with his grandparents on Hemlock Lake. Jodi loves scuba diving, spending time with his family and traveling. Jodi lives 5 minutes away from the cottage. Karen lives in Kalamazoo and enjoys camping, traveling, reading and exploring healthy alternatives.

Why they chose this property

Karen Bainbridge and her son Jodi have spent most of their lives on Hemlock Lake. Karen's father Donald Wiers began building the cottage in 1959. Karen's parents sold this cottage and bought the cottage next door. Karen and Jodi have been blessed with the opportunity to purchase this property and hope to share this with other families and hope with the hope that they will get as much enjoyment as we have had through the years. (Campfires, swimming, sunning, playing cards, cookouts, reading and just relaxing!)

What makes this property unique

You can swim in a clear, sandy bottomed lake. If you like fishing it is stocked with blue gills and trout. You can relax in the enclosed porch or relax on the deck overlooking beautiful Hemlock Lake.
Grill out and enjoy a campfire.

Provided:
Dishes, cookware, dinnerware, storage containers, crock pot, coffee pot, mixer, toaster, stove, microwave, refrigerator, dish/hand soap, kitchen towels, (12) bath towels and wash clothes, bedding, gas grill.

Languages:

English

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Fish, swim, sun and relax!

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Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

Bedroom 3

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

About this property