Entire home

Amazing Gull Lake home, on the water! Pontoon rental available.

Photo gallery for Amazing Gull Lake home, on the water! Pontoon rental available.

View of cabin from the lake.
Home roadside view
Lakeside view of cabin.
View of lakeside cabin social area.
Family Room.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 12195.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Beach view
  • Barbecue grill
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

Map
Brainerd, MN
  • Brainerd International Raceway
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Legacy at Cragun's
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • The Classic at Madden's Golf Course
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional)
    ‪22 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Arizona Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Bunkroom

+2
5 Single Beds and 1 Double Futon

Oregon Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Owner’s Bedroom Suite

1 King Bed

2 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

2nd floor Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Lakeview Main Floor Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Owner’s Bath

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

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Amazing Gull Lake home, on the water! Pontoon rental available.

Welcome to ‘The Loons Nest’! This is your home away from home when you want to make memories that will last a lifetime. Our lake cabin was lovingly built in 2022 with memory making in mind. We spend a lot of time here, but we rent it out a handful of times a year to share the Gull Lake experience.

If you like to entertain, this is the perfect place for you. The gourmet kitchen, with top-of-the-line appliances, is well suited to serve one or a dozen. There is an induction cooktop, double oven, warming drawer, microwave drawer and large French door refrigerator. In addition, there is an abundance of countertop space, a large center island for serving or eating at, and the pantry also has a coffee/tea station. There is also a beverage center on the 2nd floor which has a mini beverage fridge, microwave and coffee /tea station for your convenience.

As for sleeping, we have a main floor master suite with an amazing view of the lake. Upstairs has 2 lovely bedrooms with queen beds and a cozy bunkroom with 5 built in bunks and a full size futon.

We have 3 bathrooms. The Owner’s suite 3/4 bath with shower, a 1/2 bath near the dining area and the upstairs full bath with double trough sink and bath/shower.

Our laundry room is ready to handle an abundance of beach towels and bedding with a large capacity LG tower washer/dryer.

If you have someone who, heaven forbid, has to work during your time away, not to worry! We have a beautiful office on the second level with the most amazing view of the lake. The office has two monitors with docking station and a hardwired internet connection to make those video meetings go smoothly.

This beautiful home boasts the most amazing views from both floors with an abundance of windows! 100 ft of lakefront awaits you just 40 ft from the spacious patio. There is also a large firepit area for roasting marshmallows and making memories by the fire. The lake water in front of the cabin is sandy and has a gradual slope, which is particularly perfect for family & kiddos to play in.

We have plenty of outdoor and lake toys for you to use while visiting. We have stand up paddle boards, a canoe and many floatables in addition to cornhole boards and giant Jenga. Our onsite 2022, 23’ Bennington tri-toon with 115HP motor is also available for rent as well through us. You can't be on Gull without a boat, right?

The home was designed for accessibility, with wide doors, open spaces and grab bars. Combined with the lake level beach/dock access, this place is great for the seniors in your group.

The location is also central to all lake activities. It’s close to shopping in both Brainerd/Baxter & Nisswa. If you haven’t been to this area, there is never a lack of fun things to do! For your convenience, we have a list of area attractions for you to check out, if being on the lake 24/7 isn’t your thing.

Please don’t hesitate to ask any questions. We can’t wait for you to start making your own memories at our home away from home.

Property manager

Mollie & Jon Villella

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
Guests OK. Just need to respect neighbors.
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Dogs on main level only. (not upstairs)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No dogs on 2nd floor (carpeted area). Dogs must be approved prior to rental. Just send information letting us know about your dog(s).
There is a minimum 4 night rental. During the summer the standard is 7 nights. Note: Absolutely NO Bachelor/Bachelorette groups or parties.
No parking on our neighbor's property. This will result in a $300 fine. They have cameras and readily let us know. Don't test it.

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
Note from host: Guests OK. Just need to respect neighbors.
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

Brainerd

Located in Brainerd, this holiday home is on the beach. Cragun's Legacy Courses and Legacy at Cragun's are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Northland Arboretum and Nisswa Family Fun Center. Travelling with kids? Consider WonderTrek Children's Museum, or check out an event or a game at Brainerd International Raceway. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Brainerd, MN

What's nearby

  • Cragun's Legacy Courses - 4 min drive - 3.0 km
  • Social 9 - 8 min drive - 6.8 km
  • Brainerd International Raceway - 9 min drive - 6.9 km
  • Legacy at Cragun's - 9 min drive - 6.5 km
  • The Classic at Madden's Golf Course - 9 min drive - 7.2 km

Getting around

  • Brainerd, MN (BRD-Brainerd Lakes Regional) - 22 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Culver's - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Buffalo Wild Wings - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Arby's - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Ernie's On Gull Lake - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪371 Diner - ‬13 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Amazing Gull Lake home, on the water! Pontoon rental available. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at Amazing Gull Lake home, on the water! Pontoon rental available.?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Amazing Gull Lake home, on the water! Pontoon rental available.?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Amazing Gull Lake home, on the water! Pontoon rental available. located?

Nestled on the beach, this Brainerd holiday home is steps from Gull Lake and 1.9 mi (3 km) from Cragun's Legacy Courses. Legacy at Cragun's and Social 9 are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 15 out of 15 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 15 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 15 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Tracy P.

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

Great time

We loved the house. Perfect for our family.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brenda S., Champlin, MN

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

Awesome Family Vacation

This 'cabin' was beautiful and exceeded our expectation in every way. There was so much to do, the kids loved the fishing, ping pong, camp fire, swimming as well as the local establishments, bands, volleyball, etc. They especially loved the bunk room - it was like this place was made specifically for the 11 of us. Everyone agreed - we want to do again next year!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

amanda m.

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

Wonderful Lakeside Retreat!

This beautiful home provided the perfect property for my family extended family (including two middle-aged children). The home was clean, well stocked, and had nearly every amenity you could think of! Jon and Molly were communicative and highly responsive.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Amanda L.

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

Perfect Family Vacation

Walking in the door we were immediately stunned at how beautiful the home was and how gorgeous the views of the lake were. My family spent a lot of time fishing off the dock catching large bluegill, small bass and perch. My son and husband used the paddle boards and canoe. The kitchen was the most appointed I've seen in all my travels. We reached out to the owners for a few questions and always got an immediate, friendly response. We couldn't have asked for anything more.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Clara F.

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

Week at the lake

The lake home is great. Lots of things for everyone to do, even the day we were stuck inside because of poor air quality. Set up very well. Only complaint would be the beds. Not as described in original listing not comfortable. Would definitely come back.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

gayle n., naples florida

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

A piece of heaven on earth

To say that this home was beyond our expectations…is an understatement! Superior in every way! From great communication from the hosts, to uber clean, beautifully decorated, and superbly appointed!!!! We have nothing but applause and praise for Jon and Mollie. We wanted for nothing! Thank you for making our gathering such fun!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

John P.

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

Absolutely Fantastic!!!

I booked this place for our summer family vacation. We had 6 adults and one child (1 year old.) This home is everything you could possibly dream about for a Brainerd vacation. Photos of the place on VRBO don’t do it justice. If you like sugar sand beaches, west facing sunsets, kids catching fish off the dock, pontooning around the lake, playing games in the mancave garage, cooking s’mores at the lakeside fire pit,and plenty of room for everyone…. Than this place is for you. Renting the host pontoon is a must. We will definitely be back!!! Sincerely, The Phillips Family
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly K., Minneapolis

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

Perfect Family Vacation Home

This home has everything for a great family vacation at the lake! All we had to bring were our clothes and food and beverages! The kitchen is so well stocked with everything you need to cook with and with two fridges so you don't have to keep running to the store. It is close to shopping and lots of fun activies. The beach area is perfect for small children as it is flat and the water is shallow for quite a ways out. We enjoyed the pontoon, paddleboards, floaties, ping pong, bags, firepit and fishing off the dock. Mollie and Jon are perfect hosts and were very responsive to any questions we had. Can't wait to come back and enjoy this property again!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Neal C.

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

Gull Lake Gem

My husband and three boys had a wonderful time in this beautiful East Gull Lake home. This home is in a wonderful location and is on beachfront property with lake toys available. We could hear the beautiful loons talking to us! The home is stocked with everything you would need to cook or grill. So thoughtfully planned out for lakeside living with your loved ones. We have come to Gull Lake for over 20 years. So happy to have discovered this home and such kind owners! We would love to come again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen H.

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

Family memories at the lake

I cannot say enough nice things about the property, the location or our wonderful hosts. Communication was seamless. The furnishings were of the highest quality and I have NEVER seen a kitchen so well stocked. There was a sand beach for the little ones. Paddle boards and floating rafts for the teens and young adults. The pontoon boat was a wonderful touch. Days on the water. Nights making dinners, playing games and eating S’mores from the fire pit. Checkout was straightforward. Highly recommend and would love to return.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Diane P.

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

Great week at the lake!

We had a great time at the house on gull Lake. There were eight of us and two dogs and we had plenty of room. The pontoon was an added bonus and was great to get out and spend time on the lake both fishing and on the sandbar.. The house is close to Ernie’s which is another fun spot. Jon was a great host and left us great instructions. There are a lot of fun games inside and out to keep everyone busy. We would definitely come back and stay at this house.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nicole J.

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

Summer Vacation

John's property has everything you need to have a great week on Gull Lake! We enjoyed taking the pontoon out on the lake, having fires in the evenings, and relaxing on the deck in the morning. The beds were comfortable and the house stayed a comfortable temperature throughout the 85 and sunny week.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Emma K.

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

Summer Vacation

Cabin is adorable and perfect for a family vacation! The hosts were excellent! Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kelly B.

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

Fantastic property!

This property has everything you need for a fabulous family vacation. Beautiful home, plenty of beds, on a quiet bay, gorgeous views of the water and sunset. Top it off with the most accommodating hosts and it’s perfection!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jim L.

Three generations of our family enjoyed every minute and all the amenities

The property surpassed its description. Indoor decor and furnishings were tasteful and clean and comfortable for our family of eight. Outdoors: what a view, nice beach, fat sunfish, beautiful sunsets, eagle watching and listening to loons from the deck. We didn’t want to leave. Close to shopping and family entertainment opportunities but felt remote and peaceful. Host was responsive and provided complete information and directions so we could enjoy all the amenities.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2018

About the host

Hosted by Mollie & Jon Villella

Host profile image
We are Jon & Mollie. We met more than 30 years ago right here on Pike Bay, where our lake cabin is located. You could say that our future on Gull Lake was just meant to be. We built the current lake place in 2022.

Jon has spent time here on Gull Lake (Pike Bay), every summer, since he was young. Being that his parents had 8 kids, having a place to go within a few hours of home was ideal and more economical. Aside from that, it was really the perfect place to make many happy family memories.

The family initially had a time-share type cabin and that is where we met, 34 years ago. Soon after, they purchased the property where the cabin now resides. We have been bringing our 2 daughters and friends up with us for years. We were lucky enough to get the opportunity to purchase the cabin in 2016. We remodeled it on our own and it was quite cute and charming, but we realized that there was more than just the Summer Season to do things in the Brainerd Lakes Area. There is honestly something for everyone in every season. We decided that we wanted to be able to visit year-round, as the other cabin was not 4 season. Thus, we took down the cabin and built our beautiful, and already well-loved, home away from home. We try to spend as much time here as we can, but we also rent it out just a handful of times a year because we want to share our little slice of heaven with others and hope that they can make many lake memories of their own. In addition, we look forward to our now adult daughters bringing their own families up someday.

Why they chose this property

Since our remodel, we think this property has everything you need and more for an awesome Brainerd Lakes vacation! With the great beachfront, level lake views, summer sunsets, and access to boats, and water toys, we challenge you to find a better place!

What makes this property unique

This newly built structure basically has everything:
- Possible rental of the onsite 22’ Bennington tri-toon, during the summer (good for cruising & fishing)
- 100ft of sandy beachfront. (Many kids sandcastles have been built here over the years)
- Lake level access & views. (No need for staircases and elevators!)
- Accessible for the seniors in your group! (Main level doors are 36", grab bars in the bathroom, appliances accessible from a wheelchair)
- 50AMP EV/RV charger wired in the garage. Need to charge that Electric vehicle? No Problem! (adapters not included.)

Languages:

English