Entire home

Private Retreat in the Woods

Family-friendly stay near Lake Michigan

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Private Retreat in the Woods

Smart TV, fireplace, books
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Bathtub, hair dryer, towels, soap
Outdoor dining
Smart TV, fireplace, books

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 82000 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Ellison Bay, WI
  • Place, Linden Gallery
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, The Clearing Folk School
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Ellison Bluff State Natural Area
    ‪10 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Ellison Bay

On lake.At this Ellison Bay vacation home, you'll be within half a mile (1 km) of Lake Michigan and 6 miles (10 km) of Linden Gallery. The Clearing Folk School and Ellison Bluff State Natural Area are also within 6 miles (10 km).

What's nearby

  • Linden Gallery - 7 min drive - 4.5 miles
  • The Clearing Folk School - 8 min drive - 5.2 miles
  • Ellison Bluff State Natural Area - 10 min drive - 5.9 miles
  • Sister Bay Beach - 13 min drive - 8.8 miles
  • Sister Bay Marina - 13 min drive - 9.0 miles

Getting around

  • Green Bay Austin Straubel Intl. Airport (GRB) - 105 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Husby's Food & Spirits - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Sister Bay Bowl - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Peach Barn Farmhouse & Brewery - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Island Orchard Cider - ‬9 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.

Private Retreat in the Woods

Come stay with us and enjoy our newly remodeled 1st floor Bathroom and Zone control Air Conditioner. A/C will be in our Great Room and 2nd Floor Bedroom.

Our home feels like a getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life! It is bright, cozy and charming. The wall of windows into the woods in the living room is a wonderful place to do some wildlife watching. Better yet, head outside to the private outdoor deck looking over the woods and listen to the birds sing.

The marina is owned and operated by Dept of Natual Resources, as well as the large grass area along lake Michigan. There is one fire pit area in front for anyone to use and options for launching your kayak to enjoy the Mink River Sanctuary.



Sleeps 8

3 bedrooms with queen beds and a loft with 2 twin beds. Upstairs there is one bedroom, a loft area and a full bath. Downstairs there are two bedrooms and a full bath. Wood floors throughout the downstairs.

The Cedar house has two family spaces, our Four Seasons room and our Great room both are separated by a door
There is a large dining table to enjoy meals together, as well as a place to gather to solve a puzzle or play board games. The kitchen counter has four new barstools.

Please understand we do NOT provide the following:
PET STAY
GARAGE ACCESS
WASHER AND DRYER
NO FIRES outside except to make food in the grill (please note we do not provide charcoal)

Many of our returning guests do not realize that Rowley's Bay Resort burned to the ground in September 2023. While we have no affiliation with RBR we were sad to see this happen. We hoping to see new owners in the near future.

Door County Adventures is still operating at the marina for rentals of kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, as well as zip line and Segway tours and many excursions. Rowley’s Bay flows into the gentle Mink River, where you can spot minks, ducks, butterflies, dragonflies, and other wildlife. We are located at the end of a cul-de-sac. We have free internet access for guests. We have recommendations and brochures at the property upon your arrival. We are happy to make other suggestions or answer questions through email, messages, texts or phone calls. We want to make sure our guests have a wonderful stay. Please note majority homes are full time residence, and we are strict regarding our quiet hours!

Here’s some helpful tips to Door County we will provide more during your stay

Restaurants suggestions:
Al Johnson's with the goats on the roof
Husby's (America food)
Wild Tomatoes
Chop's for incredible steaks
Alexander's Salmon and many other tasty items on the menu
PC Junction to have your food delivered by a miniature train
White Gull Inn (Breakfast)
Wilson's or Door County/ Ice Cream Factory
Tell us what's your favorite place

Things to do
Spring/Summer/Fall: swim/hike/bike in the five state parks, and 19 county parks that Door County has to offer. Bike from our house to Gills Rock. Check out all of the Door County Land Trusts for even more hiking possibilities. Gaze at the stars at Newport State Park, which was recognized as one of only 49 international Dark Sky Parks. Watch the sunset from the outdoor stage at Waterfront Park in Sister Bay. Check out the new tower, an engineering feat, at Peninsula State Park. Golf at the many courses or try some miniature golf if that is more your speed. Watch live plays at the Peninsula Players Theater, Northern Sky Theater, Door Shakespeare or Third Avenue Playhouse. Attend live music concerts at numerous venues, including Birch Creek, Midsummer Music Festival and Peninsula Players. Many towns have weekly outdoor music concerts. Tour Cana Island and Eagle Bluff lighthouses. Ride the ferries to Washington Island and Rock Island. Cruise on a sailboat or tour boat. Rent a pontoon boat, a speed boat or a jet ski. Enjoy fishing on Lake Michigan or Green Bay on a fishing charter. Attend an outdoor movie at Skyway Drive In. Enjoy the many festivals on the weekends. Sign up for a bike race or a run. Take a cooking class at Savory Spoon or an art course at various art studios. Go cherry picking. Spend time horseback riding or rent an ATV. Take the trolley tour. Walk through Edgewood Orchard Galleries to see all the amazing outdoor sculptures for sale. Relax at Nicolet Beach or rent a bicycle or paddle boat/paddle board/canoe/kayak there. Take photos at the crooked road (near the north ferry launch). The options for activities are limitless in Door County.

Winter: Snowshoeing, sledding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, fat tire biking, ice skating and hiking. Rentals are available in Fish Creek and other locations. Bowling at Sister Bay Bowl. Attend the many winter festivals on weekends throughout the season. Photograph or check out the ice shoves of Door Bluff Headlands Park and the Cave Point County Park icicles. Hang at our house in front of the cozy fire with a good book. Stay home and play board games, checkers or complete a puzzle.

Year round: Shop at interesting boutiques and art galleries. Attend concerts or plays at Door County Auditorium, Third Avenue Playhouse and the new indoor Northern Sky Theater. Create art at Hands on Art Studio. Dine at amazing restaurants. Spa days are a must. Winery, distillery and brewery tours.

Door County bans chain stores and restaurants, which keeps the charm alive. You will only see them in Sturgeon Bay.

Thank you
Karl

Similar properties

Property amenities

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Car required
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Kitchenette
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Patio

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Note from host: No Smoking

Services and conveniences

  • Meal delivery service

Location highlights

  • Near the marina
  • On a lake
  • On a river

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Water skiing 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

  • Unit size: 2,000 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Perfect for families

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No Smoking

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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
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. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

Property Registration Number 32-56-0447-00

Property is also known as

Picturesque Wooded Privacy Retreat
Picturesque Wooded Privacy Retreat (new to VRBO 2021)
Private, Picturesque, Cozy Retreat in the Woods Ellison Bay

Frequently asked questions

How close is Private Retreat in the Woods to the airport?

This vacation home is 92.4 mi (105-min drive) away from the Green Bay Austin Straubel Intl. Airport (GRB) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Private Retreat in the Woods have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.

How close is Private Retreat in the Woods to the beach?

This vacation home is 7.2 mi (14-min drive) from Sister Bay Beach and 7.2 mi (14-min drive) from Waterfront Park. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Private Retreat in the Woods offer free breakfast?

This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Private Retreat in the Woods?

No, there is no casino at this vacation home.

What time is check-in at Private Retreat in the Woods?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Private Retreat in the Woods?

Free parking is not available at this vacation home.

Does Private Retreat in the Woods have a pool?

This vacation home does not have a pool.

Does Private Retreat in the Woods have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this vacation home.

How close is Private Retreat in the Woods to downtown Ellison Bay?

This vacation home is 0.3 mi away from Rowleys Bay.

Private Retreat in the Woods Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 106 out of 118 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 118 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 118 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 118 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 118 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ashley P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This cabin was so cute and cozy! It felt so much like a home. The fireplace was so nice to be able to use. It also came equipped with lots of baking and cooking utensils which came in handy! The location is perfect and in such a cute area while being close to all the surrounding towns. I loved staying here and would definitely recommend it to anyone! We also got to see lots of deer just right outside the home!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The fireplace was super cozy!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay, great location, great price!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brenda S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful home in the woods. Welcoming and all the comforts of home. Three of us there for a girls get away and had everything that we needed. The house is well organized and had anything you could possibly think you needed. Comfortable beds, extra pillows and towels. They even provided a bundle of firewood for our first fire if we so desired. We would happily stay again. Very clean as well.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Jill P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Remote and quiet
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

sally h.

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

Beautiful cabin!

This is a cabin that quickly made us feel at home! Everything you need on a peaceful quiet street. We really enjoyed how swift it was to check in & everything was as described! Thank you for sharing your beautiful cabin in the woods with us!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

sharon l.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely gorgeous. Lovely home there were four of us retired ladies staying there. It was perfect.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

jankelton

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This house was incredible for my husband and I, my three teenagers and my parents. We were in town for three days for a wedding. The kitchen is extremely well appointed and easy to make great meals. 10 minute walk to the pier for fishing, which my son really enjoyed!The back porch and view of the woods is really relaxing and a wonderful place for coffee or evening cocktails.The host is super responsive and pleasant!I have no complaints and we would absolutely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Deborah S.

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

Very pleasant stay

Comfy and cozy stay in a quiet, wooded area with easy access to parks, kayaking, shopping, and dining.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzann K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything was good except the coffee pot…it took about 1 1/2 hour to brew!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lana W.

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

Weekend

Great girls get away. Comfortable and clean. We enjoyed our long weekend.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

kathryn r.

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

Beautiful retreat

Cozy home surrounded by beatiful conifers. Quiet, safe neighborhood.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael C.

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

Great relaxing stay in Door County

Smooth check in and check out! Beautiful location in the woods. Great place to read a book, play a puzzle or walk down to the lake
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

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

Quick get away

Lovely place. Enjoyed the location
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda C.

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

Girls trip

Great place for girls trip. Big enough to hang out and not too far away from parks, shopping, and dining
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John D.

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

Long weekend getaway

Beautiful in the woods cottage. Great upper Door County location.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Miriam G.

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

Girls getaway

Loved our stay at Private Retreat in the Woods! And so convenient for our day trips to explore Door County. Would definitely stay there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan G.

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

Private retreat in Rowley Bay

Very quiet and peaceful. The house was clean and nicely equipped - we enjoyed our stay
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sophia O.

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

Lovely place!

Quiet area, close to the bay to listen to the ice creak, great fireplace. Lovely place for a winter retreat
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

James V.

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

Wonderful Cabin Tucked Away In Woods

We loved the cabin - it was great for our family of 6. We cooked a lot of meals there, enjoyed playing games and loved Door County. What a beautiful and charming place.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Saraju P.

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

Great place!

We had a great time and it was in a nice location. Not too far from the places we wanted to get to. The house had just about everything we needed. Great stay!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bailey T.

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

Door County Short Vacation

The house was perfect. Location was nice, house was clean, and everyone had their own bedroom! Beds were comfortable.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carissa E.

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

Great time over July 4th!

We had a great time at the cabin. It was very clean and stocked with everything we needed! Plenty of space for everyone and enjoyed our morning walks down to Rowleys Bay Resort.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jiuzhu Y.

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

Quite get away

Best place to enjoy a vacation with family. Very spacious and have everything we needed.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff B.

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

Great Door County Long Weekend

Wonderful location! The cottage was spotless, had everything we needed, and was well maintained. Also, quiet with plenty of surrounding nature. Perfect place to rejuvenate. Would definitely stay there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023