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Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay

Cottage perfectly located for exploring Traverse City

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Property grounds
A wooden boardwalk leading to a beach with clear turquoise water and green foliage.
A view through a window with a dock and a boat in the background.
Dining
A lakeside cabin with a dock, surrounded by a stone wall and lush greenery.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6975 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Gym
  • Outdoor Space

Explore the area

View in a map
Traverse City, MI
  • Place, Lake Leelanau
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Front Street
    ‪16 min drive‬
  • Place, Traverse City Beach
    ‪23 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪25 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Traverse City

Heart of Traverse City.At this Traverse City cottage, you'll be within half a mile (1 km) of Lake Leelanau and 6 miles (10 km) of Lake Michigan. BigLITTLE Wines and L. Mawby Vineyards are also within 6 miles (10 km).
View more Cottages in Traverse CityOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Lake Leelanau - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Front Street - 16 min drive - 13.7 miles
  • Great Wolf Lodge Water Park - 17 min drive - 15.2 miles
  • Traverse City Beach - 23 min drive - 18.4 miles
  • Traverse City State Park - 23 min drive - 18.4 miles

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 25 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Brengman Brothers - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Cedar Sol Taco Stand - ‬19 min drive
  • ‪Farm Club - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Cedar Tavern - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Cedar Sol Hydro Farm - ‬19 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.

Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay

Willow Tree Cottage is the perfect location for getaways with family and friends! Situated on spacious tree-lined property, this newly renovated cottage offers private lakefront views and breath taking sunsets over Lake Leelanau. Enjoy swimming in the crystal clear water or kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing with provided equipment.

Enhance your stay on the Leelanau Peninsula Trail, featuring 17 miles of paved trails for biking, dog-walking or exploring nearby vineyards. Located 15 miles from Sleeping Bear Dunes, and just a 10-minute scenic drive to downtown Traverse City, Suttons Bay, and historic Fishtown in Leland.

New renovations (Spring 2022) include fully renovated bathroom; new flooring and furniture; central air and furnace heat; spacious new kitchen w/ eat-in island; exterior paint, fresh landscaping and much more! There are 2 bedrooms- each with a queen bed. There is a sitting room with 2 chair/ottomans that covert to twin beds. Amenities include wifi and smart tv; board games; DVD player with movies; fire pit; large deck for grilling; and an indoor porch, perfect for family meals and game nights. Provided equipment includes 2 kayaks, 2 paddle boards, life vests for all ages, and yard games.

IMPORTANT NOTES:
- We allow no more than 2 non-shedding dogs, under 50lbs. There will is a $100 charge per dog.

-There is a $100/day charge to dock a watercraft. Due to the shallow shoreline, there is a lot of wear and tear on the dock. Do not trailer the boat to the property, as we have a very steep driveway with a sharp, narrow turn. There is boat launch 1/4-mile south of the cottage, with a wash station to help protect against invasive species.

- We highly recommend that our guests purchase the VRBO Cancellation Protection, as unforeseen circumstances arise often and we advise protecting your vacation investment.

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Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby
  • Beach loungers

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • DVD player
  • Games
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Area rugs in public areas
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • No elevator
  • Smooth flooring in public areas
  • Tile flooring in public areas
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • In the city center
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the bay
  • Near the marina
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Gym
  • Kayak
  • Water sports equipment
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Parasailing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing 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

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 975 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 27

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels and store extra beds
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Leave all sheets and blankets on the beds, and place used towels in the bathtub. Run the dirty dishes thru the dishwasher, flipping the magnet to CLEAN. Empty the food from the fridge & cupboards.
Please tie up the umbrellas & cover the deck furniture and grill. Ensure all doors and windows are closed and locked. Turn off all inside/ outside lights.
Leave us a VRBO review! Our hope is that you enjoyed your stay at Willow Tree Cottage worthy of FIVE stars!
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

No boats and trailers on the property.

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 2 (weight limit: 50 lbs per pet)
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Note from host: Non-shedding dogs only. $100 charge per dog.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events 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
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 has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
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. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. 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.

We should mention

  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property Traverse City
Vrbo Property Private vacation home
Vrbo Property Private vacation home Traverse City

Frequently asked questions

How close is Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay to the airport?

This cottage is 16.4 mi (25-min drive) away from the Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this cottage.

How close is Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay to the beach?

This cottage is 15.1 mi (22-min drive) from Traverse City Beach and 11 mi (15-min drive) from West End Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay offer free breakfast?

This cottage does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay?

No, there is no casino at this cottage, but Leelanau Sands Casino (20-min drive) is nearby.

What time is check-in at Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay?

Free parking is not available at this cottage.

Does Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay have a pool?

This cottage does not have a pool.

Does Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this cottage.

How close is Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay to downtown Traverse City?

This cottage is 9 mi away from Traverse City.

Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 58 out of 59 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 59 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 59 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 59 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 59 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful time enjoying the cottage and surrounding area. I would highly recommend this property!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Whitney A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Willow Tree Cottage is a cute, comfortable little place in a great central location. Our family of 5 with 3 young kids had a great week exploring the lake and nearby towns. The lake bottom is quite rocky in front of the cottage, so I recommend bringing water shoes if you plan to spend time swimming there. Overall a great place to stay!
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

julia c.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fabulous place inside and out!!! The cottage/home was wonderfully decorated and appointed. Beds were comfy, great sleep and linens top notch. Kitchen well supplied modern great space with island to gather. family room area cozy. LOVED the outside waterfront deck, with beautiful amazing views. We took full advantage of the kayaks for many paddles as well as the firepit with the great andirondeck chairs. would definitely stay here again!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Luther D.

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

Perfect getaway spot

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at this property. It was the perfect location on Lake Leenanau. It had everything we could want and the place was nicely renovated. Would definitely stay here again if it was available when we vacation next.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marsha H.

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

Relaxing lake cottage

We really enjoyed kayaking and paddle boarding . . . And the lovely sunsets.
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Frank N.

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

Great cottage to experience northern Michigan

Location is great and the renovations completed on this cottage are fantastic. It was the perfect distance from Traverse City and a number of other landmarks. We would stay again in the future.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie F.

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

Perfect!

We truly enjoyed our week at the Willow Tree cottage. The renovations that have been done are spectacular. Such a great location on the lake with all needed amenities. We hope to be back. Our family made more memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Diana D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had an amazing 5-day stay at the Lake Leelanau Waterfront Cottage! The lake view was gorgeous, the Wi-Fi was fast, and check-in was a breeze. The owner communicated wonderfully and made sure we had everything we needed. We especially loved that it’s pet-friendly—our furbaby Moe, a German Shepherd, got to celebrate his 9th birthday here! Honestly, he might’ve enjoyed it even more than we did. This trip was for him, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. Highly recommend for a relaxing getaway with your pup!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tim M.

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

Great Lake House

Our family of five and dog had a nice time. House is comfortable and stocked with everything you need. Situated perfectly in the area with a short drive to most towns.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kelly K.

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

Great place to stay

We really enjoyed our stay at the cottage. It’s a really cute cottage with amazing sunset views. The location allowed us to easily explore the Leelanau peninsula early each day and to return to enjoy some lake time in the afternoon. All of the extra toys (kayaks, paddle boards, fishing poles) were a nice bonus. The size of the cottage worked out well for our family with 2 kids under 10, but I imagine we may have needed a bit more space if they were teenagers or if we had a bigger group. Overall, we had a great time and already miss relaxing on the deck watching the sunset.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristen H.

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

family trip

This was the perfect cottage for a family trip to the area. The cottage had everything we could ever think of needing! The kayaks were a hit with the kids, and the view was beautiful.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sara F.

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

Wonderfully Relaxing

We really enjoyed our stay at the Willow Tree Cottage! This a very comfortable space and Nichole and Frank have thought of every little thing a lake visitor could need!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bridget K.

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

Wonderful cottage!

We loved our stay - such a comfortable and charming cottage on a beautiful lake! The location was wonderful between Suttons Bay and TC. The cottage was so well stocked with water toys, towels, games, movies, kitchen tools, and so many other things. Thank you for a fantastic trip!
Stayed 14 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christian B.

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

All you need

Had a great time staying. Loved the level of detail on everything from instructions to supplies.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heather C.

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

Fall Stay at Willow Tree

We had a lovely stay in this cottage. Its location is excellent. It is on Lake Leelanau and close to Suttons Bay, Traverse City, Old Mission Peninsula, and The Leelanau Trail. We visited all of these spots! The cottage is well stocked, very neat and comfortable.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kyle L.

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

4th of july get away.

Perfect little cottage, we loved our stay, everything worked and was as it should be, great property, very clean, perfect little beach front, and great communication with property management, we are already planning on another holiday weekend in the same property and we cant wait.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Taylor H.

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

Just perfect!

The home was amazing- clean, adorable, perfect location, kid friendly, owners were so accommodating. It had everything you need!…. and the sunsets were gorgeous!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

kim M.

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

Beautiful Cottage

What a beautiful property and a great location for exploring Traverse City, and the surrounding areas. Loved spending time on the front porch gazing at the beautiful sunsets! Bonus that we could bring our dog and not only did we have plenty of space for him to enjoy, we felt right at home with dog bowls provided.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jill D.

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

Perfect for families!

Our family of 5 (kids aged 8-10) had a wonderful stay at WTC. Our children had an abundance of activities to choose from kayaking to fishing to swimming in the lake. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ethan M.

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

Leelanau cottage

Even with lots of rain during our stay, cozy and delightful. Front porch is great and the wanted access is awesome too. Great to have some included water toys!!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gregory J.

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

Loved It!

Well appointed cottage in a great location! Private, awesome lake views, beautiful sunsets. It was a perfect home base for a four night adventure of hiking, sightseeing, shopping, boating, wineries, breweries, along with some needed relaxation. We would definitely recommend this property and would love to return in the future.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

CHARLES R.

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

Lake Leelanau tranquility

The cottage was everything as stated in the listing. A beautiful location and updated cottage with all amenities needed. The property owner was outstanding to work with. We rented a pontoon at The Narrows which made our stay even more enjoyable. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cristie I.

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

Perfect Up North Lakeside Getaway!

Our family loved our stay at Willow Tree Cottage! Truly, the perfect Up North escape. We enjoyed access to Lake Leelanau, the beautiful sunsets and stars! It was the perfect location to explore Traverse City, Sutton’s Bay, Leland and the Great Bear Dunes! Our two year old daughter was in love with the sand pit, and we enjoyed taking in the lake view. Can’t say enough about this special cottage and hope to visit again soon!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jeff K.

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

Beautiful inside & Out

The house was clean & cozy with great decor. Being right on the water was great, the yard was very private and had everything needed for a relaxing yet adventurous weekend. Communication was great.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Breon W.

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

Perfect northern Mi getaway

Willow Tree Cottage has it all! The owners have you wanting for nothing- the most well appointed cottage stay i have ever experienced- breath taking views and privacy. The thoughtfulness and attention to detail did not go unnoticed. This place is a treasure and we enjoyed our stay so much that we booked again for next year. Cant wait!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

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