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Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families

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Exterior
2 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
TV, DVD player, books
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Property grounds

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Entire home

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 41200 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pet friendly
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Union Pier, Mi
  • Gordon Beach
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Townline Beach
    ‪17 min walk‬
  • St. Julian Winery - Union Pier Tasting Room
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • South Bend, IN (SBN-South Bend Intl.)
    ‪46 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Union Pier

On lake.With a stay at this Union Pier cottage, you'll be steps from Gordon Beach and a 5-minute walk from Lake Michigan. Union Pier Beach and Wilkinson Village Heritage Museum are also within half a mile (1 km).

What's nearby

  • Gordon Beach - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Union Pier Beach - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Townline Beach - 17 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • St. Julian Winery - Union Pier Tasting Room - 4 min drive - 1.4 miles
  • Four Winds Casino New Buffalo - 8 min drive - 5.0 miles

Getting around

  • New Buffalo Station - 7 min drive
  • South Bend Intl. Airport (SBN) - 46 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Buffet at Four Winds Casino - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Four Winds Sports Bar - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Timbers at Four Winds Casino - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪The Stray Dog Bar & Grill - ‬8 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.

Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families

ALEX COTTAGE
Sleeps: 4
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 1
Parking spot: 1
*STEPS FROM LAKEFRONT (LAKE MICHIGAN)
*SWIMMING ON PROPERTY

The Alex Cottage is located steps away from your private Lake Michigan beach, so scoop up the little ones and walk on down! The Alex Cottage is a cozy ranch, fully-renovated with all your major appliances and Wi-Fi. Sleeping 4, there are 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom in this home. In addition, there is a grill for your convenience on the patio. It is a peaceful and quiet place, away from the street and has a convenient parking. In addition, The Alex has a grassy area with playground for small children. This is a good vacation spot for small families or couples.

Enjoy the sunsets, stroll along Lakeshore Dr., visit galleries in New Buffalo, go shopping at lighthouse Place, visit the Zoo in Michigan City or just simply soak your feet in the tranquil lake.

**Parking is at a premium at our Union Pier location. While we do not have an on-site parking attendant, please keep the neighbors in mind and park as close together, and as close to the cottages as possible.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Air Conditioning: There is a window air conditioning unit. It is small and only provides for the living room. If you are looking for the whole house to cool, the Union Pier Alex will not your best choice. The Union Pier Grace Cottage next door DOES have central air.

ATV's: None are allowed onsite.

Animals: You will see birds, deer, squirrels, racoons, and of course fish.

Bathroom:
Bathroom #1: Full bathroom with shower

Beach/Swimming: The Public Access begins adjacent to the to the Alex Cottage patio. Just 26 steps down to the beach. Use this public access to stroll onto the private stretch of Lake Michigan beach. Swimming is divine on Lake Michigan. Keep in mind that nature keeps us on our toes each year, as the width and water levels vary. There are no fires allowed on the beach due to local ordinances.

Bedroom Configuration:
Bedroom #1: 1 Queen
Bedroom #2: 2 Twins (**can be converted to a King upon request)

**Please request bed conversion a minimum of 48 hours prior to check in date

Boats: There are no boats that come with this rental. However, if you are interested in Fishing for Steelhead (Trout) you can do so in the St. Joseph River (25 minutes from the cabin) in October, November (Kory at Boozer's Guide Service says that November is the best month), December, March and April. Discounted weekend rates if book a guide in conjunction with your lodging.

Bugs: Typical Michigan bugs

Cell phone service: Good!

Distances:
* Notre Dame University: 35 minutes (28 miles)
* Chicago: 90 minutes (82 miles)
* Detroit: 3 hours (170 miles)
* Traverse City: 2 hours and 30 minutes (135 miles)

Dock: No dock
Grill: Yes! Fuel is provided.

Grocery Store: In New Buffalo, just minutes away.
Handicap Friendly: Yes in terms of there is a very small step to enter the cottage and it is only one floor, however, it is an extremely cozy space and would not work well with wheelchairs. Also, you need to walk down steps in order to get to Lake Michigan.

Internet: There is basic internet (wi-fi) service here. Our Internet service is not high speed and does not normally do well with streaming or large files.

Linens: Yes, we provide your sheets and linens. Just like a hotel, the beds will be made for you upon arrival. If you are fussy about the thread count of your sheets, just let me know, and I'll make sure we leave a bed open for your sheets. We have just the basic sheets, pillows, pillow cases and bath towels.

Parking: Guests of the Alex will be provided one parking space next to the cottage. Parking is extremely tight. There is not any street parking. Please be respectful the neighbors and not park in front of any other house but the Alex. The only place to park an extra car would be at the Four Winds Casino, in New Buffalo. Headlights do shine into the bedrooms at times.

Pets: Yes, pets are allowed. Freshwater Vacation Rentals currently charges $75/per pet for your entire stay.

Privacy: There are cottages right next door.

Snowmobiling: Not the ideal place for snowmobiling. Can not ride from house to trails and there is no room for parking a trailer. Best to leave those home and enjoy the amazing views of Lake Michigan!

Space: Ranch style home, cozy.

Televisions: Living room has a TV with Roku.

Towels: Yes, we provide towels. It's always good to bring extra though.

Washer and dryer: There is not a washer/dryer onsite. However, there is a laundry mat in New Buffalo just 10 minutes away

Winery Tours: The closest starting point to the cottage is in New Buffalo, approximately 5-10 minutes south.
Round Barn Winery: A brewery/distillery and a winery all combined in one trip. Just 14 miles from the Union Pier Cottages, about a 20 minute drive.
Saint Julian Winery: Enjoy a great glass of wine at this local vineyard.

Winter Activities:
* Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing (10-15 minutes): Explore the trails in Warren Dunes State Park for scenic views and winter adventures.
* Ice Fishing (10-20 minutes): Try ice fishing on Lake Michigan or nearby lakes like Big Lake or Paw Paw Lake.
* Winter Hiking (15-20 minutes): Enjoy winter hikes at Grand Mere State Park or Warren Dunes to experience the beauty of the snowy landscape.

Property manager

Freshwater Vacation Rentals

Languages

English, Spanish

Similar properties

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Street parking available
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • DVD player
  • TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Dock
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washer/dryer

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near a hospital
  • On a lake

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Swimming 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)

General

  • Unit size: 1,200 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

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
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 professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector in each accommodation.

Property is also known as

Alex 3 Other Cottages Also Available Easy Access Lake Michigan
ALEX COTTAGE (Union Pier) Steps away from lake Michigan!
Alex Cozy Winter Open all Year sleeps 4-wifi Cable Union Pier
78447
Alex Cozy Winter Open all Year sleeps 4-wifi Cable

Frequently asked questions

How close is Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families to the airport?

This cottage is 32 mi (46-min drive) away from the South Bend Intl. Airport (SBN) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this cottage.

How close is Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families to the beach?

This cottage is a short 1-minute walk from Union Pier Beach and 1-minute walk from Gordon Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families offer free breakfast?

This cottage does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families?

No, there is no casino at this cottage, but Four Winds Casino New Buffalo (13-min drive) is nearby.

What time is check-in at Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families?

Free parking is not available at this cottage.

Does Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families have a pool?

This cottage does not have a pool.

Does Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this cottage.

How close is Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families to downtown Union Pier?

This cottage is 0.4 mi away from Union Pier.

Alex Cottage- Ideal Retreat for Couples and Small Families Reviews

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 38 out of 56 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 56 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 56 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 56 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 56 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

4/10 Poor

maria o., chicago, Illinois, USA

Liked: Cleanliness

DRAFTY

BEAUTIFUL PLACEIT WAS TO DRAFTY DOORSWINDOWSTO COLD/HAD TO INCREASE HEAT BY 80 FNo booklet instructionsblinds did not fit the doors for privacyspider web inside bath tubbut the location was amazing and beautiful view by the beach.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alisha

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I enjoyed my stay at The Alex. It was a bummer that there was only one parking spot as my trip was visiting friends who live in the area and i didn't notice on the listing that there would only be space for one car so i wasn't really able to plan for that. I also was under the impression that there would be a washer and dryer but there was not. I guess i need to read more carefully next time. It was really cool to be so close to the beach and the cottage was nice and cozy despite it being winter time.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rhonda B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fall Break

We had a wonderful time at The Alex. The house is perfect. Very bright with skylights throughout. The kitchen is well equipped and even provided coffee. The walk to the beach is short, easy and beautiful. We really enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

John C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Weekend Getaway

Perfect location, comfortable accomodationx
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brittany M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place and exactly what I was looking for

My family and I were just looking for a vrbo close to Lake Michigan to enjoy the memorial holiday. The property group was so responsive with my requests for a highchair and pack and play for my baby. The house was clean. Right by the beach with a playground, grill access too, I loved it. And for the price we couldn’t beat it. I think the only thing I’d mention that others have mentioned too is the family room area could be a little more cozy. The couch to relax on is not comfy and there is a huge coffee table that honestly was super unsafe for my babies with sharp edges (that I hurt my knee on twice). Outside of those two minor things, being steps away from the beach was all I wanted and I really really enjoyed it!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melissa T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect!

We had a great time. The property was exactly as described and the walk to the beach was amazing. Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cute place

Cute , clean place right by the beach entrance - perfect for a small family
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dianne M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Room for 4 adults?

Alex cottage is very cozy. Living room has 1 chair and a futon. Not comfortable and not really set up for 4 people. More steps to the beach than expected. Beach is nice, and quiet. The only other issue was the coffee table. It is metal and very heavy, does not move at all if you bump it . The corners are very sharp, and will injure you if you hit you leg. Overall, a nice, relaxing visit. The kitchen is fine, updated.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicole Y., Martinsville Indiana

Liked: Cleanliness

Great

Had all the basics. Beds could be more comfortable
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Greg N.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great location

Close to the beach
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jeanne P.

Liked: Cleanliness

Alex cottage

So clean and so pretty inside. Right by the path to the beach. The outside of the cottage and back patio could use a little sprucing up. But all in all very comfortable there and we will be back.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

8/10 Good

Katherine F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Location !!

Location is perfect!! We wanted to be a quick walk to the lake and this was perfect!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay by the beach

Nice, clean house very close to the beach. Was also walking distance to restaurants and a brewery a little farther away. Great stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Desirea M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Get a way

Wonderful day at the beach.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Jane K., Indianapolis IN

Liked: Cleanliness

Alex

Great place for long weekend. Nice having private beach access.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kevin M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place

We enjoyed this rental and it was a beautiful area
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Erika G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect for a Quick Getaway

We loved visiting this area and the cottage was perfect for our family of three and a labrador retriever. The property management company communication was second to none and the beach is just steps away. We hope to visit again when the weather is a little warmer! Some people may find the mattresses in the bedrooms to be a little firm, but we didn't mind them at all.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Curtis K.

Liked: Cleanliness

Spent a few days

The property is close to the beach and the cottage was perfect. Close to amenities as well. Would go back for sure.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Veronika L.

Liked: Cleanliness

Enjoyable Stay

The cottage is nice and clean and we had a lovely time. Location is great, very close to the beach. There was initially no hairdryer but the cleaner gave me one when I asked her for one.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ryan S., Grand Rapids Michigan USA

Liked: Cleanliness

Great spot for backup wedding guests

Great spot for backup wedding guests
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jen H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Convenient and bright

The cottage has a comfortable and cheery atmosphere. It was so nice to be able to walk out the door straight to the path to the beach. Very peaceful this time of year too. Felt like I had my own private beach!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Damon C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Little Getaway

It was a great location for my fiancé and I to have a little getaway. Listing was accurate and property manager was very responsive. I’d definitely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Donna J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful location and home

We spent the weekend celebrating our 2 year anniversary. The cottage was perfect for us and the proximity to the lake was amazing! Would recommend this for anyone wanting to stay in Michigan near New Buffalo, but still have a quiet visit.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Claire B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Cute cottage on beach

Adorable cottage on lake Michigan. Can hear waves from unit. Super cute. Could use some additional kitchen pans, but we made do. Great dog friendly brewery down the street - Seedz. Check it out and bring the pooch.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tofer G., Peoria, USA

Liked: Cleanliness

loved the location.

Location, location, location. This small property was spot on for my wife, & I. We would love to go back. I believe it's listed as sleeping four. Just make sure those four don't mind close quarters. let me restate this, our stay was awesome, this is just an FYI for future guests. lot's of stairs to the beach, but well worth it. You're so close you can hear the waves from the lake. My wife enjoyed her coffee, while reading a book in the mornings sitting on the deck area overlooking the lake. thanks for a wonderful memory, & stay. #gasshousegang Tofer, & Renee.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022