Arbutus Lakeview Retreat I Fishing l Near TC!

Compact, characterful, and sitting directly on one of the clearest lakes in the Traverse City orbit — this Arbutus Lake cottage delivers an honest lakefront experience without the price tag of a bigger property. The sage-green exterior, perched between the pines, steps down to a waterside deck and a view of Arbutus Lake that hasn't changed in decades.

Step through the door

The main living space punches well above its size: an exposed natural-wood beam runs the ceiling length, a mounted oar and track lighting lending that relaxed lake-house personality. A gray sofa, flat-screen TV, and a chunky reclaimed-wood pub table with iron stools occupy the open plan, while French doors at the far wall open directly to the lakeside deck, so the view is always in the room. The kitchen lines one cedar-planked wall with a stainless gas range, full-size black refrigerator, and white counters; enough to cook a proper shore lunch without any fuss.

Room to rest

Two bedrooms sleep four, backed up by a private hot tub for cool-morning soaks and a fireplace for evenings when the temperature drops. A cozy sitting nook with a pellet stove and an upholstered chaise adds a quiet reading corner that separates the bedrooms without walling them off.

Outside your door

A lakeside deck with a table and chairs sits right above the water, and a waterfront platform deck at the shoreline gives you somewhere to watch the morning mist lift off Arbutus Lake before the day begins. The reflections alone are worth the trip.

What's Nearby

Arbutus Lake is a short, quiet drive from the restaurants, wineries, and festivals that fill Traverse City's summer calendar, close enough for easy day trips, far enough that the lake stays peaceful. The TART Trail and Sleeping Bear Dunes are both within 45 minutes.

Perfect For

Couples or a small family of four who want real lakefront access, a hot tub, fireplace, and a kitchen capable of handling the catch of the day, pets welcome.