Flexible chairs, desk/ game table, make this room adaptable:social, TV, views.
Location: Fish Creek, Door County, Northeast, Wisconsin, USA (4 hours north of Chicago on the Shore of Green Bay)
Accommodations: House, 5 Bedrooms + No additional sleeping rooms avail, 4.5 Baths (Sleeps 10)
Keywords: House, home, estate, cottage, cabin
[Owner's note: We are now taking reservations for the summer and fall of 2012. Two summer weeks, June 22 to 29 & July 6 to 13 are still available, as are some fall dates.]
YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL…
…As master of this stately and very spacious “cottage” built in grand style in 1928. The Big House is nestled far from the road in a quiet, secluded 8 acre wooded setting right on the Green Bay shore. You will find its private pier and shore, 2 waterside terraces, 2 screened porches and over 500 feet of shoreline uniquely idyllic for swimming, fishing, birding, sunning, stargazing, fossil collecting and all the activities that come under the heading of “hanging out” in a stunning natural setting.
The Big House is carefully furnished with antiques and Door County art, but with an eye to comfort and easy care to make it a perfect gathering place for extended families and friends. Our on-site caretakers are available (along with detailed written instructions) should you need assistance so you can concentrate on relaxing hammock time (yes, we have one), and strengthening ties and sharing adventures with family or friends. We provide brochures and owners' suggestions for those adventures.
The property is a very walkable or bikeable mile from Fish Creek’s Main Street and quaint village charms, but a world away from the hubbub of this center of the Northern Door resort area.
Our specialty: glorious and varied sunsets over the bay!
THE PERFECT HOUSE…
The house has been meticulously cared for. It retains the atmosphere and antiques of an earlier era but has been updated in all important ways for comfort. You will have Wi-Fi, 2 satellite TVs (one a new large flat screen), DVD and VCR players, a stereo and radio/alarms with MP3 player docking stations. While we haven’t a resident 2 year old to test our efforts to simplify maintenance, we think parents won’t have to spend all their time policing. To insure cleanliness, we have an agreement that the cleaning service will return if guests identify shortcomings.
The 16 x 22’ sunken living room has a large wood burning fireplace, grand piano, colorful and comfortable seating with stunning views of the water only 40 feet away through its expansive windows.
Your bedroom will have a collection of books to dip into, and all beds have bedside tables with a good reading lamp. All our beds have excellent mattresses and quality bedding for both warm and cool weather. Each bedroom has a ceiling and window fan, 3 are air conditioned. Two bedrooms have a queen-sized bed; three have twins (one set convertible to a king). All four upstairs bathrooms have tub/showers.
The "fifth bedroom" by VRBO standards is actually a separate suite with a noise dampening hall door. It has two small bedrooms with leafy views, a shared large walk-in closet and bath, each with a twin bed. It's a great place to stow members of your party who snore, keep different hours or prefer a retreat from group living. Photos available.
The newly remodeled, well-organized and -equipped kitchen will adapt to a variety of cooking needs. It includes an antique stove frequently featured in kitchen makeover publications (newly restored and doesn’t require training). We are happy to send our kitchen inventory. A large island, breakfast room, and a butler’s pantry extend the space. Off the kitchen is a three-season porch.
We have supplied the house with ample fans, which, combined with shade trees, bluff shadow and proximity to the water and its breezes, “air condition” the site. While there are days of heat and humidity, they are few and almost always cooler than the village. Bring an extra sweater!
THE ULTIMATE IN OUTDOOR LIVING…
Water views are everywhere. You will look across the bay to Hat Island, Green Island and Chambers Island, with lively pleasure boat traffic, water birds in abundance, and, have I mentioned, glorious sunsets.
The house was built for expansive outdoor summer activity. The large screened porch to the south overlooks a meadow, the woods and the water. A wooden table, benches, folding chairs and wicker armchairs provide seating for informal meals and hanging out whenever rain threatens or the bugs are plentiful.
On sunny days you may prefer the private pier, the Adirondack chairs and the tables and benches on the waterside terrace. The other flagstone terrace, in front of the house and 30 feet from the water, also gives you an unimpeded view of our splendid sunsets. It has table seating for 10 and a gas grill.
The estate is far from the road so when we talk about traffic it is pleasure boat traffic. Night skies are spectacular. You will find it a great opportunity to spend time with children in the outdoors as there are frequent wildlife sightings, even a resident eagle. Science and activity books are part of our "kid stuff" collection.
THE BEST LOCATION: FISH CREEK
This is one of a number of early twentieth century estates in a woodsy shore-side summer colony dubbed "millionaire's row," that you will enjoy as you bike or walk to Main Street.
The village of Fish Creek is the geographical center of northern Door’s celebrated resort area, recently named the #1 small town vacation destination in the Midwest by the magazine “Midwest Living.” It is only a short hop to most attractions.
The village has, among other services, a dozen or more restaurants offering varied cuisines and prices, unique shops, a grocery, post office, a sand beach great for small children, an 1850s house museum and other well-preserved historic buildings, and the entrance to Peninsula State Park, the jewel in the Wisconsin state park crown. Also nearby are 3 popular live-theater venues, art galleries, a lively art school, a grocery and farmers' markets, and a rare outdoor movie theater.
Have I mentioned the glorious sunsets?
SORRY, no pets, no smoking, no large/loud/late parties or sleepers over the maximum number.
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Air Conditioning : Partial: several bedrooms have central air.
- Linens Provided : Set of towels, sheets and pillowcases, bath mats, dishtowels. For an extra fee of $140 a week.
- Washer : New front loader in 2010.
- Dryer : New front loader in 2010.
- Off Street Parking : For up to four vehicles
- Parking for RV/Boat/Trailer
- Wood Fireplace : A generous supply of seasoned firewood and kindling is provided free
- Beds
- King Bed : King if you request for an extra $35; device holds twins together-feels just like a king unless you are 6'5' or more
- Queen Bed (2)
- Twin/Single Bed (6) : Bed rails for children available
- Crib : It's a Pack 'N Play.
- Entertainment
- Cable/Satellite TV (3) : Satellite TV; new large flat screen TV and Blu-Ray player, master bedroom TV, family room videotape player.
- DVD
- VCR
- Video Library : Titles for both children and adults.
- Video Game Console : Wii
- Video Games : Wii with several games
- CD Player
- Stereo System
- Music Library
- Foosball
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen : Antique hotel stove with two ovens, 6 burners and a warming oven. New kitchen cabinets, granite counters.
- Cooking Utensils Provided : Kitchen is well equipped with coffeemaker, blender, food processor, microwave, toaster oven, panini grill, ice cream maker, ample dishes and glassware, pots and pans, housewares, etc. Inventory available.
- Refrigerator : New 2009 large French door model
- Dishwasher : Recent vintage.
- Microwave : Also toaster oven.
- Ice Maker
- Outdoor Features
- Gas/Electric BBQ Grill : A Weber Q300 gas grill is located on the upper terrace.
- Charcoal BBQ Grill : A Weber kettle is located on the lower (waterside) terrace.
- Deck/Patio : The screened porch (with ceiling fan) and two open stone terraces are perfect alternatives for alfresco entertaining and dining. There is also a three season porch off the kitchen.
- View/Location
- Lakefront : The Big House is 30 feet from Green Bay with water views from many rooms, the flagstone terrace & screened porch attached to house. There is a large stone terrace and swimming pier right on the water.
- Communications
- Telephone : This is a large house, so there are two extensions.
- WiFi (Wireless Internet)
- Other Amenities
- Window and ceiling fans in every bedroom, shared clay tennis court, with canopy covered gallery for your spectators! 8 acres of woods and shore.
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed
- Kid Friendly : Baby equipment (Pack'n Play, preschool table and chairs,high chair bed rails), children's books, games, and media provided. Porch door locks to secure toddlers. Most upholstery is cleanable Sunbrella, slipcovers available.
- Minimum Age Limit for Renters : 25 or older unless accompanied by a responsible adult
- Smoking Not Allowed
- Activities
- Golf
- Tennis
- Shopping
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Parasailing
- Jet Skiing
- Swimming
- Windsurfing
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Antiquing
- Live Theatre
- Miniature golf
- Horseback Riding
- Hiking
- Restaurants
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
- Museums
- Other Activities
- Foosball, bean bag toss, wading pool, hulahoops, some toys for preschoolers,etc. all on our property.
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
2012 Rates Summer Season 6/8-8/3/2012 Fall 9/11-10/12/12
Summer: $4895/wk, 1 Week minimum, Friday to Friday
Fall: $4495/wk; $2495/3nts, $795/nt for additional nts., 3 Nt. Min.
Note: 5.5% state tax and 5.5% room tax not included.
Linens supplied for $140 extra; king made up for $35 extra
$500 Security Deposit, fully refundable if terms are met
Maximum Occupancy: 10
Free hardwood and departure cleaning
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
Property Photos
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- Flexible chairs, desk/ game table, make this room adaptable:social, TV, views. - Door County, Wisconsin Lodging
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- Amazing stretch of shore and woods to explore--this is only part of it! - Door County, Wisconsin Lodging
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- The water's edge terrace and 40 foot pier is wonderfully private. - Door County, Wisconsin Lodging
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- Master bedroom & en suite bath, with TV, 2 dressers, easy chair not shown.
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- Versatile screen porch: water view, expandable table for 10 & casual gatherings.
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- This terrace faces the water too - perfect spot for coffee,cocktails or dinner.
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- Recently remodeled gourmet kitchen, butler's pantry, breakfast rm (not shown).
Traveler Reviews (6)
An Amazing Gem
Guest: Kathy
(Wilmette, IL)
Date of Stay: 07/22/11
Review Submitted: 08/28/11
We stayed in this property in July 2011. We had stayed in the smaller cottage on the same property for many years before but this was our first time in the ‘big house’. We had an amazing week and have already rented for next year! We feel so very lucky to have found this property! The owners are also very helpful and great people to rent from. They really want everyone to enjoy their experience in their wonderful home. The house has all the basic amenities you could ask for and even more (including a fooze ball game, wii game for kids, tennis court and internet access). The kitchen is well stocked with all the basics for any home cooked meal. Each of the bedrooms are beautifully decorated and there are plenty of bathrooms/showers for all the guests. The location on cottage row is the prime place to be. It’s a great walk to town and a very quiet street with very limited traffic and very quiet at night. The most incredible part of the place is the amazing screen porch along side of the house and the beautiful stone patio right along the waterfront. We spent most of our evenings, enjoying cocktails and watching the most beautiful sunsets in Door County right from our patio and then retreating for a lovely dinner in the screened porch followed by many family games. It really was so special and so enjoyable! May everyone enjoy this place as much as we did!
Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, families with teenagers, families with young children.
Terrific vacation home
Guest: Sharon
(Madison, WI)
Date of Stay: 06/25/10
Review Submitted: 08/13/10
We spent a week in late June at this wonderful lakefront home celebrating my husband's birthday. The property more than lived up to the description and the photographs in the listing. We had 9 people (6 adults and 3 grandchildren between 5 and 11 years of age) staying for the week. The house is spacious and very well equipped, and we were able to have a sit down birthday dinner for 20 people on the lovely stone patio overlooking the lake. I have never stayed in a rental property with such a complete stock of dishes, glasses, and cooking equipment. The surrounding property is well-maintained and very attractive. There is a very nice clay tennis court on the property. You can easily bike or walk into the village of Fish Creek. We found the owners to be very helpful in answering all of our questions before and after we arrived at the property. They provide lots of printed information about interesting places to visit and see in the area. They also recommended the Wild Tomato for pizza, and we liked it so much after the first visit that we went back a different evening. There's also a good frozen custard place across the street from the Wild Tomato. Both are great family places. We would definitely rent this property again, and would highly recommend it to friends and relatives.
Recommended for:Age 55+, sightseeing, girls getaway, families with teenagers, families with young children.
Guest: Mike Hartnett
(Evanston IL)
Date of Stay: 08/27/09
Review Submitted: 08/27/09
We really felt lucky and privileged to be staying in such a beautiful house, so impeccably situated. We really loved the happy sound and glimmer of the bay in the morning, and it's austere beauty on certain overcast evenings. Mike & Susan, Evanston Illinois
Recommended for:
Guest: Maria and family1
(Milwaukee, WI)
Date of Stay: 08/08/09
Review Submitted: 08/08/09
Over the last 15 years, my extended family and I have stayed in many fine rental homes in various vacation destinations. Our experience in Fish Creek, due in large part to this fine and spacious home, now ranks highest on our list! The Big House was perfect for our needs, interests, and activities. The beauty and character of the home were beyond our expectations, and the location and proximity to the lake, woods, state park, and town were ideal. We enjoyed the tennis court, the walks in the woods, the garden, the waterfront, the piers, and the lakeside porches daily. The owners provide an abundance of information about activities in and around Fish Creek. We referenced the materials on a regular basis as we were planning our daily outings. We were equally impressed with the number of reading materials throughout the home. Several members of our family read books they had not planned to read while on vacation. It was a wonderful selection! There was also plenty of relevant and helpful information about the care and history of the home. It was a wonderful week in a beautiful home!
Recommended for:
Guestbook Comment
Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/01/08
Review Submitted: 08/18/08
This is the most amazing summer vacation home. The location is breathtaking and combines complete privacy with proximity to town. We actually rode our bikes everywhere: to the little town beach, to the beaches in the state park and to the adorable Fishcreek Market for groceries. We loved the large screened-in porch and the huge waterfront patio. The house is beautifully decorated, perfectly maintained, very comfortable and very clean. In fact, the lovely couple just up the road are on call to handle any problems guests encounter (like how to turn on a tricky hose to rinse off muddy kids). The owners bend over backwards to ensure guests have a wonderful time.
Recommended for:
Guestbook Comment
Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/01/08
Review Submitted: 08/17/08
For many years now, my family and extended family rent a house for a week in Door County. This year we enjoyed a wonderful week at the Big House at the end of Cottage Row. The house was a unique blend of modern conveniences and pre WWII elegance. The attached screened-in porch became our favorite gathering place to sort out the days activities while gazing at Green Bay. The great room and large dining room provided lots of space so our family could be together. And the especially large property also provided quiet solitude in many areas both inside and outside the house. The kitchen was well-equipped for family meals, with plenty of dishes, utensils and cookware. We enjoyed having ceiling fans in all the bedrooms, with extra fans available if needed, and plenty of closet and drawer space. The lower terrace was a great place to watch the sunsets and enjoy the bay breeze. The wireless internet service was also a much appreciated convenience!
Recommended for:
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #58005
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