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Beautiful Waterfront Cottage

Photo gallery for Beautiful Waterfront Cottage

Schwandt Cottage on a lovely summer day....
Exterior
Property grounds
Living area
Living area

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5750 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

View in a map
Ellison Bay, WI
  • Place, Northport Pier
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, The Clearing Folk School
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Place, Newport State Park
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Airport, Escanaba, MI (ESC-Delta County)

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Single Bed

Convertible bed(s)

1 Double Futon

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Beautiful Waterfront Cottage

The Sweet Cottage on the Bay....

Schwandt Cottage, in beautiful Gills Rock, is the perfect place for rest, rejuvenation and relaxation. The cottage was once owned by one of the fishing families of Door County and it was built in the mid 1920’s. It has been painstakingly restored to one of the quaintest, most delightful cottages in the area.

Gills Rock is in northern Door County, away from the hustle and bustle of some of the other towns in the County. It is significantly quieter, with less traffic. It is certainly possible to come to Schwandt Cottage and stay a week without leaving....it is just hard to leave after you get there, regardless of the season.

The view is outstanding! From the living room, the deck, the kitchen, and the private beach, guests can watch the changing moods of Green Bay, local fisherman coming and going, the incredible sunset which always provides an outstanding skyscape at the end of the day, and an occasional glimpse of a freighter passing the Door.

A 3-day minimum is required beginning on Sept. 14-Nov. 6. Please check our calendar for availability. A 3-day minimum is also required in April and May 2021. One-week rentals in June, July and August 2021 & 2022 are required, beginning on Saturday.

Please note that pets are not permitted. While we understand that your pet may be an important part of your family, we respectfully ask that you not bring your pet. Since many people stay at our cottage, we cannot risk having a pet that may cause someone who is allergic to dogs and/or cats be uncomfortable.

Keywords: Cottage, Waterfront, Quaint, fully-furnished, private beach, fire pit, fireplace, Internet, cable television, garden, decorated, garden, private, quiet, away from the crowds, beautifully decorated, private beach, swimming, sunset,

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill
Beach view

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Living area
Mid Century Modern Lake House with Private Beach
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10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (12 reviews)
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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Ellison Bay

Located in Ellison Bay, this cottage is on the beach. Linden Gallery and Frykman Studio Gallery are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Deer Run Golf Course and Sister Bay Marina. Trueblood Performing Arts Center and Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
View more Cottages in Ellison BayOpens in a new window
Map
Ellison Bay, WI

What's nearby

  • Northport Pier - 4 min drive - 5.1 km
  • The Clearing Folk School - 7 min drive - 9.4 km
  • Linden Gallery - 7 min drive - 9.8 km
  • Newport State Park - 9 min drive - 10.8 km
  • Ellison Bluff State Natural Area - 9 min drive - 11.6 km

Getting around

  • Green Bay, WI (GRB-Austin Straubel Intl.) - 117 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Mink River Basin - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Charlie's Smokehouse - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Island Orchard Cider - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Blue Bear Ellison Bay - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Shoreline Restaurant - ‬3 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Beautiful Waterfront Cottage pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Beautiful Waterfront Cottage?

As of 3 Apr, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beautiful Waterfront Cottage on 29 Apr, 2026 start from S$417, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Beautiful Waterfront Cottage?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Beautiful Waterfront Cottage?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Beautiful Waterfront Cottage?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Beautiful Waterfront Cottage located?

Nestled on the beach, this Ellison Bay cottage is 0.1 mi (0.1 km) from Lake Michigan and 2.3 mi (3.7 km) from Northport Pier. Newport State Park and Grand Traverse Island State Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 54 out of 56 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 56 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 56 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 56 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 56 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Viqas S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The location of this cottage is absolutely amazing and the property itself is a well maintained cozy space. Georgi was very communicative and everything was convenient and clear. Would absolutely come back and stay here!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Oct, 2025
Thank you for the kind review. We are so glad you found us! It has been a special place for our family and our guests since 1998. We would welcome your return!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Beata R.

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

Getaway

The place was perfect for a lovely getaway. Enjoyed swimming and lounging on the shore.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Aug, 2025
Thank you for selecting our cottage for your Door County visit. We hope you return!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

C R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing views of waterfront. Cottage property beautifully maintained inside and out. Host's were so friendly and accommodating. Loved it!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Katie O.

Perfect cozy getaway

Amazing views, with everything we needed for a weekend away. We were delighted to stay at Schwandt Cottage and hope to be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2020
We are so glad that you enjoyed your stay at our cottage in Gills Rock. And...you had the bonus of great leaf color! We welcome your return....
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan Y.

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

Perfect Quiet Getaway

Very cozy cottage in a stunning environment, peaceful and beautiful.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Jul, 2023
Thank you for selecting our cottage for your Door County visit! We hope you return someday. May the memories that you created last for years to come!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Pam S.

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

Amazing Sunsets

The cottage was perfect! It was delightful to enjoy the sunsets over the lake and soak in the peacefulness of the area. Highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jon K.

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

Another great stay.

This was our third stay at the Schwandt cottage and it was as wonderful as ever. The cottage is comfortable and cozy and we never tire of the amazing view, especially the famous Door County sunsets. We have already booked next year’s visit.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Vicki E.

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

Great summer getaway

Nice, clean, cozy cottage with beautiful lake view. Enjoyed swimming out front, sunsets, and evenings by the firepit. Walkable to shops, restaurant and passenger ferry to Washington Island. We hope to stay there again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Aug, 2020
Thanks for selecting our cottage for your visit to Door County this summer. We will welcome your return....
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Great Lake Experience

House is located in quite area with great view of lake and sunset. Nice fire pit by lake. Wish I could have stayed longer.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Oct, 2021
Thank you for selecting our cottage for your fall Door County visit. We hope that you will be able to return at some time in the future. Hopefully, you made lasting memories.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gretchen R.

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

Enchanting cottage in Gills Rock

Lovely cottage by the bay with beautiful garden and welcoming vibes. I can’t say enough wonderful things about our stay at the cottage. It offers a charming and welcoming stay with views of gorgeous sunsets. The hosts thought of everything were a joy to communicate with. We loved it so much we are coming back next year.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Aug, 2024
We are so glad that you found us! Hopefully, lasting memories were made. Thank you for the kind review.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ammie E.

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

Beautiful location

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at the sweet cottage in Gills Rock. The bay is just a few feet away and there are many chairs outside to relax in while one watches the sunset. The home was clean, comfortable, well decorated and stocked with everything one might need. The location provides privacy and serenity as the home is north of the Door County hustle and bustle.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Jun, 2024
Ammie, Thank you for the kind review. We hope you had a restful few days and are returning home rejuvenated! We hope you return sometime once again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Charlene F.

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

The Cutest Cottage in Gills Rock.

The Schwandt Cottage is a great find. Gills Rock is a quiet village and the water view sunsets are spectacular. Georgi is awesome to work with very thorough and accommodating. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Jun, 2020
Thank you so much for the kind review! We are so glad you found us, too! We will welcome your return. Safe travels and be well.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maryellen R.

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

Quintessential Door County Cottage

On its own little piece of waterfront, this quintessential DC cottage takes you away from the busy towns, offers a pretty garden, comfy beds, a beautiful bay view and a kitchen stocked with all the necessities. It was great for taking our kayak out for a paddle, and we loved walking up to Bea’s for a morning pastry and stopping for fresh strawberries on our way to Ellison Bay. Perfect getaway for a couple!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2020
We welcome your return. Thank you for the kind, kind words. You reflected in your comments exactly what we feel. There's no place like Gills Rock on the water!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Meg C.

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

Great getaway!

We had a wonderful time celebrating our anniversary! We spent our evenings at the fire pit overlooking the gorgeous lake. Such peaceful, quiet, beautiful surroundings! The hosts were also very responsive to questions & proactively reaching out to make sure we knew about their home & the things to do in the area. Great experience all around!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct, 2021
We are glad that you found us! The photo that you sent of the sunset was amazing. Happy anniversary! And, cheers to many more!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jon K.

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

Another great visit

This was our second stay at the Schwandt Cottage and we have already booked again for next year. The cottage is the perfect low-key get-away, nestled just feet from the shores of Green Bay in quiet and serene Gills Rock, away from all of the hustle and bustle of Door County. The view from the awesome new picture window is breathtaking.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct, 2022
Jon, we are glad that you found us! Thank you for being a "repeat" guest. We enjoy hosting people like you and your wife who appreciate the quietness of Gills Rock.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maryellen R.

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

Absolute bliss!

We've enjoyed Georgi and Mike's cottage before, but this was an especially wonderful visit. The location is just such a little slice of heaven. I get mesmerized staring at the bay. Perfectly cozy with every comfort you need plus a to-die-for view and a great fire pit. Thoroughly enjoyed!
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Nov, 2021
We are glad you enjoyed your stay! Hopefully, you rested and went home refreshed! We will welcome your return.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debbie M.

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

Beautiful and relaxing

My husband and I stayed at this lovely cottage for our 25th wedding anniversary. The cottage itself is charming with everything you need to feel right at home. The views are incredible, especially the sunsets, which we enjoyed each evening. We hiked, (we particularly recommend Peninsula State Park), took the ferry to Washington Island and enjoyed exploring the nearby towns. This was our first trip to Door County and we will definitely be back! Thank you to Mike and Georgi!
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

James J.

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

Gills Rock Retreat

As advertised....Beautiful view setting steps from Green Bay. Great for a couple getaway. No AC made it a bit sticky on the hottest weekend of year, but bay breezes and multiple outdoor shade options compensated. Some occasional construction noise from house being built next door.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2020
Thank you for selecting our cottage for your Door County get-away. The weather during the past week has been unusually warm for Door County. Typically, the two ceiling fans and open windows have been sufficient with the cooling bay breezes. The small bedroom does not have a ceiling fan. With the heat that we experienced this week, we have decided to add one in this bedroom, too. It will be installed in mid-August by a local electrician. The construction noise is temporary and will disappear as soon as the home is completed. We contacted the owner 10 days ago and requested that their contractors be respectful of the neighborhood. We are sorry for the inconvenience that you experienced. Hopefully, you created lasting memories while you were in Door County.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Charm and the most amazing views!

This was our second visit to Schwandt Cottage and it was like coming home again. The charming cottage has everything you need for a cozy and comfortable stay. We made most meals in the adorable kitchen, but also enjoy being close enough to walk up to the Shoreline for drinks and dinner. It’s hard to leave when you have the best view in Door County right out your back door. Evenings by the fire on the shore, watching the fabulous sunsets, cannot be beat. Our friends saw our sunset photos and said, “It’s so beautiful, it doesn’t even look real!” Communication with the owners is top notch. This sweet cottage has our hearts!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Oct, 2020
Thank you. Thank you for the kind review. We are so glad that you find our cottage a place of peace. We will welcome your return....
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andy J.

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

Secluded getaway with great views

We had a great week in Door County. The cottage is removed enough from busy towns to create a relaxing atmosphere - and the views (and sunsets) from the back deck simply can't be beat. The property owners are friendly and responsive, even checking in on us midway through the week. The only words of caution we could offer is that the only bathroom is through one of the bedrooms, creating the potential for waking the occupant during the early morning hours. Additionally, the cottage is older and has a musty smell, which we were able to overcome with open windows and a diffuser. Overall, we had a great time staying at the cottage.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2020
Andy...thank you for selecting our cottage for your Door County visit. We are hopeful that you created long lasting memories.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Holly D.

Beautiful sunset views, great location on Gill's Rock!!

Lovely Door County cottage located at the end of Gill's Rock, decorated in charming cottage décor and filled with everything you need including tips from the owners who know the area well! We enjoyed a glass of wine on the water's edge during sunsets, the ferry to Washington Island, dinner at The Shoreline, ice cream and smoked fish at Charlies Smokehouse and coffee at Gill's Rock Coffee (all walking distance from the cottage). Based on the owner's recommendation, we enjoyed Cherry Pie at Bea's Homemade down the road and other cherry treats from Seaquist Orchards . This cottage is the perfect get-away for anyone who wants to be on the water with an awesome view, easy access one of the top restaurants in Door County as well as a charming convenience store bakery and coffeeshop. The owners were quick to respond with recommendations and any questions. Thanks Georgi and Mike . . . .we'll be back!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2020
We are so glad that you enjoyed your stay. Thank you for selecting our cottage for your Door County excursion. Hopefully, you made lasting memories that will sustain you until your next visit to northern Door. Wishing you all the best...
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Slice of Heaven

This is a wonderful cottage. The pictures do not lie, the view is all that, and more. For example, we spent most of our first day here just peering out the large picture window identifying the various waterfowl feeding in the bay (which consisted of swans, ducks, pelicans, gulls, and cormorants). There's an occasional fishing boat coming and going, and the ferry to Washington Island leaves from the dock just two doors down. Upon arrival, you're immersed in the tranquil historic fishing community that is Gills Rock (some great books about the area on-site). The hustle and bustle of some of the more populous Door County towns seems far away as you sip a drink on the rocky shoreline beside a warm fire. Make no mistake, this is one of the best views in the state, let alone the county. Back inside, the well-equipped kitchen makes it easy to cook your own meals. The cabin itself is cozy, but has everything you'll need. The decoration has a maritime theme, with much of the artwork depicting actual local historic/current fishing boats. This is fitting, since you can see modern-day fishermen bring in their whitefish haul right out of the picture window. Some of that catch gets sold to Charlie's Smokehouse, which is also located on the dock... best smoked fish ever! The best way to describe the cottage itself is "worry-free". This applies to everything, including those little things that renters often worry about: enough towels, comfy beds, great location, etc. The owners have poured their love into this property, and the "at home" feeling comes through. We'll be back (again). There's few places we'd rather be.
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2020
Thanks, David....we are glad that you and Brenda had a great stay! We hope that you will be able to return in the not-so-distant future. Mike and Georgi
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rachel J.

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

Idyllic Cottage

Had an amazing time here! The owner is extremely friendly, communicative and has thought of every need for guests. The location is close enough to the excitement during the day and a wonderful retreat at night. The water views are breathtaking. If you enjoy lake life, this is the perfect location.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Perfection

This was our third visit to this charming cabin on the lake. Every visit is just as lovely as the first one. The cabin is spotlessly clean and perfectly furnished and supplied with everything you need to feel right at home. Evenings by the fire watching the sunsets are simply magical. Communication with the owners is seamless. More than 5 stars! Truly perfection!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Doreen M.

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

Charming peaceful cottage

The cottage provided the serenity that allows one to truly relax. The location was perfect! Close to the water and far from The crowds! It was clean, well supplied, and just the right size! Thank you!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Hosted by Mike and Georgiana Schwandt

Host profile image
Georgi and Mike Schwandt are pictured with their grandchildren near the garden at their cottage in Gills Rock. We love spending time at our cottage. We can't be there all of the time...so, we are pleased to share it with you. Guests have been coming since 1999....the comments in our Guest Book reflect satisfied visitors.

Why they chose this property

We looked and looked for the perfect location to purchase our Door County vacation home. Finally, when we found our cottage in 1998, it seemed to be the perfect place to spend time with our family and friends. However, it needed lots of work because it was quite distressed. So we rolled up our sleeves...and began the overhaul! Gills Rock is peaceful...and beautiful. In 1999, our first guests came to visit and since we have many guests each year from all of the United States....some returning year-after-year. We hope that you will consider our cottage your for your next Door County vacation.

What makes this property unique

Our cottage is on the end of the peninsula...a stone's throw to everything that you may want to do while visiting in Door County. The beauty of Gills Rock, however, is that it is much, much quieter than the other Door County villages....with all of the beauty and recreation at your fingertips!

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