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

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

A lakeside view with a dock extending into the water, surrounded by chairs and a picnic table.
A covered porch with a wooden table and benches, large windows, and a view of greenery.
A lakeside cabin with a dock, surrounded by a stone wall and lush greenery.
A kitchen with white cabinets, a wooden countertop, a sink, and a trash bin.
A view through a window with a dock and a boat in the background.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
Along the lakeshore, this cottage accommodates 6 guests with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. It features a patio for outdoor relaxation and offers water views. Enjoy nearby adventure activities like game walks and tubing, while also having access to golf. The property is pet-friendly and located near Lake Leelanau and Brengman Brothers.

Highlights

  • Bring your furry friends

    Top-rated for creating memorable stays with your pets.

  • Beach equipment

    A rare find — beach equipment ready to go for your days by the sea.

  • By the lake

    Guests love the beautiful lakefront location.

  • Discover nearby landmarks

    Walk to Lake Leelanau
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Dog-friendly
  • On-site fitness center
  • Barbecue grill
  • Patio
  • Onsite parking available
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

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

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

2 Bedrooms

1 Queen Bed

Sitting Room

2 Large Twin Futons

1 bathroom

1 Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

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.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 27

Check out before 10:00 AM

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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17

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Events

No events allowed

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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 50 lbs per pet (limit 2 pets total)

Non-shedding dogs only. $100 charge per dog.

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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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 10/10 stars!

Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

No boats and trailers on the property.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 2419690
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

About the neighborhood

Traverse City

Located in Traverse City, this cottage is in the city center and on the waterfront. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lake Michigan and Traverse City Beach. Jacob's Corn Maze and Great Lakes Children's Museum are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, or check out other outdoor activities such as snowmobiling.
View more Cottages in Traverse CityOpens in a new window
Map
Traverse City, MI

What's nearby

  • Lake Leelanau - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Village at Grand Traverse Commons - 15 min drive - 21.6 km
  • Front Street - 15 min drive - 22.0 km
  • Great Wolf Lodge Water Park - 17 min drive - 24.4 km
  • Traverse City Beach - 23 min drive - 29.6 km

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 25 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cedar River Coffee Company - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Farm Club - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Cedar Tavern - ‬20 min drive
  • ‪Paradise Cove Bar & Grill - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Cedar Sol Taco Stand - ‬19 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 50 lbs per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

How much does it cost to stay at Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay?

As of Sep 19, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Lake Leelenau Waterfront Cottage-close to Traverse City, Fishtown & Suttons Bay on Oct 5, 2026 start from $671, 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?

Onsite parking is available at the property.

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

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

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

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

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

Located in the heart of Traverse City, this cottage is steps from Lake Leelanau, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay. BigLITTLE Wines and L. Mawby Vineyards are also within 6 mi (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 68 out of 70 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 70 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 70 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 70 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 70 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay. Very clean. Very comfy. Very well stocked. We had a great time. Thanks!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect spot for our family of four and two pups. Well appointed, and the lake access and views are hard to beat. Would book again.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was a repeat stay at Willow Tree Cottage, and it was just as wonderful! The beautifully appointed cottage is private, comfortable, and thoughtfully stocked with everything needed for a relaxing getaway. The private lake access, dock, firepit, kayaks and SUPs make for enjoyable lake time. Its ideal location puts sightseeing, shopping, restaurants, grocery, and the excellent wineries within close at hand, while still providing a peaceful, tucked-away retreat. After a day of exploring, it was the perfect place to unwind. We thoroughly enjoyed both visits and would gladly return. Willow Tree Cottage is treasure of a stay!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was exactly as advertised, and very generously stocked with creature comforts. Our kids had an absolute ball and would have happily spent our entire vacation in the backyard/playing in the water. The location put us right in the middle of all the area sights and activities we wanted to see and do, so we couldn’t have asked for better!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our stay at Willow Tree Cottage. The setting on Lake Leelanau was peaceful and beautiful, and the cottage was a perfect home base for exploring the peninsula. We visited Leland and Fishtown, Suttons Bay, Glen Arbor, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and several other spots, all within an easy drive.The cottage was clean, comfortable, and had everything we needed. We especially loved being right on the lake and having the outdoor space to relax. We traveled with our dog, so finding a welcoming pet-friendly property was important to us, and the cottage worked wonderfully for our stay.Nichole was a wonderful host. Communication was easy, check-in instructions were clear, and everything went smoothly throughout our visit.One of our favorite parts was coming back to the quiet of the cottage after spending the day exploring. We had such a memorable few days in Leelanau and would happily stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great experience at the cottage! The property was private, beautiful and made for a great summer getaway. We appreciated how all kitchen/household items were well stocked, and we had a great time with the paddle boards and kayaks. We spent most of the time outside enjoying the outdoor spaces (dock, firepit, outdoor seating area). We would highly recommend for a family vacation!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We stayed at the Cozy Willow Tree Cottage in Lake Leelanau for the entire month of June!It was the perfect place and space for our family and dogs on the lake. We were able to really get into the "lake life". The cottage had everything that we needed including paddle boards, a fully stocked kitchen and bathroom, and a much needed washer and dryer. The cottage was very clean and very well decorated. We felt at home the instant we got there. The communication with the owners during our stay was convenient with quick responses to our very few questions. The owners really did think of everything to make our stay more enjoyable and easy. We would love to rent the cottage for years to come!
Stayed 29 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a lovely stay at this property! The cottage was well equipped with plenty of (shampoo, cleaning supplies, toilet paper, bedding, etc.). Having access to the kayaks and paddle boards made just hanging around the cottage fun. We loved sitting at the end of the dock (so did our dog!) and hanging out. The cottage was especially clean considering they allow dogs! This property feels private due to trees and bushes on both sides and it was very quiet. The owners were helpful and great communicators, everything couldn't have been more smooth. One tip- bring water shoes, there are a lot of pokey little rocks in the shallow of the water (better than weeds and muck, though!).
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our time at Willow Tree Cottage was perfect! The check-in and out was simple and the owners have thought of everything you might need, except groceries and the contents of your suitcase. All the staples are there … the spices, paper products, shampoo and conditioner etc. Besides being well stocked the cottage is clean, private and so comfortable! We had 3 generations there and there was something for everyone…. games, kayaks, paddle boards for some and the comfortable deck and screened in porch for the senior. We were constantly aware of the thoughtful consideration to detail that had gone into creating this wonderful space. It felt like home! The area was spectacular! It couldn’t be more beautiful or perfect for exploring! Green everywhere, and the sunsets! The cottage was a great jumping off place for enjoying the small towns, the wineries, hiking, and excellent restaurants. And the stands along the side of the road selling produce, homemade sourdough bread and fresh eggs … all purchased on the Honor System!! Nichole and Frank were always available when we had questions.We were sad to leave WTC, but hope to come again, making WTC our home away from home! Thank you Nichole and Frank!
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved our stay here! This was our second year coming back; we liked it so much last year that we booked it again. The cottage feels secluded and is peaceful. The location is fantastic – right on Lake Leelanau, with beautiful sunsets and easy access to so many of the places we enjoy in both the Traverse City and Leelanau Peninsula areas – wineries, hiking areas, and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore only 30 minutes away. The kitchen is nice and big and well stocked with everything you need to prepare meals — which is great because you don't want to leave the property! The deck was another favorite. The deck is wonderful, with plenty of comfortable seating and umbrellas for shade. We loved sitting outside every morning with our coffee and enjoyed many of our lunches and dinners at the table, taking in the beautiful lake view. We also really appreciated the two kayaks. We used them often and loved being able to just head out on the lake whenever we wanted - especially at sunset.We were so happy to find a dog-friendly cottage that was also incredibly clean. We really appreciated the thoughtful touches that made our pup feel as welcomed as we were – including the jar of dog biscuits and food and water bowls waiting for her in the kitchen. Our only suggestion would be to replace the mattresses. One in particular sags quite a bit in the middle and could definitely use an update.Otherwise, we had another absolutely wonderful stay and would happily come back again!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2026
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 10, 2026
Thank you so much for the feedback on the mattress. We will make sure they get replaced!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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 review

10/10 Excellent

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

About the host

Hosted by Nichole Ranka-Weith and Frank Weith

Host profile image

Languages:

English, German

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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