Feirin De--a Magnificent Old Home on Lake Michigan

Everything was beautiful and clean. We were expecting the pool to be ready for our visit which was unfortunate as we had picked the location for it but apparently there had been a delay in replacing the lining. Regardless, we still had a great stay!

First let me say that the owners were just delightful. Wonderful people! I rated this property 2 stars because of the pool - which was in fairly decent shape - brought the number of stars up from 1 (I'm told the pool is being redone this fall). Unfortunately, this rustic cottage appears to be a bit neglected. I don't think the cleaning crew is doing their job - many cobwebs and spiders all over the house inside. Had to spend a bit of time cleaning when we arrived. Bushes outside are overgrown. One of the porches was unusable and in need of repair. That said, if this cottage got a lot of TLC and some really deep cleaning , it could be a good rental in the future for some renters who are truly looking for a rustic experience with beautiful sunsets on Lake Michigan.

Situated on a bluff in South Haven, Michigan, this property affords a spectacular view of Lake Michigan with a nightly show of sunsets. While very close to downtown and grocery stores and restaurants, it is out of the way and generally very quiet (except for lawn-mowing day). This is a large lot with flat areas where lawn games like corn hole, croquet, or bocce ball work; and the younger kids can play Hide 'n Seek. Since we were on the "early" side for usual Michigan weather, we were happy for the well-maintained, heated pool. As it happened, the week was warm as were the beaches. Nearby there was charter fishing, kayaking, biking, surf -board rentals and, for golfers, golf. There are plenty of beds --enough for 19--but most rooms require sharing. The bathrooms served 16 of us well. We enjoyed the multiple tables for sharing meals or games; the CD collection and the good speakers; and the large TV which was equipped with a DVD player. There is a throw-back Video rental place in town. The kitchen is superbly supplied, We brought along some things, but found out we could have relied completely on what was there. The owners are easy to work with and very accommodating. There is a house phone currently available to use for making calls anywhere in the U.S. Cell coverage can be a bit spotty. There are many books, games, puzzles, and even craft supplies. Being the senior members of our group, we stayed in the newer Granny House which also had its own kitchen. There is a freezer in the garage too.

We loved the "homey" atmosphere---not all glass and granite and white carpets like some rentals flaunt. This was a place to relax, read, cook, gather. In short: be on vacation!

We started our yearly visit to Feirin De the first year it was available. The owners are the BEST! Our family has grown with the addition of 10 grand children during this time, spread out from Minneapolis to Ann Arbor to St. Louis. During our week a Feirin De, the kids concentrate on playing together and otherwise realize the pleasures of being cousins in an extended family. Their relationships could not have grown as close without the perfect accommodations and location this facility has to offer. Our traditions include swimming every day, at least two meals together with the combined use of the dining room and the deck, and congregating every evening for the sunset, which has to be experienced to be appreciated. (Smores have been known to be enjoyed by well behaved children). The facility is just perfect for our family uses.

There are well planned modifications almost every year and our large group has made full use of every one. Great fun!

South Haven, the State Parks and the blue berry farms are bonus attractions. We have expanded the size of the family visit to include other nieces and nephews. When we started to overflow, the nearby Motel was extremely convenient.

The comments by others better describe the physical attractions of these houses, but we have learned to think of it as the center of our family since it is the only time we have to get together simply to enjoy one another. It gives every opportunity to do so. A beautiful, warm property. I believe you'll love it as much as we do.

My family drives 18 hours from Colorado once a year to be able to spend a week at this magnificent old home. It's THAT worth it! If you like waking up to the smell of coffee and the sound of laughter coming from the kitchen every morning, this place is for you. If you like cool breezes blowing gently while you relax on the porch, deep into a juicy book, this place is for you. If you like sitting pool side with a cold beverage while watching the kids play in the water (or taking a refreshing dip yourself!), this place is for you. If you like delicious meals shared among family and friends, all seated at the same big table, this place is for you. If you love sitting on the bluff, high above the Eastern shore of Lake Michigan, watching the sunset and reflecting on what a good life it is, THEN THIS PLACE IS FOR YOU!